Pine hires public safety director

Bruce Hezlep has been hired as Pine’s public safety director.

The newly created position aims to provide leadership, strategic planning and management supervision to ensure the safety and security of the community. The public safety director is responsible for safety operations oversight of local public agencies, in relation to the township, including coordination with federal, state and local agencies as necessary.

Hezlep has an extensive background in public safety, including 12 years of experience overseeing police, fire and EMS services as an elected official in Cranberry. Additionally, he has dedicated 23 years to strategic and tactical operations with the Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Company.

Certified in emergency incident management, Hezlep will continue to strengthen Pine’s commitment to public safety.

Beyond public safety, Hezlep has 35 years of financial experience, ensuring a well-rounded approach to operational efficiency and resource management.

Pine delivers its public safety services through a combination of highly trained agencies, including the Wexford Volunteer Fire Company, which has served the community for over a century, as well as the Northern Regional Police Department and McCandless-Franklin Park Ambulance Authority. Hezlep will be instrumental in coordinating these agencies to ensure seamless and effective public safety operations.

“Pine Township has always been very innovative and creative in delivering its services with its partners,” said township Manager Jason Kratsas. “Public safety is a crucial part of municipal operations, and we’re thrilled to welcome a seasoned professional like Bruce. His extensive experience in both public safety operations and municipal oversight makes him a great fit. We’re excited to see him get started.”

Hezlep is slated to begin work Feb. 17.