Thom Welby, former state representative, is poised to assume the role of Lackawanna County commissioner after emerging victorious in a special election. As he prepares for his swearing-in ceremony, Welby is already immersing himself in the responsibilities of his new position by attending the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania conference in Hershey.
Welby plans to attend the conference sessions on Sunday and Monday, returning to Scranton on Monday night in time for his swearing-in on Tuesday morning. “I am (going) for Sunday and Monday, and I’m going to come back Monday night and get sworn in Tuesday morning,” Welby, aged 76, shared.
The county’s Board of Elections officially confirmed Welby’s victory on Friday, enabling him to fill the position left vacant by former Commissioner Matt McGloin, who resigned in February. Welby, a Democrat, succeeded against his challengers, Republican Chet Merli and independent Michael Cappellini, in the November 4 special election. His term will last until January 3, 2028. More details can be found here and about McGloin’s resignation here.
The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. in courtroom 4 of the County Courthouse, with President Judge James Gibbons presiding over the oath-taking.
Other county commissioners, including Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak, are also set to attend the conference in Hershey, a gathering Gaughan regards as highly beneficial. “It’s a great opportunity to work together with the other county commissioners from across the state and in our own region,” Gaughan remarked, noting that the issues faced by counties are often similar despite differences in scale.
Learning from Peers
Welby sees the conference as an invaluable platform for gaining insights from fellow commissioners. “I’m just really fortunate that that they’re having this as I’m going in,” he noted, expressing eagerness for the brainstorming sessions and discussions on state mandates, especially those concerning child protection.
Addressing Reassessment Concerns
Welby, who once advocated for postponing the implementation of new property values, has accepted the court’s decision against further delays. Judge Gibbons recently dismissed a request to delay the effective date, leaving Welby focused on improving communication with residents. He criticized the county’s efforts, stating, “They said that they did due diligence by having some town meetings. Well, I think they could have done some seminars that ECTV would have taped for free and aired for free for months explaining things to them.”
Welby plans to enhance support for residents in understanding property reassessment processes, committing to use his time in office to address these concerns.
Welby’s Future Plans
Welby, who has served as a legislative aide to state Rep. Bridget Kosierowski, reiterated his decision not to seek re-election in 2027. “I have no intentions of doing any more than that, and I can’t imagine anything that would change my mind,” he confirmed.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Brenda Sacco, who briefly held the position, will step down following Welby’s swearing-in. Sacco highlighted her efforts to address reassessment delays and tax negotiations during her short tenure.
Sacco’s appointment in September followed a lengthy legal battle that delayed her swearing-in until October. Commissioners in Lackawanna County receive an annual salary of $88,929.
