Democratic Westmoreland County Commissioner Tom Balya, who first took office in 1996 and has been chairman since 2000, announced today he will not run for re-election this year.

Mr. Balya, 53, said it is time to pursue other interests.

"In the words of Chuck Noll, it is time for me to get on with my life's work," said Mr. Balya during a press conference at the Palace Theater in Greensburg this morning.

Mr. Balya is not sure what his next job will be, but he said he will serve the remainder of his term as chairman.