CITY OF HERMITAGE APPOINTS DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
(City of Hermitage, Mercer County, PA) – The City of Hermitage has announced that Mark Longietti has been hired to fill the position of Director of Business & Community Development. He will assume his new duties and responsibilities effective January 3, 2023. Mr. Longietti most recently served as Pennsylvania State Representative for the 7th Legislative District for 8 terms before announcing his retirement earlier this year. During his tenure in the House, his legislative efforts were focused in the areas of economic development and education. He served on the House Commerce, Education, Tourism and Transportation committees. A lifelong resident of the Shenango Valley, he is a graduate of Westminster College with a degree in economics and political science and is also a graduate of Boston College Law School. He and his wife, Tina, are Hermitage residents.
As Director of Business & Community Development he will work to strengthen existing relationships with city businesses and industries and be available to assist them in identifying and assessing their needs and determining solutions to implement. He will develop a platform for regular dialog with real estate professionals and developers. He will also work with appropriate officials and city staff to attract new business and industry, maintain positive working relationships with local and regional economic development agencies such as the Hermitage Community & Economic Development Commission, Penn-Northwest Development Corporation, Shenango Valley Enterprise Development Zone, and the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce. He will identify funding sources to implement inter-municipal development opportunities and related community development initiatives. In his new position, he will report directly to the City Manager and work closely with other management staff.
Duane Piccirilli, President, Hermitage Board of Commissioners stated, “The addition of Mark Longietti to fill this position will provide more support for our existing businesses and industries, including those coming to Hermitage from Wheatland as the result of the merger. His skill set, character and experience make Mark the perfect individual to assume the duties and responsibilities of this new position.”
Gary Hinkson, City Manager stated, “As we move forward with several new economic and community development initiatives, this position will strengthen our support for our existing businesses and industries and attract new businesses to the city. Also, Mark’s experience will prove extremely helpful as the work on the merger transition with the Borough of Wheatland moves forward. Mark’s proven leadership skills, professional background and strategic relationships are invaluable assets, and we are very excited to have him join our management team.”
Mark Longietti stated, “I am excited about the opportunity to join the City of Hermitage team and to focus my efforts on helping advance business and community development throughout the city and broader community. I look forward to partnering with a wide array of organizations and individuals as we enhance the economy and quality of life in the city and across the region. The opportunity is a natural extension of my work in the legislature, and I will draw on my experience to contribute as a member of a solid municipal team.”