FRANKLIN, Pa. — Franklin resident Mike Dulaney has announced his candidacy for a Republican seat as Venango County Commissioner.

A graduate of Christian Life Academy and Penn State Behrend, Dulaney was elected to Franklin City Council in 2017. He is currently employed as the Executive Assistant at the Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce.

Dulaney said he plans to use this experience working with local leaders and business people to foster business growth within the region and to tackle issues within the county such as the rapidly growing expenses.

“Sometimes it is easy to overlook the slow progress being made by individuals, such as myself, who are interested in making Venango County prosperous,” said Dulaney. “Working at the Chamber has allowed me to see not only the needs of the local economy but also the requirements necessary to attract new business.”

The primary election, scheduled for May 21, will pare down the local nominees for the Republican and Democrat parties to face off in November’s general election.