Bethel Park mayor recognized as ‘Borough Official of the Year’
Jack Allen
Bethel Park Mayor Jack Allen accepts his honor as “Borough Official of the Year” at a ceremony held Feb. 4 at the Rivers Club in Pittsburgh
Bethel Park Mayor Jack Allen received the Allegheny County Boroughs Association’s “Borough Official of the Year” award on Feb. 4 at the Rivers Club in Pittsburgh.
“To be given this award is an accomplishment that I never imagined receiving,” said Allen. “But it’s definitely a group effort. We work together as a team in Bethel Park and this award is a reflection of that.”
The award is given to an official who makes an extraordinary contribution to local government.
“It’s an honor to serve with Mayor Allen, as he always puts Bethel Park first,” said BP Municipal Council President Tim Moury. “He’s willing to help in times of need for our community. And, he’s a calming force when we’re faced with challenges.”
Known as the “Voice of Bethel Park,” Allen is the authority that residents hear on phone messages and Bethel Park TV (BPTV) announcements for information and community updates. They also see him regularly at council meetings highlighting resident and local business accomplishments, awards and achievements.
“I truly enjoy showcasing our incredible community members,” said Allen. “This is one of the main highlights of my job as mayor.”
Recognitions that he announces include anniversaries, birthdays, Gold Star and Eagle Scout Awards through both his office and the American Legion, and proclamations recognizing service of organizations such as Kids to Parks, EMS Week, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness, School Choice Week, Extra Mile Day, National Library Week, Bells across Pennsylvania, Helper Recognition Week, Veterans Day, Motorcycle Awareness, Police Department Week, Fire Department Week, and MS Awareness Week.
Allen also hosts a local business show, “Jack of All Trades.” He recently won a Greater Pittsburgh Community Media Award for an episode featuring one of BP’s adjacent communities, Castle Shannon Borough.
Allen also hosts the annual 90+ Club Luncheon for residents age 90 and over. He organizes volunteers for beautification efforts across the municipality. He visits elementary schools to read books to students and answer questions related to government and the community. His other annual events include the Halloween and Holiday Lighting Contests held in October and December.
“These programs have become iconic events and participation has substantially increased over the years,” said Moury.
Allen also performs numerous weddings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies. He attends many special events for municipal businesses and residents.
As a veteran, he’s a strong proponent of BP’s veteran population, personally assisting in the development and organization of annual Memorial Day activities, which include a parade, remembrance services and a veteran luncheon. In 2013, Allen also initiated the Bethel Park Military Banner Tribute Program to honor veterans. He organizes the rotation of the National Colors on local veteran graves at the Bethel Park Cemetery and plans bus trips for American Legion Post 760 members to visit other American Legion posts.
“Mayor Allen is a remarkable leader and is truly deserving of this award,” said Moury.
Allen embarked on his political career in 1997. As a Bethel Park Council Member, he represented Ward 2. He become the mayor 10 years ago.
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