Steve Chuckra, a retired U.S. Air Force operations manager and 12-year Mahoning Valley resident, has announced his candidacy for Mahoning Township supervisor, emphasizing a commitment to responsible development, community engagement and public service.

“I am excited about the opportunity to serve my community and deeply honored by the people who encouraged me to run,” said Chuckra, a Republican.

Originally from Luzerne County, Chuckra left Pennsylvania at age 17 to pursue a military career.

“I was extremely interested in seeing the world, G.I. Bill benefits, and learning if other people were better off financially than the folks in my hometown,” he said.

His decision to leave was also driven by a lack of local job opportunities.

After 28 years of service, Chuckra returned to Pennsylvania with his wife, Carol, and settled in the Mahoning Valley. In his military career, he gained experience in team building, budgeting, conflict resolution and coordinating with government agencies and service providers.

Since moving to Mahoning, Chuckra has been active in several nonprofit, nonpartisan organizations, including the Lehigh River Stocking Association, Carbon County Community Foundation and Save Carbon County.

“I enjoy fly-fishing, hunting, and biking on the Delaware and Lehigh trail system,” he said. “I deeply appreciate the natural beauty and recreational opportunities we have in the Mahoning Valley.”

Chuckra also sees significant potential for economic development in the township.

“We need to develop in ways that complement the local economic base, quality of life, and Carbon County tourism,” he said.

A regular attendee at township supervisors’ meetings, Chuckra has also been engaging residents directly.

“The results of those conversations are informative, helpful, and too numerous to list,” he said. “But maintaining productive dialogue with township residents is vitally important.”

Chuckra expressed gratitude for the support he has received.

“I am honored and humbled by people’s confidence in my ability to serve as township supervisor,” he said. “I appreciate your support very much.”