Castle Shannon mayor wins Pa. Mayor of the Year

Donald Baumgarten says it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. The 81 year-old mayor of Castle Shannon has earned the respect of his peers and recognition across the commonwealth, winning the 43rd annual award for Pennsylvania Mayor of the Year 2014.
Baumgarten has served in his position since 2001, and has impressed residents and colleagues alike in his ability to network and spur development.
“Through his perseverance, the Grove Road Bridge project was completed,” Borough Manager Tom Hartswick said. He nominated Baumgarten for the award.
“Two thirds of the cost was made up through his networking with former State Secretary of Economic Development Dennis Yablonsky, and with him reaching out to former county executive Dan Onorato. He brought in over $600,000 from him reaching out to officials alone.”
Both Hartswick and Police Chief Ken Truver also said it was his dedication over 15 years that helped finalize planning of the Shannon Transit Village. Construction of the $42 million retail and residential project is expected to start next year.
“He was born and raised here. His memory is outstanding, so he knows the stakeholders, the political players … his networking prowess is impressive, as he’s able to find resources in our hometown as well as across the state to get things done,” Truver said.
“The divisiveness you see in a lot of local politics and boroughs–we don’t have it here, and that’s because the mayor is just great to work with.”
The mayor said it’s the ultimate award to be recognize by those he works with.
“Most don’t know what goes into doing this mayor stuff–writing grants, organizing development–it all makes it worth it not only knowing you’re doing it for the community, but the community and those you work beside know that, too,” Baumgarten said.
“Whenever we have problems, people call me. And I know who to call.”
Baumgarten was borough auditor from 1970-1974, served on council from 1974-1982 and was council president from 1982-1993.
He is also a co-founder and a board member of Medical Rescue Team South EMS Authority since 1975. He also serves on the Executive Boards of the Pennsylvania State Mayors’ Association and The Allegheny County Mayors’ Association and is a member of Mayors against Illegal Guns.