Expeditious growth brought forth by the Industrial Revolution redefined Waynesboro as more than a major stop between Baltimore and Pittsburgh, but a prosperous economy and cultural community in the late 18th century. During and after the Industrial Revolution, Waynesboro was best known for its variety of manufacturers and foundries that produced engines, grinders, boring machines, nut facers, and more!

In modern-day Waynesboro, the Frick Company (Co.) was the longest-standing business in the area before it’s permanent closure. Frick Co. was originally founded in October of 1852 by George Frick and it began as a machine shop. With newfound success, the company expanded to patenting boilers and steam engines. Despite the rapid growth the company experienced, the American Civil War posed serious issues for their income, as the Confederate Army swept through the Borough and stole the entire inventory of leather belting. After the raid, Frick Co. was forced to close for a month before they could operate once again. Though not independently functioning, the Frick Company is abundantly relevant in current utility sales through the International Utilities Corporation (Corp.) merger
in 1959.

Unfortunate news on May 16, 2025, spread throughout the Borough, noting the passing of Waynesboro’s long-standing mayor, Richard “Dick” Starliper. Mayor Starliper was best known for his public awareness and dedication, as he served Waynesboro for upwards of four decades. His career in municipal management embarked with his service as a council member from 1980 to 1988, and once again from 1995 to 2002. After taking a few years off, Starliper ran for mayor in November of 2005, and successfully won the election, serving as Mayor for nearly 5 terms right up until his untimely death at 87 this year.

Mayor Starliper was not only a tremendous public servant that sought out compassion and integrity, but a loyal friend in the community as well. Much of the Borough fondly knew the mayor by his nickname, “Dick,” due to his prevalence in community events, parades, and mixers he regularly attended. Harold Mumma, Council President in the Borough said, “Dick was a friend, a neighbor, and an advocate for our community, and police department.” Mayor Starliper will be dearly missed by Waynesboro, and every individual he touched along the way.
Dade Royer, a former Ward 1 councilman, will replace late Starliper’s position as Mayor of Waynesboro. Mayor Royer’s major focuses reside in the strengthening of law enforcement, encouraging fiscally sound decisions, increasing traffic safety, and being a trustworthy voice for the citizens of Waynesboro. Royer is no stranger to community volunteer work and dedication to the community as he has previously served on the YMCA, Rotary Club of Waynesboro, Otterbein Church, and Camp Joy El boards as a member. Furthermore, his leadership skills and experience pull from his former position of Board President for the Renfrew Museum & Park and American Cancer Society of Franklin County.

Borough Council meetings typically occur every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM in the Council Chambers of Borough Hall on 55 East Main Street. Meetings are subject to change depending on holidays, weather, and closures. Visit the Borough of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania government website for further information and to access meeting documents from previous Committee Meetings.