Voters Guide 2015

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August 5,2013

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A nonpartisan voters’ guide published by

Press And Journal

ELECTION DAY IS MAY 19

The power of one vote Know

By Jim Lewis Press And Journal Editor Our vote is valuable. Not in a monetary sense, but a moral one.

Casting a ballot is a consummate act of American citizenship, an act of conscience that we never take lightly. Our vote is precious. We won’t give it away – politicians have to earn it.

That’s why you’ve opened our 2015 Voters’ Guide for the primary election on Tuesday, May 19. That’s why you are here, reading this. You want to decide who deserves your vote.

Knowledge is indeed power. The more you know about the candidates, know where they stand on the issues you believe are important, the better you can make your decision on who gets your valuable vote.

That’s why we at the Press And Journal

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published this guide – to give you the information you need to make your decision. We wanted to tell you where the candidates stand, so you are ready to commit your vote to those who have earned it.

Though Pennsylvania is one of only 13 states that hold a closed primary – only registered members of the Republican Party can vote in the Republican primary, and only registered members of the Democratic Party can vote in the Democratic primary – you still may not be familiar with those who want your vote.

We set out to get you the information you need to choose who gets it.

We asked each candidate for Middletown Borough Council, Middletown Area School Board, Lower Swatara Twp. Board of Commissioners and Londonderry Twp. Board of Supervisors three questions. Two of the questions focused on specific issues in each municipality or district; some asked about

finances, economic development, land use and other topics.

We also asked every candidate in every race a decidedly less-pointed question: What is the most important issue in this election, a kind of why-are-you-running question to give them a chance to explain what motivated them to seek office. We hoped it would reveal something about them that would help you make your decision.

The candidates’ answers are in their own words; we edited sparingly, for simple grammar mistakes and spelling errors. The answers are the candidates speaking to you.

We hope that you find our Voters’ Guide valuable, regardless of your party affiliation or leanings on the issues of the day. And we hope you exercise your right to vote always, beginning with Tuesday’s primary. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Your vote is too valuable to collect dust.

VOTERS’ GUIDE IS AVAILABLE ONLINE www.pressandjournal.com

ABOUT THE VOTERS’ GUIDE This Voters’ Guide lists candidates in races on the May 19, 2015 primary election ballot in Middletown, Lower Swatara Twp., Londonderry Twp. and the Middletown Area School District’s Board of Directors. Answers are in response to questions posed by the Press And Journal and mailed to each candidate on April 7, 2015. This guide is published by the Press And Journal for the sole purpose of allowing voters to cast an informed vote.

GROUND RULES: • Questionnaires were sent to all candidates in Middletown, Lower Swatara Twp., Londonderry Twp. and the Middletown Area School District. Candidates appearing with no photo failed to submit one.

• All candidates were invited to provide biographical information and responses to 3 specific questions.

• This Voters’ Guide is organized by municipality and office with candidates alphabetically listed by name.

• If a candidate did not respond by the deadline, “Did not respond’’ is noted.

Photo of voting booths courtesy Dauphin County Elections and Voter Registration

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We’re opening our second Meet & Greet to residents, business owners and candidates in the local primary elections. There will be no debate, no question-and-answer session - just an opportunity for voters to meet and mingle with the candidates while everyone enjoys light snacks, wine, beer or a cup of coffee.

DATE & TIME Sunday, May 17th 6 to 8 pm LOCATION 20 S. Union Street, Middletown HOSTED BY

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MIDDLETOWN AREA u go o y e r SCHOOL BOARD befo w o n K ✔SCHOOL DIRECTOR GORDON EINHORN

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Attorney for Thomas, Thomas & Hafer, Harrisburg Education: J.D. from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, Calif.

1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

I have two concerns regarding the proposed transfer of HIghspire’s students to the Middletown Area School District.

The first is the potential financial impact.

The Steelton-Highspire School District has substantial debt, and if the proposal is approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, it could result in a portion of that debt being transferred to our district.

Over the years, we have worked very hard to be fiscally responsible, and this added debt could have a negative impact on these efforts.

I am also concerned that the transfer of these students would result in overcrowding in certain school buildings. The district’s primary mission is to provide a quality education for our students, and this proposal could make that more difficult to achieve.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

The Middletown Area School District, like all districts, is limited by state law in the ways it can raise revenue. In the last 10 years it has become increasingly difficult to balance budgets because the state’s contributions to school districts have declined despite the fact that districts are faced with an increasing number of mandates. The two biggest increases every year come in the categories of health insurance premiums and state-mandated contributions to the Pennsylvania State Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS), both of which are beyond the control of the school district. These problems can only be fixed at the state level with basic reform of how schools are funded, modifications to retirement system contributions and a return to the higher funding levels that the state historically provided, with less reliance on local property tax revenue.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

The district has been an innovator in the use of technology and we need to continue and expand these efforts.

With our iPad initiative, every student in the Middletown Area Middle School and Middletown Area High School has

been provided with an iPad, the use of which has been successfully integrated into the curriculum. This effort has clear educational benefits and helps familiarize students with technology they will use once they join the workforce.

Down the road, I would support the use of electronic textbooks on the tablets in place of traditional textbooks. Such interactive textbooks have an educational benefit and, because they can be easily updated, would eliminate the need to purchase new textbooks every several years, which would result in cost savings.

TERRY GILMAN

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Manager of Community Initiatives & Contributions for FirstEnergy Corp.

1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

While I understand and recognize why Highspire wants to be part of MASD, I believe incorporating Highspire would have a negative educational impact on the school district. It would create overcrowding in our elementary school buildings. It would eliminate our Head Start program housed in a district elementary school due to a lack of space. It would significantly increase the district’s special education, career and technical school tuition, school personnel and transportation costs due to the influx of new students. And it would eliminate and/or curtail supplemental educational programs at the secondary level due to budget restraints.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

The most challenging portion of the district’s budget and every other school district is the Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System, or PSERS. Until our governor and legislators address this problem, school districts like Middletown will continue to struggle.

Decreasing the PSERS burden on school districts will automatically increase revenue.

I also believe that if the borough, the township and the district work together, we can have a positive impact on economic development, attract more business and increase revenue for everyone.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

I can continue to be involved – involved in the district, involved in the community and basically do whatever is needed to give our students every opportunity to thrive.

I highly recommend that everyone learn more about the district; attend school board and committee meetings; and learn more about the challenges we

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face, how they are addressed and how we focus on providing the best education possible for our students.

DUSTIN GREEN

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Medical device sales representative Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Psychology from Gettysburg College 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

The possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown is a situation that should be thoroughly analyzed because our new high school wasn’t built with the intention of adding that many students – as well as the addition to other schools.

In any situation involving our students, their best interests should be put first, and expanding class sizes, stretching our teachers thin and limiting our children’s opportunities aren’t in the best interests of our children.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

There are a number of grants and trust funds available for athletic programs and extracurricular activities, but it takes dedication from a person or a group of people to seek these avenues of revenue.

I’ve personally introduced our athletic program to a particular trust that is willing to support our students financially, and some of our programs have benefited already.

We can partner with businesses to allow them to advertise with signs around the fencing at Memorial Field or allow them to hang signs in the gym. Most important is finding a dedicated person or group of people to seek out the support from these businesses not only in Middletown but also outside of Middletown, because all of us as residents interact with business all over central Pennsylvania, from healthcare needs to shopping and more.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

That’s the No. 1 reason why I’m running for School Board – because I have three children who are in this school district, and I want to make sure they are awarded the best education, extracurricular activities and opportunities in life, and I think I can help make a difference. But teamwork as a cohesive unit on the School Board is essential to our children’s success.

Building pride back into the Middletown Area School District and this community is essential. I’ve been fortunate enough to coach football at Middletown for the last four years as well as assist in coaching for my children’s

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activities, and I see the impact that leadership, dedication and discipline can have in our children’s success. I have a drive and passion to succeed and make a difference at a district-wide level.

BARBARA LAYNE

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Retired nursing executive; former Director of Physician Education at the Pennsylvania Medical Society Education: Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond Professional Institute), Charlottesville, Va.; 1963 graduate of Middletown High School 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

I personally feel that our loyalty needs to be to the taxpayers and students of the Middletown Area School District. When the School Board in its entirety discussed this issue, we unanimously felt the same way.

The financial burden that the district would assume has yet to be determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Additionally, the 200+ Highspire students would require additional staffing and increase the financial burden to the district.

While empathetic to Highspire’s desire to provide a better educational climate for their students, Middletown’s decision to not support Highspire’s request was submitted to the Department of Education in a document that indicated the negative impact such a merger would have on our district. The Department of Education will determine the final decision with no further input from the board or district.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

A dialogue between the municipalities and the district could be initiated. This dialogue would create a positive business environment with all parties working together with the hopes of finding ways to increase alternative non-taxable revenue.

With Penn State in our backyard, we could include individuals in their urban planning and development program who may have an interest to develop a thesis or research project to work with us to this end.

Such subjects could include economic and land development plans.

Until our state government addresses the Pennsylvania Public School Employ-

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MIDDLETOWN AREA u go o y e r SCHOOL BOARD befo Know ees’ Retirement System (PSERS), there will be an annual strain on the district’s annual budget. Taxpayers must realize who exactly has the ability to address this issue, and it lies in Harrisburg with their elected senators and representatives, not in Middletown. We must all work together to accomplish this mission.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

As the current president of the board, I will continue to play a watchdog role in keeping the schools on track along with my colleagues. Dr. Lori Suski’s administrative leadership, working along with her administrative team and the faculty, will continue to think “out of the box” in creating ways to implement new innovative programs while keeping in mind our limited funding. Many programs have been and will continue to be implemented, especially in the early developmental years, K-2. Research shows us that the earlier educational issues are identified the better the outcome for our students.

With the implementation of technol-

ogy and new educational programs, the district will see an increase in test scores.

I will continue to place the emphasis on the education of the youth of our community in the very capable hands of our administration and faculty.

CHRIS LUPP

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Insurance agent Education: 1990 graduate of Middletown Area High School 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

The first consideration is whether our facilities are equipped to handle the additional number of students in question. There are requirements set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education that may limit the district’s ability to expand facilities. The district must work within these guidelines for projecting future growth. As a result, these limitations

affect the district’s capacity to accept additional students. Building size, class sizes and teacher numbers also factor in the decision.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

There are opportunities for public and private grants for which districts can apply. However, it may require the dedication of someone seeking, writing and following through on the requirements of each grant. Hiring a grant writer and having that person bring in additional revenue is one avenue to explore. Business partnerships are another possible source of revenue.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

One person alone cannot make the district a success. Community pride and engagement are key. I’ve been involved in leading teams and organizations, which I believe I can translate to the school district. Taking the internal drive I have

OPEN SEATS:

5 SCHOOL DIRECTORS • Lower Swatara Township • Middletown Borough • Royalton Borough to succeed and the love I have for my children and applying that same passion to the district is what I can offer.

LINDA MEHAFFIE

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Real estate agent and appraiser 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

The merger is very serious and all consequences should be taken into consideration.

We have to take into consideration all children from both school districts and make sure it does not have a negative financial impact on the district.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

I believe the problem is that our first

CHILDREN’S G N I S S NEE E R D D D S for a A

INCUMBENT MIDDLETOWN AREA SCHOOL DIRECTORS

 GORDON A. EINHORN  TERRY A. GILMAN  BARBARA N. LAYNE  PAMELA M. PRICE  MICHAEL S. RICHARDS

Lower Swatara Township Middletown Borough Royalton Borough

VOTE MAY 19th PAID FOR BY THE CANDIDATES

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MIDDLETOWN AREA u go o y e r SCHOOL BOARD befo w o n K inclination is to always raise new revenue.

What happened to simply spending within our means?

I have been attending numerous committee meetings and I have seen first-hand that there are ways to be more fiscally responsible.

Our high taxes on real estate and low academic scores have diminished the values of your properties, so there is a need to raise our academic scores, which will attract families who will purchase properties in the district, which in turn will generate revenue.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

I believe that sometimes a fresh perspective can be worth its weight in gold. I feel there are a lot of community people who have great ideas and perspective on what we can do. If elected, I will reach out to the teachers, principals and community and listen to ideas.

The teachers and principals who directly relate to the children are your best source of ideas. We need to increase the academic scoring. Our school district directly affects your home values. With high taxes and low-rated school academics, the value of your properties are at an all-time low.

PAMELA M. PRICE

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Retired Director of Board Development Services, Pennsylvania School Board Association Education: Graduate of Clarion University, Clarion Co. 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

My opinion is immaterial as the decision is now in the hands of the Pennsylvania Department of Education. We have done our due diligence and laid out the advantages and disadvantages of such a merger. Our attention has been and must continue to be on our school community and the education of MASD students.

If it is decided that we shall accept the Highspire students, we will embrace those students with the same passion and commitment.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

We cannot continue to burden our district residents with continued tax increases. Unfunded mandates that have been placed on school districts have led to the precarious financial situation we and most school districts in the state are facing.

One of the most onerous mandates is the Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System contribution that every school district is required to pay. This line item alone was increased by approximately $700,000 for the 2015-16

school year! We must look to our legislature to assist us in solving this problem.

MASD has been proactive in assisting our fellow municipal partners with the airport tax revenue and also with agreeing to the Keystone Opportunity Zone for the airport properties. Additional opportunities for revenue must be explored and fully vetted with our fellow locally-elected officials to ensure what is best for our community.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

I believe that we are doing a great job, but we can always do better. Witness the accomplishments of our students and staff that are presented at school board meetings and on our Web site! But school districts are being asked to provide more and more services for our children and are doing so with less and less…and are being measured by a test…a snapshot in time. I don’t believe one test should be the measure of excellence, but we need to look at multiple measures to determine the quality of the school district.

As I said, MASD is doing a yeoman’s job…but we can do better! I’m a big believer in continuous improvement. Two examples are the winter Keystone Exams results and the gains made by students in our elementary schools. To quote Diane Ravitch, author of the book, “Reign of Error,’’“Sometimes, the most brilliant and intelligent minds do not shine in standardized tests because they do not have standardized minds.”

I will continue to support our administration and staff as they provide the best educational opportunities for all students and to assist those students whose needs require additional attention.

MICHAEL RICHARDS

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Mechanical maintenance manager at Three Mile Island 1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

I fully understand Highspire’s desire to be part of the Middletown Area School District. However, as a board member, I need to look at the merger strictly from an educational and financial point of view and weigh the impact it would have on our district.

In the past 15 years, we have implemented a plan that has modernized our schools and facilities, which will take our students well into the 21st century. The building plans were based on projected enrollment of our current district. To now acquire over 200 new students will push the occupancy of our facilities beyond the limits. We would need additional classroom space as well as additional staff in

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teaching, school nurses, guidance counselors, school psychologists, etc. Many of these services are regulated by state laws in accordance with the number of students.

We would also incur additional transportation costs because all of the students from Highspire would need bus transportation. We would also have to pay additional tuition for any students from Highspire who would attend Dauphin County Technical School. We would lose revenue because we would not have extra classrooms to lease to Head Start or the Capital Area Intermediate Unit. And along with the previously mentioned issues of acquiring additional students, we would also incur Highspire’s share of their current debt with the Steelton-Highspire School District.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

Our biggest challenge every year is the budget process. The School Board only has control over approximately 10-12 percent of the budget. The rest is dictated by mandatory programs and the pension issue. Many programs and initiatives are required by the federal or state government, but are seldom funded.

The Pennsylvania Public School Employees’ Retirement System (PSERS) is a very large piece of the budget and our share of that will only continue to increase every year until the lawmakers in Harrisburg pass legislation to give school districts some relief from this issue.

To a small district such as ours, with a small tax base, it is a challenge every year to “trim the fat” from our yearly budget, while ensuring that our students continue to have the same educational opportunities as their peers in surrounding districts.

I would encourage everyone to attend committee and board meetings in an effort to better understand the many facets of the budget process.

During my tenure on the board, we explored the possibility of implementing a parking tax at Harrisburg International Airport. After many years of negotiations, we were finally able to begin enforcing it.

I would like to see officials of the boroughs of Middletown and Royalton, along with the Lower Swatara Twp. commissioners and the School Board begin to work together to promote economic development in our district and strengthen a partnership with Penn State Harrisburg. We definitely need to continue thinking outside of the box in order to keep the tax burden at a minimum to the residents of this district.

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

While I think the students attending Middletown schools are currently receiving a quality education and are afforded an array of extracurricular activities, I

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5 SCHOOL DIRECTORS • Lower Swatara Township • Middletown Borough • Royalton Borough also acknowledge that there is always room for improvement and growth. I will continue to volunteer my time to support and promote our school district and its educators. If elected, I would support and encourage the administration and the professional staff to search for new programs and initiatives to ensure that students continue to receive a quality education that prepares them for the next phase of their lives, whether it’s college or the work force.

JENNIFER SCOTT

CROSS-FILED Occupation: Sourcing manager Education: graduate of Middletown Area High School; Master’s in Business Administration from Eastern University, Philadelphia; Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Elizabethtown College.

1. What is your opinion of the possibility of Highspire students attending Middletown Area School District schools?

We have to take into consideration the financial strain this merge could cause the School District and if the long-term facility plans could handle the number of students who could possibility attend the district.

The district should continue to focus on student teacher ratio and keeping these numbers to a minimum to provide the current students with the best education.

2. Can you think of something the district can do that it is not doing now to raise alternative revenue?

There are several things to take into consideration when reviewing ways to raise alternative revenue. The first thing to look at is current expenses and ways to eliminate or decrease current spending.

This is the best way to achieve immediate revenue. For example, has an energy audit that may result in permanent energy costs savings been performed? Has space on properties been sold for advertising?

3. What can you do to make Middletown’s schools better?

The role of a Board Member is to promote student growth and achievement.

To achieve student growth and achievement is takes more than one person, but as an individual I can offer my knowledge I’ve gained through my work experience and education to assist with making Middletown’s schools better. Additionally, as a Middletown graduate and resident with two children in the school district I have vested interest in being a part of making Middletown’s schools better. Lastly, my willingness to listen to members of the community who voice questions and concerns regarding the district and my ability to foster decisions from a parent’s point of view based on sound business practices will assist in making Middletown’s schools better.

MIDDLETOWN BOROUGH VOTING DISTRICTS COURTESY DAUPHIN COUNTY ELECTIONS AND VOTER REGISTRATION

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✔ FIRST WARD - 2 Year

constantly told Borough Council that the backroom nonsense must stop.

DAWN KNULL

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

I will need to find out how much of a divide there is currently between the borough and Penn State. A dialog will need to be started so a partnership could develop between the borough and Penn State. Partner with the university on all levels, whether it is special recognitions for Penn State’s long-term commitment to our borough or a partnership that would encourage students to work directly with officials for specific projects that would result in education credits, just to name a few. Restart the program where a student actually is a council member in some way.

That way we can hear right from them. I also believe a councilperson could also serve on a committee or board at Penn State Harrisburg. It has to be a two-way street.

DEMOCRAT Occupation: Computer analyst, Eastern Atlantic Insurance Co. Education: Medical assistant degree from Thompson Institute 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

Like you I am a private citizen of the borough and we do not get a lot of information about what is occurring in our town. We must first settle the rhetoric that is in our town. I will be doing a lot of research on what has been done. I will present my ideas along with the people’s ideas and hopefully we will attract private investments back to our town.

The time has come to stop the finger pointing and accusations. It is time to take the advice of the people who have

3. What is the most important issue in

Democratic Candidate for Middletown Borough Council (FIRST WARD)

• 1st WARD (2-yr term) • 1st WARD (4-yr term) • 2nd WARD (4-yr term) • 3rd WARD (4-yr term)

Middletown today?

Communication!!! Communication is the most important issue in Middletown.

While nine people make the decision on how Middletown moves forward, it is the citizens who really make the town move forward, and without communication to those citizens we will always stand still.

I believe that the citizens put a person on council to get their voices heard and that is what I am going to do. I am the “People’s Voice.” Communication, but with respect.

DAVID SCULLY

DEMOCRAT Occupation: Teacher and writer Education: Bachelor’s degree in U.S. and European History from the University of California at Davis; Associate of Arts degree in science, mathematics and engineering from Sacramento City College, Sacramento, Calif.

1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the down-

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town, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

Investors want political stability.

There’s plenty of money out there being invested in places that don’t have the infrastructure and location advantages that we have.

When we’re ready, the investors will come. The problem is we aren’t ready. If you want to attract a visionary investor like Bloomberg, he’s gotta know you’re someone he can talk to and work with.

Investors of his vision and professionalism won’t consider working with quarreling, small-minded people.

We have the infrastructure and the location. We have Amtrak, an International Airport, and a university all within walking distance, and three interstates conveniently connecting us to Washington, D.C., New York City and other top-tier Northeast cities. The town is relatively safe and has access to the shore, the mountains and lovely countryside. These are the things that high-powered, global investors want. Ultimately, a lot of them dream of living in a safe, quiet, small town.

VOTE

rachelle reid 1st Ward

Let me introduce myself. I am a lifelong resident of Middletown. My husband Marlin and I bought a home on the same street that I grew up on, in the First Ward where we are raising our son Troy.

fifth generation middletown resident for over 50 years

For the past five years, twice a month, I have attended and have been an active and vocal participant at borough council meetings. I have been a strong and consistent voice and have helped to save the taxpayers money.

I want to unite Middletown and erase the current discord and division in the community. The reason for my candidacy is not politically motivated or for any social gain. I have no hidden personal agenda. I simply want a safe and fiscally responsible community in which to live with my family and friends.

I will be a voice for the people, someone you can trust, and know that your ideas and visions will not only be heard, but acted upon.

A fresh voice for the people!

previous council experience

committed to bringing residents, businesses and psu faculty and students together for the greater good of middletown

I am running on the Democratic ticket but if you are a Republican you can write my name on the  ballot for the Republican ticket. Please write it as: DAWN KNULL. PAID FOR BY CANDIDATE Paid FOr BY caNdidaTe

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Cities have been revitalizing since the 1990s, so there are many successful templates to imitate. As councilor, I will propose establishing a committee to thoughtfully examine Middletown’s different possible futures, with the help of consultants and experts as needed, in a process with regular meetings open to all interested citizens.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

The question seems to imply that we should forge closer ties to Penn State.

Many in Middletown find that concept anathema and I am not without sympathy to their sentiment. American universities have been breeding grounds for terrorists and tend to nurture those whose careers thrive on and foster controversy and conflict and hate, and who have contempt for traditional American values.

In contrast to this, one of Middletown’s appeals is its peaceful, orderly and neat culture, and these positive aspects of Middletown’s culture should be preserved. It should be a town where seniors are happy

and safe and are not warehoused to die, but live out their lives with meaningful contentment and dignity in a town where there are things for them to do – and where children are happy and safe and grow to be normal, happy and healthy citizens, according to the best American traditions that their parents wish.

Having said that, I have studied at numerous universities, and I have found that college towns, at their best, are delightful, vibrant and wonderful places to live.

Why does everyone want to live in Davis, Calif. and other college towns some of you know of, and nobody wants to live in Middletown, Pa.? Let’s carefully study it, as I discussed above.

I have had a lifetime of experience with the education industry in its many aspects and I understand some of the good and the bad about universities and university towns. I am uniquely qualified to chair a committee to study and evaluate our options, in a process that will be open to all citizens and that will be respected by investors and developers.

3. What is the most important issue in

OPEN COUNCIL SEATS:

• 1st WARD (2-yr term) • 1st WARD (4-yr term) • 2nd WARD (4-yr term) • 3rd WARD (4-yr term)

Middletown today?

Hostility. Sometimes it’s a hostile, angry and rude, unfriendly town. I consider the most important issue, then, to be the issue of Middletown’s culture and spirit.

What kind of culture and spirit do we want Middletown to have? What kind of people are we going to be? Friendly or rude? Happy or grumpy? Cooperative or quarrelsome?

Of course, it is an American town with proud traditions from the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and 1900s, and the best of our traditions and culture should be preserved and passed on. I recently attended an inspiring Boy Scout breakfast, for example, and I rebuke the elitists from the universities who scorn such a noble, high-minded and worthy tradition.

One of my favorite songs consists of just one line that’s repeated throughout the song: “I never knew…there was a better way of living.”

Is there a better way of living than the way we’re living now? Some of us know that there are better ways of living. As the decades roll by and today’s children become the town, don’t we want them to know the best ways to live?

  

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DANA WARD

REPUBLICAN Did not respond

✔ FIRST WARD - 4 Year BARRY GOODLING REPUBLICAN Did not respond

RACHELLE REID

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Retired heavy equipment operator for the state Department of Transportation 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

First and foremost, we need to do away with the negativity in the borough.

Second, we need to form a committee to determine how to accomplish what the residents want. Our committee would consist of residents, including Penn State Harrisburg students, business owners and the Chamber of Commerce.

  

BRING BACK THE PRIDE IN MIDDLETOWN! ELECTBARRY

GOODLING

Middletown Borough Council 1st WARD (Republican)

 Lifelong resident of Middletown  Served 12 years on borough council (‘86-’97)  Proudly served as Borough Council President

“Speaking for the people.”

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2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

We need to really embrace the student community and ask for their participation in community events. We should form a relationship of trust and respect with the Student Government and chancellor.

3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

The biggest issue facing the borough is the negative image and the lack of trust the residents have toward Borough Council. The next issue is that we the residents have lost our voice in government. There is a great divide or factions within council.

The solution is simple: Leave your personal opinions, agendas and political affiliations in the hall. Council members are elected to serve each and every resident.

Anything less than that is a slap in the face of all the residents.

DAVID RHEN

REPUBLICAN Did not respond

DAVID SCULLY

DEMOCRAT Occupation: Teacher and writer Education: Bachelor’s degree in U.S. and European History from the University of California at Davis; Associate of Arts degree in science, mathematics and engineering from Sacramento City College, Sacramento, Calif.

1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

Investors want political stability.

There’s plenty of money out there being invested in places that don’t have the infrastructure and location advantages that we have.

When we’re ready, the investors will come. The problem is we aren’t ready. If you want to attract a visionary investor like Bloomberg, he’s gotta know you’re someone he can talk to and work with.

Investors of his vision and professionalism won’t consider working with quarreling,

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small-minded people.

We have the infrastructure and the location. We have Amtrak, an International Airport, and a university all within walking distance, and three interstates conveniently connecting us to Washington, D.C., New York City and other top-tier Northeast cities. The town is relatively safe and has access to the shore, the mountains and lovely countryside. These are the things that high-powered, global investors want. Ultimately, a lot of them dream of living in a safe, quiet, small town.

Cities have been revitalizing since the 1990s, so there are many successful templates to imitate. As councilor, I will propose establishing a committee to thoughtfully examine Middletown’s different possible futures, with the help of consultants and experts as needed, in a process with regular meetings open to all interested citizens.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

The question seems to imply that we

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should forge closer ties to Penn State.

Many in Middletown find that concept anathema and I am not without sympathy to their sentiment. American universities have been breeding grounds for terrorists and tend to nurture those whose careers thrive on and foster controversy and conflict and hate, and who have contempt for traditional American values.

In contrast to this, one of Middletown’s appeals is its peaceful, orderly and neat culture, and these positive aspects of Middletown’s culture should be preserved. It should be a town where seniors are happy and safe and are not warehoused to die, but live out their lives with meaningful contentment and dignity in a town where there are things for them to do – and where children are happy and safe and grow to be normal, happy and healthy citizens, according to the best American traditions that their parents wish.

Having said that, I have studied at numerous universities, and I have found that college towns, at their best, are delightful, vibrant and wonderful places to live.

Why does everyone want to live in Davis,

It’s time to take back our town!

ELECT

GREG WILSBACH I am a lifelong resident of Middletown, a former supervisor of the Borough’s Electric Department, and have previously served as Interim Borough Manager and on Borough committees.

I BELIEVE: • Borough employees and elected officials should be accessible and always treat the public in a respectful manner.

• Financial and legal consultants paid by the Borough should be hired in an open and transparent manner.

• Vacant borough positions must be properly advertised and filled by knowledgable professionals.

• Tenants and home owners who are forced to live in or near a rundown property should have better policies and enforcement to protect them.

• Rebuilding our town can only be accomplished through conscientious, approachable leadership and a spirit of cooperation.

If you believe these things, elect me to represent you:

2nd WARD MIDDLETOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL “I’m proud to live in Middletown and I’ll work hard to build a solid future for your family and mine.”

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Calif. and other college towns some of you know of, and nobody wants to live in Middletown, Pa.? Let’s carefully study it, as I discussed above.

I have had a lifetime of experience with the education industry in its many aspects and I understand some of the good and the bad about universities and university towns. I am uniquely qualified to chair a committee to study and evaluate our options, in a process that will be open to all citizens and that will be respected by investors and developers.

3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

Hostility. Sometimes it’s a hostile, angry and rude, unfriendly town. I consider the most important issue, then, to be the issue of Middletown’s culture and spirit.

What kind of culture and spirit do we want Middletown to have? What kind of people are we going to be? Friendly or rude? Happy or grumpy? Cooperative or quarrelsome?

Of course, it is an American town with proud traditions from the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s and 1900s, and the best of our traditions and culture should be preserved and passed on. I recently attended an inspiring Boy Scout breakfast, for example, and I rebuke the elitists from the universities who scorn such a noble, high-minded and worthy tradition.

One of my favorite songs consists of just one line that’s repeated throughout

the song: “I never knew…there was a better way of living.”

Is there a better way of living than the way we’re living now? Some of us know that there are better ways of living. As the decades roll by and today’s children become the town, don’t we want them to know the best ways to live?

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Security officer for Universal Security Education: Kaplan Career Institute 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

Make sure codes are enforced and only positive things on the Web page, because until it appears that we respect ourselves, no business will want to join the town.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

Create more joint events.

• 1st WARD (2-yr term) • 1st WARD (4-yr term) • 2nd WARD (4-yr term) • 3rd WARD (4-yr term)

✔ SECOND WARD - ? Year CHRISTOPHER MCNAMARA

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ough can offer, but also our county and state agencies as well.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

There should be a joint borough committee established that involves Borough Council and Penn State faculty and students to address important issues facing all parties. This committee should be set up as other borough committees are, and should be open to the public.

REPUBLICAN Did not respond

GREGORY WILSBACH

1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

I believe that the first steps Middletown Borough should take is contract with a professional consultant that has prior experience and proven results with attracting not just successful businesses, but also desirable businesses for our residents and Penn State students. These businesses should be given an opportunity to utilize incentives that not only Middletown Bor-

3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

Respect is what everything is coming down to.

and wait for the black window to open.  Write in candidate’s first and last name in pen.  Close the WRITE-IN slot and continue voting.  After completing all of your selections, press the large green “VOTE” button at the bottom right corner of the machine.

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Electric supervisor for Ephrata Borough; former electric department supervisor for Middletown Borough

SEAN VACCARINO

 Press “WRITE-IN” button associated with office.  Press flashing red button in upper panel of machine

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3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

Leadership, or may I say lack of. Never in my lifetime have I witnessed a town so divided. This division is a direct result of how matters are handled, starting at the top.

Vote as if

your future depends on it.

Sean

VACCARINO MIDDLETOWN COUNCIL FIRST WARD (4-year) • Honorably discharged from US Army • Active in Community Outreach • Deacon at Grace & Mercy Church & Ministry • Fought to keep Middletown’s library

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✔ THIRD WARD - ? Year JOHN BRUBAKER

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Retired from the maintenance department at Three Mile Island 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

We are already attracting more private investment to the downtown and Main Street. Thanks to the lower electric rates put in place in the past two years, our utilities are now competitive with surrounding communities. Because Borough Council has streamlined borough government operations and found funding sources that do not depend on local taxes to pay for long overdue infrastructure improvements, we have managed to avoid tax increases. This is making Middletown more attractive to investors and developers.

A developer has proposed a hotel close to the downtown. As the Middletown Industrial and Commercial Development Authority (ICDA) moves forward to restore the Elks Theatre, already two groups have indicated an interest in occupying the building, and more interest will likely be generated when they post a Request For Proposals from developers interested in helping turn the Elks Building back into the downtown anchor it once was. Other investors have noticed what is happening in Middletown and have bought buildings in the downtown and are finalizing plans for new businesses.

And on Main Street, renovations are underway to two buildings at the corner of Pine Street, with a new restaurant coming to the old Lamp Post Inn. Investors also recently purchased a building on the other side of the Lamp Post. The owners of Mid-Town Plaza also have plans to develop a vacant pad there.

A new Middletown Business Association is being formed that will work handin-hand with the borough and the ICDA to help attract new businesses and to help existing businesses prosper. We need to continue working to keep electric rates competitive and taxes in check to attract more investors to Middletown.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

The current Borough Council president has met frequently with the chancellor.

The borough has designated a staff member as its liaison with the university and the Student Government Association has established a liaison with the borough.

Our new zoning law, passed last year, helped establish stricter guidelines for student housing in the borough to help

ensure the safety of the students while also protecting traditional single-family home neighborhoods from being taken over by student rentals.

Penn State’s electrical engineering department is assisting the borough in a project to create a detailed inventory of the borough’s electrical system. Last summer, the university’s athletic department participated, for the first time, in Middletown’s Night Out festivities. In the fall, also for the first time, the university participated in Middletown’s Halloween Parade. The Nittany Lion mascot has become a popular staple at many borough events. Many of those same athletes, and other students, have volunteered their time on projects in the borough. Likewise, borough staff members have volunteered time to help the university and its athletic department.

The university recognizes that what we are doing to revitalize Middletown helps them by making this a more attractive place for students to come. And the borough recognizes that a strong, vibrant university makes Middletown more attractive to new residents and new businesses.

3. What is the most important issue in MIddletown today?

Easily the biggest issue facing Middletown today is the need to build a new electric substation.

The current Mill Street substation sits in the flood plain. It was badly damaged in the Tropical Storm Lee flooding, leaving the borough in the precarious position of having to depend on the much smaller substation on Spruce Street to run the entire electric distribution system.

While the Federal Emergency Management Agency provided the borough with a great deal of financial assistance to make the repairs on Mill Street, they made it clear that they will not pay for repairs again and that the borough needs to move to make sure its substation is protected from possible flooding.

At the same time, the Spruce Street substation is in need of upgrades to repair and replace breakers there. If we were to have another flood tomorrow, we could have very serious issues with the electric system. The Spruce Street substation will not handle the electric load we experienced the past two winters.

With new student apartments on Spring Street and the potential for development in Woodland Hills, the demands for electric load capacity in the borough will only become greater. For the well-being of our residents and businesses, this project must be done sooner, not later, so we can ensure the supply of electricity to all customers in the borough.

Don’t vote?

Don’t complain.

12 PRESS AND JOURNAL PRIMARY ELECTION VOTERS’ GUIDE 2015

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DIANA McGLONE

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Business manager 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

True economic growth should be done through private development and entrepreneurship, as that is the key to transforming the town for the better. I will collaborate and negotiate with potential developers and business owners and offer them assistance in the form of key incentives or low-interest loans, through the borough’s Industrial and Commercial Development Authority.

I will support the creation of the position of Economic Director, whose sole job responsibilities will be to attract, market and maintain business relationships, as attracting more businesses and assisting those that already exist is very important for our town’s overall economic growth and prosperity.

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2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

As a Penn State Harrisburg alumnus, I would recommend reinstating the PSU student liaison program and Internship program, enacted when I was council president in 2011. The student liaison will once again give council a direct voice to student concerns and allow university input to be directly considered or discussed in potential borough matters. An Internship program will open the borough to fresh new ideas and suggestions and critical thinking in the way we currently govern and conduct business. I will also be reaching out to fellow alumni to purchase flags, planters and markers to aid in the beautification of our town.

3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

Blight – we must create a strong code enforcement program that will compel compliance with the Borough’s Code of Ordinances. Many citizens of the borough have placed a lot of time, energy and pride into making their homes and businesses attractive and nice. Unfortunately, some people have not had the same

 For a brighter future in Middletown 

TRAVIS ARNDT WRITE-IN CANDIDATE

MIDDLETOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL 2nd Ward “I will take the time to work for and respond to the people of Middletown.”

• Graduate of Middletown High School • Graduate of Penn State Harrisburg

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Write in your vote. Close the Write-In slot.

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ambition and have a lot their property fall into blight.

With 48 percent residential rental housing stock, we must create a safe environment for renters and also address the issue of absentee landlords. I will advocate and support a Residential Rental Program that will seek to codify and implement best management practices from a life safety standpoint – all of which can be enforced through licensure and biannual inspections.

Not only will an inspection program and strong code enforcement address the many blighted properties, but the program also can bring in much-needed additional revenue to the borough.

DAMON V. SUGLIA

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Business owner 1. What steps would you take to attract more private investment to the downtown, Main Street and the rest of the borough?

I would concentrate on making Main Street the focal point of our town. Main Street is the face of our town with approximately 19,000 vehicles using the street daily. We need to keep it attractive and inviting. Doing this will convince people to visit Middletown, stay a little and venture off our Main Street to see what else we have to offer. After we get Main Street established, we then branch out to do the same to our Union Street area.

To attract other businesses into town, I would first reach out to the Chamber of Commerce in a local municipality to invite them to partner up with Middletown for an economic growth program. I believe Middletown businesses would benefit greatly from their own Chamber of Commerce one day. I have reached out to one Chamber that has showed interest in my plan.

Second, I would look to work with Borough Council to develop and offer new businesses a special 10-year tax incentive to attract them to our town.

Third, I would look to utilize and work hand-in-hand with the Dauphin County Economic Development small business

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loan program to help entice new businesses to set up shop in our town.

2. What steps would you recommend for the borough to forge closer ties with Penn State Harrisburg?

I would like to see more community events happening in Middletown in which Penn State students could participate. It is important to give the students activities to do while they are away from home.

I would like to see more businesses invited to town that would be beneficial to the students and residents alike. To do that, we must first align ourselves using the guidelines of the previous question I answered.

I would like to see an internship program between the Penn State student government and our Borough Council that would give those participants insight into the workings of a real town council.

Hopefully, this would shed a positive light and help them with their career choices. Bringing Penn State students into our government will help students get involved with our community, give them a voice and, in turn, bring them into our

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town to support our businesses.

3. What is the most important issue in Middletown today?

I feel the biggest issue in Middletown is the fact that the citizens’ voices are falling on deaf ears with the current council.

Words are spoken, but not listened to or acted on. This frustrates the citizens, causing a division between the governing body and the people they were elected to serve.

The way to combat this is by letting their voices be heard when it comes time to vote on May 19. Elect the people who will listen and act on the voices of Middletown. Middletown is a beautiful place to live and raise a family. Together we can make it even better. It will take some time and effort, but it will happen with a considerable change on council. Together we can heal the black eye that has plagued Middletown for far too long.

SUE SULLIVAN

REPUBLICAN Did not respond

Damon V.

SUGLIA Your NEW Voice For Middletown

I am a business owner who owns and operates two successful Rita’s Italian Ice franchises in our area. I have seen many changes take place in Middletown since I moved here in 2000. The way WE can make a difference is by giving me the opportunity to serve for you on council. Allow me to be YOUR voice. Allow me to bring my business sense to a town that is in dire need of guidance to help us find the right course.

E CAN MAKE A CHANGE! TOGETHER, W

Middletown Borough Council THIRD WARD (Republican) PAID FOR BY CANDIDATE

To all my Democratic supporters, please “write in” Damon V. Suglia on your ballot.

Thank you for your support.

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POLLING PLACES MIDDLETOWN FIRST WARD, 1ST PRECINCT: Rescue Fireman’s Home Assoc.

620 S. Union St. FIRST WARD, 2ND PRECINCT: MCSO Building, Emaus and Catherine streets SECOND WARD, 1ST PRECINCT: Middletown Presbyterian Church Water & Union streets SECOND WARD, 2ND PRECINCT: Fink Elementary School, 150 Race St. THIRD WARD, 1ST PRECINCT: Frey Village, 1020 N. Union St. THIRD WARD, 2ND PRECINCT: Middletown Volunteer Fire Dept.

Adelia & Emaus streets

LOWER SWATARA TWP. 1ST PRECINCT: Lower Swatara Twp. Fire House 1350 Fulling Mill Rd. 2ND PRECINCT: Lower Swatara Twp. Building 1499 Spring Garden Dr. 3RD PRECINCT: Church of the Nazarene Nissley Drive and Rosedale Ave. 4TH PRECINCT: Lower Swatara Twp. Fire House,1 350 Fulling Mill Rd.

LONDONDERRY TWP. 1ST PRECINCT: Middletown Anglers and Hunters 1350 Schoolhouse Rd. 2ND PRECINCT: Londonderry Twp. Building 783 S. Geyers Church Rd. 3RD PRECINCT: Grace Chapel Church 2535 Colebrook Rd.

LOWER SWATARA TOWNSHIP VOTING DISTRICTS COURTESY DAUPHIN COUNTY ELECTIONS AND VOTER REGISTRATION

ROYALTON FIRST WARD: Royalton Park offices and District Court 50 Canal St. SECOND WARD: Royalton Borough Building 101 Northumberland St.

HIGHSPIRE 1ST PRECINCT: Citizens Fire House, 272 Second St. 2ND PRECINCT: Highspire Borough Building 640 Eshelman St.

you wouldn’t let your grandparents choose who you date, so why let them choose your government?

14 PRESS AND JOURNAL PRIMARY ELECTION VOTERS’ GUIDE 2015

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MICHAEL DAVIES

citizens motivated and seeking input in the process. I welcome this desire on the part of citizens to be involved, because this means public officials will hear a broad range of opinions and be able to use this input to make informed decisions that take into account the viewpoint of all residents.

1. What is the most important issue in Lower Swatara Twp. today?

The future of land development is now the most widely discussed issue in our township. As the amount of undeveloped land shrinks, the pressure for expanding existing commercial usage like warehousing, trucking and transportation has increased. And even though we have no new plans on the books for consideration at this time, many citizens anticipate that it will be just a matter of time before we will face hard choices about land use in the township.

The positive side of this increased awareness is that it has brought a corresponding increase in community involvement. I have never seen so many

2. Has the township handled its finances well – and if not, what would you do or have done differently?

The management of municipal finance is perhaps the biggest issue facing municipalities today across Pennsylvania.

It is hard to look at a newspaper today without reading about the financial difficulties of local governments that have made imprudent financial decisions. Our township has made a practice of carefully conserving our financial resources while continuing to improve services to our residents. As chairman of the township Budget and Finance Committee for the last three years, I am proud to say we have significantly increased the transparency of our budget process. The Board of Commissioners now holds an annual public budget hearing, including a line-by-line

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Communications manager for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives Education: Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from Penn State University

examination of the coming year’s budget document with detailed commentary and explanation of changes from the prior year’s plan. And we hold our budget hearing weeks before final passage of the budget document. This means no lastminute surprises for our citizens.

As a commissioner, I believe our taxpayers deserve to know their money is being spent wisely, and I pledge to strive to continue to ensure our township operates in a fiscally conservative and effective manner.

3. Lower Swatara Twp. has witnessed growth in both residential and commercial development. Is the township managing development well?

Our township faces serious challenges in managing the coming wave of change.

We have until recently been a community that straddles the line between rural farmland and growing suburbs. We are also a crossroads community that sits astride the intersection of a main rail line, major highways and the area’s only major airport. And now we are also home to the largest university campus in the mid-state region.

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Our geographic position has served us well. And our past leaders successfully planned for the first wave of commercial development while continuing to maintain the character of a small bedroom community adjacent to rolling farmland.

But now we face the hard reality of managing the next wave of development. And we will need to strike a balance between preserving the essential character of the township we know and love while building the community of tomorrow.

This year, the township will begin formulating a new 10-year comprehensive plan. It will be our blueprint for the future, laying out the zoning and land development patterns we will be following in the years to come. I have experience with a variety of land use issues and the zoning process, having served on the Lower Swatara Twp. Zoning Review Board for six years before becoming a township commissioner. I am committed to working with our citizens to put together a new comprehensive plan that addresses the needs of our township, allowing for essential growth while preserving and, hopefully, improving the quality of life for all.

PAID FOR BY CANDIDATE

Diana McGlone Middletown Borough Council 3rd Ward

My 4-Point Strategy For Economic Growth & Prosperity In Middletown:  Bring in New Business  Address Blighted Properties  Collaborate with Penn State Hbg.  Promote Town & Local Business “Life is about the people you love, the people you serve, and the people you help.”

www.dianamcglone.com

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LOWER SWATARA TOWNSHIP Know

DANIELLE PROKOPCHAK DEMOCRAT Occupation: Director of Planning and Communication for Top Flight Media, a division of WITF Public Media Education: Graduate of Millersville University

1. What is the most important issue in Lower Swatara Twp. today?

The most important issue to the residents of Lower Swatara is the proposed warehouse situation. Lower Swatara residents have banded together to create a group – Concerned Citizens of Lower Swatara Township (CCLST) – to oppose the warehouses and address other concerns in the township. In regards to the warehouses, there are obvious safety, privacy, traffic and quality of life concerns that need to be considered.

I am honored to be a part of the group and am so proud that our residents care enough about our area to take time out of their busy lives to discuss issues and concerns and propose ways to better our township. If we work together, we can create a place where we can rest assured that our children, and our children’s children, will have the opportunity to grow up in a place that they feel safe in, are proud of, and care about.

2. Has the township handled its finances well – and if not, what would you do or have done differently?

Generally speaking, I believe the township has done a good job handling finances. The Web site makes it fairly easy to find budget and financial reports, which I believe is incredibly important as I am a huge advocate for transparency in government. That said, if I had the privilege of serving Lower Swatara, I would bring a fresh perspective to the table that could potentially save money in places where it makes sense but also make sure our public safety departments feel supported and have the tools needed to do their jobs as effectively as possible.

I would also spend more time listening to residents about their financial concerns as it pertains to how the township spends money, and use that research during budget development.

Lastly, I believe in an open and fair bidding system so that issues such as nepotism, favoritism and kickbacks are eliminated.

3. Lower Swatara Twp. has witnessed growth in both residential and commercial development. Is the township managing development well?

This is a challenging question to answer without opening this up to all Lower Swatara Twp. residents, as one opinion doesn’t serve an entire community.

Growth is a good thing. It means that our community is thriving, people want

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to live here, and businesses want to do business here. That said, balance is key. We need to make sure the commercial and industrial opportunities that are brought to Lower Swatara are those that benefit, not hinder, our residents and have potential to offer some tax relief.

From an economic development standpoint, we also need to ensure that we are being strategic about those commercial and industrial opportunities so that the rich history and beauty of Lower Swatara Twp. is maintained and that people continue to want to visit and live here. Again, I go back to working closely with the residents to get a better understanding of what they’d like to see for our future and not make decisions solely for financial or political reasons.

TODD TRUNTZ

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Attorney Education: 1990 graduate of Lebanon Valley College, Annville; law degree from Widener University School of Law, Harrisburg, in 1998 1. What is the most important issue in Lower Swatara Twp. today?

We are very fortunate in our township to have experienced and dedicated leadership. One of the benefits of this experience is having the foresight to anticipate issues and come up with practical solutions before they become big problems.

During my nearly five years serving on the Lower Swatara Twp. Municipal Authority, I have tried to be proactive and see what is coming down the road. I would continue this approach if elected commissioner.

Perhaps the most important issue I see within the township is getting more folks in our community involved in the governing process. I am always pleased when I see residents attending meetings. Active participation in government is essential in a representative system, and especially important at the local level. Elected officials need to hear regular input so they can be sure they are identifying and serving the needs of our township residents.

If more residents participate in the government process, officials are able to hear and consider all diverging points of view, resulting in decisions that are inclusive of everyone living in the township.

2. Has the township handled its finances well – and if not, what would you do or have done differently?

Unfortunately, we do not have to look far from home to see examples of municipalities that have not handled their finances well. Fortunately, our Board of Commissioners is very disciplined in its management of revenues and expenditures. We all know that it requires money for the township to provide a safe and pleasant community for its residents, but I believe that financial resources, especially

public funds, are precious.

The truth is that government has no money of its own. Unlike private businesses, government revenue is largely derived from hardworking taxpayers, and we deserve the highest level of fiscal care when it comes to our tax dollars.

As a commissioner, as I have done while serving on the Municipal Authority, I would be constantly vigilant to ensure that our tax dollars are spent wisely and that the township continues to operate within its financial means.

3. Lower Swatara Twp. has witnessed growth in both residential and commercial development. Is the township managing development well?

Development is well-managed in Lower Swatara Twp. Responsible development can increase tax revenues and create jobs.

Careless development can severely burden infrastructure and spoil the character of a community. Private property owners have rights to develop their land as they see fit, while neighboring landowners also have an interest in how property is developed around them that may affect the use and enjoyment of their own land.

All of these factors need to be carefully

considered by the township.

Purchasers of real estate should always review the township’s zoning map prior to buying property. Zoning maps are developed with all of these competing interests in mind and are adopted as a compromise to allow a variety of different property uses to coexist, so that the overall character of the community can be maintained. Landowners should be free to use their property to the maximum extent permitted by township zoning laws. However, landowners must also understand that these laws are in place for a reason: to preserve the character of our community. It is in our best interests to maintain responsible land development so there is growth, while at the same time maintaining the character of the community we all love.

JON WILT

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Retired U.S. Postal worker 1. What is the most important issue in Lower Swatara Twp. today?

I believe that while

Danielle is a wife, mother, passionate volunteer with proven leadership skills, and the only woman in the race. She plans to bring a young, fresh perspective to the table and will work hard to ensure that everyone in Lower Swatara has a voice.

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LOWER SWATARA TOWNSHIP OPEN SEATS: • 3 TOWNSHIP COMMISSIONERS many hot-button issues may rise and fade over the years, it is important for the commissioners to always be fighting to keep property taxes as low as possible. Few issues affect residents more directly at the local level than property taxes – whether they are county taxes, school taxes or municipal taxes, the impacts are real and we must be diligent in our efforts to control increases.

During the last few years I’ve been on the Board of Commissioners, I feel that we have lived up to that challenge and I look forward to continuing the hard work of keeping our budget balanced and minimizing the burden on our taxpayers.

2. Has the township handled its finances well – and if not, what would you do or have done differently?

I believe that, at least in my time on the board, the township has been conservative about its spending and fought extremely hard to protect the taxpayers.

This is not to say that more can’t be done though. We must always be looking for new and creative ways that we can achieve more with less. Just as every homeowner must live within a budget, the township is no different, and we must continue to provide the highest level of service at the lowest possible cost.

3. Lower Swatara Twp. has witnessed growth in both residential and commercial development. Is the township managing development well?

With our proximity to Route 283 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, it is no secret that Lower Swatara is a target for developers. Furthermore, I believe we have succeeded in creating an attractive environment for new development, both residential and commercial.

With that said, the efforts to remain balanced in our development strategy is one that must be taken seriously. While too little development doesn’t allow our tax base to grow, too much development can ruin our township for generations to come.

I believe we have been successful in handling this to date but we must remain steadfast as these issues arise in the future.

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DON’T BELIEVE IT? In 1948, Lyndon B. Johnson became a senator by a one-vote margin, while in 1960, John F. Kennedy became president by just one vote per precinct in the state of Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey and Texas. In Middletown’s last election, Vicki Malone won her council seat by just four votes.

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PAUL GEYER

1. What is the most important issue in Londonderry Twp. today?

First, that people get treated equally in the uses of property ordinances, building ordinances and zoning requirements.

Second, on-lot septic systems that are discovered to fail will be expensive to repair, with some looking for solutions to unrepairable systems.

2. Should the township try to maintain its rural nature? If so, how can that be accomplished?

Living in the agricultural area for most of my life, I want my farm to stay rural.

Probably most feel the same, but it would be up to the landowner to choose.

3. What is your opinion on the way the township has handled its finances in the past four years?

Previous years of unfriendly business attitudes have caused a lack of business and jobs, which affect tax revenues. When I was on the Board of Supervisors before,

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MELVIN HERSHEY

increases.

Further, by creating economic development we can create jobs and opportunities for our residents and their children to work and live in Londonderry Twp.

1. What is the most important issue in Londonderry Township today?

Economic development is the most important issue in Londonderry Twp. The township must find a way to attract business to improve the commercial tax base.

The township is facing many unfunded mandates from regulatory agencies such as the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection relative to sewer, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency relative to flood plain development and storm water. Additionally, the infrastructure (roads and bridges) in the township is in an aged condition and must be replaced and or repaired and this is very expensive. Funding these regulatory and infrastructure issues is important and I would like to do so through economic growth versus general fund tax

2. Should the township try to maintain it rural nature? If so, how can that be accomplished?

Absolutely the township should maintain its rural nature. If you look at our zoning map approximately 84 percent of our land area is zoned agriculture. Londonderry Twp. has a history of not changing agricultural zoning in order to protect our rural character.

The protection of our agricultural area is accomplished by espousing “smart growth” relative to our zoning and land use. We have been able to manage our development by steering it to two major Traditional Neighborhood Design overlay districts. These overlay districts are located along state Route 230 and provide access to travel corridors. These zoning areas provide a mix of uses including all aspects of residential construction, commercial, civic and public amenities and should provide sustainable communities that will meet the residential needs of the township for decades to come.

This past year, the township updated its Agricultural Zoning ordinance to make

my experience with the finances for the township was to keep taxes as low as possible and watch expenses.

REPUBLICAN Occupation: Farmer and excavator

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it more conducive for farmers to stay on their farms by allowing them to have certain other uses on their land. This will allow farmers to supplement their farming income and derive alternative revenue streams. The point is to create a situation where farmers can produce enough income to stay on their farms by allowing multiple uses. This will protect farming as a tradition in Londonderry Twp. 3. What is your opinion on the way the township has handled its finances in the past four years?

I believe the township is doing everything it can to conduct its fiscal operations in a responsible manner. Londonderry Twp. has been very aggressive relative to grant funding, debt restructuring, low interest loans and public/private partnership opportunities in order to reduce costs while meeting operational and capital expenditure demands.

The township has conducted a study of its departments, roads and bridges and its equipment to determine what assets needed to be replaced in the next five years and used this information to formulate a five-year plan with cash flows. I believe the township has worked diligently to marry its strategic plan with its business plan and has done so in a prudent way.

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