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County Council District 1
Jack Betkowski is one of several retirements from County Council set to reshape the body in 2026. Vying for Betkowski’s seat are nonprofit fundraiser Kathleen Madonna-Emmerling and small business owner Carl Villella.
Bio: Born in Sewickley. “Lifelong resident of Pittsburgh’s Airport Area suburbs.” Ambridge Area, Duquesne, and Chatham graduate. Background in nonprofit fundraising. Founded PAC and has advocated for LGBTQ community and “library freedoms” locally.
Economy: Says high property taxes place burden on homeowners. Wants to work with the state to fix school funding mechanism through tax reform. Supports tax incentives for small businesses.
Public safety: Would “prioritize funding” for Allegheny County Emergency Services and police/fire academies. Supports crisis intervention and co-responder models that emphasize de-escalation.
Health: Says aging local population needs easier access to senior services. Highlights pedestrian deaths and roadway crashes as public health issue and pledges improvements to lighting and crosswalks.
Infrastructure & environment: Wants to improve transit connectivity and repair aging infrastructure. Emphasizes issues with stormwater management and land subsidence; favors “smart growth policies” in overdeveloped areas.
Endorsements: Allegheny County Democratic Committee, United Steelworkers District 10, SEIU 668, Allegheny County Treasurer Erica Rocchi Brusselars, Allegheny County Councilor-At-Large Bethany Hallam
Bio: 40-year Moon Twp. resident. Penn State grad. Small business owner. Active in local Catholic church, Knights of Columbus, VFW. Has served as Judge of Elections and supported anti-human-trafficking work.
Economy: Emphasizes “fiscal responsibility” and transparent stewardship of county funds. Pledges to collaborate with local authorities to maximize efficiency.
Public safety: Seeks to speed up 9-1-1 response time. Wants to “invest in training and technology” for first responders.
Health: Supports expanded access to mental healthcare services and addiction recovery programs. Highlights role of affordable housing and local nonprofits in public health.
Infrastructure & environment: Wants to “enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure.” Pledges transparent process for replacing aging bridges. Favors “data-driven” approach to implementing infrastructure upgrades.
Endorsements: Allegheny-Fayette Central Labor Council, Pittsburgh Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 91, Pittsburgh Regional Trade Council
This article appears in Apr 30 – May 6, 2025 and Election Guide (Early 2025).
