Mayor Baney Will Not Seek Re-election
LOCK HAVEN – City Mayor Bill Baney announced Wednesday he would not seek a second term in that office. His announcement did leave open the possibility he could be a candidate for another elected position.
Baney’s announcement was followed by word from city council member Joel Long that he would be running for mayor and a formal announcement will be forthcoming. Both Baney and Long are Democrats.
Baney’s Wednesday announcement:
“I have made a decision not to seek re-election for mayor of the City of Lock Haven. I fulfilled a childhood dream when I was elected, three years ago.
“During my term as mayor, the city is moving forward with an excellent city council, and a very capable city manager in Greg Wilson. We have had NO tax increases, while I have been in office; I have been a proponent for our city police. Last year we entered into an five year agreement, which will see the city taking delivery of a new police cruiser, each year of the agreement; supported and fought for our city firemen relief drivers. They were given an hourly raise two years ago, after going years without any more money in their paychecks; blight in Lock Haven has been, and continues to be removed; the dilapidated Fallon Hotel, (which I pointed out to council in a strongly worded statement) is now closed, but a new development is being planned; speaking of development, work on the Geisinger project on Spring Street, and a new truck stop on Walnut Street is underway; a new roadway leading into First Quality Inc. is nearing completion, and should alleviate lost truckers; our nearly six-thousand acre watershed is now reaping profits, from proper forest management; I asked that automated fuel pumps be installed at the William T. Piper Memorial Airport. (that could happen as early as next year) we now have an affordable full-time bus service in Lock Haven, with passengers increasing each month; lobbied for our downtown getting outdoor cafes approved, and revising our open container ordinance, so that civic groups are allowed to sell alcohol, in a specific “outdoor” area.
“When I was sworn into office, I stated my obligation was to the taxpayers of Lock Haven. Hopefully, I have done that, and WILL continue to do so through the end of my term. I hope the next mayor, will have the same compassion for the city, the way I do.
“I will continue to re-evaluate my political options for this year, and will make an announcement about my future, at that time.”
Baney had been a member of city council when he ran for and won the mayor’s race in 2015. Both city council and Clinton County commissioner positions will be determined this year.
