07/23/2026
This is a copy of a speech that I gave to our local chapter, Steel City Demolay. I feel it breaks down quite well what the role of Mayor is.
“What It Means to Be a Mayor”
DeMolay Government Day – Allegheny County, PA
By Mayor Michael Dixon
Good evening, young men of DeMolay,
First, let me say how proud I am to be standing here with the future leaders of our communities, our commonwealth, and maybe even our country. You’ve already shown that you’re interested in government, leadership, and service—and that puts you miles ahead of most people your age.
Today, I want to talk to you about what it means to be a mayor in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. And more specifically, what I do every day as the mayor of Coraopolis, a small but mighty town along the Ohio River.
Now, I know when most people think of mayors, they imagine ribbon cuttings and parades—and yes, sometimes that’s part of the job—but being a mayor is a lot more than that.
Let’s break it down.
1. The Mayor Is the Face of the Community
Every day, I represent the people of my borough. That means I speak on their behalf—to the county, to the state, to the press, and sometimes even to Washington. When there’s good news, I get to celebrate with the community. When there’s bad news, I’m the one answering the hard questions and making the tough calls.
Being the mayor means being visible, being available, and being responsible.
2. The Mayor Helps Make the Rules
Now, in Pennsylvania, especially in smaller boroughs like mine, the mayor doesn’t make all the laws—we work with a Borough Council to do that. Think of the Council like Congress and the Mayor like the President. I can suggest laws, veto bad ones, and push for what I think will help the town grow. But I also have to listen—to residents, to council members, and even to critics.
In many boroughs, the mayor votes only if there's a tie, but my voice still carries weight because I help set the agenda and vision.
3. The Mayor Supports the Police and Emergency Services
In Allegheny County, mayors often have a very close relationship with the local police department. In some towns, the mayor is even considered the Chief Law Enforcement Officer. That doesn’t mean I’m out writing tickets—but it does mean I help set policies, oversee the budget, and work with the police chief to make sure our officers are trained, professional, and treating everyone with fairness.
Public safety is one of the biggest responsibilities of any mayor.
4. The Mayor and the Borough's Daily Operations
Most people don’t realize how many moving parts a town has. Trash collection. Potholes. Snow plowing. Zoning. Parks. Permits. Water lines. Abandoned buildings. Complaints about noisy neighbors. I get emails, calls, and messages every single day about these things.
Even though we have a borough manager and departments to handle these issues, the mayor often steps in to coordinate, problem-solve, or just listen when someone feels like no one else is.
5. The Mayor Builds for the Future
I spend a lot of time thinking about what comes next—not just tomorrow, but 5, 10, or 20 years from now. What businesses are we bringing in? How do we keep people safe and happy? How do we build a town where kids like you want to stay, raise a family, or even start a business someday?
Leadership isn’t about power—it’s about service. It’s about helping others live better lives.
So, Why Should This Matter to You?
Because someday, you could be sitting in this chair.
Whether you become a mayor, a business leader, a community organizer, or a public servant, the lessons are the same:
Listen more than you speak.
Lead with integrity.
Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.
And never forget who you’re serving.
This world needs people who care. People who step up. People like you.
Thank you for taking time to be part of Government Day. You’re learning about how things work, which already makes you more powerful than most people walking around out there.
And who knows? Maybe one day, I’ll be shaking your hand and calling you Mayor.
Thank you—and keep leading.
