Jan 9, 2025 By Brad Hundt 2 min read

The Washington County Board of Commissioners announced the appointment of Mark Hrutkay to lead the county’s Local Share Account (LSA) Committee Wednesday, one day after the previous chairman submitted his resignation.

The committee helps determine what Washington County projects will receive a slice of the revenue from the local share account generated by gambling proceeds from the Hollywood Casino at the Meadows. Jeff Kotula, president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Promotion Agency, had led the board since its inception in 2008. Kotula said in his resignation letter that he believed it was time for “some fresh eyes on the process and a new chairperson for this important committee.”

In a statement released by the commissioners, Hrutkay said, “I am honored to serve in this important role along with other committee members. Washington County is truly a key in the Keystone State, and prioritizing economic development, community enhancement, and public welfare is critical in realizing its potential.”

Hrutkay continued, “I am looking forward to meeting and working with the experienced LSA team and the organizations applying for assistance through this process. My experience in the energy industry and managing a family business will be helpful in this role serving the county.”

A resident of South Strabane Township, Hrutkay graduated from Washington & Jefferson College in 1981. He retired from Consol Energy after 35 years as its human resources director. He has served on numerous college and university advisory boards and local philanthropic and charitable organizations.

The LSA committee was set to have an introductory meeting Thursday to start the 2025 grant process. Last year, 51 projects across the county received $9.2 million in revenue.