Small-town roots. A shared future.
Get to know New Bethlehem
A community shaped by Redbank Creek, local enterprise and generations of neighbors. Explore our story, the values that guide Borough work and the people listed in our public leadership directory.
About — a place to live, work and belong
At the heart of the valley
Connected by place and people
Incorporated in 1853, New Bethlehem sits along Redbank Creek in southern Clarion County. Routes 28 and 66 meet downtown, connecting our community with the wider region.
Discover local businesses, neighborhood character and opportunities to spend time together. The community guide is a useful starting point for residents and visitors.
Make yourself at home
Your next stop
Mission — preserving our character, planning ahead
Support growth. Strengthen community.
The Borough’s published mission centers on business, community and personal growth while preserving New Bethlehem’s welcoming, family-friendly character.
Opportunity
Economic vitality
Support local enterprise and work with community partners to make the most of the Borough’s strengths.
Stewardship
Places worth caring for
Care for streets, public spaces and community appearance through thoughtful planning and responsible public services.
Partnership
A responsive Borough
Encourage public participation, clear communication and collaboration with residents, organizations and other public agencies.
Have an idea, a question or a concern? Share it with the Borough office or review the meeting agendas.
History — stories that connect generations
From Gumtown to New Bethlehem
The Borough’s local history remembers an earlier settlement called Gumtown and the mills, trade and industry that grew around it. Stories of the name’s origins remain part of our community’s folklore. New Bethlehem was incorporated in 1853.
Industry and everyday life
Lumber, milling, rail connections and downtown commerce shaped the community. Peanut butter manufacturing became another part of that story, and Smucker’s corporate reporting continues to identify its New Bethlehem facility (PDF).
Resilience and celebration
The Borough’s history records the impact of the July 1996 flood and the community’s recovery. Today’s gatherings offer another way to experience the valley’s connections; see the Chamber of Commerce for current events rather than relying on dates in a historical account.
Learn more through community planning and mapping archives. Historical materials document their own time and may not reflect present-day services or policies.
Council — meet the published Borough leadership
Public leadership directory
The names and roles below reflect the roster published on this website. For current appointments or to reach a specific member, contact the Borough office. Office email links below open our Contact page so your inquiry can be directed appropriately.
| Name | Published role | Office contact |
|---|---|---|
| Hon. Rev. Dr. Gordon V. Barrows | Mayor | [email protected] |
| Scott Barrett | President | [email protected] |
| Edward Goth | Vice President | [email protected] |
| Shannon Johnson | President Pro-Tempore | [email protected] |
| Richard McGarrity | Executive Secretary | [email protected] |
| Position listed as available | Junior Council Member | Explore the JCP program |
| Brian Fox | Council Member | [email protected] |
| Rob Griffin | Council Member | [email protected] |
| Keegan Bell | Council Member | [email protected] |
| Dawn Callenburg | Council Member | [email protected] |