Sean McAndrew - Scranton City Council

07/28/2026

Our water bills have risen 35% since 2020, during which time Pennsylvania American Water has requested 4 significant rate hikes. PA Water claims the funds generated from the hikes will go towards reinvestment, like replacing aging pipelines and general infrastructure repair. Had care and attention been paid to these existing lines, perhaps these issues could have been avoided. Instead, for the second time in less than two weeks, our downtown residents and business owners are faced with a disruption in water service.

As a city, we should be demanding answers and holding PA Water accountable for their inaction. I’m calling on PA Water to conduct a city-wide review of our existing water lines. Additionally, I plan to request they appear before Council to explain how we got to this point and how they plan to address issues in the future. Our citizens deserve answers!

07/27/2026

This week, I voted no on the proposed budget transfer for the purchase of the Fidelity Bank building.

From the beginning, I have had serious reservations about this purchase. Much information is missing: the lack of formal written plans, unanswered questions about the total cost to taxpayers, the administration’s failure to provide PEL’s five-year budget projections, as well as other concerns which have been raised by our residents.

Before committing additional taxpayer dollars, Council should have complete information and a full understanding of the financial impact on the City

Council also held a caucus with the Director of Parks & Recreation to discuss concerns, ask questions and provide an update on city programs.

I’ve included links to both the caucus and regular meeting in the comments.

07/12/2026

This week, Council questioned the administration about the proposed transfer of funds for the Fidelity building. Before approving additional taxpayer dollars, we need clear answers and a complete understanding of the plan.

The link to the full caucus is in the comments if you’d like to watch the entire discussion.

07/04/2026

Happy 4th of July! 🇺🇸

I’m grateful for the freedoms we enjoy and the opportunity to celebrate with family, friends, and our community. Wishing everyone a safe, happy, and joyful Independence Day. God Bless America!

07/02/2026

Last night, Council tabled funding for the City Hall annex because taxpayers deserve answers before more money is spent.

Council needs to know the project’s total cost including renovations, moving expenses and maintenance. We have not yet seen the inside of the building or even been given a detailed plan for how the space will be utilized.

Asking tough questions isn’t delaying progress, it’s responsible government. I’ll continue fighting for transparency and making sure every dollar is wisely spent.

City council introduced legislation to fund the $1.88 million purchase of a building next to City Hall, then tabled it to get information on costs and plans for its use.

06/29/2026

Come join me this Wednesday July 1st between 9 am and 11 am. I’m looking forward to seeing our residents and having conversations about the issues that matter to you.

06/22/2026

Tomorrow, Scranton City Council will be holding another caucus with Pennsylvania American Water.

If you have a question that you’d like me to raise, please comment here or send me a message. I will do my best to present your concerns to them and make your voices heard.

06/21/2026

Happy Fathers Day to all the great fathers out there, especially mine!

06/20/2026

On Tuesday, I requested that members of the Homeless Task Force and its participating nonprofits attend a future caucus. Council has received numerous questions and concerns from residents. It is important for the public to hear directly from those involved.

Open discussion is key to understanding the challenges and identifying solutions that work for the community. I look forward to continuing the conversation.

06/13/2026

On Tuesday, I requested a meeting with the City Administration regarding the proposed Parks Manager position for Nay Aug Park. I have several concerns about the responsibilities assigned to this role. Particularly, there may be overlap or conflict with the responsibilities of the Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority.

The Authority members, DPW employees and many dedicated volunteers, have done an outstanding job maintaining and operating Nay Aug Park for years. So, at this time, I am not convinced this new position is necessary as it may duplicate existing duties.

I have asked that Authority members be included in the discussion so their perspectives can be heard as this position is evaluated.