STATE COLLEGE – Focused on a bringing a fresh perspective to local government, Michael Pipe, former candidate for US Congress, announced his intention to run for Centre County Commissioner.
Pipe is focused on finding the most cost-effective ways to make the next generation of investments. “Centre County is prepared to make big investments in the coming years,” Pipe said. “Upgrading the county’s 9-1-1 emergency system, improvements to Centre Crest and promoting job growth are at the top of the Board of Commissioners’ to-do list.”
“Centre County needs to attract folks from outside the area to make their career and life here. I am someone who came to Penn State and fell in love with the area and the people. If we can offer incentives and opportunities for people to move to Centre County that will increase revenues for township and county government. But I’m also mindful that we need to be mindful of the impact that will have on the rural parts of our county.”
Pipe is engaged to Ashley Bessoir; they are set to wed in September. Pipe graduated from Penn State University with a degree in political science. He is an Assistant Manager at a restaurant in State College.
Pipe campaigned unsuccessfully for US Congress in 2010 against Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-Howard). He acknowledges that it was a big hill to climb but the experience was invaluably. He also noted that “although federal elections have larger turnout than municipal elections, it’s the local elections that often have direct influence on peoples’ lives. I’m excited to listen to peoples’ ideas and expectations about their county government.” Pipe suggests that his door to door canvassing efforts will bring more voters out on May 17th.