Andy Close
WARREN, Pa. – Danielle Flasher is joining Warren City Council.
Flasher, who was voted in during Monday’s special meeting, will replace Joe Michaels, who resigned his position on the council after moving outside the city for a new job opportunity.
Flasher will serve in Michaels’ seat until Dec. 31, 2023.
“I’ve been a lifelong resident of Warren,” Flasher said. “I’ve worked at some of the companies that have embedded themselves in Warren such as Northwest and Bluestem. I want to have a sense of commitment and growth, as well as bring a fresh perspective.”
Flasher was one of four applicants to apply for the position, joining former council members Greg Fraser and John Lewis, as well as Eric Jones.
“I’ve watched, observed, and grown up here,” Flasher said. “It will be a privilege to serve. It’s something that will give me a great purpose.”
Flasher was nominated by Councilman John Wortman, while Fraser was nominated by Councilman Phil Gilbert.
Flasher received four of the six votes from John Wortman, Mayor David Wortman, Jared Villella, and Wendy McCain, while Gilbert and Maurice Cashman voted for Fraser.
“I feel like over the last few years we’ve seen an awakening of the younger generation who want to be involved, who want to have a voice,” Flasher said. “We’re looking to the future and seeing what we can do to secure our future to the best of our ability. I felt that now is the time. I’m at a good age where I’m not too young, but I’m still young enough to bring energy and perspective as well as to still get the knowledge and perspective from the older generation who have a lot to share and a lot of experience.”
There are several issues Flasher pointed to as critical for the future of Warren, ones that she is looking forward to tackling with fellow council members.
“EMS is very important,” Flasher said. “We live in a community with an aging population. When people need EMS and call 911, it’s important to know that there’s someone on the other end to give them what they need. It’s also important that we have updated equipment to be able to serve them in the most efficient and quickest way possible because it is a matter of life and death at times.
“Also, city ordinances to make sure everyone’s quality of life is good, such as parking. Broadband internet and 5G are also very important. Just improving the quality for everyone. Those are two very vital issues that I’m very excited to be a part of.”
Flasher will be officially sworn in during the regular council meeting on Aug. 15.
