NorCo Council's Ron Heckman's Parting Thoughts

Northampton County Council member Ron Heckman was at his last meeting as a member of the governing body on December 11. He was first elected to County Council in 1990 and served until 1998, when he was appointed by Executive Glenn Reibman as Human Services Director. He stayed in that job until January 2016. From there he went to work for Lehigh County but returned to NorCo Council in 2018. He twice served as Council President and three times as VP. He did not use his position in county government to further a political career in the state house or elsewhere. He was, in the best sense of the word, a servant to the public good. He could be remembered for many things. But if one thing stands out, he was an ardent advocate of the power of county council and its duty to provide oversight. This sometimes resulted in friction, but it stops the executive branch from growing too powerful. This unfortunately, has been a problem on all levels of government. Though I am critical of President Donald Trump, the road to autocracy began long before he was President.  

We need more Ron Heckmans in government. 

Plus, he has great hair.

Here's what he said on his way out the door. 

It's been my honor.

It was an honor to have been elected to county council three times, and it's been a privilege to serve.

And also, as the Director of Human Services, I want to thank the voters of the County for putting their trust in me all these times.

And I would especially thank my family, especially my wife, Margaret, sitting there with the camera for the work they've done on my behalf.

I've often told her, She doesn't believe it, but it's true.

If it hadn't been for her, I doubt if I would ever get elected. She's been with me through my ups and downs, and I can't say enough about that.

I thank the people I served with, past and present, for your support and comradeship.

I've always considered myself a lifelong learner, and I continue to learn new things.

In 1989, when I was one of the 10 Democrats in our primary, imy biggest fear was that I'd come at last. I worked hard in that race. Somehow, I didn't come in last.

36 years later, between Northampton and Lehigh counties, I believe it's time to move on, get fresh blood, and I just want to say to all, thank you, and I wish everyone the best going forward.

It's been my pleasure.

I think.

Thank you all.

Ron Heckman Decides Against Seeking Third Term on NorCo Council

Northampton County Council is going to lose both an experienced and dedicated public servant in 2026. Ron Heckman, who has served two consecutive terms on NorCo's legislative body, has decided to call it quits. He has served for 16 years altogether as a member of the governing body. He also spent eight years as Director of Human Services under former Executive Glenn Reibman. He also presided over Council when the Forensic Center was built. 

A Democrat, Heckman was a strong advocate for Gracedale, the county-owned nursing home. He also authored the county's first farmland preservation resolution as well as a local labor ordinance requiring that local labor be used on county projects. He never voted for a tax hike. He has always been a voice for people on the edge, living one paycheck away from poverty. 

He believed that class wars matter a bit more than the culture wars embraced by some other members of Council. 

Heckman was plagued by numerous health issues in 2024, his annus horribilis. Though those are now behind him, he told me in a conversation last night that he'd like to spend for time with his wife of 50 years and do some traveling. "I think I could still continue, but it's time to step away," he told me. "The time has come."

Though he generally agreed with Executive Lamont McClure, he has been an independent voice and believes legislative bodies have generally abrogated their role as am check and balance on executive power, which is tending to become more authoritarian on a national, state and local level. 

He will be sorely missed. 

Northampton County Council will be reorganizing on Monday. He has no interest in serving as President.

Heckman Fails To Understand Why Gift Ban Needed

Last week's meeting of Northampton County Council's so-called "governance" committee, dominated by Council member Ron Heckman, was actually its antithesis. The main topic was a gift ban ordinance (read it here) proposed several weeks ago by Executive Lamont McClure. It was repeatedly panned by Council member Ron Heckman, although he said he'd support it. He acted as Council Solicitor during portions of the meeting, providing incorrect answers to questions. County Council Solicitor Chris Spadoni not only failed to correct Heckman's errors, but instead acted as though he's now a member of County Council. He engaged in policy discussions with the rest of them. Here are some of Heckman's many complaints: 

"Are we going to have to be constantly looking over our shoulders?

"I wish somebody would invite me to a ball game.

"I think what's already there is clear. 

"You know when you've done something wrong.

"I don't know if we can ever legislate ethics

"Isn't that what the state Ethics Commission is there for?

"I don't have a problem with it in general"

"When you're out of office, you're lucky if they remember your name. I've had that happen on numerous occasions. 

"Isn't the law what the last judge in line says it is?

His remarks and questions betray a basic ignorance about the gift ban ordinance and why it's needed. This has absolutely nothing to do with the state Ethics Code or Ethics Commission. It goes beyond the state law.  It's designed to prevent public officials from trading on their public positions for favorable treatment by those doing business with the county. And yes, it happens. 

PFM Asset Management, which manages the county's hefty pension plan, has a box with the 76ers, Eagles and Phillies. It's good business and is used to keep customers happy. These include public employees. I'd be shocked if county officials would turn down the opportunity to go to a playoff game. 

In fact, in a story advocating a gift ban in Northampton County, a retired government worker had this insight: "Having worked in local government I can say that the amount of people accepting gifts is staggering. Tickets to sporting events (a big one), lunches, dinners, other gratuities were all something that I politely declined. We shouldn't need a gift ban to know the difference between right and wrong. Unfortunately there is no shortage of people willing to take something for free when offered. This includes both elected officials and appointed staff members."

A public official who takes advantage of these percs commits no violation of state ethics law. So contrary to what Heckman asserts, the Ethics Commission would take no action if he attended a Phillies or Eagles game as a guest of PFM or any other county vendor. But it's certainly bad optics. Common Cause's Jay Keck has noted, "The real problem in my mind is one of perception. ... Public officials get preferential treatment by being offered these tickets ahead of the rest of the public. ... It creates real cynicism on the part of a lot of citizens about public officials and, frankly, I think public officials, to their detriment, accept things like this and don't think twice about the effect it's going to have on public morale."

That perception exists locally. In a post about yet another handout to ArtsQuest, I wondered whether elected officials get preferential treatment. A reader responded, "Of course elected officials receive tickets to premium ArtsQuest events. They are not always received directly from ArtsQuest, however. Blue Cross, LVHN and other organizations often purchase them in bulk and distribute them to elected officials and other dignitaries. At Musikfest this year, I encourage everyone to take a closer look at the VIP section of every headliner event. You are likely to recognize some of the faces." 

One example of this is Northampton County Council member Tara Zrinski. She even bragged about it. On her public official Facebook page, she has twice thanked ArtsQuest for "hosting" her. On August 10, she published a Facebook post that includes pictures of her with ArtsQuest CEO Kassie Hilgert during a concert. "Musikfest was awesome tonight," she effuses.  "What a great view. Thank you ArtsQuest and Kassie Hilgert for hosting us."

Hilgert responds, "Thank YOU for all of the support!"

This certainly implies a quid pro quo. It's definitely bad optics. Zrinski is a reliable Yes vote to ArtsQuest requests for county funding, VIP tickets at Musikfest can be expensive. I have no problem with Hilgert doing what she needs to do to secure funding, but have a big problem with Zrinski for certainly creating the impression that she's for sale.  She never responded to requests asking her to explain that incident and whether she accepts free meals and tickets to different events. 

So yes, it happens. And it does includes part-time elected officials like Heckman. 

Heckman claims that what's already there is clear. He's joined in this misimpression by Council member John Brown. Yes, a gift ban is our Home Rule Charter, and it's pretty clear. "No elected official, officer or employee shall receive benefit from the profits or emoluments of any contract, job, work or service for the County or accept anything of value, upon terms for favorable than those granted to the public generally, from any person dealing with the County.  No elected official, officer or employee shall solicit or receive anything of value from anyone dealing with the County. This subsection shall not be construed to prevent elected officials, officers or employees from accepting group discounts, group insurance or other economic advantages offered to all elected officials, officers and  employees."

But get this. The Administrative Code completely guts it. Iin violation of the Home Rule Charter, it actually allows officials to be wined, dined and even accept SuperBowl tickets.  They can accept meals and even cash for lodging, travel, and entertainment if invited to participate in some conference. This blatant deviation from our Home Rule Charter renders the gift ban meaningless. So when Council members John Brown and Ron Heckman say things are just fine as they are, what they are saying is that they have no problem with a meaningless Home Rule Charter. 

In reality, McClure's gift ban ordinance is needed to close a gigantic loophole created by the Administrative Code.  

His proposal is less draconian than Bethlehem's. It does allow for gifts of de minimis value. Heckman started ranting about the use of Latin. "Nobody has determined where that line exists," complained Council member Lori Vargo Heffner. That line is defined in the ordinance itself. It is "any property or service the value of which is so small as to make accounting for it unreasonable or administratively impracticable."  

Council Solicitor Chris Spadoni never told Vargo Heffner and other Council members that their question is answered by the language in the ordinance. He apparently never read the ordinance himself. 

If a Council member has a question whether an offered gift crosses that line, he or she should just say No. 

Another objection spun by Heckman is that people can just complain to the state Ethics Commission. That's false. There's nothing in the state Ethics Code that bans public employees or officials from accepting gifts. Spadoni failed to correct that misinformation, disseminated primarily by wannabe Solicitor Heckman, 

Council member Tara Zrinski, who arrived late to the discussion, worried that the gift ban ordinance could be weaponized to remove disliked Council members like herself from office. Wannabe Solicitor Heckman incorrectly told her that a violator can be removed. That's false. The only way an elected official can be removed from office is if he or she is convicted of an infamous crime or by the Governor after impeachment and conviction by the state legislature. Spadoni failed to correct this misinformation as well. 

There were some rays of sunlight. Council member John Cusick summed up his sentiments in two sentences. "I have nothing. I think that it's fine." Council member John Goffredo seemed to be on board. And other than having questions that could be answered by reading the ordinance and the charter, Vargo Heffner had no issues. Tom Giovanni was mercifully silent. 

It will pass unanimously, but Council members like Heckman and Brown made clear they dislike it. That's something to keep in mind should either seek re-election. 

Benol, Geissinger Display Some Class

Aside from Peg Ferraro, the two most qualified people running for NorCo Council were Jerry Seyfried and Ron Heckman. Given the years they've invested into the County and their love for it, I was truly sorry to see them lose. But in a very gracious and classy move, Mat Benol and Glenn Geissinger have reached out to them both with, of all things, a thank you.

Benol, speaking for himself and Glenn Geissinger, said this: "Both gentlemen showed class and character. They also freely shared their ideas for making the County better, something you would not expect from ‘opponents’, especially from a different political party. It would have been a pleasure to serve on Council with them. I am hopeful that Glenn and I will be able to call on them during the next four years for insight and help."

What Benol does not say, but what I think he means, is that the election is over and it's time to govern. He's hoping that he can call on Jerry and Ron, and I'm sure he can.

Ron Heckman on Northampton County Issues

Democrat Ron Heckman is one of ten candidates seeking five at-large seats on Northampton County Council. A former member of Council for eight years, Heckman served for another eight as Executive Glenn Reibman's Director of Human Services. He also worked in Lehigh County's administration.

When Heckman worked for Glenn Reibman, I disagreed with Ron on numerous initiatives, particularly the $111 million megabond. But I never doubted his good intentions.

Now I agree with nearly all his answers in this questionnaire. So we both have become much smarter, or more likely, much dumber.

Because some people have been hostile to candidates, I will not permit any commentary with these questionnaires.

By way of full disclosure, I have already decided tentatively that I am supporting Jerry Seyfried, Ron Heckman, Deb Hunter and Peg Ferraro.


1. Lehigh County Commissioners and Bethlehem City council have both toyed with the idea of rejecting pass through grants based on objections to the federal deficit, money owed to China and antipathy to charter schools. Would you reject pass through grants?

ANSWER - No. Local government is trying to meet infinite demands with finite resources.

2. Most of Council's work is done at its busy Personnel and Finance Committees, at which every member of Council is encouraged to attend. How do you feel about participation at Council Committee meetings? Will you attend?

ANSWER - Yes, they are very important and I will attend as many as I possibly can. While on County Council in the past, I served on the County Commissioners State Human Services Committee and made as many of those meetings as I could throughout the state despite working full time. So, I feel we must, at the very least, do everything we can to attend our own meetings in Easton.

3. One candidate has rejected the concept of regionalism as one big mess that is harder to manage than a group of smaller messes. Do you support or oppose regionalism, and what regional projects would you endorse on Council?

ANSWER - I support intelligent, meaningful regional projects. As the former Lehigh County Manager of Regional Partnerships, I was involved in creating the Lehigh County Council of Governments and putting together projects that saved municipalities money by sharing costs and improving services through shared initiatives.

4. During the Executive primary, one candidate made a no tax hike pledge. Do you think it is responsible to make no tax-hike pledges? If so, are you willing to make one?

ANSWER - No, I will not make such a pledge. During my previous terms on County Council, I never voted to raise taxes but that does not mean I can predict the future. We must work to keep county costs down by pledging to do our best.

5. In a 2011 plebiscite, voters told Council not to sell Gracedale for 5 years. The annual County contribution is currently in the $5-7 million range, so voters effectively voted for that contribution. But what if it grows? Is there a red line at which you would agree it is necessary to sell Gracedale?

ANSWER - The voters spoke overwhelmingly to keep Gracedale. Now we must work as hard as possible to make Gracedale as cost efficient as possible. Over the course of the next five years we will assess the situation and make an honest accounting of costs and services to the public. I am not in favor of “red lines”, as we currently are spending money in other areas that, while not mandated by the state or Federal governments, are providing important services to the community. In county government, one could have a multitude of “red lines.” I prefer sound judgment and facts. I will do everything in my power based on my knowledge and experience to make Gracedale an effective and efficient county nursing home.

6. In 2007, County Council voted to set aside 1/2 mill of real estate tax (about $3.5 million) for a pay-as-you go open space plan for preserving farmland, environmentally sensitive land and municipal parks. On Council, will you vote to continue funding open space? Do you consider this a core county function?

ANSWER - While not necessarily a “core function” of county government, open space has been part of the county lexicon for decades. In the early nineties I sponsored County Council’s first Farmland Preservation Resolution. I continue to believe that open space is a high quality of life issue and deserves the county’s support.

7. There are 11 unions county-wide. What efforts would you make, as a member of council, to encourage unions to consolidate and reduce the amount of time administrators and unions must spend in contract negotiations?

ANSWER - This is an executive branch responsibility. Having said that, I would be supportive of the executive branch and the unions discussing this idea. It may result in less red tape and benefit both the administration and the employees. However, it is an idea that must be pursued by the unions and administration willingly and without any interference from County Council.

8. What is your position on laying off County workers? Would you support layoffs to balance the budget, or vote to increase taxes to provide the same level of services?

ANSWER - First, I believe Northampton County has historically been very judicious when it comes to creating county positions. In my experience as both a former county councilman and the Director of Human Services, we had to deal with some very tight budgets. I personally never saw any real benefit from layoffs, as the result was often backlogs and disrupted service. I do believe that if it were absolutely necessary to look at jobs we should first look at employee attrition. Even in tough economic times people leave their jobs for a variety of reasons, such as retirement or relocation to name but two. We must do a better job of ‘cross training’ throughout the county in all departments. With proper planning and training, I find it highly unlikely that there would be a need for layoffs as the demand on county services grows every year.

9. Northampton County, like Lehigh, has privatized the management of Gracedale. But there are those who would like to return administration to the County. Where do you stand on this issue?

ANSWER - I believe we need to realize the reality of the situation. We have a mandate from the public to keep Gracedale in county hands. In order to do that we must find ways to hold the line on costs and increase revenue without hurting the quality of service. This firm just started, I think it is counterproductive to already consider having them leave. Once on County Council, I will personally review the firm’s reports and discuss their plans for Gracedale. This is an area where I believe my experience will be particularly helpful. For now we must let them do the job we are paying them to do and evaluate as we move along.

10. Some Council members would like to amend the Home Rule Charter to return to elected row officers. How do you feel about this proposal?

ANSWER - I do not agree. As a past member of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, I saw first-hand the non-Home Rule county operations. They are not as open and transparent as we are. I also think our form of government is more in tune with the present and future of Northampton County. A return to elected row offices would fundamentally change the nature of our county and in many ways eliminate the need for an executive branch of government. I do support the county revisiting our current Charter as it is now almost forty years old. I would support a committee made up of all parts of county government to review how it is working and see if any suggestions come out of such an examination. However, I would not deviate from the central core of the Home Rule Charter.

11. Would you support a ban on guns by people using any County facilities, even off the courthouse campus, like at the new centralized Human Services Building?

ANSWER - Yes. A ‘no guns in county buildings’ policy.

12. Will you support or reject a County Property Tax Reassessment?

ANSWER - Reject.

13. Would you support the proposition that the Prothonotary, Clerk of Criminal Court, Clerk of Orphans Court and Register of Wills should be transferred under the Administration of the Courts instead of the County Executive (through the Director of Court Services) much like the higher courts currently administer its own clerks?

ANSWER - I have been looking into this since I have become aware of some facts. It does appear to make sense and, at least on paper, I would say it could very well go a long way to solve the problem of collecting the millions of dollars owed the county in fines, fees, etc. So, yes, I am generally supportive and would like to hear more about the proposition once on Council.

Meet Ron Heckman

Ron Heckman is among the eight Democrats seeking his party's nomination to one of five at-large seats to Northampton County Council. Over the years, he and I have disagreed on numerous County issues, but I support him. I've always respected his viewpoints. More importantly, I think Ron will be a voice for many people living at the edge, one step away from absolute poverty. He demonstrated that quality during his eight years on County Council and another eight years as Human Services Director. When none of Glenn Reibman's cabinet would appear at Council meetings, Heckman was always there, willing to answer questions and listen.

Yesterday, over a neglected bagel at Panera Bread, Heckman told me that he's in the running because he wants to serve, not run for some other office down the road. "I've always loved the County," he told me, claiming that human services are his main concern. He worries about declining state and federal grants, and how that impacts neglected children or disabled seniors.

He is also disgusted by the pervasive influence of money in local races, something he's seen increase over the years.

"I have a sense of perspective. I think I could be a better Councilman today than I was when I was on the first time around. Frankly, I think we could use some experience. A mix of young and old is a good thing. I guess I'm asking to be part of that old, experienced part that could add balance to the Council."

Heckman did admit that he is not quite as handsome as Jerry Seyfried. "It's very hard to run against somebody who looks like Brad Pitt," he complained.

He has an eye doctor appointment tomorrow.

Blogger's Note: With the exception of Christen Borso, I now have posted videos of each of the Democrats seeking a seat on Northampton County Council. I will try to get her on tape, as well as all Republicans, before election day.

Ron Heckman: This is My Home

There's lots of things I don't like about Ron Heckman. I always thought he was too tight with Glenn Reibman. When he speaks, he takes about three hours to say hello. His supporters are insane. But I'll be voting for him.

For years, he and I have often on the opposite sides of County issues. In other words, he's often wrong. But I know he's sincere and will do his best. He has always been approachable and willing to explain himself. He also has a terrific sense of humor. Other than Jerry Seyfried or Ron Angle, I can think of no person more knowledgeable about County government than he. Also, he has never lied to me.

There's just one thing I want to correct. According to Heckman, I have a little shrine at my estate, with candles always burning before statues of Ron Angle, Charlie Dent and John Stoffa. Actually, they are small portraits that I drew myself.

When Ron says he wants to serve the citizens of Northampton County "because this is my home," I believe him. His statement is below.

Today, I am announcing my candidacy for Northampton County Council in the spring primary election on the Democratic ticket. County government is a predominately service-based level of government. It is responsible for providing several services. Council must do that job with professionalism and in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Council must also do their homework and ask tough questions. My extensive experience in both the legislative and executive branches of county government has provided me with the knowledge to ask these questions.

During my tenure as Director of Human Services for Northampton County, I utilized my thirty years of experience in the private and public sectors to manage the county’s largest department. As Manager of Regional Partnerships for Lehigh County, I worked with local municipalities on ways to maximize governmental efficiency and lower cost.

My record has been one of providing the most effective county government possible for the least amount of taxpayer dollars. During my two terms as councilman, I never voted for a tax increase. I voted to eliminate the personal property tax and reduce the county’s real estate tax burden. I also sponsored the county’s first farmland preservation resolution.

As your County Councilman, I am determined to focus much of my energy on the needs of the Department of Human Services. We must ensure that the county’s nursing home, Gracedale, is properly maintained and supported. We also must ensure that services vital to our most vulnerable citizens are protected and delivered efficiently. Our citizens demand that we maintain the county’s structures including our bridges, buildings and parks that they have paid for with their tax dollars. To not do so will cost the taxpayers millions of dollars in deferred maintenance. We must also work with the courts to curb the high cost of prisoner recidivism.

I want to serve the citizens of this county because this is my home. I learned traditions and values while growing up in Moore Township that have served me well in life. I would like to give back what I can in service to a county that has provided such great quality of life for all of us. I will again put my experience to work for the citizens of Northampton County.

The Three Wise Men

As I told you yesterday, three people have applied for the vacancy on Northampton County Council - Bob Birk, Ron Heckman and Jerry Seyfried. All have experience in local government. Two of them are former members of County Council. One of them also served as County Exec. Here are the resumes that each applicant has provided to Council.

Robert W. Birk - Bethlehem Township

Bethlehem Township Board of Commissioners - Treasurer, 2006 - 09
* Liaison to Parks, Recreation and Administrative Offices
* Serve on Bethlehem Township Police Pension Board, 2006 - 09
* Bethlehem Township Board President, 2000 - 01
* Bethlehem Township Board - Vice President, 1998 - 99
* Bethlehem Township Board Commissioner - 1991, 1995, 1999
* Lehigh Valley Planning Commission - 1994 - 97
* Former Candidate for Northampton County Council

Ronald R. Heckman - Bethlehem

QUALIFICATIONS

County and Government Experience

COUNTY OF LEHIGH, Pennsylvania

I am currently employed by the County of Lehigh. My duties have included being Manager of Regional Partnerships in the Department of Community and Economic Development and as an employee in the Health Choices Program of the Department of Human Services.

COUNTY OF NORTHAMPTON, Pennsylvania

Director, Department of Human Services
For eight years, I served as the Director of Northampton County's Department of Human Services, the largest county program with a budget exceeding 160 million dollars and employing over 1,200 employees. The coordinated client-focused programs are designed to maintain and improve the quality of life for over 7,000 families and 15,000 individuals.

As the Director, I oversaw the implementation of the Health Choices Program and projects to consolidate services, enhance fiscal accountability and introduced new and more effective uses of computer technology to promote a programmatically effective and fiscally efficient department. As part of my responsibilities as Director, I was involved in labor contract negotiations with three unions and was responsible for the overall development of policies and procedures, including overall supervision of programming and budget issues. I also served as the County Executive's representative to Bi-County Health Department discussions.

COUNTY OF NORTHAMPTON, Pennsylvania
County Councilman, At-Large

I was elected three times as a Northampton County Councilman At-Large, serving from January 1990 until April, 1998. During that time, I served on the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee, the Operations and Administration Committees and as liaison to the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission for eight years while serving on their Executive Committee. I was also a Director with the County Conservation District. While on Council, I served as Chairman of the County Council Human Services Committee and was appointed to the County Commissioner's Association of Pennsylvania's Human Services Committee.

COUNTY OF NORTHAMPTON, Pennsylvania
Northampton County Children's Bureau
Caseworker

PHILADELPHIA COUNTY, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia County Board of Assistance
Caseworker

Private Sector Experience

K1DSPEACE, Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania
Facility Supervisor/Reading Specialist
My responsibilities included managing the training, development and retention of mental health staff, supervision of program development, marketing, budgeting and overall operation of my specific facility.

I also worked one-on-one with at-risk teens in the Education Department.

MESS'S DEPARTMENT STORE, Allentown, Pennsylvania Assistant Buyer and Sales Manager

EDUCATION

East Stroudsburg University, M.Ed.
East Stroudsburg University, B.A., Political Science/Social Studies
DeSales University - Management and Accounting Courses
Kutztown University - Graduate work in Public Administration
Seminars, educational and personal enrichment courses: Cedar Crest College, Kutztown University, Moravian College and Northampton Community College.

AFFILIATIONS

Current Member:
Bethlehem Community Collaborative
Community Action Committee of the Lehigh Valley
Lehigh Valley Alliance on Aging
Bethlehem Redevelopment Authority

Former Member:
County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Association of Human Services Directors
County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Human Services Committee
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission
Executive Committee of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission
Board of Directors of the County Conservation District
Pennsylvania Association of Federal Program Coordinators
joint Commission of Accreditation of Health Care Organizations
Board of Directors of Partnership for Children
Board of Directors of Celtic Cultural Alliance. Inc.

Gerald E Seyfried - Lower Nazareth Township

Presently Retired

Northampton County Council
(1978 through 1989)

1. 1978 and 1979 served as At Large Member of Council
2. 1980 through 1989 served as District 3 Member of Council
3. Served as Chairman of Council's Finance Committee
4. Served as Chairman of Council's Human Services Committee
5. Served as Chairman of Council's Personnel Committee
6. Served as Chairman of Council's Intergovernmental Committee
7. Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee that wrote the Personnel section of the County Administrative Code and the Career Service Employees Manual
8. Vice President of County Council 4 yrs
9. President of County Council 4 yrs.

Northampton County Executive
(1990 through 1993)

Boards and commissions
1. Northampton County Retirement Board (4 Yrs as Vice-chair)
2. Northampton County Retirement Board (4 yrs as Chairman)
3. Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (8 yrs as Commissioner) also served 8 yrs. on LVPC Transportation Committee
4. Northampton County Development Corporation, ADC and IDC (4 yrs)
5. Director and Chief Fund Raiser for Northampton County's 250th Anniversary Committee
6. Northampton County Soil Conservation District (Served 4 yrs as Director)
7. Lehigh Valley Transportation Study (8 yrs as Northampton County's voting member and planner) This is the organization that works with the Federal and State Govt. They do the planning and commit the funds for hundreds of millions of dollars for Lehigh and Northampton County highway and bridge projects.
8. Solid Waste Authority (served as voting member).

Military

United States Navy, Honorable discharge
Voluntarily served in the United States Navy from August of 1960 until being Honorably Discharged in March of 1964

Personal Honors and Accomplishments (Sportsmen and Conservation)

1. Recipient of the Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Award. This award is presented in recognition of personal contribution to the conservation and management of the wildlife resources of Pennsylvania.

2. Recipient of several awards in recognition for outstanding service on behalf of the Northampton County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs.

3. Presented with a life membership and honored as the "Sportsman of the year" by the Tri-boro Sportsmens Club. Selected from over 4,000 members.

4. One of the original organizers and founders of the Northampton County Youth Field Day Program in Northampton County. Recruited sponsors and donors that have enabled almost two thousand boys and girls to learn about our environment and outdoor recreational opportunities.

5. Organizer of the Northampton County Bowfest. This annual bow hunter festival raised thousands of dollars each year. The monies were used to further the goals and objectives of the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs by funding the Northampton County Junior Conservation School and funding for the Wlldlands Conservancy.

6. Founder and organizer and served as the nucleus of a group called FLAG (Fish Ladder Action Group) which consisted of Senators, Legislators, Mayors and Local Politicos from five different Counties to promote the funding and construction of the Fish Passageways on the Lehigh River. The end result was funding totaling two million dollars ($2,000,000), and the construction of the Fish passageways on
the Lehigh River.

7. Was the principal mover for having placed forty thousand dollars ($40,000) a year (8 yrs in a row) in the county budget for use by the "Wildlands Trust Fund" for the acquisition and preservation of open space. These monies were used in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Game Commission and other sources resulting in the preservation of thousands of acres of open space being preserved for future
generations to enjoy.

8. Began the Parks Two Thousand Program in Northampton County and provided funding in County Budgets for the Acquisition and development of properties such as The Weaversville Tract of Land and Properties adjoining the Minsi Lake Complex.

9. Organized and accomplished the objective of constructing a public boat launch on the lower Lehigh River. The Construction Costs were borne by the Federal and State Government as part of the completion of the Rte. 33 Highway Project. This boat launch was opened December 16, 2002 and was publicly dedicated in the spring of 2003.

10. Life Member of The National Rifle Association.

11. Member of several sportsmen's clubs in Northampton County.

12. Organizer and Chairman of the Whitetail Deer Classic Banquet. This Banquet serves as the main fund raiser for the Northampton County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs, The Northampton County Junior Conservation School, and The Northampton County Youth Field Day Program. Total receipts from this event (2004 to 2009) is almost six
hundred thousand dollars.

13. Was honored by the Whitetail Deer Classic Committee naming an Annual Award "The Gerald E (Jerry) Seyfried Lifetime Achievement Award". This award is given to sportsmen and women that have dedicated years of their lives to preservation and conservation of our natural resources and furthering the outdoor recreational activities of the Sportsmen and women of our county.

Community Activities (past and present)

Active in a variety of civic commissions and committees. Volunteer for the American Heart Fund, March of Dimes, and Northampton County Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs. East End Little League Coach, Cub Scouts of America Pack 76 Secretary, Bethlehem Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors Member. Whitetail Deer Classic Committee

Stoffa Quietly Announces Reelection Bid

The waiting is over.

In a story broken by The Express Times' Sarah Cassi, John Stoffa has quietly announced his decision to seek a second term as Northampton County Executive. No fanfare. No collection of campaign contributors - job seekers, urging him on. No campaign photo of Stoffa standing prominently in the courthouse. Just one laconic remark - "I think there will be competition."

In a place with no secrets, Stoffa has managed to keep everyone guessing for months. You see, he swims alone. Mistaking this quiet strength as a weakness, the sharks have been circling. Ann "Nice Guys Finish Last" McHale is supposed to be announcing her attentions in a news conference today. Ron Heckman, a protege of the man Stoffa defeated, has been building support where he can find it. In a 2007 primary, Ron finished 4th in a race for three Bethlehem city council seats. Not good, Ron.

This race is over. The smartest thing McHale could do today is pledge her support for Stoffa. She's banking on her ties to union agents and her last name, but her imperious nature will surely work against her. This is an official who actually walked out on Michelle Obama! She has been the ringleader of the most dysfunctional local government in the Lehigh Valley. She even ridiculously tried to force the county to accept an IT contract that was $1.8 million greater than the one Stoffa ultimately negotiated.

Unlike McHale or Heckman, Stoffa understands who deserves his loyalty, and it is not union bosses or campaign contributors. "I answer to the taxpayers, ultimately."

That's why he'll win.

Update: According to a Morning Call news account, McHale will announce her intentions later this month and party bossman Joe Long will never endorse Stoffa because ... horrors ... he appointed despicable Republicans to his cabinet. Stoffa's Director of Fiscal Affairs, Vic Mazziotti, is a Republican. His Director of Administration, John Conklin, may be a Republican, at least on paper. Stoffa has this weird notion of filling positions with people who actually know how to do the job. Go figure. (Blogger's Note: I screwed up this update by claiming Joe Long would never endorse Joe Long. I'm sure he would.)

Northampton County Controller Steve Barron Ponders Run For Executive

Northampton County Controller Steve Barron has confirmed he is considering running for county executive, the seat currently held by fellow Democrat John Stoffa. Steve's energy and popularity among courthouse workers are great assets. Steve's handicap, obviously, is his relative inexperience. He has only been in office for one year. Should incumbent John Stoffa decide against running, however, many voters are turned off by the choices of Ann McHale and Ron Heckman.

McHale has relied on a distant relation to former Congressman Paul McHale, by marriage, to propel her political career. Imperious, she is best known for her inability to manage the most dysfunctional municipal government in the Lehigh Valley. It has worsened under her Presidency. She will be announcing tomorrow from some throne room somewhere.

Heckman, a very nice guy, has demonstrated he simply lacks the energy to mount a campaign. Just two years ago, he could not even get himself elected to Bethlehem City Council.

In the meantime, the Great White, John Stoffa, swims alone.

Cupboards Bare for Three Rumored Norco Executive Hopefuls

The three names mentioned most often for Northampton County Executive are incumbent John Stoffa, County Council Prez Ann McHale and former Director of Human Services Ron Heckman. Their year-end campaign finance reports, however, reveal their cupboards are bare. None has raised any money. All report a campaign debt.

Ron Heckman started and ended 2008 with $2,011.47 and reports a campaign debt of $1,000. Ann McHale started the year with $1,262.13, raised no money, and spent $729 on contributions to different groups. She contributed to no candidates. She ended the year with $533.13 in the bank and a campaign debt of $1,000.

Incumbent John Stoffa, as I've already told you, has a whopping $65.63. His campaign debt to himself is $14,500.

Poll Results: Northampton County's Next Exec

I'll have more about this later, but here's the results from my Northampton County exec poll.

State Rep. Richard Grucela 37% (41 votes)

Council President Ann McHale 13% (14 votes)

Lehigh County Administrator Ron Heckman 50% (55 votes)

Total Votes: 110

Final Reminder: Who Would You Like as Northampton County's Next Exec

Is John Stoffa running for reelection? Your bet's as good as mine. But let's say he decides he's had enough. Which Democrat is his best successor? Is it McHale and her appeal to the women's vote? What about Rich Grucela's formidable political skills? Does affable Ron Heckman want return us to the good ol' days of Glenn Reibman? I started a poll on the left sidebar. I'll close it sometime Tuesday. Who do you think is winning? Vote and find out.

Reminder: Who Would You Like as Northampton County Exec?

Assuming that John Stoffa, aka Julius Caesar, decides the waters of the Rubicon are too chilly, which Democrat do you like best? Will women rally around McHale? Will politically savvy Rich Grucela eliminate all competition? Or will affable Ron Heckman come out of nowhere and surprise us all? I started a poll on the left sidebar. Who do you think is winning? Vote and find out.

Who Would You Like to See as Northampton County's Next Exec?

When I left you earlier today, I painted John Stoffa at the banks of the Rubicon, pondering whether to take the plunge and seek a second term. It's hard to imagine him, an older man who should be enjoying his retirement, continue to suffer the mean-spirited abuse inflicted on him.

It's worse than blogging!

So let's say we're left with a race for the Democratic nod between council prez Ann McHale and state Rep. Rich Grucela, who hails from the ranks of local government.

Who do you like? I've loaded an unscientific poll on the left sidebar.

Update: I've been taken to task for failing to include Ron Heckman, currently a Lehigh County administrator, in the mix. So I've prepared a new poll that includes all three. This poll assumes that Stoffa is stepping down. Should he decide to seek a second term, it is unclear whether Grucela would enter the fray.