Sewickley public works director eager to work for hometown

Sewickley native Brian Gebhart was recently hired as the borough’s public works director.

He leads a seven full-time employee department tasked with maintaining the little more than one-square-mile town’s infrastructure.

“I’ve been here my entire life,” Gebhart said. “I was born here, raised here. It’s a great opportunity to give back to the community that I grew up in.”

Council unanimously voted to hire him Nov. 8 with a starting salary of $82,000.

Gebhart, 49, graduated from Quaker Valley High School in 1991. He earned an associate’s degree in automotive technology from the Community College of Allegheny County through a General Motors program.

Gebhart worked for the Sewickley Water Authority from 1995 to 2022 as a mechanic and distribution system foreman. He said those skills have prepared him well for his new position, and looks forward to serving Sewickley.

“I’ve got a lot to learn (with this new job),” he said. “The main goal would be to operate, maintain and repair as necessary the public works infrastructure.”

Council president Cynthia Mullins said the borough interviewed about six candidates for the position.

“(Gebhart’s) positive attitude and understanding of the department, as well as our community make him a good fit for this important role,” Mullins said.

Mayor George Shannon said Gebhart knows the town and will be great for the department.

“He’s known to our borough people,” Shannon said. “He’s known to our public works people. He came highly recommended and got an endorsement from his boss at the water authority.”

Gebhart is also a devoted family man who enjoys racing remote control cars in his spare time.

He pledged to be an active public works director who will respond to residents’ concerns.

“Don’t be afraid to bring something to my attention,” Gebhart said.

Residents can contact Gebhart via the borough office at 412-741-4015.