LaSota reelected as Heidelberg mayor; incumbents return to council

Heidelberg voters returned Kenneth LaSota to the mayoral seat for four more years.

According to the results of the Nov. 4 election from the Allegheny County Elections Division, LaSota, a Democrat, had 249 votes collected compared to Republican challenger Arnold Falcioni’s 155 votes.

LaSota, a geology and Earth sciences professor at Robert Morris University, has been Heidelberg’s mayor for 28 years.

LaSota said he was relieved he won.

“Mr. Falcioni was a considerable opponent,” LaSota said. “He had the borough’s best interest in his heart, and it showed during the campaign. I’m just humbled and flattered that the good people of Heidelberg saw fit to judge my years of service to the community of enough value to reelect me.”

LaSota said that, going forward, he hopes to continue to contribute to council’s effort to help run the borough as best as possible.

“Also, as my tenure as mayor has afforded me the opportunity to sit on several county and statewide committees and authorities. I hope to continue to use these contacts to help foster Heidelberg’s future growth and development,” he said.

“I’m relieved that I won and excited to continue to try and serve all Heidelbergundians to the best of my ability.”

Council

Three council seats were available and went to incumbents Dottie McCartney, Richard Pattinato Sr. and William Zatolochenko.

McCartney was the top vote-getter with 241 votes; followed by Pattinato’s 228 and Zatolochenko’s 180, according to the Allegheny County Elections Division. Sharon Wicobroda had 164 votes.

Pattinato and Zatolochenko didn’t immediately return requests for comment.

McCartney said she was grateful for the community’s support.

“It was amazing to see such a strong turnout here in Heidelberg,” said McCartney, a Democrat.

“Congratulations to all who won their races. And to those who ran but were not elected, thank you for the time, heart and dedication you put into your campaign. It takes courage to step up and serve your community, and your efforts truly matter.”

McCartney said she believes the future of Heidelberg is collaboration.

“We have important work ahead, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving over the next four years as we move forward with positive, meaningful change,” McCartney said. “When we work together, we make our community stronger and more connected.”