Caridad seeks to strengthen Seven Fields’ small-town feel as new mayor
Being elected mayor of Seven Fields isn’t a new feeling for Kevin Caridad. Instead, he said the position tees him up to once again help lead a community he’s called home for more than two decades.
Caridad, 49, moved to the borough in 2004 and has since spent many of those years involved in public service. Before being elected mayor through a write-in campaign in November, he served three four-year terms on borough council.
“I’ve always liked giving back to the community,” Caridad said. “This is just another opportunity to contribute.”
Caridad holds undergraduate and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of Pittsburgh and a doctorate in counseling.
He also owns a mental health outpatient practice with about 80 employees, a business he has operated for more than a decade. He said having that experience has helped guide him through decision-making when it comes to local politics.
Caridad said his goal as mayor is to enhance the borough in any way he can.
“I don’t think you fix what isn’t broken,” he said. “Seven Fields has a really strong council and a well-managed government. My role is to support that and help it continue.”
In addition to having a mayor, the borough in southwestern Butler County has a manager, Tom Smith.
In a quiet borough like Seven Fields, quality of life is often the top concern for residents. He identified traffic issues, including speeding and congestion, as one of the highest priorities.
He said taking care of those issues will require continued research, coordination and support for the Northern Regional Police Department.
“Northern Regional has done a fantastic job,” he said. “The day-to-day policing has been strong, and the relationship with the borough is important. Collaboration is key.”
Beyond public safety, Caridad said he wants to focus on transparency and communication. He plans to be visible at community events and approachable to residents, especially young families moving into the area.
“I want people to feel like they can talk to the people who represent them,” he said. “Access and communication really matter.”
He also emphasized the importance of helping residents understand the scope and limits of borough government, noting that federal and state laws can restrict what local officials are able to do.
“Part of the job is education,” Caridad said. “Helping people understand where we have influence and where we don’t and then being assertive where we do.”
Caridad said he also hopes to promote Seven Fields and its local businesses, from restaurants and specialty shops to everyday services. A vibrant business community, he said, contributes to a healthy borough.
He raised two children in the borough, now 19 and 16, and said that experience reinforce his commitment to maintaining a safe, welcoming environment.
“You get that small-town feeling within a much larger area,” Caridad said. “That’s something worth protecting.”
As he begins his four-year term, Caridad said his focus will be on listening and learning what residents value the most.
“It’s an honor to be elected and an honor to serve,” he said. “I’m looking forward to collaborating, hearing from the community and continuing to make Seven Fields a place people are proud to call home.”
