Ralph DiGuiseppe III Wrapping Up Tenure As Bristol Mayor

Mayor Ralph DiGuiseppe III wrapped up his final council meeting as Bristol Borough’s mayor last week.

The meeting marked the end of a tenure that began August 8, 2022, and officially ends January 4, 2026. He was appointed mayor after Joe Saxton passed away.

Mayor-elect Frank Peranteau, a former Bristol Borough police chief and district judge, will take office in the new year.

Council members and other borough officials recognized DiGuiseppe’s leadership and community programs during his time in office.

Council Vice President Betty Rodriguez presented a proclamation recognizing his service.

“The strength and vitality of a community lie not in its geography, but in the character and actions of its people,” Rodriguez said. “Mayor DiGuiseppe III served with honor and distinction, significantly enhancing the quality of life for Bristol Borough residents.”

DiGuiseppe, whose dad is council president, looked on as his son was honored.

DiGuiseppe, a former school board member and real estate agent, credited the council members for the borough’s achievements during his time in office.

“These are the people that make everything in Bristol Borough happen,” he said. “They are the ones behind the events, all the progress, and everything that happens.”

The outgoing mayor reflected on the borough’s growing positive reputation throughout the region.

“I travel all over – New Jersey, Delaware, the state of Pennsylvania – and people say, ‘I can’t wait to visit Bristol’,” DiGuiseppe said. “People are jealous of Bristol Borough.”

The outgoing mayor said he never intended to have the job, as he had long been involved behind the scenes.

Councilmember Lee Cousin credited DiGuiseppe with mentoring him when he joined council.

“The mayor, when I came to council, took me right under his wing,” Cousin said. “There were countless conversations and just camaraderie and just was always willing to listen to whatever I had to say.”

Councilmember Maria Figueroa noted DiGuiseppe’s communication improvements, including emergency alerts for residents in flood-prone areas.

Police Chief Joe Moors thanked the mayor for the positive relationship.

“Your commitment and steadfast belief in our mission has been instrumental in moving our department forward,” Moors said. “Through your leadership, we have been able to strengthen community trust, modernize our police operations and better serve the citizens of Bristol Borough.”

The chief said the borough under DiGuiseppe’s leadership received eight new police vehicles obtained through grants, a new animal control officer van, a parking enforcement vehicle, and an all-terrain vehicle.

“Eight new police vehicles unheard of in three years, all through grants,” Moors said. “We did that light speed together.”

The police department also underwent comprehensive equipment upgrades during DiGuiseppe’s tenure, including new armor, fresh first aid kits, and weapons.

The mayor’s technology upgrades in the historic borough included implementing the passport parking app for the central business district and upgrading the police department facilities with new paint and carpet throughout.

Speaking to the community, DiGuiseppe said he plans to remain involved in community service after leaving office.

“Giving back is what I enjoy, and it’s what I will continue to do, just in a different role,” DiGuiseppe said. “But I’m going to have more time for myself. I’m going to have a lot less headaches.”

“I feel like 2026 is going to be an awesome year for everyone in Bristol Borough,” he said.