Changes in leadership positions can often be difficult for rural communities, especially when the communities are looking to grow economically and financially. The issues created by leadership changes are only intensified when there are multiple instances within a short period of time.

This has been the case for the Charleroi Council, who has experienced two council member resignations within as many months. All of this has occurred while the council has been looking to address the finances for Charleroi borough.

Two months ago, Randy DiPiazza resigned from the council, simply stating “I quit.” DiPiazza was replaced last month by Former Charleroi Mayor Nancy Ellis.

Then last week, the council lost another member when Deborah Kruell-Buck stepped down, citing a bigger focus on her business as the main reason for her resignation. With another vacant spot, the council appointed Martin Glassner to the position, who was sworn in Nov. 8 and will serve until the end of 2019.

Glassner, a veteran formerly from Belle Vernon, believes his military experience will help him in his venture into local politics. Furthermore, Glassner hopes he can help the council through the always difficult discourse of working out finances for the future. Glassner believes the right mindset can help unite the council to reach their goals.

“I understand that there is some dissonance within our community and our council. I hope to utilize my small unit leadership skills and core values to bring us all together. My goal is to promote positivity and optimism within our community,” Glassner said. “As a United States Marine, I have learned that a few motivated individuals with a common goal can achieve anything.”

While Kruell-Buck stepped down in respect to her career, a shift in Glassner’s professional life opened up the opportunity for him to take the position. Prior to the recent change, most of Glassner’s time was focused on his career.

“I’ve worked in the oil and natural gas industry for the past five years which took up an enormous amount of my time,” Glassner said. “Usual work weeks for me consisted of 90-110 hours so I didn’t have much time for anything other than a few minutes of family time and occasional sleep.”

However, a recent promotion allowed Glassner to join the council, with more time to focus on projects away from the job.

“I was recently promoted to a field service manager position which is more of an eight-to-five job. This advancement within my career allowed me to focus on things other than work.”

Glassner hopes to contribute to building a brighter future for Charleroi as a new member of council. As a father of three, Glassner wants to help promote a strong community for his family to live in.

“I wanted to give back to my community. I want to be an asset to the town in which I call home,” Glassner said. “I certainly believe that my history and previous accomplishments will allow me to be a productive member of council.”