Behrens Running for Centre County Treasurer

A former state House candidate announced on Monday that he is running for a Centre County row office this year.

Republican Justin Behrens said he will seek election as Centre County treasurer.

“Serving the people of Centre County is something that I don’t take [lightly],” Behrens said in a statement. “Times like this the people of Centre County deserve someone that will work together with other elected officials to do what is right for the people of Centre County.”

A State College resident, Behrens is a social worker, U.S. Army veteran and executive director of Keystone Mission, a faith-based nonprofit addressing homelessness and hunger in northeastern Pennsylvania, where he said he grew the organization to be “a great steward of its money.”

The county treasurer receives and disburses county money as prescribed by the controller and commissioners, distributes payroll checks, serves on the county Retirement Board and is an official agent of the state for the sale of hunting, fishing and dog licenses.

“I will ensure that the office works effortless on customer service when it comes to such items as hunting, fishing and dog licenses, as well as Sportsman’s Firearm Permits,” Behrens said.

Behrens was the Republican nominee for the open 82nd House District seat won by Democrat Paul Takac in November.

He said he has dedicated his life to service to others, work he wants to continue for the residents of Centre County.

“The citizens of Centre County deserve a treasurer’s office that works efficiently and for the people,” Behrens said. “Working as a successful business executive, I plan work effortlessly to be a good steward of the taxpayer’s money and ensure that the office does what it needs to do in a timely and efficiently manner.”

Current County Treasurer Colleen Kennedy, a Democrat, announced earlier this month that she will seek reelection for a second term.

Primary Election Day is May 16. The first day to circulate and file nomination petitions is Tuesday.

The general election is Nov. 7.