s I approach the end of my second term as a Commissioner in Mt. Lebanon, I am reminded of the importance of community involvement and engagement in shaping our municipality’s future. As president of the Commission for this final year, I have had the privilege of overseeing some significant initiatives that will impact our residents’ daily lives.

One such initiative is the upcoming zoning update, which aims to modernize our land-use regulations to accommodate the growing needs of our community. This process requires input from residents and stakeholders alike, as we work together to create a more sustainable and vibrant Mt. Lebanon for generations to come.

Another exciting development on the horizon is the potential expansion of our parks and recreation facilities. With the possibility of a new rec center and several additional fields in the works, we are poised to provide even more opportunities for our residents to stay active, socialize, and enjoy the great outdoors. However, this growth requires careful planning and community input to ensure that these amenities meet the needs of all Mt. Lebanon’s diverse population.

As I look ahead to the future, I am also keenly aware of the need for innovative transportation solutions in our municipality. With a growing desire among residents to reimagine how we get from place to place within Mt. Lebanon, it is essential that we engage with each other and explore alternative modes of transportation that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and community connectivity.

These initiatives are just a few examples of why local government is not a spectator sport where people can simply delegate their needs to someone else and then sit back and hope everything turns out OK. As residents, we have the power to shape our own destiny by taking an active role in shaping the decisions that affect us most directly.

In this era of civic disengagement, it’s easy to assume that elected officials will take care of everything on our behalf. However, local government is ultimately a reflection of the collective values and priorities of its residents. By engaging with each other and participating in public meetings, we can ensure that our voices are heard and our needs are met.

So, what does this mean for Mt. Lebanon? It means that every resident has the opportunity to make their mark on our community’s future by:

• Sending comments to Commissioners: Share your thoughts and concerns about proposed initiatives or policies.
  commission@mtlebanon.org
• Joining public meetings: Attend Commission meetings, town halls, and other forums where you can ask questions, provide input, and stay informed.
• Applying for boards and committees: Consider serving on a board or committee that aligns with your interests and expertise.

By taking these steps, we can create the government and future we want to see in Mt. Lebanon – one that is responsive to our needs, inclusive of all perspectives, and committed to building a better tomorrow for every resident.

As I wrap up my time on the Commission, I am proud to have played a small part in shaping this community’s trajectory. But it’s not just about me or any individual elected official; it’s about each and every one of us taking an active role in creating the Mt. Lebanon we want to see.

So, let’s make our voices heard! Let’s engage with each other and work together to build a brighter future for ourselves, our families, and our community. The power is ours – will you join me in shaping the next chapter of Mt. Lebanon’s story?