LH Mayor Vilello Resigns (Video Report)
Mayor ‘Rick” Accepts Position in Harrisburg
Council reluctantly accepted the resignation, members wishing him well in his new post; Vilello starts Tuesday as the executive director of the Governor’s Center for Local Government, a position within the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
Vilello had served as Lock Haven mayor for 15 years and three months. He had hoped to be able to complete his final four-year term as mayor through the end of this year, but the Wolf administration said no.
Vilello at his final meeting detailed improvements occurring in the city during his time in City Hall, from downtown beautification to infrastructure improvements to the city’s new treatment plant. And he said the public “hasn’t seen anything yet,” expressing optimism about the area’s future from outdoor activities to business opportunities from First Quality, Baker Hughes and others.
He used a favorite Vilello phrase, “I’m excited” about the direction Lock Haven is going. He said he served with 20 different council members over the years and each panel got better, stating “I hope that continues.”
Council has 30 days to name a replacement. In the interim council vice-chairman Steve Stevenson will chair council meetings. Both Stevenson, like Vilello a Democrat, and council member Rick Conklin, a Republican, are candidates for the mayor’s position in this year’s election. Vilello had announced earlier he would not seek a fifth term in office.
