Corey Pistininzi takes seat as New Kensington Council reorganizes

New Kensington Council welcomed a new member as it reorganized Monday following last November’s municipal election.

Corey Pistininzi took the seat previously held by Doug Aftanas. Both Democrats, Aftanas did not seek reelection in 2021.

A resident of New Kensington for eight years, Pistininzi owns Modfinish in downtown New Kensington, is a co-owner of the Bloser Mansion and a partner in a restaurant, botL.

Pistininzi and Councilman Todd Mentecki, also a Democrat, ran for council unopposed.

Mayor Tom Guzzo and Controller John Zavadak, both Democrats, were also reelected after running unopposed.

Guzzo administered oaths of office to Mentecki, Pistininzi and Zavadak after he was sworn in by District Judge Frank J. Pallone Jr.

Committee assignments are unchanged among the incumbents, with Guzzo in charge of public affairs; Mentecki, accounts and finance; Dante Cicconi, parks and building; and Tim DiMaio, public works.

Pistininzi is overseeing public safety, which had been Aftanas’ position.

Guzzo said council will work to continue the city’s recent momentum by supporting its new and existing businesses and their owners, and continue to attack and fight blight.

Guzzo noted Pistininzi’s enthusiasm for the city and said he was looking forward to working with him and his family.

At the top of the meeting, council observed a moment of silence for David A. Regoli, 56, who died Dec. 9. Guzzo described Regoli as a colleague, former judge, former Lower Burrell councilman, a lawyer who had his practice in New Kensington, a solicitor for a city board and a friend.

“David Regoli was born into a family and a tradition of public service and continued that tradition with honor, dignity and grace,” Guzzo said.

“David’s wit, humor and smile allowed every one of us an opportunity to take ourselves a little less seriously,” he said. “David will certainly be missed, but never forgotten.”