“The Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs (PSAB) is a nonprofit/nonpartisan association operated by the boroughs of the Commonwealth to promote effective local government practices and initiatives.”

The association exists to support initiatives to support excellence in boroughs and to inform the people charged with shepherding the positive, transparent growth and development of the boroughs. According to information at the Website, “PSAB … represent(s) 960 governing bodies, over 9,100 elected/appointed local officials, and 2.6 million residents spanning 66 counties. The four primary objectives of the Association are to:

• provide legislative/regulatory representation at both the state and federal levels;
• promote constructive and cooperative relationships among boroughs and between PSAB and other levels of government;
• deliver training and technical assistance to borough officials; and
• provide cost-effective programs and products that ultimately benefit borough taxpayers.”

The last four words of the above bullet item – “ultimately benefit borough taxpayers” – ought to be the driving philosophy of every elected “public servant” and employee of the borough.

The PSAB’s monthly magazine, Pennsylvania Borough News, is written for those charged with serving in guiding and managing the borough; in February an article entitled, “NOW WHAT … When serving your borough, there are a few things to keep in mind to help you be a better local leader” appeared. The article offers, those who represent and serve the citizens, well-written advice about what citizens must expect from those who serve in these capacities. Everyone in local government should read the article.