Outgoing West Mahanoy tax collector recognized for 35 years of service
MICQUELYNN KAPUSCHINSKY / SHENANDOAH SENTINEL - Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker swears in West Mahanoy Township officials at the reorganization meeting Monday, Jan. 6, 2026 at the township building in Shenandoah Heights. From L-R: Jennifer Grochowski, tax collector; Paul 'Pepper' Martin, supervisor; Tony Gladski, supervisor; Charles 'Chuck' Lawson, vacancy board; and Matthew Kropp, code enforcement and zoning officer.
SHENANDOAH HEIGHTS – West Mahanoy Township voters retained its two supervisors in November’s election and chose a new tax collector, all of whom took the oath of office Monday. The tax collector’s predecessor — her mother — was also recognized for her service.
Returning supervisors Paul ‘Pepper’ Martin and Tony Gladski were sworn in by Magisterial District Judge Anthony Kilker at Monday’s reorganization meeting at the township building in Shenandoah Heights.
Also sworn in was Jennifer Grochowski as tax collector.
She takes over for her mother, Anne, who held the post for more than three decades.
State Rep. Tim Twardzik, State Sen. Dave Argall, and County Commissioner Gary Hess were all on hand to recognize the outgoing tax collector.
Twardzik, in reading his citation from the House of Representatives, said the maternal Grochowski began as an assistant to her father, Steve Babinchak, when he was tax collector.
“She went on to serve the township as tax collector for more than three decades and also served as tax collector for Shenandoah Valley [School District,]” Twardzik said. “Throughout her career, she has demonstrated remarkable knowledge, ability and integrity in carrying out her many responsibilities thus earning the respect and gratitude of all those who receive the benefit of her tireless devotion to duty.”
Hess provided a citation on behalf of the Board of Commissioners and Argall provided the same from the State Senate.
In other business, township supervisors held their regular monthly meeting following the reorganization, approving the appointment of sewage enforcement officers and a fee structure for sewage enforcement work and permits.
Martin also reminded residents that it’s illegal to throw snow into the street and that sidewalks should be clear within 12 hours after a storm or citations could be filed.
Christmas trees will be collected by the township road crew the week of January 12. Trees should be placed curbisde.
Micquelynn Kapuschinsky contributed to this report.
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