Newcomer Erb wins Republican nomination for commissioner’s seat in Harrison’s 4th Ward – TribLIVE

The result of Democratic write-in votes yet to be announced will decide whether the winner of Tuesdays Republican primary for Harrisons 4th Ward commissioner will take the seat or whether a Democraic challenger will emerge.

Commissioners Chairman Bill Heasley served two four-year terms. But he said he chose not to run again because he supports term limits.

Republican Jim Erb bested Dylan Seelnacht for the Republican nomination.

There were no candidates on the Democratic ballot for the 4th Ward seat. However, there were 109 write-in votes, which could potentially set up a challenge to the Republican nominee in the Nov. 2 General Election.

Erb, 48, who is the director of Citizens Hose Ambulance Service, captured 82% of the Republican vote (131 votes).

Seelnacht, 28, co-owner of Seelnacht Iconic Interiors, brought in 28 votes (17.5%).

The race attracted 519 voters for a 76% turnout. The voter turnout for Allegheny County was only 28.7%.

Both Republicans vying for the 4th Ward seat pressed for changes and improvements in the township.

Im very happy with the results, Erb said. Im very grateful for the voters of the 4th Ward and I will do everything I can to work hard for them and not let them down.

Public safety is important to Erb, who has been a firefighter since joining Hilltop Hose in 1994. He would like to see more financial assistance for the EMS service from Harrison Township. He also wants PennDOT and Allegheny County to review speed limits on roads to tamp down the number of crashes.

Seelnacht wasnt sure what to expect from the election.

He liked meeting residents and learning about their struggles and issues.

I dont think I should throw in the towel after one attempt, he said. The future of our community means a lot to me.

Seelnacht is interested in revitalizing the Harrison, Brackenridge and Tarentum area. He started a Facebook group that led to in-person meetings of residents before the covid pandemic.

Mary Ann Thomas is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Mary at 724-226-4691, mthomas@triblive.com or via Twitter .

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Newcomer Erb wins Republican nomination for commissioner's seat in Harrison's 4th Ward - TribLIVE