Building Safe, Resilient Communities
The 125th Annual Municipal Leadership Summit was truly one for the ages. With nearly 350 attendees, including exhibitors, sponsors, and members of the Business Leader Network, the event saw a marked increase in participation, demonstrating the continued relevance and importance of this gathering.
The Summit kicked off with a thought-provoking keynote from William Fuller of Search for Common Ground. His session, “Transforming Conflict into Collaboration: Why Local Officials Just Might Save the World,” addressed the rising polarization in Pennsylvania and emphasized the unique role local officials play in fostering healthy pluralism and rebuilding institutional trust.
Welcoming attendees to this milestone event was the League’s Executive Director, John Brenner, followed by opening remarks from League President Doug Baker, Mayor of Franklin; PSATC President John J. Jablowski, Jr., Wilkes-Barre Township Council Member; and PA Career Fire Chief’s President Chief Thomas O’Donnell from Norristown. Additional local perspectives were shared by Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti and Lackawanna County Commissioner Matt McGloin. The Commonwealth was represented by DCED Deputy Secretary Richard Vilello, with a special video message from Lt. Governor Austin Davis. A patriotic tone was set with a beautiful performance of the National Anthem by the Scranton High School and Scranton West High School choirs, while the Tobyhanna Army Depot conducted a formal presentation of the colors.
Throughout the Summit, participants engaged in a variety of sessions. Highlights included a “Leadership Presentation on Equity in Urban-Core Redevelopment” by Marimba Milliones of the Hill Community Development Corporation. This year’s training tracks offered valuable insights on Community Development and Infrastructure, Public Safety, and Municipal Finance.
Friday morning’s keynote was delivered by former Congressman Charlie Dent, whose presentation explored navigating Washington, D.C., amid a polarized and unpredictable political climate.
The Awards Breakfast on Saturday morning was a celebratory moment, where Mayor Salvatore J. Panto and Mayor Danene Sorace were honored with the League’s Distinguished Service Award. Additionally, Brown Plus received the Community Partnership Award in recognition of fostering cooperation between corporate leaders and local government officials, strengthening civic engagement and promoting economic competitiveness.
At the PSATC Annual Banquet, Commissioner Dennis Arthur, Sr., of Tinicum Township was welcomed as the new association president. Attendees enjoyed a fun-filled Monte Carlo-themed event after the banquet, where many tested their luck and hit it big!
Saturday afternoon featured a unique tour of the Lackawanna Coal Mine and the Anthracite Museum, offering attendees a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s rich industrial history.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees and the success of the Richard J. Schuettler Center for Municipal Development’s Silent Auction, this year saw record-breaking contributions to the Center. The nonprofit continues to grow in its mission to equip local elected and appointed officials with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to tackle the challenges of their roles.
We are already looking ahead to next year’s Summit, which will be held in Erie, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday, October 1 to Saturday, October 4, 2025. Mark your calendars!
A special thank you to the vendors, sponsors, and Business Leader Network members for their support of the Summit. The list of sponsors can be found on the League’s website under the Municipal Leadership Summit tab. We encourage everyone to engage with these partners and thank them for their continued generosity.
Lastly, we want to extend our appreciation to the Lackawanna County Visitors Bureau, the outstanding volunteers from Mayor Cognetti’s office, and Wilkes-Barre Township Council Member John J. Jablowski, Jr., for coordinating exceptional evening events.
We look forward to seeing everyone in Erie next year!
If you have any questions regarding the Municipal Leadership Summit, please contact:
Mary Costik, CMP
Meeting Manager
E: mcostik@pml.org
C: 717-579-8139