91-year-old Bridgeville Mayor Betty Copeland easily wins reelection bid

Betty L. Copeland, 91, won handily in her reelection bid for Bridgeville mayor.

Copeland collected 1,061 votes compared to challenger Pasquale DeBlasio’s 525, according to unofficial but complete results posted by the Allegheny County Elections Division.

Copeland, a Democrat, has been mayor for the past eight years. DeBlasio, 62, a Republican, was mayor from 2014 to 2017.

“I would like to thank the people of Bridgeville for reelecting me for another term,” Copeland said.

“Working with borough council and government, major flood mitigation work has been done, its parks have been upgraded, traffic improved on the south end of town (new bridge and traffic pattern), roads have been paved, trees planted and working with the local arts council, Bridgeville has been beautified.”

Public art statues around town have attracted positive attention to the community, Copeland said. She and new police chief, Gary James, also work closely on public safety issues, she said.

“Bridgeville Borough government has always been forward-looking. The borough, along with citizen input has a comprehensive plan for additional improvements that will make the borough more pedestrian-, biking-, hiking- and driver-friendly,” Copeland said.

“The issues are implementation of the plan and raising the funds to execute on the plans. I look forward to continue working with borough government to further improve the community, promote the borough, its churches and many nonprofits in any way I can.”

In 2021, Copeland was named Mayor of the Year by Pennsylvania State Mayors Association.

The council race

Democrats swept the election for four seats on borough council.

Justine Cimarolli was the top vote-getter with 912 votes; followed by Nicholas A. Ciesielski, 870; Joseph M. Colosimo, 843 and Nino Petrocelli Sr., 777. Cimarolli is a current councilwoman, Ciesielski, Colosimo and Petrocelli have been on council previously.

“I am humbled by the support I received from the Bridgeville community,” Cimarolli said. “The turnout was inspiring, and I truly look forward to continuing to work alongside my fellow council members to make Bridgeville the very best it can be.

“I remain optimistic about Bridgeville’s future. By taking both small and bold steps — and by working together with our residents and local businesses — we can build a stronger, more connected community.”

Candidates missing out on council seats included current Council President Joseph P. Verduci, with 682 votes; incumbent Bruce D. Ghelarducci Sr., 627; Virginia Bott Schneider, 601; and James Haley, 506.