Every community thrives thanks to the dedicated individuals who step up to serve in local government. Driven by a desire to give back and ensure their hometown’s prosperity, these individuals embody a commitment to the greater good.

The demands of modern life, particularly for families balancing work and childcare, present a significant challenge to local government participation.

While the desire and capability exist, time constraints often limit their involvement. Sometimes, retirees, who have more time on their hands and want to “give back” to their community, frequently fill these vital roles.

It’s crucial to recognize that the presence of seasoned individuals shouldn’t prevent younger residents from seeking office.

Fresh perspectives are essential for invigorating local governance. Infusing experience with new ideas is often the perfect recipe to promote leadership and community preservation.

Despite time limitations, young people’s contributions are invaluable.

While most serve selflessly, sometimes there might be a small minority more interested in a single issue rather than comprehensive service.

Fortunately, these individuals tend to depart once their objectives are met, leaving those genuinely committed to community service to support local decision making.

Pennsylvania Local Government Week (April 14-18), supported by the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, celebrates the critical role local government plays in our lives.

These entities are the “boots on the ground,” providing essential services like well-maintained roads, reliable waste management, effective public safety, and vital quality of life services.

In Pennsylvania, nearly 1,500 townships operate on practical, commonsense, and cost-effective approaches that reflect the needs and values of their residents. Locally elected supervisors, deeply rooted in their communities, understand their constituents intimately.

Since the Commonwealth’s founding, local government has been the cornerstone of democratic governance.

Townships provide essential services — from health and safety to public infrastructure to millions of Pennsylvanians.

The tireless work of township and municipal employees, including over 38,000 volunteer firefighters, often goes unrecognized. They keep us safe, healthy, and moving, demonstrating unwavering dedication.

So, if you are grateful that your trash goes away, water comes out of your fixtures, and when you flush, it goes away, thank your local officials. If you see your road crew clearing brush, patching potholes, or cleaning drainage ditches or storm drains, thank your local officials.

During Local Government Week, let us acknowledge the crucial role township employees play in our democracy.

They serve daily, regardless of the challenges. People serve because they care deeply, and their commitment is unwavering. Their dedication keeps local government functioning, enabling communities to grow and prosper.

A former PEMA director and gubernatorial chief of staff, David Sanko, as PSATS executive director, oversees Pennsylvania’s largest local government association, representing approximately 1,500 municipalities, comprising nearly 6 million residents and 95% of the state’s land mass.