Lehigh Valley local elected officials honored for dedication and service at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber’s Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception
Breinigsville, PA – 20 mayors were officially recognized for their leadership and impact at the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception on March 27. The event, held at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Lehigh Valley/Allentown, celebrated the achievements of municipal leaders across the region, with special guest, Mayor of Philadelphia, Cherelle Parker.
The Mayors’ & Municipal Officials’ Reception is an annual event that acknowledges the dedication and accomplishments of mayors, borough managers, township managers, supervisors, and council members from Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, and Northampton Counties in Pennsylvania, as well as Warren County, New Jersey. Each year, the Borough Manager, Township Manager, and Mayor of the Year awards honor individuals who have made a significant impact on their communities, with nominations submitted by local residents and community members.
The event also included a live Business Matters taping, with special guest, Mayor of Philadelphia, Cherelle Parker. Throughout the interview, Mayor Parker spoke about her life and experience as Mayor, including her past and what led her to her role. Mayor Parker also discussed future development for the City while expressing her gratitude and honor to serve the people of Philadelphia.
“Aligning with the Chamber’s mission to improve the economy and quality of communities in the Greater Lehigh Valley, it is essential for us to recognize the dedication and impact of the municipal leaders who continue to strengthen the communities we serve,” said Jessica O’Donnell-Gower, Executive Vice President of Affiliated Chambers, Easton and Bethlehem Area Chambers and the Northern Tier. “Their role in driving economic growth, enhancing quality of life and shaping the future of our region is second to none, and the Chamber is proud to work with our municipalities to inspire continued collaboration and progress for the businesses and communities we live, work and play in. This event celebrates that partnership and the hard work our leaders put into seeing their vision of a stronger region come to fruition.”
Maureen Sterner, Borough Manager of Jim Thorpe, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the borough and her unwavering commitment to community development. Since taking on the role in 2016, Sterner has successfully secured over $16 million in funding for vital infrastructure projects, including major sewer plant upgrades, a new Public Works garage, and enhancements to Memorial Park. Her leadership has also ensured that Jim Thorpe’s police and public service departments remain well-equipped to serve the community effectively. She was presented her award by State Representative Doyle Heffley.
Bruce Beitel, Township Manager of Lower Macungie, was awarded Township Manager of the Year for his dedication to government transparency, park updates, and expanding recreation programs. He introduced a Board of Commissioner workshop to streamline processes and updated key township policies. Beitel led the transition to a cloud-based network, ensuring continuity during the 2019 office flood, and negotiated union contracts to eliminate post-retirement health benefits, strengthening the township’s financial future. His leadership also supported open space preservation and staff education initiatives. Bruce was presented with his award by US Congressman Ryan Mackenzie.
Tony Pristash, Mayor of Northampton, was named Mayor of the Year for his transformative leadership in Northampton Borough. He launched the “Hometown Heroes Banner” initiative, honoring 470 veterans, with plans to exceed 500.
Pristash revitalized the Canal Park/Delaware & Lehigh Trail, adding butterfly way stations and working toward a Trailhead designation. His monthly “Mayor’s Message” in the Northampton Press improved communication with residents. Pristash also brought “Hollywood” to Northampton, facilitating movie shoots with actor Dan Roebuck and showcasing local landmarks. Mayor Pristash’s award was presented by State Representative Zach Mako.
Larry Freshcorn, Mayor of Delaware Water Gap Borough, was named Mayor of the Year for his dedicated leadership during the 2022 closure of SR 611 due to a rockfall from Mount Minsi. The closure severely impacted Delaware Water Gap’s businesses and tourism, but Mayor Freshcorn worked tirelessly with PennDOT and other officials to address concerns and push for the road’s reopening. Despite balancing his volunteer duties with a full-time job, his persistence prevented economic isolation and safeguarded the borough’s role in Pennsylvania tourism, especially for the thousands visiting the Appalachian trails each year. Mayor Freshcorn’s award was presented by the District Director to State Senator Rosemary Brown, Kristine Bush.
David Heintzelman, Mayor of the Borough of Hellertown, was awarded with the Most Entertaining Mayor Award due to his banter with Mayor of Easton, Sal Panto, throughout the event, and his positive remarks about his Borough. Mayor Heintzelman’s award was presented by Northampton County Executive, Lamont McClure.
For more information on the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, visit www.lehighvalleychamber.org
About the Chamber: The mission of The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce is to improve the economy and quality of life in the Lehigh Valley Metropolitan Area. We accomplish this through business-to-business networking events and marketing products, affinity programs and exclusive, money saving member benefits, training programs, government affairs initiatives and public policy advocacy, and community development enterprises. With nearly 5,000 members who employ more than 200,000, the Chamber is the largest in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and in the top ten nationwide.
Information provided to TVL by:
Isabelle Jabbour
