Chet Merli is a lifelong Lackawanna County resident and proven leader with over 40 years of experience in local government, natural resources, energy, and infrastructure management. He has dedicated his career to building strong communities through responsible planning, efficient operations, and fiscal accountability.

Chet currently serves as Chairperson of the Blakely Borough Planning Commission, Board Member of the Lackawanna County Regional Planning Commission, Board Member of the NEPA Chapter of the American Planning Association, and Chair of the 112th Congressional District GOP Committee. He has been a church lector for more than 47 years, reflecting his long-standing commitment to faith and service.

Professionally, Chet has held key leadership positions with PA Gas & Water, PG Energy, Southern Union, UGI Corporation, Laser Midstream, and Williams Midstream—overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, large-scale construction projects, and community infrastructure across Pennsylvania.

As a small business owner and developer, he has helped shape local neighborhoods through housing and infrastructure projects in Mayfield and beyond.
Chet and his wife Cathy live in Peckville, where they raised three children and now enjoy two grandchildren. With deep roots, real-world experience, and a record of results, Chet Merli is ready to serve Lackawanna County with integrity, accountability, and a vision for the future.