president and CEO
John K. Trant, Esq., AICP, CZO, ASLA
John partners with clients to address land use planning, organizational management, economic development, zoning, infrastructure, human resources management, and strategic policy issues. John's work in both the public and private sectors provides a unique perspective, as does his experience with organizations of all shapes and sizes. He has over twenty years of public policy and management experience working with elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders to successfully build consensus and achieve results. John founded Strategic Solutions in 2009.
Education
DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF LAW
Juris Doctor, 2006
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, B.A. Geography, 1999
Affiliations
American Planning Association, Pennsylvania Chapter
American Bar Association
Butler County Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors 2012-2014
Sustainable Pittsburgh, Board of Directors 2012-2015
SENIOR Project Manager/Local Government Specialist
Chelsea J. Puff, MPA
Chelsea brings more than 15 years of experience in local government and community planning to Strategic Solutions. Her expertise in economic development, public outreach, grant funding, project management, and comprehensive planning has benefitted communities across Pennsylvania. Chelsea works to provide organizations in both the public and private sectors with practical, implementable strategies to enhance their operations.
Education
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
Master of Public Administration, 2009 Certificate in Public Sector Human Resources Management
THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY
B.A., History, 2004
Technical WRITER
Jason Vrabel
An architect by training, Jason Vrabel is a writer, educator, and community development professional. With more than 20 years of experience, his career has ranged from working with small non-profit organizations to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Education
MIAMI UNIVERSITY
B.E.D., Bachelor of Environmental Design, Architecture
WASHINGTON-ALEXANDRIA ARCHITECTURE CONSORTIUM
Community Planner II
John Toner
With a degree in Community Development from Temple University, John Toner’s planning experience stretches from North Philly to small towns throughout Eastern PA. His years of experience as a planning and zoning specialist provide Strategic Solutions with even greater capacity to write ordinances and enhance municipal governance throughout the state.
Education
TEMPLE UNIVERSITY
B.S., Community Development and Planning, 2018
Quality Assurance/Document Specialist
Linda Rocco
Linda is a seasoned administrative specialist, offering clients more than 35 years of experience in the field. She has extensive expertise in all administrative fields, from scheduling and correspondence to document coordination and preparation. Linda is able to tailor her abilities to meet the needs of clients, and her strong organizational skills improve efficiencies for any organization.
cODE ENFORCEMENT oFFICER
Patrick John Kelly
Patrick is an expert in the enforcement of local building and zoning codes. He has decades of experience working with communities on education and enforcement efforts related to property maintenance codes, apartment registry, building and fire codes, and zoning ordinances. Pat’s practical approach results in clear and consistent enforcement efforts.
Education
CONNELLY VOCATIONAL TRADE SCHOOL
Drafting and Design, Layout, Fitting and Welding, 1970
Affiliations
Findley Township UCC Appeals Board, 2009 to present
Moon Township Historical Architecture Review Board, 2006 to present
Dormont Volunteer Fire Department, 1979-1999
Government administration specialist
Laurence Christian
As both a former municipal manager in Delaware and Pennsylvania, Laurence adds vast public sector experience to Strategic’s organizational and financial assessments and interim leadership projects. From his 24-year career in the U.S. Army, Laurence brings additional human resources and capital improvement project knowledge from across the country and overseas.
Affiliations
Education
International City/County Management Association (ICMA)
ICMA Local Government Certification
PA Municipal Administration Training Center
ICMA Veterans Advisory Committee
Central Michigan University Master of Science in Administration (MSA)
Campbell University Bachelor of Science in Social Science
Office Manager
Kara Trant
Kara’s unmatched multi-tasking skills are an asset for the Strategic Solutions team. She oversees Strategic financial and human resource operations, while coordinating a broad range of services and functions. Kara’s experience in a variety of fields provides a strong backbone for the organization.