The people of Wilkinsburg spoke clearly in the November 5, 2024 election—and their votes made history. With the adoption of the Home Rule Charter, Wilkinsburg is entering a new chapter of local government, shaped by the vision and priorities of its own residents.
On April 30, 2026, the Borough of Wilkinsburg held a public hearing/meeting to present and discuss the results of the charter-mandated reapportionment review per Charter Article 3, § 3.2. Additionally, an overview of the proposed Administrative Code is available on the Borough website for resident review.
The meeting included a presentation by Pennsylvania Economy League, Executive Director, Vinny Cannizzaro, which outlined the methodology, data sources, and findings of the redistricting/reapportionment analysis based on the 2020 United States Census. The presentation included an overview of population distribution and, where applicable, draft maps for consideration.
Members of Borough Council and the “Redistricting of the Maps Committee” were present to support the discussion and respond to questions. The Administrative Code was also a key component of the Home Rule Transition, reflecting efforts to improve the efficiency, clarity, and accessibility of Borough operations.
The meeting provided residents with an opportunity to receive information, ask questions, and offer comments as part of the Borough’s commitment to transparency and public engagement. There is a 30-day period within which the community can review and comment. This period ends on May 30, 2026.
Both the Redistricting review and Administrative Code remain under consideration by Borough Council, which will determine next steps through its formal legislative process.
We would like to acknowledge and thank the efforts of those who worked on and with the Committee, as well as, the residents for their dedication and patience in completing this historic task for the Borough of Wilkinsburg.
A New Framework for Borough Governance
The Home Rule Charter is now law in Wilkinsburg, replacing the state’s default municipal code. That means our local government can now be more flexible, responsive, and better aligned with the unique needs of our community. The Charter outlines how the Borough will operate—and includes a special Transition section to help guide the changeover smoothly and thoughtfully.
What Is the Transition Team?
The Wilkinsburg Transition Team is a dedicated group formed to carry out the work of shifting from state-mandated governance to local home rule. Their role is both technical and strategic—but always focused on improving how the Borough serves its residents.
Who is on the Transition Team?
- The Transition Committee includes:
- Two (2) members and one (1) alternate member of the Borough Council in office as of November 5th, 2024, said members selected by the President of Council.
- Three (3) members of the Wilkinsburg Government Study Commission and one (1) alternate member, said members selected by the Chair of the Commission.
- Two (2) residents appointed and approved by the members of the Transition Committee, as detailed in Article 14 of the Charter.
What the Transition Team Is Doing:
- Revising, Adjusting and in some cases, Crafting the Administrative Code – a practical, day-to-day operations manual that reflects the Charter’s goals and makes local government more efficient and accessible.
- Making Smart Adjustments – ensuring that any changes improve how residents, businesses, and community groups interact with the Borough.
- Collaborating with Council – once the Administrative Code draft is ready, it will be presented to Borough Council for review, refinement, and adoption.
- Putting the Charter into Action by helping move Wilkinsburg from the old form of government to a new one shaped by the people.
Who’s Helping?
Our Borough Solicitor, Matthew Kalina, is serving as a consultant to the Transition Team, lending legal expertise to help draft the new Administrative Code. The Borough has also allocated funding to support this important work, including the preparation of any documents needed for Council consideration.
This is a time of meaningful progress in Wilkinsburg—and we’re committed to keeping residents informed and engaged every step of the way. The Transition Team is proud to help build a government that reflects your voice, your values, and your vision for the future.
Stay tuned for updates, and thank you for being part of Wilkinsburg’s next chapter.
The Transition Team’s Meeting NOTES are attached for your review:
NOTES from the February 25, 2025 Home Rule Transition Team Meeting
NOTES from the March 26, 2025 Home Rule Transition Team Meeting
NOTES from the April 9, 2025 Home Rule Transition Team Meeting
REVISED NOTES from the May 14, 2025 Home Rule Transition Team Meeting
REVISED NOTES from the June 11, 2025 Home Rule Transition Team Meeting
NOTES from the July 9, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the July 23, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the August 13, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the August 27, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the September 10, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the September 24, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the October 8, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the October 22, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the October 29, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the November 12, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the December 10, 2025 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the January 14, 2026 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
NOTES from the February 11, 2026 Meeting of the Home Rule Transition Team
FAQ
CHARTER and ADMINISTRATIVE CODE Comparison and Explainer