by In a rare political development, voters in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, are preparing to elect an entirely new city council for a city that technically doesn’t exist yet. The consolidation of DuBois and Sandy Township—set for January 2026—moves forward as residents head to the polls on May 20 to shape the new city’s future.
The merger marks only the third municipal unification in Pennsylvania since a 1994 law allowed for such transformations.
What Happened
Residents of DuBois and Sandy Township approved a referendum in 2021 to consolidate into one unified city, also named DuBois.
This initiative, years in the making, passed by a narrow margin and will formally take effect in January 2026. Ahead of this change, about 12,000 residents are eligible to vote in the May 20 primary to choose seven city council members and a city treasurer.
This consolidation is one of the rarest events in Pennsylvania municipal governance history.
Key Details
- Consolidation Date: January 2026
- Eligible Voters: Approx. 12,000 (25% of Clearfield County’s registered voters)
- Positions on Ballot: 7 City Council seats, 1 City Treasurer
- Council Candidates: 13 total (2 Democrats, 11 Republicans)
- Treasurer Race: No candidate currently running
This election allows voters to shape a new local government structure that will replace the existing DuBois and Sandy Township administrations.
Here is a breakdown of the Republican candidates with prior government experience:
| Candidate | Previous Role |
|---|---|
| J Barry Abbott Sr. | Sandy Township Supervisor |
| Randy A Beers | Deputy Fire Chief, West Sandy Hose Co. |
| William A Beers Jr. | Sandy Township Supervisor |
| Blaine David Clark | Former DuBois Police Chief |
| Samuel J Mollica III | Sandy Township Supervisor |
| Duane Patrick Reasinger | DuBois Mayor & Council President |
| Mark T Sullivan | Sandy Township Supervisor |
| David Alan Volpe | DuBois City Controller |
| Richard A Whitaker | Sandy Township Supervisor |
Additional candidates include Democrats Melissa G Keen and Michael J Piccirillo, and Republicans Shirley M Dahrouge and Devon Duane Vallies.
Reactions or Statements
Ben Kafferlin, who manages both DuBois and Sandy Township, noted strong voter interest, calling the opportunity to elect an entirely new governing body “rare and engaging.”
Gerald Cross, a Pennsylvania Economy League researcher, emphasized the unique challenge ahead:
“They’ll have to understand that it isn’t business as usual any longer.”
Reasinger and Sullivan, both current local officials, called the merger “a significant milestone” in a letter to the White House, even inviting former President Donald Trump to a 2026 celebration.
Investigation or What’s Next
The consolidation process has not been without controversy. A corruption scandal involving former DuBois City Manager Herm Suplizio caused public mistrust and legal setbacks.
Sandy Township once sued to pause the merger but dropped the case after a forensic audit of DuBois’ finances began.
Despite past tensions, officials now describe the current collaboration as an “unprecedented period of cooperation.”
Following the election, the newly formed council will face immediate challenges, including:
- Reorganizing staff and services
- Finalizing budgets and accounts
- Negotiating union contracts
- Drafting and passing new city ordinances
FAQs
What is the official date of the consolidation?
January 2026 is when DuBois and Sandy Township will become one unified city.
How many people are eligible to vote in the May 20 primary?
Approximately 12,000 residents.
Why is this consolidation considered rare?
It’s only the third time a Pennsylvania city and township have merged since a 1994 state law enabled it.
What happens if no treasurer is elected?
The newly elected city council will appoint someone to fill the position.
What are the main challenges for the new government?
Budget integration, union negotiations, staffing reorganization, and legal ordinance development.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The upcoming consolidation of DuBois and Sandy Township represents a historic moment for Pennsylvania municipal governance. As residents vote in the May 20 primary, they’re not only choosing leaders—they’re shaping the identity and future of a brand-new city.
Despite past political turbulence, both communities are pushing forward in what many see as a chance for renewal, cooperation, and lasting unity.
