Former police chief Adam Alter pins a new badge on McKeesport’s new police chief Mark Steele during October’s City Council meeting.

 

On October 4, 2023, the city of McKeesport held an installation ceremony at the City Council meeting for the new Police Chief Mark Steele, previously the assistant chief.

Pennsylvania magisterial judge Eugene Riazzi swore in Steele, and he received his badge from the former police chief Adam Alfer, who after many years of service has moved on to become police chief for the South Allegheny School  District.

The judge remembers when the chief,  at age 18, enrolled in and trained at the police academy.  Mayor Mike Cherepko said  that he and Police Chief Steele share  a “friendship and a professional relationship.”  The Mayor also stated that both Police Chiefs, Mark Steele and Adam Alfer” are good leaders and demonstrate good leadership.”

“Police officers persevere through pain and sorrow. They are on the front lines. They hope to return home safely. Their families don’t want to hear that they are not coming home. The officers have the best interest of the people, so that we can get a good night’s sleep. ,” Cherepeko said.

The  Proclamation from the City of McKeesport awards were presented by the Mayor to both men and women emergency service personnel.  Each wore their navy blue uniform, with hat and spit-shined boots. Awards were given to deputy chiefs, captains, sergeants,  lieutenants, police officers and staff  from  the Housing Authority.  The awards were given to each of them for their bravery and efforts to help evacuate the McKeesport Towers.

On September 8, 2023, shortly before 3 p.m. a fire broke out on the 7th floor of the building,  According to the Mayor, the evacuation of the 175 residents was carried out and they  were able to go back, according to the Mayor.  

“It is an honor as Mayor to acknowledge the men and women of the Emergency  Service,” Cherepko said. “They helped the people.”

October is Fire Safety Month, and McKeesport firefighters plan to visit schools and daycare centers to  teach fire prevention and promote safety for kids. The firefighters will also host a “Coats for Kids” event  at  Twin Rivers School. There will also be another event in October for Cancer Awareness Month and  t-shirts will be given out.

As the meeting wrapped up, Kennon Mikell came forward  to speak about concerns he has for having more police patrolling area where there is a negative element and making  the community a  safe environment.  

The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

 

- Colette Funches