McCutcheon pictured inside the Borough Council Chambers at 1301 4th Avenue.
Now entering his 10th year as Coraopolis Borough Manager, Ray McCutcheon is part of a legacy that’s 134 years in the making. As a fourth generation Coraopolis resident, McCutcheon’s ties to the town date all the way back to its founding.
“My great, great uncle was the first Borough Secretary and signed the first ordinance in 1887,” said McCutcheon. “Having lived here my entire life I truly have a strong connection to the community.”
McCutcheon’s pride in his birthplace shines through in his dedication to his work. “It is very rewarding for me to be able to improve my hometown. Every day at the Borough you’ll have new opportunities and challenges. Days go by very quickly in this position,” he said.
With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting from Robert Morris College, McCutcheon worked in accounting positions from 1981 until becoming Borough Manager in 2012.
But his tenure in town leadership began early on through his involvement with the Cornell Youth Baseball Association. McCutcheon encourages others to get involved in town activities that best fit their interests and said inquiring at the Borough office is the best way to find out about opportunities.
“People can get involved with sports teams or the Shade Tree Committee that plants trees and holds cleanup days. There are also positions on various boards that are part of the Borough.”
McCutcheon’s enthusiasm for Coraopolis and all it has to offer continues to grow. He especially appreciates the friendly neighbors and small town feel.
“We have a great walking community. There are a lot of river towns struggling the past couple of decades, but Coraopolis has been able to keep a lot of old businesses and attract new businesses as well. It’s just a nice little town. I feel lucky to have grown up in Coraopolis and still have friends from elementary school that live all over the country,” he said.
As the point person for Borough activity, McCutcheon is accustomed to managing many projects, but one he is particularly excited about is the new riverfront park. He commented, “It will take a few years to complete, but it should be a wonderful addition to the community.”
When he’s not in the office, the family man enjoys spending time with his wife of 39 years, Elesa, daughter Lauren, son Ryan, and grandson Leo. Both of his children are educators, a fact that brings McCutcheon a tremendous amount of pride.
You can also find him at his favorite local spot, Segneri’s Italian restaurant, and spending time outdoors golfing, walking and bike riding. If you happen to see him around town this month, wish him a happy birthday!