1 vote separates current Pine-Richland School Board president from challenger

Just one vote separates Democrat Ashley Fortier from current school board president Greg DiTullio in Region 1.

Republican incumbent and current board treasurer Marc D. Casciani was the top vote-getter in the two-seat race with 1,552. Fortier, a newcomer, has 1,549 votes and DiTullio has 1,548, according to Allegheny County’s complete but unofficial election results.

Results also showed seven write-ins for Region 1.

“I am waiting for a concession from my opponent before declaring victory,” Fortier said.

Messages left for DiTullio were not immediately returned.

According to Allegheny County communications director Amie Downs, the school board election does not trigger an automatic recount, however, “Candidates and voters can petition for recounts or recanvasses, but the return board process hasn’t even begun.”

The return board process begins Nov. 10.

In Region 2 there was one open spot and Republican Leslie Miller edged out Democrat Russell Patterson 1,742 votes to 1,506. Both candidates were newcomers.

In Region 3, two seats were available. Newcomers and Republicans Philip R. Morrissette and Mike Weithorn were the top vote getters with 1,336 and 1,332, respectively. Three write-in votes were cast.

Behind them were Democrats Jennifer Beuse, a newcomer, with 1,150 and incumbent Mathew Mehalik with 1,115. There were nine write-in votes.

All school directors serve four-year terms and receive no compensation for their commitment.