HARRISBURG – Franklin Mayor Douglas Baker has been honored for his contributions to local government throughout his career with a 2023 Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence, announced Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-21) and Rep. R. Lee James (R-64).
“Whether it was as a police officer, a firefighter, an emergency medical technician, a member of city council or mayor, Douglas Baker has lived a life of public service to his community,” Hutchinson said. “This award, recognizing his career contributions, is well deserved.”
“I was happy to be present in Harrisburg for the governor’s recognition ceremony for 28 deserving municipal servants in Pennsylvania, including City of Franklin Mayor Doug Baker,” said James. “To provide real service, you must add sincerity and integrity – which cannot be bought. Those qualities describe Mayor Baker and his approach to his community, and I’m thankful for his relentless dedication to the residents of Franklin.”
Baker is currently serving his fourth term as mayor of the City of Franklin, but his public service career began more than four decades ago when he became a police officer for the City of Franklin. During his time on the force, he held the rank of patrol officer, public safety officer, detective and lieutenant while maintaining certifications as an emergency medical technician and firefighter. Not long after his retirement from the force in 2003, Baker was appointed to fill a vacancy on city council, on which he served until his election as mayor in 2009. He also serves as the city’s emergency management coordinator and is the first vice president of the Pennsylvania Municipal League, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that advocates for Pennsylvania’s 3rd class cities.
Additionally, Baker has participated in numerous local, regional and statewide committees such as the STOP Grant Implementation Plan at the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Venango County’s Together We Can Council, DUI Advisory Board, and Elder Abuse Task Force. He also serves as coordinator for Venango County’s STOP Violence Against Women Grant and Police Traffic Services Grant.
The Governor’s Awards for Local Government Excellence recognize local officials for their successes in undertaking innovative initiatives to improve the quality of life in their communities. The Governor’s Center for Local Government Services, within the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, partners with the multiple local government organizations to sponsor the annual awards.
CONTACT: Justin Leventry (Sen. Hutchinson)
Nate Temple (Rep. James)