Bethel Park official named state’s Outstanding Council Member
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Bethel Park Councilman Mark O’Brien has been named Outstanding Council Member of the Year by the Pennsylvania Borough Councils Association.
“I am deeply appreciative and humbled by this award.” O’Brien said. “I see it as an honor not just for myself, but for all the individuals who have supported and guided me throughout my journey, including the municipal staff, my fellow council members, my family and countless others with whom I have collaborated over the years.”
He especially thanked Tim Moury, council president, citing his “decades of outstanding leadership, dedication and hard work.”
Numerous exceptional submissions were received for the award this year, according to John Ehrman, deputy executive director and director of education and training for the boroughs association. Ehrman extended his congratulations to O’Brien and commended his more than 30 years of devoted service to Bethel Park.
Joe Consolmagno, one of O’Brien’s fellow council members, shared his admiration.
“As one of my mentors on the Bethel Park Municipal Council, Mark was one of the first to call me. From that call forward, he has consistently provided me with invaluable advice to serve the residents of Bethel Park,” Consolmagno said. “I owe him a great deal of appreciation, thanks and gratitude for who I am on Bethel Park Council.”
Moury concurred:
“Mark is a dedicated individual who thrives on helping people and addressing residents’ concerns.”
O’Brien, who represents Ward 6 and has served Bethel Park for 32 years, expressed his retirement plans, effective in December. He intends to remain active in various endeavors, including the Bethel Park Historical Society, South Hills Assembly of God and the Bethel Park Veterans Memorial Committee, with the support of his wife, Caroline.
Despite his upcoming retirement, O’Brien remains focused on resolving traffic issues at Irishtown, Logan and Patterson roads, and hopes to explore creative solutions in collaboration with residents. He envisions a bridge connecting the Montour Trail to Bethel Park Industrial Park and encourages others to bring forth new ideas to continue the progress of the community.
Throughout his career, O’Brien has accomplished several notable achievements, such as his instrumental role in establishing the Veterans Memorial Plaza in front of the Bethel Park Municipal Building. He has also been integral in developing new recreational park areas, recording BPTV promotions for various events and actively addressing flooding issues within his ward. O’Brien has volunteered extensively for veteran events, youth groups and nursing homes.
Reflecting on his tenure, O’Brien cherishes the opportunity to serve the residents of Bethel Park and hopes he has fulfilled his duties with excellence.