Ellwood City Native Returns Home To Lead As Borough Manager

For Jeff Foley, stepping into the role of borough manager is more than a career move — it’s a homecoming rooted in pride and a sense of responsibility to the community that shaped him.

“Returning to serve the community where I grew up is both an honor and a responsibility I take to heart,” Foley said. “Ellwood City has given me so much throughout my life, and I’m committed to giving that same dedication back.”

A graduate of Ellwood City High School, Foley went on to receive a Bachelors of Arts in Accounting & Business Administration from Grove City College as well as a Master of Taxation from Robert Morris University, building a foundation in accounting, business administration, and taxation. These academic experiences launched a 40-year career spanning public utilities, finance, and regulatory compliance — a background he says aligns naturally with the demands of municipal leadership.

“The Borough Manager role aligns perfectly with my experience and my commitment to public service,” he said.

Foley’s leadership style centers on discipline, data, and long-term planning. He anticipates that one of the biggest challenges in the role will be refining operations while maintaining fiscal stability.

“Taking a disciplined, data-driven approach to fine tune internal controls, improve safety and reduce risk as well as manage budgets and operations,” he said, will be key to success.

At the same time, Foley emphasizes approachability and transparency as core principles. His early priorities reflect a focus on connection as much as administration.

“My focus is on listening, learning, and building strong relationships with Borough Council, staff, residents, and business owners,” he said. “I believe in accessible, transparent government and want residents to feel comfortable reaching out, asking questions, and sharing concerns.”

That balance — between analytical leadership and personal engagement — reflects both his professional experience and his personality. Foley describes his greatest personal success as raising his family. He and his wife, Kathy, have been married for 45 years and raised two sons, both of whom serve as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy. Now living in nearby Butler, Foley also values time spent with his grandchildren, often attending his granddaughter’s LPGA golf tournaments.

Professionally, he points to a track record of measurable results.

“I’ve consistently delivered significant cost savings and operational and budgeting improvements in every role I’ve held,” Foley said.

Looking at Ellwood City today, Foley sees a community with strong fundamentals — and room to grow.

“Ellwood City is a safe, suburban environment for our families, young professionals, and retirees,” he said. “It provides a lower cost of living, strong public schools, and especially a close-knit community feel.”

His plans moving forward include strengthening financial transparency and continuing improvements to infrastructure and essential services.

“I plan to strengthen financial transparency, support ongoing infrastructure improvements, and ensure our electric and wastewater departments continue to operate safely, reliably, and efficiently,” he said.

Ultimately, Foley’s vision is grounded in stewardship — preserving what makes the borough special while preparing it for the future.

“My goal is to serve with integrity, fiscal responsibility, and a genuine commitment to the community’s long-term success,” he said.

As he settles into the role, Foley says what he looks forward to most is simple: staying connected to the place he has long called home.

“Staying connected with the community and helping ensure Ellwood City remains a wonderful place to raise a family,” he said.