Governance Overview

State College is a community where diversity is honored and celebrated, and every voice can be heard by community leaders who are committed to listening. The community is engaged and active in civic life. The Borough is dedicated to ensuring equal access to public services; advocates for inclusion in public policy, local businesses, and our neighborhoods; and intentionally designs opportunities to facilitate engagement in our multi-generational community. 

All are welcome here.

State College is a safe and livable community where housing is accessible to people across a spectrum of incomes. People feel safe in their neighborhoods and downtown and are served by public safety services that are effective, responsive, and engaged with the community. Livability is enhanced by walkability and multi-modal services and infrastructure which include bike paths and pedestrian paths that make the community accessible. The Borough is a place where lifelong learning is a way of life and community is celebrated and enriched through special events that contribute to making State College a great place to live.

The Borough of State College is a leader in the region, Commonwealth, and the nation in advocating for enhanced governmental in regional programs. The Mayor and governance. They work with regional, state, and federal partners to ensure funding for important programs and services; they advocate for new programs and support local autonomy in decision making. Local elected officials govern with respect and civility, and volunteers are encouraged to participate and make a difference in their community. 

State College has a walkable and thriving downtown that is a destination for people of all ages. Livable neighborhoods and a critical mass of businesses that are headquartered in vibrant and diverse downtown serve as a magnet for talent. The Borough has intentionally built partnerships to retain homegrown talent and provide opportunities for a meaningful and rich life.

State College is committed to environmental stewardship a blue that is respected in the thoughtfully planned built environment.  A heritage of visionary planning, implemented over time, has created a thriving, economically, and socially sustainable community.

The Borough serves as a trusted steward of the public’s money and has worked to where resources are available to support public services and infrastructure.  The Borough is transparent and accountable to residents and maximizes public dollars through external funding resources. Flexible and diverse revenues support a sense of stability.