If you have ever tried to get a stop sign installed or wondered why a new warehouse was approved, you were dealing with the Township Government. But Bensalem is unique. Unlike most Pennsylvania towns that use a “Manager” system, we operate under a “Strong Mayor” form of government.
This guide breaks down exactly who is in charge, how they get elected, and how you can have your say.
The Power Structure: The Mayor vs. The Council
Bensalem operates under a Mayor-Council system (Plan B). Think of it like the Federal Government, but on a micro-scale:
1. The Mayor (The CEO)
The Mayor is the Chief Executive. He does not vote on laws; he executes them. He runs the daily operations, manages the police and public works departments, and prepares the budget.
- Current Mayor: Joseph DiGirolamo (Republican)
- Term: Re-elected in November 2025 for his 9th Term (Serving through 2029).
- Power Move: The Mayor has Veto Power over Council ordinances.
2. The Township Council (The Legislature)
The Council is the legislative body. They pass laws (ordinances), approve the budget, and—most importantly—vote on land development (Zoning changes).
- Makeup: 5 Members
- Terms: 4-year staggered terms.
- Meetings: 2nd and 4th Monday of every month at 7:00 PM.
The 2026 Council Roster: A Historic Shift
Following the November 2025 Municipal Election, the political landscape of Bensalem shifted dramatically. For the first time in years, Democrats hold a 3-2 majority on the Council, creating a “split government” with the Republican Mayor.
The New Majority (Democrats):
- Ed Tokmajian (Elected 2025)
- Jesse Sloane (Elected 2025)
- Joseph Wenzel Jr. (Elected 2025)
The Minority (Republicans):
- Joseph Knowles (Term expires 2027)
- Edward Kisselback (Term expires 2027)
Note: Leadership roles (President/Vice President) are voted on during the annual reorganization meeting in January.
Who Else Matters? (The “Hidden” Influencers)
While the Mayor and Council get the headlines, these two appointed boards often have more impact on your immediate neighborhood.
The Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB)
If your neighbor wants to build a garage that is too tall, or a developer wants to put a gas station in a residential zone, they must come here first. The ZHB grants “variances” (exceptions to the rules).
- Why Watch Them: They are the first line of defense against over-development.
The Planning Commission
They are the advisors. Before the Council votes on a big project, the Planning Commission reviews the blueprints to make sure they fit the township’s long-term plan. They make a recommendation, but the Council makes the final decision.
The School Board (Separate Entity)
Update: The School Board also saw a shift in 2026, with Democrats taking 4 seats to end the previous GOP majority. While they are a separate taxing body from the Township, they control the largest portion of your property tax bill.
How to Get Involved (Without Being Bored to Tears)
You don’t have to attend every meeting to make a difference. Here is the most effective way to participate:
- The “3-Minute Rule”: Every Council meeting has a “Public Comment” section. You have roughly 3-5 minutes to speak on any topic.
- Email is Better: If you can’t attend, email the Council Clerk (Debbie McBreen) before 3:00 PM on the day of the meeting. Your comments are often distributed to the members directly.
- Watch from Home: You can livestream meetings on the Township’s cable channel (Comcast 22 / Verizon 34) or their website.
