Centre Co. Commissioner Michael Pipe discusses decision to join Governor-elect's staff

Centre Co., PA (WJAC) — In Centre County, the new year begins with new leadership for the county commissioners as one of its long-time chairmen is stepping down to take a position in state government.

Tuesday felt like musical chairs at the Centre County commissioners meeting as Commissioner Mark Higgins moved into the chair position.

Michael Pipe has held the chair position since 2016, but he will soon be leaving later this month to take a job as Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety in newly elected governor Josh Shapiro's administration.

Pipe says a variety of reasons factored into his new opportunity.

“I think, in many ways, our politics in government is at a crossroads. With the results here in Pennsylvania, and with Governor-elect Shapiro and the momentum he's carrying into office, I felt the opportunity to partner with him was a significant thing that I really can’t pass up.”

Pipe’s current term of office as commissioner expires at the end of the year.

State College School Board President Amber Concepcion has been appointed to fill the position.

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