Mayor Royer discusses public safety, autumn traditions, and the upcoming election in the October report
By Robb Helfrick
Waynesboro Mayor Dade Royer sat down with The Daily Boro for a monthly interview on October 8. He discussed a variety of topics, including updates on his mayoral responsibilities, autumn traditions, and the upcoming November 3 election.
Police Department and Public Safety Updates
Mayor Royer said efforts for promoting public safety were progressing smoothly. He was particularly pleased with the drone program, which brought three aircraft into local service this year. “We’ve used them quite heavily over the past few months with good results.” The Waynesboro Police Department also partnered with the county and the drug task force. Royer said several Pennsylvania agencies were helpful when the drones first arrived. The borough currently has one officer certified as a drone pilot, but others will be trained soon.
Regarding the community’s Emergency Action Plan, Royer pointed toward a thick manual he was reviewing. Local police and fire officials consulted with the Borough Manager to produce the draft, which will update agreements and responsibilities in the event of a local emergency.
One example of an EAP procedure is when local churches house people displaced during a flood. A successful plan requires all parties to have specific protocols established, so private organizations and local government can work seamlessly and quickly when tragedy strikes. Borough officials expect to update the EAP yearly to maximize its effectiveness.
Mayor Royer mentioned budget season has begun, as local government officials evaluate expenditures and revenues for 2027. Royer said the borough council will face tough decisions as it grapples with the potential necessity to cut services or raise taxes.
Since law enforcement and fire safety are the mayor’s chief duties, he weighed in on that aspect of the upcoming budget. “No one wants to raise taxes, and we haven’t done it for three years.” However, Royer pointed out that borough finances must keep pace with inflation, and existing contracts with police and fire departments include an escalator clause that requires budget increases every year. “I think the residents of the borough want those services,” Royer said. “Public safety is a major responsibility of municipal governments, and here in Waynesboro we concentrate on crime prevention, law enforcement, and fire safety. But there are obvious costs associated with those services.”
Around the Borough
Local street maps were spread out on the mayor’s desk as he planned an upcoming Waynesboro neighborhood cleanup event, coordinated through Otterbein Church. The community program was successful in 2025, and Royer hoped the group effort would produce similar results this year.
Shifting the conversation to the September 11 Memorial Procession held in Waynesboro, a unique event featuring over 20 first responder vehicles and a custom-painted 9/11 Mustang, Royer was pleased with the outcome. The day started with a breakfast sponsored by the Moose Club. “It was nice to see all the first responders there, and for the Moose to host us,” the mayor said.
At the exact time that the first plane hit the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, the Waynesboro 2026 procession proceeded east down Main Street. “It was a somber day but an important remembrance,” Royer said. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years.” The mayor mentioned that people lined Main Street along the route, and St. Andrews and Hooverville students came out to pay their respects. The procession ended at Red Run Park, where local dignitaries and first responders observed a memorial service.
Moving on to a proposed project, Royer said the anticipated restoration of Burns Cabin is in a wait-and-see mode. The borough applied for a state grant, but won’t know until next year if that funding will materialize. “The estimate we received was $80,000 to restore the cabin,” the mayor said. “A grant is our best shot to complete the project.” The borough’s budget does not allocate funds for historic preservation.
The mayor attended the Fall Market Day on October 3. “I enjoyed it- a great day with beautiful weather and a nice turnout. They do an excellent job with that event every year.” October is a busy month, and Royer said he will attend several other events in the coming weeks, leading up to Halloween.
At the Royer home, the Halloween tradition is homemade chili and cornbread. “It’s my grandmother’s recipe, with red beans and ground beef. Then we hand out candy for Trick or Treat.” Royer said costumed kids come from all over town, and they typically hand out over 100 candy bars.
Soon afterward, the Christmas season arrives, and Mayor Royer looks forward to the tree lighting and parade. He’ll ride in a special vehicle during the parade- the “Mayor’s Choice” award-winner from Waynesboro’s Father’s Day Car Show. Bob Baker expertly restored the red 1970 VW Beetle convertible. Royer said he hopes his grandkids can ride along with the top down, if the weather cooperates. “It’s a sweet bug,” he said. “VW Beetles were from my era- they were a big deal back then.”
As the 2026 election nears, Royer seemed relieved to be off the campaign trail. He won’t be stumping for any candidates this year, and his November 3 plans are simple. “I won’t be doing anything special on election day. I’m just going to vote. I enjoyed campaigning, but once every four years is plenty. I’m focused on my job as mayor.”
However, Royer will keep a close eye on statewide contests, especially the governor’s race. “Pennsylvania is a purple state, so it will be interesting to see what happens at the state level.” He noted many local officials are running unopposed for reelection. “It’s extremely difficult to flip a republican seat in our area.”
Mayor Royer closed the conversation by saying he enjoyed attending the Homecoming football game and seeing the court of honored students. While he didn’t know any of the nominees personally, Royer was impressed by the group. “It was a talented group of students, and I’m thankful the homecoming tradition in Waynesboro is as strong as ever.”
