Brenda Sacco has now officially taken on the role of Lackawanna County Commissioner following a protracted legal struggle. During her swearing-in ceremony, Sacco pledged her dedication to the community, marking a significant milestone in the county’s political landscape.
The appointment of Sacco, a 53-year-old hailing from Dunmore, comes after the resignation of former Commissioner Matt McGloin in February, which ignited a legal tussle involving Commissioner Bill Gaughan and the county’s Democratic Party.
With her appointment, Sacco becomes only the third woman to hold the commissioner post in the 147-year history of the county. Grateful for the opportunity, Sacco expressed her appreciation to the county judges for their decision, stating, “I want to thank the Democratic Party and my family and all my friends that had faith and that have supported me. And I look forward to serving the residents of Lackawanna County and working very, very hard because I truly love this county and want to make it a great place to live and to work.”
Her selection was finalized on September 4, surpassing the candidacy of Scranton School Director Bob Casey and after Olyphant Council President James Baldan withdrew his application.
The Dynamics of Board Politics
Previously, Sacco was dismissed from her role as the county’s top economic development official by the same board majority that included McGloin and Gaughan. The reasons for her dismissal were not publicly disclosed, and Gaughan chose not to comment further on the matter. Despite not attending the ceremony due to a scheduling conflict, Gaughan later stated he is open to collaborating with Sacco, emphasizing, “I’ll work with anybody who wants to do the right thing.”
In contrast, Commissioner Chris Chermak, who was not involved in Sacco’s dismissal, expressed a positive view of her capabilities, saying, “I have a great relationship with Brenda Sacco, so I have no issues working with her.”
Reassessing County Affairs
One of Sacco’s initial tasks as commissioner will be to assess the county’s pending reassessment, set to take effect at the start of January. She remarked, “I wish I was here seven months ago,” referring to her earlier attempt to join the board. Sacco’s approach will involve a thorough review of the budget, particularly given her background in finance, with a focus on avoiding any additional tax increases.
Despite warnings from Gaughan and the county solicitor about the legal ramifications of delaying the reassessment, Sacco is determined to scrutinize the process carefully.
Legal Challenges and Political Uncertainty
A recent ruling by the state Supreme Court has confirmed Sacco’s appointment process under the county’s home rule charter, a decision contested by Gaughan for months. According to the court’s decision, Sacco’s term could end as soon as next month, depending on the outcome of a special election scheduled for November 4.
The special election, set to determine McGloin’s long-term successor, features candidates Thom Welby, Chet Merli, and Michael Cappellini, but Sacco is not among them. The county Democratic Party, however, continues to contest the legality of the special election, leaving the possibility open for Sacco to remain in office longer.
Personal and Professional Decisions
Recently resigning from her state administrative position, which paid $80,841, Sacco accepted the commissioner role that offers $88,929, albeit for potentially a brief tenure. Her commitment stems from a deep belief in her ability to positively influence the county, as she articulated, “I worked here for 11 years, and I truly that I believe I can make a positive impact.”
Her former superior at the insurance fund, George Kelly, attended her swearing-in, but made it clear that re-employment would not be guaranteed should Sacco need to vacate her new position.
The political climate remains charged, with ongoing tensions between party officials. Democratic chairman Chris Patrick criticized the drawn-out process, asserting, “This took so long, and it was an injustice to the taxpayers of Lackawanna County.” Meanwhile, disagreements and sharp exchanges between Gaughan and Patrick illustrate the contentious nature of local politics.
Sacco’s Background
Sacco’s career in public service includes a tenure as the county’s planning and economic development director, preceded by her role as deputy director. Her extensive experience spans banking in New York City, running a restaurant, and financial positions locally, underscoring her diverse skill set.
