Chris Bigley moved to Delmont eight years ago for its small-town charm and historical significance. As a resident, he’s attended events like the Apple’n Arts Festival and the Delmont Pilgrimage with his family, and wanted an opportunity to give back.
He now has that chance for at least the next two years, after being appointed to borough council this week. Mayor Alyce Urban broke a 3-3 tie to fill the seat her husband Dennis vacated this year.
Bigley, 48, a client support specialist at Henderson Brothers, an insurance and financial services broker in Pittsburgh, spoke with the Trib about growing up in a working-class family and his decision to run for council.
This interview has been edited for length.
Q: You mentioned some of your previous work experience at the February council meeting — what are some ways that can help in your position on council?
A: I grew up in a home of meager means in Washington Township. My father was a carpenter and my mother was a stay-at-home mom. My two brothers and I worked for my father assisting in roofing jobs. I worked at a steel mill while attending college to earn my B.A. in human services from Seton Hill. I accepted a position as a case manager at Family Services of Western PA. I worked with children and adults with emotional and mental health diagnosis. (After three years) I accepted a position at Highmark as a customer service rep. I advanced quickly in my 17 years at Highmark with my final position working as a senior client service manager, managing a book of business which included high profile clients such as Allegheny County, the City of Pittsburgh and hospital business like Excela. The knowledge, skill and experience I gained from these positions have taught me patience, empathy, understanding, and how to build positive relationships. I believe these qualities will serve me well in serving the community. Delmont residents have legitimate concerns that are important to the them. My training as a social worker has taught me that listening is more important than simply hearing. I think too often we are busy formulating our response instead of really listening to what is being presented to us.
Q: What do you see as the largest issue Delmont faces over the next two years, and how would you like to address it as a member of council?
A: Republic Services and our garbage hauling — it has been inconsistent. I joke about taking my garbage for a walk every now and again. I take a full can out and I bring a full back. The frustration can be heard all over town as folks put their garbage out for it not to be picked up. I know (Councilman) David Weber has been working on the issue and has even picked up the garbage himself when service was not available. I would like to first review the contract to see what recourse we have if the expectation is not being met. I understand there are early termination penalties for Delmont if the contract is terminated before five years. I would like to see the financial impact on Republic if they are not abiding by the terms of the contract. I believe Republic needs to held to the same standard as any other service industry.
Q: Is there anything in particular you’ve set as a goal, or would like to accomplish, during your time on council?
A: I would like to see more events at Shields Farm that could generate revenue for Delmont. Shields Farm is a very nice space that could be utilized for events such as local bands, food trucks, and events such as these. I would like to see Delmont have more events that bring the community together.
