Falcioni, LaSota square off for Heidelberg mayor; council race has 4 candidates

Two candidates are seeking the mayor position in Heidelberg, and four people are in the running for three seats on the borough council.

Arnold Falcioni is challenging incumbent Kenneth LaSota for mayor.

Council candidates are Sharon Wicobroda; and incumbents Dorothy McCartney, Richard A. Pattinato Sr., and William Zatolochenko.

Wicobroda could not be reached; Pattinato and Zatolochecnko did not submit answers by press time.

Mayor

Arnold Falcioni

Age: 70

Occupation: Retired from IUOE Local 95; certified state constable

Political affiliation: Republican

Education: Bishop Canevin High School, 1972; continuous constable training

Why are you running for mayor, and what would be your priorities?

I would like to enhance public safety in the borough and give some fresh ideas to promote growth in the community. We are located between a major roadway and Pittsburgh and that should be an attraction to new businesses. I am a 26-year resident.

Kenneth LaSota

Age: 70

Occupation: Geology and Earth sciences professor at Robert Morris University

Political affiliation: Democrat

Education: Chartiers Valley High School, 1973; Pennsylvania State University B.S. in meteorology, 1977; Iowa State University M.S. in geology, 1982; University of Pittsburgh, Ph.D. in geology, 1988; Robert Morris University, M.BA. in business, 1992; Robert Morris, M.S. in secondary education, 1999; Robert Morris, M.S. in instructional leadership, 2003.

Why are you running for mayor, and what would be your priorities?

I have had the honor and privilege of serving as mayor of Heidelberg for 28 years. I was born and raised in Heidelberg. My wife, Rebecca, and I live in the house my parents built on Grant Avenue, and I am proud to be a lifelong Heidelbergundian.

Constrained here to speak of only one thing I would try and accomplish if reelected, it would be to continue to work with Borough Council on developing, enhancing and promoting the Heidelberg Police Department. I’ve presided over the expansion of Heidelberg’s police department from two full-time officers 28 years ago to five full-time officers today.

Working with council, I would advocate for appropriate training and equipment in “community oriented policing” strategies to continue to allow the HPD to be a highly skilled and professional department, respected by the residents of Heidelberg and viewed by neighboring departments as a reliable and professional partner.

Council

Dorothy McCartney

Age: 45

Political affiliation: Democrat

Education: University of Pittsburgh, Bachelor of Arts in communication

Occupation: I am currently between roles after being laid off last December and am actively seeking new opportunities.

What is the biggest issue facing Heidelberg, and how do you plan to address it?

Previously, I shared that communication was a challenge for residents. Since being elected, I’ve launched a modern borough website, increased social media updates, created an electronic newsletter and hosted several community events.

While these tools improved access to information, Heidelberg still struggles with civic engagement, with only a small group regularly attending meetings and participating in local initiatives. This limits diverse perspectives and fresh ideas. I plan to continue strengthening communication and outreach by adding quick surveys, pop-up chats, and direct neighbor outreach such as door-to-door visits and phone calls to make council more accessible and inspire greater involvement.

What should voters know about you?

I’m deeply grateful to have served Heidelberg over the past four years. Thank you for believing in me, trusting me to represent our community, and offering grace as I’ve learned and grown in this role. These years have taught me so much, and I’ve gained valuable experience and a deeper understanding of our community’s needs.

Heidelberg is home; it’s where I was born and where I am raising my family. While we’ve made progress, important work remains. I would be honored to continue serving, learning and collaborating with residents to move Heidelberg forward and build a stronger, more connected community.