Mayor of the Year Award 2026

The Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs (PSAB) recognized West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag as the 2026 Mayor of the Year, a statewide honor celebrating outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to Pennsylvania’s borough communities.

Mayor Kaag received this recognition for her distinguished service to the Borough of West Reading and her continued commitment to public safety, communication, resident engagement, and effective local leadership.

Her service includes a leading role in the Borough’s response to the R.M. Palmer factory explosion in March of 2023. As both Mayor and a member of the West Reading Fire Department, Mayor Kaag was deeply involved in response and recovery efforts, helping support impacted residents and families, coordinate communication, and work alongside first responders, Borough officials, partner agencies, community organizations, Tower Health, and families directly affected by the tragedy.

In the years since, Mayor Kaag has continued to show up for West Reading by supporting public safety initiatives, strengthening communication between residents and local government, staying engaged with community concerns, and working with Borough staff, Council, first responders, businesses, volunteers, and residents to keep the Borough moving forward.

Her service also extends beyond West Reading. Mayor Kaag contributes on the Pennsylvania State Association of Mayors Executive Board, where she represents the Borough and works with municipal leaders across the Commonwealth.

This statewide recognition is a proud moment for West Reading and reflects Mayor Kaag’s commitment to service, collaboration, public safety, and the continued progress of the Borough.

Press Release – PSAB Honors 2026 Award Winner Individuals for Service to their Community
Service Awards, Certified Borough Official Awards, Borough News Awards