8 candidates in running for 4 Bridgeville Council seats

Eight candidates are seeking four positions on Bridgeville Council.

Voters will choose between Democrats Justine Cimarolli, Nicholas A. Ciesielski, Joseph M. Colosimo and Nino Petrocelli Sr.; and Republicans Bruce D. Ghelarducci Sr., Joseph P. Verduci, Virginia Bott Schneider and James Haley.

Cimarolli, Ghelarducci and Verduci are incumbents.

Council members serve four-year terms.

The Signal Item asked each candidate: “What is the biggest issue facing Bridgeville, and how do you plan to address it?”

Petrocelli and Ghelarducci did not return answers by press time; Schneider and Haley could not be reached.

Nicholas Ciesielski

Age: 39

Education: Chartiers Valley 2004, Slippery Rock 2009

Occupation: Did not answer

“I believe our community’s biggest issue is growth, how do we achieve it and maintain our identity. Bridgeville is a proud and strong community bookended by bridges, so flood mitigation and attracting new families who want to live in our community are two areas we must continually work toward.”

Justine Cimarolli

Age: 71

Education: Montefiore Hospital, School of Radiology

Occupation: Retired global radiology imaging consultant

“The biggest challenge Bridgeville faces right now is following through on the visions our residents created in the 2024 Comprehensive Plan. Neighbors joined steering committees, filled out surveys, and came to town halls to share their ideas. Those ideas became clear goals: fix flooding issues; support and grow local businesses; make Bridgeville a destination, not a pass-through community; (and) improve walkability and green infrastructure.

These goals capture what we all should want for Bridgeville, a thriving community with a strong future. Reaching them will take teamwork. I am committed to keep this momentum going. Flooding remains a major concern. Losing FEMA grant funding was a major setback, but we continue to look at other sources of funding. I’ll keep pushing for a sustainable Bridgeville so we can build the safer, stronger Bridgeville our residents deserve.”

Joe Colosimo

Age: 74

Education: Did not answer

Occupation: Retired foreman from Casper Colosimo and Son, Inc.

“The biggest issue facing Bridgeville has been flooding. With the help and guidance of the planning commission, borough engineer and the hard work of our manager and previous members of council, we received a multimillion-dollar federal grant which the current administration in Washington has withdrawn. We already have spent $200,000 in permits and engineering fees. This was to be Phase 1 with more phases to complete for the safety and benefit of our residents and businesses. We need this grant. I will work hard to get this money reinstated.

I believe strongly in public service and have always given back to Bridgeville. From the day, over 40 years ago, my wife and I chose Bridgeville as our place to raise our daughters, I have been involved in scouting, PTA, athletic association, school boosters, volunteer fire department, historical society, library, council of government, elected office, Lions Club and church events.”

Joe Verduci

Age: 53

Education: Graduated from Grove City College

Occupation: 30 years in financial industry, last 27 with Brentwood Bank

“The most rewarding part of serving as a Bridgeville councilman has been working closely with residents and community organizations. Seeing projects come to life, whether improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, or enhancing our parks, makes the effort worthwhile. My wife, Karen, and I have lived here for 28 years, raising our three children in the town we love. I’ve served on council for 10 years, including the last two as President, and continue to chair the Finance Committee. I’ve also been active in the Bridgeville-South Fayette Rotary Club, serving as president, and previously helped lead the BAA.

Bridgeville is at a pivotal moment. While preserving our small-town character, we must modernize to keep infrastructure strong and our business district vibrant. I’ve worked to reestablish the Route 50 Corridor of Municipalities and stay engaged with projects that impact long-term growth. I’m proud of our community and hope to continue serving as your councilman.”