The Valley Ledger had the opportunity to speak with Kathleen Palmer about what it takes to be a Mayor and why she is running for re-election to continue serving as the Mayor of Alburtis Borough.
TVL: Thank you for speaking with us. Could you explain what your responsibilities are as the Mayor of Alburtis?
Kathy: The Mayor serves as the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of the Borough and assumes leadership during emergencies. While the Mayor typically does not vote on legislative matters, they may cast a vote in the event of a tie. Additionally, the Mayor has the authority to veto ordinances passed by the council, attend and participate in all council meetings, and periodically report on the state of the borough. In many boroughs, the Mayor is the sole borough-wide elected official who regularly engages in borough activities.
TVL: Considering those responsibilities, can you provide examples of how you perform the duties of the Mayor of Alburtis?
Kathy: I have served 12 years as Mayor, focusing on economic opportunities, safer streets, public services, and protecting the vulnerable. My priority is addressing residents’ needs for a good quality of life.
- voted against putting a cell tower in the upper ball field so our youth sports program would continue to grow;
- voted to accept a 1.4 million dollar grant in order to complete construction on the road, curb and sidewalks in one development;
- voted to move forward with the merger of Lower Macungie Volunteer Fire Department so that our volunteers had upgrades to the department to better serve the public;
TVL: What motivates you to seek re-election as Mayor?
Kathy: My passion and heart is the well being of our residents, it is the residents that must come first and foremost. We have outstanding employees who maintain the quality of life for the residents water/sewer and maintenance of our systems, roads are maintained, broken traffic signs repaired, lawn maintenance, our emergency personnel, especially the volunteer firefighters. The borough office staff to insure that all of the necessary services to residents are in proper working order. Our police department who provide safety coverage for all to enjoy the peaceful and neighbor friendly borough that we have always been.
With the support of our community this election, I will continue to be the eyes and the voice for the residents of Alburtis.
TVL: Can you describe the qualities or experiences that make you a suitable candidate for Mayor?
Kathy: I am running for Mayor of Alburtis with a bold vision, grounded in experience, and driven by a commitment to the people. As a long-time resident and community advocate, I understand the challenges facing our neighborhoods and I am here to continue leading with transparency, innovation, and compassion.
I am not here to play politics or make empty promises. I am running for Mayor of Alburtis because I believe the people deserve real solutions, not smoke and mirrors. As a longtime resident and proven leader, I have built my reputation on hard work, transparency, and putting people before politics. I have proven this time and time again.
As mayor, I will continue to focus on:
• Public Safety: Strengthening community-police relationships while ensuring the safety of all residents.
• Economic Growth: Supporting small businesses and ensuring economic opportunity is accessible to all.
• Infrastructure & Housing: Repairing roads, expanding affordable housing, and ensuring smart, sustainable development.
• Education & Youth: Investing in our schools and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.
• Transparency & Accountability: Ensuring every decision is made with the community in mind, with clear communication and open governance.
I believe in building a town where everyone can thrive—not just a select few. It is important we maintain leadership that listens, acts, and delivers real results!
In a time when trust in government is low, I believe I stand out as a leader who tells it like it is. I am not here to fool anyone — I’m here to do the work, face challenges head-on, and rebuild trust through action, not just words!
TVL: Do you have any thoughts to share about your opponent in the race for Mayor of Alburtis?
Kathy: I commend my opponent during his employment at the Alburtis Area Community Center for all the special events that he and the board of the AACC have accomplished.
TVL: Thank you for taking time to speak with us. It is clear you are passionate about your community and straight forward in how you approach things. We wish you the best of luck on Election day!
