Published: November 05, 2008 01:28 am      

Haluska unopposed for 8th state House term

PATTON — State Rep. Gary Haluska, D-Patton, who was unopposed in the general election, will have an eighth term representing northern and eastern Cambria County residents of the 73rd district.

While Haluska has had opponents in past primary and general elections, he was alone on Tuesday’s ballot.

Despite being the lone candidate, Haluska’s road signs were seen in many area communities.

Haluska – who was born, raised and lives in Patton – will be one of the only local state representatives in the region with experience in Harrisburg. State Reps. Bob Bastian, R-Somerset; Ed Wojnaroski, D-Johnstown; and Tom Yewcic, D-Jackson Township, did not seek re-election.

Haluska said he will continue to focus on property-tax reform and state-funded health care.

He also plans to continue pushing for more transportation funding, including renewing a proposal to lease the turnpike.

Haluska said he wants to continue a push to bring a lodge to the nearby Prince Gallitzin State Park area.

The 73rd Legislative District includes constituents living in the school districts of Cambria Heights, Forest Hills, Northern Cambria, Penn Cambria, Portage and Glendale.