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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013
Local election gives voters chance for change BY BORYS KRAWCZENIUK STAFF WRITER
F o r m e r U. S . H o u s e Speaker Thomas “Tip” O’Neill used to say that all politics is local and never is that truer than in local elections like the one coming up Nov. 5. Voters will have a choice of dozens of candidates for mayor, city or borough council and township supervisor and other, lesser races. Though more voters usually turn out for presidential elections like the one last year, it’s elected local officials who often have the most direct effect on people’s lives. About half of Lackawanna County’s 40 municipalities and almost half of its 10 school districts have at least one contested election. T h i s vo t e r g u i d e i s designed to introduce voters to the competing candidates in those towns and for three county row offices — sheriff, recorder of deeds and register of wills. Competitive races for Duryea Borough Council, the Pittston Twp. Board of Supervisors and the Pittston Area School Board are also listed. If your town’s or school district’s candidates are not listed, it’s because the races have as many candidates as there are available offices,
Voter problems? Voters who have problems voting or see questionable practices on Election Day can call one of the following phone numbers: ■ Lackawanna County, 570-963-6737 ■ Luzerne County, 570825-1715 ■ Monroe County, 570517-3165 ■ Pike County, 570-2963426 ■ Susquehanna County, 570-278-4600, ext. 220 ■ Wayne County, 570253-5978 ■ Wyoming County, 570996-2224 assuring the candidates on the ballot of victory without competition. There’s a major difference from this election and the primary election in May. In May, Democrats and Republicans could vote only for candidates of their own party to pick nominees to run in November while people who weren’t either Democrats or Republicans could only vote for several referendums on the ballot. In November, anyone registered to vote, including nonRepublicans and non-Democrats, may vote for anyone they want regardless of party. In this election, voters
TIMES-TRIBUNE FILE
Carl Goldyn of the Peckville section of Blakely, supervisor of Lackawanna County voting machines for 38 years, prepares voting equipment at the Voter Registration building in Scranton. actually choose who they want to govern their county, towns and school districts for the next two, four or six years, depending on the office. The winners are no longer just candidates. They become elected officials, the people you seek out if something goes wrong or if you need help with a problem your local government can solve. Voters who went to their polling places in May and
chose members of a commission to study changes in county government might wonder why there’s nothing about that on the ballot. That’s because the commission is still studying and is not expected to come up with a recommendation until next year. There are no other local referendums on the ballot. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Contact the writer: bkrawczeniuk@timesshamrock.com
Judges up for retention Voters statewide will decide the fate of four judges and fill one open seat on the state Superior Court. Supreme Court justices Ronald D. Castille of Philadelphia and Max Baer of Mount Lebanon, and Superior Court judges Susan Peikes Gantman of Narberth and Jack Panella of Palmer Twp. will be before the voters Nov. 5 on a retention vote. If voters decide to approve retention, the judges receive another 10-year term. If voted down, an election is held for their seat during the next municipal election. Voters will also decide who will fill a seat on the Superior Court. Republican Vic Stabile of Middlesex Twp. faces off against Democrat Jack McVay Jr. of Pittsburgh for a 10-year term. — STAFF REPORT
INDEX Lackawanna County.......................................3-4 Scranton..........................................................5 Boroughs Archbald..........................................................5 Blakely.............................................................6 Clarks Green...................................................7 Clarks Summit.................................................7 Dickson City....................................................8 Dunmore.........................................................9 Duryea..........................................................10 Mayfield........................................................10
Moscow.........................................................11 Old Forge...................................................... 12 Olyphant........................................................13 Taylor.............................................................14 Throop.......................................................... 15 Townships Clifton Twp.................................................... 16 Greenfield Twp...............................................16 Jefferson Twp................................................ 16 Pittston Twp.................................................. 16 Roaring Brook Twp......................................... 17
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Scott Twp...................................................... 17 Spring Brook Twp...........................................17 School boards Scranton School Board.................................. 19 Carbondale School Board...............................20 Mid Valley School Board.................................20 Old Forge School Board..................................21 Pittston Area School Board.............................21 Riverside School Board..................................22 Valley View.................................................... 22 How to vote...................................................24
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 LACKAWANNA COUNTY Recorder of Deeds Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term. ALICIA A. DILEO Age: 33 Party: Republican Family: Fiancé, David Kurtzman Education: Graduate, Old Forge High School, 1998; McCann School of Business, 2010 Employment: Paralegal for attorney Paul Sotak Resides: Scranton Experience: First-time candidate What will be your top priority as recorder of deeds for the next four years and how will you achieve it? Making sure the taxpayers receive the best possible service at the lowest possible cost requires a full-time Recorder of Deeds that is in the office every day, every hour that the office is open. If we have that, the Recorder of Deeds could work with the staff in the office to have all documents available online through IQS and ensure the taxpayers are always getting the highest level of service from the office. If the Government Study Commission now reviewing county government were to recommend consolidating the row offices, including recorder of deeds, would you support the initiative? I would support consolidation only if the taxpayers could receive the same or better service under the consolidation plan and that is a determination no one can make until the details of the plan are made public. Do you believe the recorder of deeds office is adequately staffed or are additional employees needed? In these tough economic times, everyone is tightening their belt. That is why it is critical that the office be actively managed daily to achieve the greatest efficiency for the taxpayers. As a full time Recorder of Deeds, I will be in the office every day that the office is open. By doing that, we will be able to use the current staffing to guarantee the efficient, high quality service the
taxpayers of Lackawanna County deserve. EVIE RAFALKO MCNULTY Age: 54 Party: Democrat Family: Husband, James Education: Graduate, Bishop Klonowski High School, 1977 Employment: Lackawanna County recorder of deeds Resides: Scranton Experience: Recorder of deeds since 1998; founding member, Society of Irish Women; secretary and past president, Pennsylvania Recorders of Deeds Association; member, Pennsylvania Electronic Recording Commission; member, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission county records committee; member, Property Records Industry Association; member, St. Joseph’s Center Auxiliary; board member, Genealogical Research Society of Northeast Pennsylvania. What will be your top priority as Recorder of Deeds for the next four years and how will you achieve it? I will continue making accessible, and free online, documents and index books for searching. Three million pages have been digitized. Subdivision and highway maps will be made available online. While continuing to expand electronic recording we will continue working to redact Social Security numbers on older documents to prevent identity theft. This will be accomplished without funds from county taxpayers. Records Improvement Funds will be used, a user generated fee established by the state law. If the Government Study Commission now reviewing county government were to recommend consolidating the row offices, including Recorder of Deeds, would you support the initiative? While I am personally open to improve the efficiency of county government, I do believe that the voters have expressed their preference in the primary election for keeping the Recorder of Deeds as an elected position.
Do you believe the Recorder of Deeds office is adequately staffed or are additional employees needed? Since I have been Recorder of Deeds, our technological advances have allowed me to reduce our staff, by attrition, by 33 percent from 13 to 8 employees. We are sufficiently staffed.
Register of Wills Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term. CHRISTOPHER ARNONE Age: 44 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Kimberly Resides: Jefferson Twp. Education: Scranton Central High School, University of Scranton, St. John’s University School of Law Employment: Owner of Arnone Law Offices in Jefferson Twp. and the Arnone Social Security Law Group in Scranton. Experience: Assistant city solicitor for Scranton; Jefferson Twp. district committeeman; Jefferson Twp. auditor; former South Abington Twp. auditor; officer on board of directors for Northeast Center for Independent Living; National Business Advisory Council; Muscular Dystrophy Black and Blue Steering Committee; Jefferson Twp. Lions Club, fire company, Civic Association and Historical Society; and former president and vice president of Abington Lions Club. There is the potential your elected position will be eliminated in a new Home Rule Charter. Do you oppose that? If so, why? I do not oppose, and in fact encourage, the efforts in looking into our current form of government. Nothing should remain stagnant. In a similar light, our founding fathers envisioned the need for term limits ... a need to have fresh, new ideas and perspectives considered. If elected, that is exactly what I will bring to the Register Of Wills office. What do you see as the most important function of your office? The Register of Wills office is a vital link to the most important events of all of our lives. It is responsible for main-
taining records as far back as the late 1800s. The register’s office does not just “file wills,” the office serves as registry for the Orphan’s Court, Guardianship Court and Marriage License bureau. If probate of a will is contested, or the will is fraudulent or otherwise improper, it is up to that office to remedy the situation. What change do you think is necessary to improve the office’s efficiency? I think efficiency will be gained by having a legal professional watching over that office ... a person who is able to directly participate at the court level to defend or challenge a contested will. An individual professionally trained in that area, a person who has been doing just that in the courts for some almost 20 years as a lawyer and two years before that as a paralegal. FRAN KOVALESKI Age: 64 Party: Democrat
Family: Husband, Kenneth J.; three sons, Kevin, Kenneth M. and Michael; nine grandsons Resides: Jessup Education: St. Patrick’s High School Employment: Deputy register of wills Experience: 18 years in Register of Wills office; former president and board member, St. Joseph’s Auxiliary; founding member and former president, Society of Irish Women; former treasurer, Lackawanna County Federation of Democratic Women; board member, Shamrock Foundation. There is the potential your elected position will be eliminated in a new Home Rule Charter. Do you oppose that? If so, why? I’m not sure what will happen with the study commission. It doesn’t hurt to look
at the way we do things and see if it time for change. The final decision will stay with the voters. The citizens of Lackawanna County will have the final word but I do believe they have already spoken in May about the row offices. What do you see as the most important function of your office? Customer service is No. 1. We provide a service to the public in a professional environment. We encounter clients that are dealing with the death of a loved one and are very sensitive to the surrounding. On the other hand, we deal with couples that are happy and excited about an upcoming marriage or parents that have just adopted a child. You have to be able to adapt to the continuing changing pace of the office on an hour-to-hour basis. What change do you think is necessary to improve the office’s efficiency? I’m always looking for efficiency in the dayPlease see Page V4
CHRIS
ARNONE
REGISTER OF WILLS Paid for by friends of Chris Arnone
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 SCRANTON MAYOR
Courtright, Mulligan vie for mayor’s seat BY BORYS KRAWCZENIUK STAFF WRITER
Bill Courtright, the Scranton tax collector and Democratic nominee for mayor, and attorney Jim Mulligan, the Republican nominee, face off to become mayor of a city that faces an almost $20 million deficit next year. Both men have ideas for balancing Scranton’s budget, though it is impossible to evaluate if their ideas are enough to accomplish what has eluded others for two decades. Neither rules out raising taxes and both say bankruptcy is something they will only consider as a last resort because it would hurt the city’s image. Both say solutions will require replacing the often stormy relationship between Mayor Chris Doherty and the
city council with a spirit of cooperation. Mr. Courtright, who says a tax hike of 40 to 60 percent next year alone is a real possibility, is planning to form a committee of accountants, Realtors, lawyers and bankers to meet monthly to brainstorm solutions and attract new business. In July, the Pennsylvania Economy League projected a 2014 deficit of $18 million and said it would take a 117 percent real-estate tax increase to close the gap. As of last month, PEL was saying the deficit could be as high as $19.73 million next year. “I think we need to get a real qualified business administrator,” Mr. Courtright said. “Would I be willing to support them (tax increases) in the future? If there’s no other way
out, yes. I mean we’ve got to balance the budget. I don’t want to see tax increases, but if that’s the only alternative, I have no choice.” Mr. Courtright’s major idea to solve the woes is to refinance a portion of the city’s approximately $175 million in long-term debt. His best estimate, based on a consultant’s review, is that 60 percent can be refinanced at a lower interest rate, but has no estimate of how much that might save. The key to refinancing is convincing banks the city is creditworthy, a difficult task because of the bond default last year by the Scranton Parking Authority, an earlier default at the Scranton Redevelopment Authority and the past squabbles between the current city council and May-
or Chris Doherty. Mr. Courtright favors a commuter tax, although he thinks it can be lower than the 1 percent Mr. Doherty sought last year. The city is home to all the nonprofits that other municipalities don’t have and needs to make up for that money to keep up police and fire protection, he said. On top of Mr. Mulligan’s list is what he calls “a comprehensive real-estate program” that means selling taxdelinquent properties at a judicial sale. The city hasn’t held judicial sales, which have produced millions of dollars for Lackawanna County since they began in 2008. He hopes to include city properties in the county sales. “That will raise millions of dollars,” said Mr. Mulli-
gan, who has served as a lawyer on county judicial sales. Besides that, if a resident wants to buy a tax-delinquent adjacent property, he plans to make that happen faster, similar to what Mr. Courtright wants to do. “Raise revenues without raising taxes,” Mr. Mulligan said. He thinks the $178 city garbage collection fee is too low because it doesn’t cover the cost of collections, but he would replace the present system with a per-bag fee. He opposes imposing a commuter tax. “I think the city of Scranton needs to fix its own problems first before we go outside the city limits,” he said. “We need a complete restructuring of city government and under my plan that’s
exactly what we’ll do.”
member, Mayfield Borough Planning Commission, 2004-08; board member, Cancertacular; former member, Archbald Lions Club What will be your top goal as sheriff for the next four years and how will you achieve it? To provide services the sheriff is responsible for in a manner that is most efficient and cost-effective. Cross-training of the office is one way I would achieve this. The office has experienced an increased workload in all divisions. I will evaluate the areas that are most backlogged and assign the necessary manpower there. I will work closely with the union to avoid unnecessary grievances being filed, which is an added cost to the taxpayers. If the Government Study Commission now reviewing county government were to recommend making sheriff an appointed office, would you support the initiative? Why or why not? No, I would not. The
sheriff’s office is a law enforcement agency, sits on the prison board, implements policies and procedures and should be an independent entity. The people overwhelmingly voted down this idea in the May primary. The sheriff has a very important role in the court system and the voters should have the final say about who the sheriff will be. Is the manpower within the sheriff’s office adequate? Explain how you would use it more effectively. We can always use more help. Our workload has dramatically increased over the 23 years I’ve worked in that office, but I also understand the economics of it. I will work closely with my supervisors and assess the manpower needs in each aspect of the office. I will make sure that we have the staffing necessary to carry out our duties safely and in a timely manner. Cross-training of the office will help alleviate this issue.
City council D u r i n g m o s t o f M r. Doherty’s tenure, the relationship between him and the other half of the city’s “governing body” has been often strained. Mr. Courtright, the city tax collector, said he has already spoken with the council candidates on the Nov. 5 ballot and incumbent councilmen who aren’t up for re-election. “Everybody is on the same page, saying that this animosity has to stop,” Mr. Courtright said. Mr. Courtright said he doesn’t expect he will be a weekly visitor to council meetings, a common trait of council meetings in WilkesPlease see Page V5
LACKAWANNA COUNTY
FROM PAGE V3 to-day operations of the office. I have a team effort mind set, and as a group, I am always looking to cut costs and be more productive in the manner in which we operate.
Sheriff
Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term.
DOMINICK MANETTI Age: 53 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Wendy; four children: Dominick, Michelene, Niko and Jake Education: Graduate, West Scranton High School Employment: Lackawanna County chief deputy sheriff Address: Old Forge Experience: Thirty years in
sheriff’s office, including 24 as chief deputy; Army veteran, having served three years as military intelligence analyst, followed by seven years in reserves; member of executive board, Lackawanna County SWAT Team What will be your top goal as sheriff for the next four years and how will you achieve it? As sheriff, my top priority will be to improve the quality of services to the courts and county. My experience as chief will facilitate the achievement of these goals. I will work with the judicial system to perform our duties more efficiently. In collaboration with county officials, I will implement a realistic budget. I will make our office more accessible to the people of the county by expanding hours of operation and provide satellite locations. If the Government Study Commission now reviewing county government were to recommend making sheriff an
appointed office, would you support the initiative? I would not support an initiative to appoint the sheriff for many reasons. The duties and powers of the sheriff should remain separate from other branches of government and not dictated by those branches. This would allow the sheriff to remain impartial in keeping the best interest and safety of the public when carrying out the duties of the office. The right to elect the sheriff should not be removed from the people of Lackawanna County. Is the manpower within the sheriff’s office adequate? Explain how you would use it more effectively. It is a constant challenge to maintain the level of service provided to the court system and county with the current amount of manpower. As chief, I have implemented more efficient scheduling according to work demands to maintain the current budget and
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avoid tax increases. I will continue to do so. Viable options include increased utilization of part-time deputies and cross training full-time deputies to perform different duties within the office. MARK P. MCANDREW Age: 48 Party: Democrat Family: Wife, Geraldine; two daughters: Caroline and Patricia Education: Attended Penn State University; Act 120 Certification, Northeast Training Center; Pennsylvania State Deputy Sheriff Training Program, Dickinson School of Law. Employment: Lackawanna County deputy sheriff Address: Mayfield Experience: 23 years as deputy sheriff; member, Archbald Borough Council, 2001-03;
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013
MAYOR: Relationship with unions key for the city’s next leader FROM PAGE V4
Barre and other cities. Mr. Mulligan, whose campaign theme touts him as a leader for “one Scranton,” also promised a better relationship with the council. “The first thing we talk about (in his written plan for the city) is working together for one Scranton,” Mr. Mulligan said. “(That means) reaching out to the citizens, taxpayers, the nonprofits, the businesses, and there has to be communication between city council and the mayor’s office.” Mr. Mulligan said he would
talk or meet face-to-face with council members when introducing legislation. “I think there has to be meetings,” he said. “I think I have to attend caucus meetings, not all of them (but on) hot-button issues.” He said he would drop in on neighborhood association meetings from time to time, “to get a pulse, to get a feel for what they need.” He said he already reached out to the city’s growing minority communities, something he says Mr. Courtright has not done. Mr. Courtright pointed to his Spanish-language bill-
board during the primary election, his attendance at the recent Latino festival, his meeting with Latino business leaders and with other growing ethnic groups. “The Indian community, they show up at every one of my parties,” he said. “The black community, I have people in the black community in my karate school. ... I think that’s unfounded.” He promised he would show up periodically at neighborhood meetings.
mayor’s success: how the mayor and the city unions interact. The relationship of the next mayor with all the city’s unions will almost certainly be smoother than Mr. Doherty’s, if for no other reason than Mr. Doherty’s tenure with the police and firefighter unions was perhaps the rockiest of any previous administration. Beyond that, the police and firefighter contracts are settled from 201417, all the years of the next mayoral term. Union relations Mr. Courtright starts One other relationship off with a cordial relationcould be key to the next ship developed because he
has served as a police academy instructor, disagreed with Mr. Doherty’s decade-long contract battles with the public safety u n i o n s a n d s e r ve d a s council’s public safety committee chairman. He denies the ties to the police and firefighters sets him too close to the unions. “I don’t think you need to be adversarial,” he said. “I need to fight for what’s best for the citizens of the city of Scranton and they need to fight for what’s best for their union.” Already, rank-and-file union members are coming
to him with ideas on how to run their departments more effectively, he said. Mr. Mulligan, he said, has portrayed him to voters as someone who “will give everything away to the unions.” “Let’s be honest, there’s nothing left to give, there’s no store left to give, the shelves are empty. They know that,” he said. “So who better to negotiate with the unions than someone they trust. Me … I’ve never been anybody’s lackey and I’ve never been in anybody’s back pocket.”
and earmark the money for different projects. I think my legal knowledge will distinguish me. TAX COLLECTOR
information as possible with City Hall. A lack of communication makes for stagnant government. Do you think the Single Tax Office needs more employees to handle its duties? That would be assessed over the first few months is office. FRANK JOYCE Age: 34 Party: Republican Family: Single Education: Scranton Preparatory School; Syracuse University, bioengineering; Northcentral University, MBA (management specialization) Employment: Scranton city councilman; technical writer for Lion Brewery in Wilkes-Barre; former employee of the Topps Co. in legal and regulatory affairs Experience: Scranton City Council, vice president and finance chairman; Delta Mu Delta Honor Society in Business; Golden Key International Honor Society; West Scranton Hyde Park Neighborhood Watch What is the most important issue facing the Single Tax
Contact the writer: bkrawczeniuk@timesshamrock.com
CITY OF SCRANTON Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term. MAYOR WILLIAM L. COURTRIGHT Age: 56 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Mary Kim, son, Bill and Patrick, daughter, Lindsey Education: Graduate, West Scranton High School, 1975 Employment: Scranton tax collector Experience: Employee, Trane Corp. 1975-1993, technical service manager when company closed in 1993; office manager, Allied Medicare Supply; owner, Summit Karate Club, 1980 to present; member, Scranton Civil Service Commission, 2000-2002; member, Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission, 20032012; member, Scranton City Council, 2004-2010. With all the city’s problems, why are you running for this office? I didn’t like the way the city was going and, not that the tax office can be compared to the city, but I took on the challenge of the tax office and I think I did a really good job there. What do
we do? Just give up? I don’t want to give up. I don’t want to move. And I don’t want to see the city go under, so I’m going to try to do my best to bring it back. What in your experience makes you believe you’re qualified to be mayor? When I set out to do something, I’ll work hard at it and I’ll work 24-7 to bring the city back. Six years on city council, I’m well-versed on how the city runs. I could bring the management skills that I had in the tax office to the city. I think you need to be a good manager and I’m a good manager. My experience being in charge of technical service at Trane Corp., I dealt with ‘fighting the fire’ (solving crises). Every problem was my problem. What do you think is going to be the difference between you and Mayor Chris Doherty? I think the fact that I’ll be willing to talk with the employees, to try to work things out with the employees and see if we can’t work together as (opposed) to working against each other because look what it got us. It got us a $30 million arbitration award and fighting. I think everybody’s got to come together. There’s not going to be any progress if we don’t communicate.
JAMES T. MULLIGAN JR. Age: 56 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Tara; sons, Tyler, Hunter, Will, Max, Tucker and Finn; daughters, Phoebe, Lily, and Zoe. Education: Graduate, Riverside High School, 1975; bachelor’s degree, criminal justice, Penn State University, 1980; master’s degree, public administration, Villanova University, 2012; law degree, Antioch School of Law, 1987. Employment: Lawyer Experience: Assistant district attorney, 1989 to 1992; city solicitor, Mayor Jim Connors, 2000-2001; Riversident School district, solicitor, 1999-2002; Scranton Sewer Authority solicitor, 2003-2006; the Mulligan Law Firm, 1987-present; adjunct professor, Marywood University, criminal justice, 2008 to present; former owner, Recycling Environmental Group, a tire-recycling group; owner, Montage Dry Cleaners, Old Forge. With all the city’s problems, why are you running for this office? I’m invested in the city, I own property in the city, I have nine children that I would like to have come back to the city and earn a living here. The city was
at one time a great city that produced 80 percent of all the anthracite (coal) in the world, and I think we still have the ability to restore that vitality and vigor to the city and I think I’m the guy to lead the city in that direction. What in your experience makes you believe you’re qualified to be mayor? First of all, I’m highly educated ... I have my law degree and practiced in the public sector for more than 25 years, I’ve been the city solicitor, I’ve represented the Office of Economic and Community Development, I represented the Scranton Sewer Authority so I have a working knowledge of city government. I have master’s degree from Villanova in public administration. So not only do I understand the theory behind government, but I also understand the practical aspect of it. What do you think is going to be the difference between you and Mayor Chris Doherty? I think that the mayor and city council had a communication problem, and I think that I’m going to be able to work with council. I think I have fresh ideas, I think I’m going to be able to work with other stakeholders such as the University of Scranton. One of the things that I would probably do differently than the mayor is try to establish a capital budget ...
Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term. BILL FOX Age: 45 Party: Democratic Family: Married; two children Education: Graduated from West Scranton High School; attended Marywood University Employment: Works for Global Risk Management as an insurance producer Experience: Scranton School Board member; Northeastern Intermediate Educational Unit board member; volunteer for Make-A-Wish; president of the Shamrock Club, which provides financial help to the needy; Salvation Army advisory board. What is the most important issue facing the Single Tax Office? The effective collection and timely distribution of the taxpayers money to the government bodies. Any inefficiency in either category, can effect public services and/or cost overruns. How might the Single Tax Office help the city increase revenue? By sharing as much
Please see Page V6
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 ARCHBALD AND BLAKELY Archbald council
seek to obtain grant money for improvement initiatives to
Four are vying for three seats. address such things as water The seats have a four-year drainage and road repairs. A term. snow-shoveling/grass cutting
ROBERT GUMAN
Age: 62 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Judy; children, Tracy Guman Hunt, 43, Wendy Sikorski, 41, and Cindy Guman Muta, 37 Education: Graduated from Johnson Technical School Employment: Maintenance at Christ the King Parish in Archbald Experience: Lions Club member, 4th degree Knight of Columbus in Archbald, member of Holy Name Society What is the most important issue facing the borough? I feel the most important issue facing our borough is ensuring that taxes remain at the current level. A large portion of our residents are elderly and live on a fixed income. Therefore, any increase in taxes would put those residents in an extremely difficult financial situation. Do you think residents need to become more involved in the community? Absolutely. I propose one way to get more residents actively involved is to hold an “open house” once every quarter at the Borough Building. The “open house” would be where residents can gather to discuss not only their ideas to improve our community and express any potential concerns, but also where residents have the opportunity to get to know their neighbors. What do you think of the current budget of the borough and do you think more/less needs to be spent on any specific item? As it stands, the borough’s budget appears to be well balanced. However, I would
program is also something I would work to create for our elderly/homebound residents. JEFF MUNLEY Age: 52 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Debbie; children, Sean, 18, and Lauren, 16 Education: Penn State University Employment: Marywood University, maintenance/ receiving Experience: Councilman for the past six years, commander of the Sons of the American Legion, Post 328 for 7 years, chairman of parks and recreation for past 6 years, co-chairman of DPW for past 6 years What is the most important issue facing the borough? Rebuilding our infrastructure — many of the roads in our borough are in disrepair and need to be completely resurfaced. This is a major undertaking and very expensive, but I believe we as a borough cannot keep putting this off. Do you think residents need to become more involved in the community? If so, how might you encourage them to do so? One way is already in motion. Myself and councilwoman Shirley Barrett are going to reorganize the neighborhood watch program. We are setting up a meeting with Tim Trently, our chief of police, and will invite the public to attend and participate in the organization. Parents and coaches of the sports teams in the borough are already very involved in the improvement and maintenance of our ball fields, we have a
good relationship and work well together. What do you think of the current budget of the borough and do you think more/less needs to be spent on any specific item? We have had a balanced budget every year that I have been I council. I think the council members have worked together to maintain this. Going forward we have to upgrade the equipment for our Department of Public Works so our residents can continue to receive the outstanding service that our crew provides. Also I would like to see the borough be able to give more financial help to our volunteer fire companies, because without them we would be lost. JOHN SHNIPES JR. Age: 38 Party: Republican, Democratic Family: Wife, Jamie; children, John III, 12, Max, 8, and Sydney, 3 Education: Johnson Technical Institute to study carpentry and AutoCAD; Penn State University to study AutoCAD, earning certificates at both institutions Employment: Self-employed at Woodchuck LLC tree service and bucket service Experience: Valley Wrestling Club, assistant coach with Valley View Junior Cougars football MARIA F. TOMASSONI Age: 46 Party: Republican, Democratic Family: Single Education: Bachelor of Science in communications from Marywood University Employment: Substitute teaching at LaSalle Academy,
formerly with state Department of Labor and Industry Experience Experience: Co-coordinater for Christ the King religious education program, volunteer at Gina Tomassoni school of dance, borough beautification committee, borough controller in 2012 What is the most important issue facing the borough? I think the most important issue facing the borough right now is to keep our taxpayers’ taxes low and to fix all the local roads. I’ve been campaigning for my election. Some of the residents of both Eynon and Archbald would like to have their local roads fixed, like the potholes and draining, particularly First and Second streets in Eynon. Do you think residents need to become more involved in the community? If so, how might you encourage them to do so? I would like to have different meetings with the council and different residents of Eynon and Archbald. There’s many committees that we can fulfill. There’s the beautification committee to help the streets and help the town look more beautiful. There are also committees to help the elderly out, recreational committees and children’s committees to keep the children more involved in their community and to keep them responsible and doing things to keep their community safe and clean and beautiful. What do you think of the current budget of the borough and do you think more/less needs to be spent on any specific item? The budget I think is OK right now, but I think that we need to put our money in looking toward everybody’s problems in the areas, both Eynon and Archbald. We should try to fix the roads and fix the problems that are the concerns of our citizens.
Blakely Council Five are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. DAVID C. CASTELLI Age: 54 Party: Republican Family: Single; daughters, Katie, 21, and Emily, 18 Education: Valley View High School graduate, studied plumbing and heating at Lackawanna County Vocational School, attended Penn State Worthington Scranton Employment: Manager at the Circle Drive Inn, former owner Endless Mountains Movie Theaters. Experience: National Association of Theater Owners, former vice president, 27 years experience owning and running businesses Was renaming Mellow Park the correct decision? Yes. Blakely remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue this role? Yes, this acts more like a consumption tax instead of placing the burden on only property owners. What is the most important issue facing the borough? Transparency in government, affordability of borough refuse for senior citizens. JEFFREY CRUCIANI Age: 49 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Denise; son, Nicco, 20; daughter, Milan, 15 Education: Valley View High School graduate, associate degree in emergency medical
services from Community College of Allegheny County, state certified paramedic, nationally certified firefighter Employment: President of Mid Valley Plumbing Supply for past 28 years Experience: Member of Blakely Borough Community Ambulance Association since 1980, financial secretary of ambulance company, member of Blakely Hose Co. No. 2 since 1982 and current chief, councilman for four years, board member of Lackawanna Homebuilders Association, vice president of the family of St. Ubaldo Was renaming Mellow Park the correct decision? Earlier this year Blakely Borough Council decided to rename the River Street park complex. This decision was based directly on popular input from the citizens of Blakely/Peckville. Retrospectively, I believe this was the correct decision. We have received only positive feedback as a result of the change and this has since become a nonissue. Blakely remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue this role? Blakely Borough has been providing the electric utility service to the borough for well over 100 years. It remains one of the few municipalities to do so in Lackawanna County but one of 35-plus throughout Pennsylvania. The electric utility service is a fair and equitable way control or eliminate property tax. I believe this system to be modern and well maintained and will support its continuity into the future. What is the most important issue facing the borough? I feel the most important issue facing the borough is blight. As our
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CITY OF SCRANTON FROM PAGE V5
Office? Addressing low collection rates is the most important issue facing the Single Tax Office. For instance, in regard to the real estate tax alone, collection rates have been historically between 87 and 89 percent, which is prob-
lematic and low compared to other municipalities throughout the nation. By increasing real estate tax collection rates by 5 percent, the city of Scranton would realize an additional $1 million in real estate tax revenue alone on an annual basis. How might the Single Tax
Office help the city increase revenue? By addressing low collection rates. All collection efforts must be maximized. First, the office should seek the strictest enforcement on nonpayers that is allowed under the Municipal Claims and Tax Lien Act to force payment. Secondly,
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the service fee on the online payment option must be eliminated or reduced to encourage more taxpayers to pay online. The current service fee for online payments is 2.75 percent, which is like an additional tax for paying your taxes. Do you think the Single Tax
Office needs more employees to handle its duties? Absolutely not. The city and school district cannot take on this burden and place an additional onus on taxpayers. In my current role, I specialize in improving operational efficiency. By obtaining my MBA, I am also well trained in manag-
ing the implementation of lean processes. I would look to improve operational efficiency and implement lean processes throughout the office to handle any duties that employees are having difficulty fulfilling, as well as develop Kaizen teams to solve problems.
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 BLAKELY, CLARKS GREEN, CLARKS SUMMIT FROM PAGE V6 stock of home and businesses continue to age this problem will worsen. Vacant structures that are in nonconforming zones or in general disrepair are too costly to renovate are a major concern. Blakely Borough Council has taken measures to combat this problem by passing ordinances 5-2013 and 6-2013 regarding property maintenance and rental properties, respectively. We will continue and strive for additional solutions to this problem in the future. BRUNO PAMBIANCO Age: 83 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Johanna; children, Richard “Ricky” Pambianco, Thomas Pambianco, Kimberly Korjeski, Amy Danielowski Education: Archbald High School graduate, graduated from Johnson Trade School, after studying carpentry and drafting Employment: Retired, former construction supervisor for Hanover Homes Experience: former Boy Scout troop leader, organizer of Cub Scouts, member and past president of Blakely/Peckville Lions Club, member, honor guard participant and past commander of Shopa Davey VFW Post 6082 in Peckville, past president of Home Association of Shopa Davey, former Little League coach, four years in the Air Force Was renaming Mellow Park the correct decision? Yes. I’m always a firm believer that an elected official is there to do what is the best for his constituents. That was his (Sen. Bob Mellow’s) job. What he did wrong, according to the newspaper, I feel a politician, any politician regardless of party, who does something like that, doesn’t deserve it. I’m running for council not to better myself, I’m running to better the community. Blakely remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue this role? I definitely would like to see PPL take over (electric) system.
There’s no transparency in the system. I’d like to know what we spend on electricity, what we get in on electricity, what’s it used for. I have no idea. There’s no way you can access the borough as of this moment. I would like to have anyone log on to our website and find out exactly what we’re doing. I’ve been going to council meetings regularly and these are questions I’ve been asking since 2010. What is the most important issue facing the borough? The most important issue facing Blakely Borough is the lack of effectiveness of the borough manager’s office. It is critical that a more effective process is put in place so that the needs of borough residents are dealt with in a timely manner. At virtually every council meeting the borough manager is assigned a new responsibility. Unfortunately it’s impossible to do any of them effectively. LOUIS PARRI Age: 64 Party: Democratic Family: Widow; daughter, Megan, 25 Education: Blakely High School graduate, associate’s degree in business administration from Keystone college, bachelor of science in business administration from Bloomsburg University, PDE certificate, vocational instructional certificate for autobody repair Employment: Collision repair instruction teacher at Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County, previously self-employed for 25 years as the owner/operator of an autobody shop, previously worked as hospital auditor, under the auditor general Experience: Councilman for three years, previous member of zoning board Was renaming Mellow Park the correct decision? There was much controversy over renaming Mellow Park. Our community was a huge beneficiary of the senator’s long-time services and for that I am grateful. However, when the residents of our community began to loudly speak out in opposition, it was time to listen. Your constituents must not be ignored. A decision
had to be made. After some deliberation I, as a member of council, was able to render a decision. That decision was the right thing to do. Blakely remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue this role? There are many municipalities that purchase power for its residents. Our neighbor Olyphant does so. By purchasing power we have maintained and upgraded our power system and our service equipment is modern and up to date and our employees continuous being certified. There rarely is a power shortage. Blakely Borough does not impose a property tax. All the residences share the costs and benefits of all the services provided to the community. Our power system is an asset to town and should remain as such. What is the most important issue facing the borough? Blighted properties is the most important issue facing the borough. The greatest concern is the safety and welfare of our citizens. Not only do the blighted properties detract from the aesthetics of the community but they can create health and safety hazards for the neighborhoods. Property inspections are means of combating some of the blight. Hard economic times have made it much more difficult for property owners to keep up their properties. I will strive to keep our community safe. JOSEPH QUINN Age: 67 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Carol Anne; children, Cristine Olenick, Maureen Honey, Matthew Quinn and Katie Miller Education: St. Patrick’s High School graduate Employment: Retired plumber for the Plumber Pipefitters Union Experience: 15 years on council, four years as council president, member of Blakely Hose Co. No. 2, past president of Northeast Volunteer Fireman’s Federation, Commander of the William Hopkins American Legion Post 570 in Blakely, vice-
president of the Keystone State Fire Chiefs Association, member of the planning commission Was renaming Mellow Park the correct decision? Mr. Mellow did a lot of good for all the towns. Unfortunately, he got himself into trouble and the residents wanted the name changed. Blakely remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue this role? Our electric company is one of about 30 in Pennsylvania and was started about 1890. Everyone pays a light bill and this helps to pay for everything we do. What is the most important issue facing the borough? We will continue to update our infrastructure. We are looking into starting a program which will replace sidewalks on Main Street. We will be expanding the Borough Building to give our police department more room.
made decisions that have spared us higher fees that some neighboring municipalities have experienced. By working closely with ARWA professionals, we can continue to make the right decisions to turn sewage into clean water at lowest cost. With the budget already so tight, are there any creative ways to raise revenue as expenditures continue to rise? For starters, Clarks Green millage is almost half of most of our neighbors and mere percentage points of our county and school taxes. We’re fiscally sound now, but we have lost about 300 residents since the previous census and we have an aging population. We need to make the borough more attractive so people want to move here. Continuing a previous tradition of applying for grants would also be a wise move. Are there any major projects you think the borough needs to undertake in the near future? Clarks Green mayor Let’s work on some more beautification projects. Our tree Two are vying for one seat. plantings have certainly The seat has a four-year improved a majority of our term. streets but we need more. I’d MARIE M. KING love to see some rain gardens Age: 58 installed with homeowner and Party: borough support to help with Republican some of our storm water probFamily: lems. Some of our intersections Husband, are looking a little shabby and Stephen King; could use some work. And a son, Spencer marketing group formed to help Education: find uses for our empty buildBachelor of Science, State ings would be a priority. University of New York at WILLIAM THORBURN Brockport Age: 69 Employment: Communications Party: manager at EAM-Mosca Corp. Democratic Experience: Chairwoman of Family: Wife, the Abington Dog Park, former Maureen; chilClarks Green Borough Council dren, Brian, president, Clarks Green borough Stacey and councilwoman, 2006-09, memHeather ber and chairwoman of the Education: Scranton Technical Clarks Green Shade Tree Committee, 2005-11, and mem- High School Employment: Retired computber of Clarks Green Planning er maintenance worker at Commission from 2007-09 Verizon What is the best way for Experience: Clarks Green Clarks Green to handle rising Borough Council 1988-96, costs of the regional sewer mayor, 1998 to present system? We did cut costs by What is the best way for implementing a pay-as-you-go Clarks Green to handle rising policy when I was in office, prepaying instead of later financing. costs of the regional sewer The consensus was to gradually system? Clarks Green was poorly served by the Act 537 increase quarterly billing so it process. Clarks Green has few wasn’t such a hardship. Fortunately, the ARWA board has developable lots, yet we are
required to participate in a plant expansion that will benefit other developing areas. We were harmed when ARWA refused to bid out the engineering services contract. We can help residents by continuing the borough’s practices of addressing storm water infiltration and consistently performing sewer line maintenance. Secondly, Borough officials can help residents by keeping taxes low. With the budget already so tight, are there any creative ways to raise revenue as expenditures continue to rise? Clarks Green is a well-run community. State law allows us to tax up to 30 mills. We are at 15. Our taxes are low because we spent money wisely, and that must continue. Clarks Green has a long history of applying for and receiving state and county grants. Even with this great history, we have to soberly recognize that grant monies are tight and are being earmarked for communities less affluent than ours. Are there any major projects you think the borough needs to undertake in the near future? In 2014 Clarks Green will celebrate its centennial. In preparation for this event, many volunteers and I will be renovating the park across the street from the Borough Building. We will try to accomplish most of this work, including the installation of a beautiful clock and memorial walk, with donations and volunteer labor. After the centennial is over, I hope to carry energy, community spirit and volunteer support into other projects throughout the borough.
Clarks Summit council Five are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. BOB BENNETT Age: 72 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Regina; children, Robert and William Education: Mineola High School, Garden City Park, N.Y. Employment: Retired senior Please see Page V8
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 CLARKS SUMMIT AND DICKSON CITY
FROM PAGE V7 systems analyst at Metropolitan Life Insurance Co.; office supervisor for U.S. Census Experience: Former borough councilman appointed to borough council in 2001 and elected as councilman in 2007 How do you keep finances stable as earned income taxes continue to decrease? You can’t keep them stable because certain contracts call for raises. But you have to be very prudent on what you are spending. Next year’s finances have to be managed very carefully, and we need to find ways in which we can save money. Also, we’ll need to generate additional income from a source other than the taxpayers. What is the best way for Clarks Summit to handle rising costs of the regional sewer system? Since 90 percent of the sewer bill is generated by the Abington Regional Wastewater Authority, there is very little Clarks Summit as an individual municipality can do to manage the costs. What might you suggest to help revitalize the borough’s downtown? Exploring what grants are available and what they are available for. With the exception of Depot Street, we have a pretty selection of sidewalks. But Depot Street should be the main focus. Overall, any improvement will immediately enhance the appearance of the town. GERRIE FITZGERALD CAREY Age: 70 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Husband, William, children, William Jr., Rick, Mary Ellen Berry and Colleen Berry Education: Associate degree from Keystone College, Abington Heights High School Employment: Retired office manager, American Credit Bureau Experience: Clarks Summit council President, borough councilwoman for 14 years, member of the Abington Business & Professional Association, Secretary on board of Clarks Summit State Hospital, member of Lackawanna County Planning Commission Board, member of
the Society of Irish Women and member of Lackawanna County Federation of Democratic Women. How do you keep finances stable as earned income taxes continue to decrease? With our earned income tax taking a big drop, for the past several years we brainstormed and reached out to our citizens who came forward with their professional help. We were able to insure a great DPW contract keeping all our services in place. We also have our new police contract in place. We just completed a new trash contract with no increase. This is my labor of love, keeping our borough a town to be very proud of. What is the best way for Clarks Summit to handle rising costs of the regional sewer system? The borough does not control the sewer costs, but by working with our Abington Regional Wastewater Authority we have appointed from our borough three top notch professionals, as did Clarks Green and South Abington. They work very close with us, keeping us up to date, with every aspect of the operation, Money has been spent very wisely. What might you suggest to help revitalize the borough’s downtown? We love our town and realize how unique it is to have a “downtown” to walk to, shop, eat, go to church, etc. The past several years we have been working on development for our Depot Street, our original Main Street. In the spring we will be starting a project with new sidewalks, vintage lighting, and many more options. We sit down with our retail and find ways to make our down town a welcome town. This will always continue. M. VINCENT CRUCIANI Age: 30 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Melissa Education: Juris doctor, Washington & Lee University; Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, University of Scranton Employment: Land representative III for Williams Experience: Treasurer of the Lackawanna County Republican Party, Representative on the
Masonic Temple & Scottish Rite Cathedral Association; Trustee of Union Lodge 291, F&AM. How do you keep finances stable as earned income taxes continue to decrease? The most important element of keeping finances stable is making prudent decisions. We must review both short-term and longterm effects of potential decisions so borough taxpayers aren’t saddled with more unnecessary debt than we currently suffer from the failed leadership that occurred with the entire situation on Grandview Street. We must also be willing to excise discretionary spending in favor of maintaining quality in our essential duties and services. What is the best way for Clarks Summit to handle rising costs of the regional sewer system? The rising cost of the regional sewer system is a prime example of how the borough must strike a balance between regionalization and local autonomy. As an experienced negotiator, I plan to use the borough’s central location in the regional system as a strategic bargaining chip to protect the borough taxpayers while at the same time approaching the other municipal governments that comprise the regional sewer system with reasonable dialogue to achieve positive compromise. What might you suggest to help revitalize the borough’s downtown? The revitalization of downtown Clarks Summit will not occur by government spending or decree; it will occur through fostering an atmosphere of governance that is conducive to attracting entrepreneurs. This is best done through low taxes and minimal regulation so that small business owners can concentrate on running their businesses, not on meeting unnecessary government demands. Furthermore, I believe that maintaining the quality of our neighborhoods is as equally important as supporting the downtown. JIM KLEIN Age: 73 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Elizabeth, Children, Kathleen and Christopher Education: Bachelor of
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Science from Xavier University, master’s and Ph.D. from Fordham University Employment: Retired physics professor at Penn State Worthington Scranton Experience: Member of the Board of the Friends of the Abington Community Library, former chair of Penn State Worthington campus Senate and senator of the university faculty senate. How do you keep finances stable as earned income taxes continue to decrease? As earned income taxes decrease due in large part to an increasing number of retirees, Clarks Summit Borough must be vigilant about seeking creative ways to hold down expenses and raise money without raising taxes. Efficiency tempered with fairness to all our citizens must be the watchword. I applaud council’s current efforts in garbage handling, single-stream recycling, road maintenance, innovative uses of the borough building, and grant-seeking. All these efforts must continue to be enhanced and streamlined. What is the best way for Clarks Summit to handle rising costs of the regional sewer system? As the required sewer systems come online, Clarks Summit will certainly benefit from the new technology. However, the borough will need to work closely with our neighbors to ensure that the expenses are covered. Increased grantseeking could be a major help in this area. The possibility of consolidating police departments into a regional force should be explored further. What might you suggest to help revitalize the borough’s downtown? The council should continue its efforts in revitalizing the borough’s downtown. Parking and heavy traffic are a serious problem for Clarks Summit businesses. Increasing the enforcement of heavy truck restrictions will help. Possible construction of a long-awaited heavy-truck bypass should be considered again. The new “adopt-a-meter” program should be monitored carefully and expanded if it promises to be beneficial. Council should work closely with the ABPA to promote Clarks Summit businesses.
PATRICK WILLIAMS Age: 71 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Carol; children, Laura, Eric, Allison and Jason. Education: Dunmore High School Employment: Manager at County of Lackawanna Transit System Experience: Borough councilman for 12 years, vice president of the Abington Council of Governments, Eucharistic minister at Our Lady Snows, member of board of Pennsylvanians for Human Life Scranton Chapter and chaplain of Abington Memorial VFW Post 7069, Clarks Summit. How do you keep finances stable as earned income taxes continue to decrease? Responsible fiscal management. We also need to constantly look for additional revenue streams, such as the advertisements on police cars and a street smart initiative. We need to look at any way we can get additional money into the borough. What is the best way for Clarks Summit to handle rising costs of the regional sewer system? Constantly monitoring of finances. We are always looking for state and federal grants. What might you suggest to help revitalize the borough’s downtown? We have planned a renovation project for Depot Street, which includes angled parking and period lighting. Not only will the angled parking provide more spaces, but it will make it easier for everyone to park and then pull out of their spots. Downtown will be a welcoming place to go, and the new spots will certainly help businesses down there.
Dickson City mayor Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term. KIMBERLEE MIDURA Party: Republican Age: 49 Family: A daughter in high school Education: Tunkhannock
High School Employment: Cigna Health Care Experience: Served as a Girl Scout Leader What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight as a major issue? I think it is definitely a step in the right direction. Our neighborhoods and downtown have been suffering for years and property values have fallen. We need to set examples and get the message out there that it will not be tolerated and there will be consequences. We owe those that take pride in their properties and investments to restore this in our town. In hindsight, was building a new Borough Building worth the cost at this time? This Borough Building is/was the last thing we needed. With the economy in the state that it is, we should be helping our citizens by not increasing taxes and this building and its costs will only call for increases. We do not have the need for such a large structure within our government. With only two secretaries, a borough manager and tax collector as its “full time” occupants, the building we currently have is more than sufficient. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern in the borough. Are there any solutions? Stormwater is a major concern that was apparent in the concerns of our citizens after the storms we had in July and August. These are issues that have been brought up in the past, but must need to be on the front burner now. We need to study the areas, look into available grants and resources and address. Again, money spent elsewhere that could have helped here. STANLEY J. PRUSHINSKI Party: Democrat Age: 70 Family: Wife, Geraldine; children, Mark and Scott. Education: Graduate of Scranton Technical High School and Johnson College, attended the University of Scranton. Please see Page V9
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 DICKSON CITY AND DUNMORE FROM PAGE V8 Employment: Owns Stan’s Automotive, a sales and reconditioning businesses. Formerly environmental administrator at McKinney. Address: 551 Palmer Circle, Dickson City Experience: Two terms on borough council, served on crime watch committee. What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight as a major issue? Taking on blight was not a recent attempt. Our present council has been on blight at least four years. We have passed ordinances on absentee landlords, property maintenance and condemning properties and having them torn down. We cannot let blight get out of control. We are committed to improving the quality of life for our borough residents. In hindsight, was building a new Borough Building worth the cost at this time? Yes, it was. The market was in a good place. It was time to undertake the project of a new Borough Building and we are in dire need of space. Our Police Department has been operating out of a cellar that is not handicap accessible. Our DPW garage has been too small for many years. When the residents see the new Borough Building, they will be surprised at all that was accomplished in one building. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern in the borough. Are there any solutions? Yes, we feel having the borough, our engineer, the DPW and residents working together will help us get the water issues under control. We recently formed a storm water committee to discuss and locate the problem areas so we can aggressively pursue any avenues to correct these problems. We then can determine what we can do to help ourselves and contact the proper agencies for further help if needed.
Dickson City Council Four are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. RICHARD CESARI Age: 58 Party: Republican Family: wife, Julie; sons James and Jonathan
Education: Graduate of Mid Valley High School and East Stroudsburg University Employment: Operates a driving school, part-time bank teller, retired from teaching in the Mid Valley School District Experience: Storm water committee. What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight? I think it is a step in the right direction. If elected, I will continue to work with the current council to expand our efforts to rid the borough of such eye sores. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern in the borough. Are there any solutions? I am currently a member of the storm water committee, and we have been working very hard with our borough engineer to help alleviate the problem. Was the new Borough Building worth the cost? The new Borough Building was well worth the cost. It combines all of our essential personnel in one facility while the state of the art police area will help our officers do there job more efficiently and safely. ROBERT E. HALL, JR. Age: 43 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Michelle Education: Graduate of Bishop O’Hara High School Employment: Electrician at G.R. Noto Electrical Construction Inc. Experience: One term on borough council, member of the borough planning commission eight years; blight committee. What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight? This issue has always been my No. 1 concern because I feel it effects the whole community having to see rundown or abandon homes in their neighborhood. So over the last year or so we have added and strengthen many of our laws with much success having had one house renovated one demolished on Main Street and have another to be razed in the next two weeks. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern
in the borough. Are there any solutions? We are working with our borough engineer and our newly formed storm water committee, which includes many borough residents to find the source of the problems. We have our DPW to fix them. Was the new Borough Building worth the cost? I do think the new Borough Building was worth it because we need a more modern facility for our Police Department and a larger area for our DPW to operate from to serve the community going into the future. PAUL KWIEC Age: 60 Party: Democratic Family: Son, Paul Jr. Education: Graduate of Mid Valley High School Employment: Self-employed body shop owner Experience: Served two terms on council 2000-2008 What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight? Blight buildings have been a problem in the borough for years. Money should be in the budget each year to take care of these buildings because that’s what it takes to take care of this problem. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern in the borough. Are there any solutions? Stormwater is also a big problem. It also takes money and a lot of maintenance. Was the new Borough Building worth the cost? A $4 million dollar Borough Building is not the answer to these problems and a 40-year loan makes it harder on the taxpayer and ties up funding for these projects. Do we go for class or common sense? BARBARA KEEGAN MECCA Age: 58 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Husband, Joe; daughter, Kaitlin; son, Kyle Education: Graduate of Mid Valley High School Employment: Director of office
operations, National Book Co. Experience: Three terms on borough council, secretary of the borough planning commission, former chairwoman of the municipal recreation authority What do you think of the borough’s recent attempt to take on blight? I believe we have been very successful in taking on the problems of blight throughout the borough and will continue to be as aggressive as we have been for the health and well being of our residents. The current council sees stormwater as a major concern in the borough. Are there any solutions? Yes, there are solutions but some of them may take longer than others. We will pursue state and local assistance along with recommendations of things the residents can do to help themselves. Working together will help us accomplish our goals. Was the new Borough Building worth the cost? Yes, we have needed to expand and improve our space for many
years. We will be able to operate more efficiently. We also have 4,000 square feet of prime professional space to rent that will tremendously offset our cost.
Dunmore Council Two are vying for one, twoyear unexpired term. MICHAEL A. DEMPSEY Age: 32 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Caressa; sons, Michael Jr. and Luke Employment: Attorney, Lenahan & Dempsey Education: Dunmore High School; bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Pittsburgh; law degree from Widener University School of Law Experience: State auditor general’s office auditor, 2005-07; involved with fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; on
the board of directors of both the Young Lawyers Division of the Lackawanna County Bar Association and the Scranton Club What are some ways council can ensure the borough’s financial recovery sticks? By maintaining and/or reducing our current expenses and increasing borough revenue. One way of increasing our revenue would be expanding the tax base. Should the city of Scranton sell the sewer authority to which Dunmore residents are connected? Unless it is clearly in the long-term best interest of the ratepayers of Dunmore, I would be unable to support the decision to sell. What can the borough do to attract more businesses to Dunmore Corners? We need to work closely with our area elected representatives to make the Dunmore Corners Please see Page V10
I’m running for Mayor of Scranton because I truly believe e I can restore luster to our great city. I firmly believe our greater days are ahead. Answers to our city’s problems won’t come overnight, but they will come in a steady and progressive manner through honest hard work, fresh ideas, accountability and financial responsibility.
As your Mayor I promise to: Work with Council to end the feuding that has helped bring the city to its current state of distress. Work with city employees because we are all stake holders in Scranton’s future I guarantee there will not be a $22 Million award against the city under my leadership. Immediately assemble a team of financial, legal and business professionals to tackle the city’s financial crisis. Present realistic revenue projections to help balance our budget and aggressively negotiate to lower bond rates. Enlist an independent panel of business experts to help select Scranton’s next Business Administrator.
COURTRIGHT
Establish a Community Panel to engage civic leaders to energize Scranton. Aggressively pursue economic and employment opportunities related to all industries. Consult with Mayors and Economic Development experts from around the country who have helped cities recover. Be true to the core belief that we are greater together than we are on our own—that this country succeeds when everyone gets a fair shot, when everyone does their fair share, when everyone plays by the same rules. That is my vision for Scranton.
You have my word on it.
www.CourtrightMayor.com Paid for by Friends of Bill Courtright
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 DUNMORE, DURYEA AND MAYFIELD
FROM PAGE V9 more business friendly and incentivize new and current businesses to stay and expand. MICHAEL HAYES Age: 33 Party: Republican Family: Fiancée, Virginia Capo; daughter, Bella Marie Education: St. Anthony’s school; bachelor’s in political science from Penn State University Employment: Co-owner of Nardozzi’s Pizza, real estate agent with Perry Wellington Realty LLC Experience: Two-year term on Dunmore Borough Council; six years on Dunmore Zoning Hearing Board; co-chairman of Dunmore Neighborhood Watch What are some ways council can ensure the borough’s financial recovery sticks? Council needs to stay with our financial recovery plan and expand upon it. We are still paying nearly 15 mills for debt services and 33 mills for our base. We are paying nearly 48 mills where the legal limit is 30. We must pay down our debt, because we legally can’t raise taxes. We need to attract industry back to Dunmore to help offset our financial shortfalls. Should the city of Scranton sell the sewer authority to which Dunmore residents are connected? Scranton will sell the authority and since Dunmore only owns about 13 percent, even though I am against it, there is nothing we can do about it. We should not take it to court and cost the taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars just to make lawyers rich. We should take the money from the sale and pay off our debt, that will alleviate some tax burden to our residents to help offset the imminent cost increases in the sewer bills. What can the borough do to attract more businesses to Dunmore Corners? We need to make the Dunmore Corners attractive for businesses. We need to celebrate the seasons like Clarks Summit, take over vacant properties using eminent domain to put in more parking; hold street fairs and farmers
markets. This will show potential business owners that Dunmore is committed to helping them be successful in Dunmore.
Duryea Council Five are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. EDWARD A. AMEIKA Age: 63 Party: Democratic, Republican Education: Graduate, Pittston Area High School, 1968; attended Luzerne County Community College. Employment: Retired after 36 years at Tobyhanna Army Depot where he was an electronics mechanic work leader Experience: Air Force veteran of Vietnam War; member, borough recreation board Family: Wife, Kathleen McGrail Why are you running and why do you think you’re qualified to be a councilman? I’ve been a hometown person almost all of my life. I have good integrity behind myself. I thought I’ll give this a one-shot deal and see if my input in this town can change anything. What do you intend to do about restoring the borough’s downtown? We’ve got to improve the business district, which has not been growing for as long as I could recall. ... You have to do a lot of research into grants; you really have to go to the right source. In September 2011, the borough suffered from flooding because of an unfinished dike. What do you intend to do about that? That’s a significant thing, especially for that area of town. We have half a dike in town, basically. We’ve got to keep on the federal government and ... keep pushing to get it done. JAMES J. BALCHUNE Age: 53 Party: Democratic, Republican Education: Graduate, Pittston Area High School, 1978; attended East
Stroudsburg University for one year. Employment: Office manager, Balchune & Balchune Partners, a real estate and construction company, 2008-present Experience: U.S. Food Service, Pittston and South Carolina, 27 years, left as information technology director; commander, Sons of the American Legion Post 585, Duryea; member, board of directors, Northeast Business Club Family: Sons, James, 32, Jason, 29, and Jarred, 27 Why are you running and why do you think you’re qualified to be a councilman? I’d like to upgrade the downtown area. I’ve been in business for 27 years in mid-management and I think I’m an intelligent person. I have a computer background and I’ve worked with everybody from people in the warehouse to the CEOs of the companies. I get along well with people. What do you intend to do about restoring the borough’s downtown? We have to go after this grant money. We want to get the sidewalks fixed, new fronts on the store buildings, attract some new business. In September 2011, the borough suffered from flooding because of an unfinished dike. What do you intend to do about that? We want to go after any kind of federal money that we can get to help protect the people. I personally was very affected by that. My house got flooded, my sister’s house got flooded, my friend’s house got flooded, my cousin’s house got flooded. AUDREY COLLIER MARCINKO Age: 80 Party: Democratic Education: Graduate, Duryea High School, 1950; attended, Keystone Junior College and the University of Maryland Employment: Retired, worked for Army for 37 years, including many as personal management specialist for deputy chief of staff Experience: Duryea council, 2000 to 2004 and 2010 to present; chairwoman, Duryea borough sewer authority, 2001 to present, volunteer,
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Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains Twp. Family: Daughter, Diane Why are you running and why do you think you’re qualified to be a councilman? I’m running for office because I care about the community and the people. Eight years of experience as a council member and 30-plus years in personnel management prepared me to operate a balanced budget and still maintain high quality results. What do you intend to do about restoring the borough’s downtown? It is very important to build a community center away from the river. It could be converted into an emergency center upon notification of any pending disasters. (I would) revitalize Main Street by setting long-range growing plans. First thing would be to have curbs and sidewalks built. Encourage residents to participate in public works to beautify the community. Get in touch with the Chamber of Commerce to get them moving on something for the “industrial park,” which has never opened and has remained empty for years. In September 2011, the borough suffered from flooding because of an unfinished dike. What do you intend to do about that? Duryea’s plans for the unfinished dike were approved in 2002. Unfortunately, our project was placed at a lower priority for 12 years. We have been promised by the Corps of Engineers and Department of Environmental Protection the project will begin in fall 2013. At the present time, all easements have been signed off and all the paperwork is still at the Department of General Services in Harrisburg, Pa., awaiting their approval so the project can be advertised for bids. MICHAEL K. MCGLYNN Age: 46 Party: Democratic, Republican Education: Graduate, Pittston Area High School, year unknown; attended Penn State University, Career Technology Center, Employment: Laboratory operator, Lower
Lackawanna Valley Sanitary Authority Experience: Duryea Council, 2009 to present Family: Wife, Ethel “Rainey” VanLouvender; sons, Michael Jr., 18, and Matthew, 13 Why are you running for office and why do you think you’re qualified to be a councilman? Did not respond. What do you intend to do about restoring the borough’s downtown? Did not respond. In September 2011, the borough suffered from flooding because of an unfinished dike. What do you intend to do about that? Did not respond. SEAN P. SHAY Age: 42 Party: Republican Education: Graduate, Merrimack High School, Merrimack, N.H., 1989; associate degree, computer programming, New Hampshire Technical College, 1997; attended Plymouth State College, Plymouth, N.H. Employment: Owner, The Shay Agency, an insurance agency, Plains Twp., 2008-present; general manager, Rosado Group, Scranton and Dickson City, 2002-08. Experience: First run for office, community basketball league coach Family: Wife, Suzanne, daughters, Rachel Simansky, 17, Rylee, 12, and Lauren, 8. Why are you running and why do you think you’re qualified to be a councilman? Because of my business experience. I run my own business and I’ve run businesses for others. What do you intend to do about restoring the borough’s downtown? There are grants that are available to small towns that we plan on applying for to fix some of the sidewalks that are downtown, (and) the appearance of the merchants’ locations. In September 2011, the borough suffered from flooding because of an unfinished dike. What do you intend to do about that? It’s my understanding the flood project has already been voted on and is in process. Now it’s more a matter of making sure that the decisions
that have been made are followed through with ... and try to mitigate those damages from happening to the town again.
Mayfield Council Four are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. THOMAS J. GALLAGHER Age: 51 Party: Republican/ Democratic Family: Wife, Mary Clare; two sons, Patrick and Thomas Employment: Truck driver Education: Graduate of Lakeland High School Experience: 8½ years on council Should the borough reconsider building a train station? No train station. We are a small town with not many employee. We have a hard time taking care of what we have now like the Borough Building, town parks, streets and the borough flood control. I don’t see much use for it besides Santa coming to town on a train. Are there any projects you’d like to see the borough undertake? I would like to replace outdated storm drains to relieve flooding and do some paving with the money we now have so as not to raise taxes. What’s the biggest complaint you hear from residents and how do you think it should be resolved? Flooding and not wasting money on things like a train station. JANICE JOYCE
Age: 58 Party: Republican/ Democratic Family: Husband, Tom; son, Michael Employment: Director of curriculum at Lackawanna Trail school district Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Marywood; master’s degree in reading, Marywood; master’s degree in school administration, University of Scranton Experience: Council member Please see Page V11
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 MAYFIELD AND MOSCOW FROM PAGE V10 since 2007 Should the borough reconsider building a train station? Not at this time. We need to use resources to correct infrastructure issues. Are there any projects you’d like to see the borough undertake? It would be great if we could market ourselves a bit more aggressively to attract some business/industry to the area. What’s the biggest complaint you hear from residents and how do you think it should be resolved? The biggest complaint is the threat of flooding. I believe we are working as hard as we can to try and resolve this in a cost effective manner by pursuing any and every opportunity for funding. There is no cheap, easy fix for this situation. JOHN KLEINBAUER Age: 52 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Valerie; two sons, Jason and Jordan; two daughters, Kelsea and Kateri; three stepchildren, Daniel, Michael and Matthew Employment: Processing technician at Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation, Jessup Education: Graduate of Valley View High School; attended Keystone College. Experience: Served 3½ years on council Should the borough reconsider building a train station? The borough should continue to find ways or other options to fund building the train station, this way it would not put a burden on the taxpayers. The train station would help build the community for both recreation and business. Are there any projects you’d like to see the borough undertake? I would like the town to continue focusing on the drainage and road repair and continue toward finding grants to finish the recreation park. What’s the biggest complaint you hear from residents and how do you think it should be resolved? The flooding is the major concern for the town. If
we could get government grants and assistance we could address these issues head on. GEORGE PITTSMAN JR. Age: 42 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Jennifer; daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret; son Noah Employment: Special education teacher, Wallenpaupack Area School District Experience: Three terms on council Education: Undergraduate and master’s degrees from Marywood University Should the borough reconsider building a train station? At this time I believe the borough should not reconsider the train station. Recognizing our rich history on the railways and beautifying our main street is worth the consideration, however we have much more pressing needs. Are there any projects you’d like to see the borough undertake? I would like to see the borough remedy the flooding that continues to occur in town. What’s the biggest complaint you hear from residents and how do you think it should be resolved? The only concerns brought to me have been the train station and the condition of the borough streets. Unfortunately the train station is simply not a priority and roads are a perpetual project.
Moscow Council Five are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. GEORGE EDWARDS Age: 65 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Carol; son, George Edwards III Education: North Pocono High School; associate degree in business management from Lackawanna College Employment: Owner of Edwards Concrete Experience: Six years on Moscow Borough Council; previ-
ous member of Penn Security Bank advisory board; involved with cars clubs, including serving as treasurer of the Chandler Club of America and past vice president of an area Viper club What do you think a longterm plan for Moscow should include? I would like to continue offering the same quality services to our residents. Benefits like the curb-side pick-up recycling program and our full time Police Department are unheard of in small communities these days. I would like to provide opportunities for additional businesses to open in the borough which would increase job opportunities. In your mind, what’s the next big project the borough should undertake after the streetscape improvements? I would like to continue the park improvement program. As people have become more health conscious, and by seeing the walking, hiking trails and sidewalks in the borough come to be a reality, our amenities will become a major asset to the borough. What kind of business should Moscow be attracting to its downtown? Small retail businesses such as a grocery store, a dry cleaner, a dry good stores. Due to the aging population, an assisted-living complex. WILLIAM P. HEIM Age: 62 Party: Democrat Family: Wife, Paula; children, Ian, Alicia and Jennifer Roux Education: Holy Cross High School in Flushing, N.Y.; bachelor’s in insurance focusing on life and health insurance from the College of Insurance Employment: Manager of application development at MetLife Experience: 20-plus years on Moscow Borough Council; president of North Pocono Youth Soccer League; borough delegate to the Lackawanna County Tax Collection Committee What do you think a longterm plan for Moscow should include? My first concern is attracting small business to the borough. We now have the start of a very walkable downtown
and the addition of businesses that support our citizens needs would go a long way towards keeping the downtown active. In your mind, what’s the next big project the borough should undertake after the streetscape improvements? Our streets are still a priority. Because of the cost of improvements this will be a multi-year process which has been underway for a couple of years and will continue into the foreseeable future. What kind of business should Moscow be attracting to its downtown? I would like to see businesses that provide for the basics. Making it possible to get what you need for everyday living without having to drive for miles. My own choices would be a supermarket or dry cleaners. These are just examples small businesses that would be welcome. ARTHUR PENCEK Age: 68 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Marion; children, Jennifer, Jason, Kim Education: Scranton Technical High School; studied drafting technology and engineering at Penn State Worthington Scranton Employment: Retired plumbing wholesaler Experience: Nearly 34 years on Moscow Borough Council, congregant of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton What do you think a longterm plan for Moscow should include? Moscow Borough could use an awful lot of things, but, what is most important is what the people of Moscow Borough would like to see in the near future and I, as an elected official, would work toward attaining those goals for them. In your mind, what’s the next big project the borough should undertake after the streetscape improvements? An important project would be to address our borough streets in which some are in need of much repair, and upgrading the storm water drainage system in our streets with new pipes and inlets where needed. What kind of business should Moscow be attracting to its
downtown? In downtown Moscow, I would like to see a deli on Main Street within walking distance of the new apartments being built. Also I would like to see the area at the Interstate 380 interchange developed into a business district with offices and small boutiques. TERESA M. RIPLEY Age: 53 Party: Republican Family: Husband, Keith; children, Keith, Pia, Vincent and Mills Education: St. Mary’s School in Annapolis, Md.; bachelor’s in communications and business from the University of Maryland; studied business at the University of Maryland Employment: Owns Ripley Realty Experience: Fifteen years experience running small businesses including a hair-dresser chain called Classic Cuts in Maryland; had a prominent role in a successful campaign to get a sewer project done in her previous Maryland community; and serves on the Scranton Board of Realtors education and ethics committees What do you think a longterm plan for Moscow should include? A long-term plan for Moscow would be to keep it fiscally sound, affordable, family friendly community, rural in nature, and supportive of its small businesses. I like what the council is doing and would like to keep it moving in a cautious forward direction. In your mind, what’s the next big project the borough should undertake after the streetscape improvements? I do not see the need for any big projects at this time, but I will support anything that would include parents, children, grandparents and familyfriendly gathering places. For example, a park with amenities, perhaps a community swim club for summers, and good quality ball fields. Or just taking a location that we already have and bring it up a notch with another activity. What kind of business should Moscow be attracting to its
downtown? It would be a good central location for small business. Moscow has great access to Scranton, Hamlin and Tobyhanna. The highway system from Moscow is very good. Moscow has great arts and craft studios. I love the programs that the borough throws in the summer, promoting the town and its services. Small businesses that cater to the community would be ideal. ROSEMARIE WARNER Age: 57 Party: Democrat Family: Husband, Paul; children, Joshua, Steven, Jonathan Education: Bishop Hannan High School in Scranton; bachelor’s in elementary education, East Stroudsburg University; master’s in elementary education, University of Scranton Employment: Teacher at North Pocono Middle School Experience: About four years on Moscow Borough Council; building representative for the North Pocono Teachers Association and has been active on union committees; member of Northeast Network; has been involved with Little League; past secretary for Cub Scouts What do you think a longterm plan for Moscow should include? Moscow is fortunate that it has an effective model for a long range plan. “Moscow 2000 and Beyond” was well developed and executed. “Moscow Moving Forward” will serve as a springboard for new ideas for our community’s future. The revitalization of our Main Street storefronts, attracting new businesses and the moving of New Street Park in order to create a more accessible and usable recreation area for the lower end of Moscow are just a few ideas being explored. In your mind, what’s the next big project the borough should undertake after the streetscape improvements? A logical focus will be to continue with the revitalization of our Main Street. Now that we have new curbing, period lighting and connecting sidewalks, creating opportunities for our community Please see Page V12
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 MOSCOW AND OLD FORGE
FROM PAGE V11 to come out and support our local businesses is essential. Attracting new businesses and marketing our hometown environment will help to promote economic growth and community gathering. As recreation chair, I would also like to continue upgrading our existing parks and explore ways to expand recreation areas in the lower side of Moscow. What kind of business should Moscow be attracting to its downtown? Moscow’s Main Street area has recently seen the addition of new apartment buildings. The Lofts on Main Street, the existing Academy Gardens, as well as the conversion of the old Academy Street School into new apartments would be well served by a local market or deli. Coffee Shops and bakeries might also be successful and support more pedestrian traffic in this area. “Moscow Moving Forward,” our new long range plan committee, will explore these and other ideas that would benefit our community.
Old Forge Mayor
Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a four-year term.
BOB MULKERIN
Age: 39 Party: Democrat Family: Wife, Carla Cariati Mulkerin; children Cierra, 9, and Colin, 6. Education: Old Forge High School, 1992 Employment: Prudential Retirement, defined benefit data analyst Experience: Former member of Lackawanna County Family Court Team; former member of Lackawanna County Treatment Court Team; group facilitator for Lackawanna County Welfare-toWork Programs; group facilitator at Violence Intervention Centers Youth Program With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? As mayor, I plan to take an active role within our Police Department. It will be my job to serve as a direct connection
between our residents and our Police Department. I will encourage our Police Department to become more active in community organizations, and I will create initiatives and opportunities such as mayoral meet and greets in neighborhoods; bike and walking patrols; and a DARE program for the department to be more visible throughout the community. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? The ideal hiring process would include a personnel committee which would make recommendations to the council, much like the process currently used for the borough planning and zoning boards. Community members recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As mayor, do you see yourself having a role with the group? Absolutely I would have a role with the group. I have always been a strong advocate for a neighborhood watch as long as it was conducted in the proper fashion. As mayor, I would work with the leaders of the group as a liaison between the watch, the chief of police, and the Police Department. It is of utmost importance that as mayor I am involved in any group advocating that well-being of community. FRANK SCAVO Age: 51 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Caren; children, Sarah and Frank IV Education: Old Forge High School, 1980; associate degree in business management, Keystone College, 1993 Employment: General manager of Keystone Automotive for more than 20 years Experience: Old Forge School Board, 2001-09, board member of Pennsylvania Right to Work since 2011 With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? I will personally be involved in interviewing and selecting the best candidate. Whether promoted from inside our department or hired from outside the depart-
ment, we will have a professional that responds to our residents needs for safety and trust. I will not measure success by traffic tickets written, but by the incidents of crime in Old Forge. We will not tolerate corruption or coercion, but will instead empower our officers to become closer to residents. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? Transparency in hiring is critical. I would only appoint fully qualified and experienced candidates. Favoritism and nepotism would have to take a back seat to qualifications and experience. Criminal background checks and drug screens are tools that I use every day in my successful business. A point system that counts for skills and experience go a long way in getting the best performing employee for the borough’s taxpayer dollars. Thorough evaluations after hiring will keep employees focused. Working to support the borough manager is also key. Community members recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As mayor, do you see yourself having a role with the group? Being directly involved and having our Police Department taking action from neighborhood watch tips will help prevent crime before it happens. Follow up for the group with our officers will insure our success. Patrols at our school will help discourage any drugs in the district, an action I had asked for as a school board member. I will also form a taxpayer group for hard working families and retired seniors, so they have a say about our taxing and spending actions.
Old Forge Council Six are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. DEVON BROWN Age: 18 Party: Democratic Family: Single, no children Education: Senior at Old Forge High School Employment: Part-time laborer with John J. Kelley Plastering and Stucco; student
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Experience: Senior class president, Old Forge High School. Member of Leo Club, a youth organization associated with Lions Club International. Member of Students Against Destructive Decisions. With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? To reinstall faith in the Police Department I would plan on having monthly meetings with the Police Department’s current officers. During these meetings, I would make sure that the department is being run efficiently for all of the residents. Also I would like to get the officers more involved in the community. There needs to be a better rapport with the citizens of the borough and the officers. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? I feel the ideal hiring process for borough officials would be to have a oneon-one interviewing process. During the interview, the potential candidates for the position would answer numerous questions pertaining to the job. There would be a background check which would make sure each candidate has the credentials for the prospective position. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? The crime watch is a productive way to decrease crime in the borough. If the police play a role in the crime watch, this would be a positive for community involvement for the officers. The members of the crime watch, the residents of the town, and the police would all benefit from this. All groups would be able to become familiar with one another and establish a system that would rid crime in Old Forge. MATTHEW KRAH Age: 24 Party: Republican Family: Single, no children Education: Bishop Hannon High School, 2007; bachelor’s
degree, neuroscience from King’s College, 2001; currently studying for a Master of Health Administration at King’s College. Employment: Pharmacy technician and full-time student. Experience: Former member of the Young Republicans. Assisted candidates in several congressional and presidential campaigns. With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? I believe that the judicial system will come up with a fair ruling and the community can move on. The mayor is in charge of the Police Department and I believe that Frank Scavo or Bob Mulkerin will do the best they can to restore the best faith in the department. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? Sadly, nepotism has ruled in all Northeast Pennsylvania communities for as long as I can remember. I just finished my human resource coursework at King’s and I believe the borough should be run like any other private sector business. Only the best qualified will be hired and formal interviews should be held before the council. No position should be appointed, it should be earned. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? Absolutely, I believe in making our community a safe place to live and work for future generations. JOSEPH LENCESKI Age: 38 Party: Democratic Family: Married, two children Education: Old Forge High School, 1993; associate’s degree, business administration, Lackawanna Junior College, 2000. Employment: Bricklayer with the Bricklayers and Allied Craft Workers Local 5. Experience: Trustee for the annuity of the bricklayers union. Soccer coach for Old Forge Junior
High School. Volunteer with youth T-Ball and basketball leagues. With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? My plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department are, upon adjudification, remove officers if they are found guilty, have all officers take a course on sensitivity behavior, update all background checks, and ensure the public that there will be sanctions on any misbehavior. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? The ideal hiring process for borough employees should be to post the job through the paper and the borough website. The interview process should consist of interviewing the applicant with majority of the borough council being present, asking the candidate their background, skills and significant accomplishments. There will be no discrimination and a background check will be required including criminal history, education references and employment references. A drug test will also be required. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? I would like to be a part of the neighborhood watch. The public’s safety is most important to me. It is important for a community to know their neighbors and to be involved in all community aspects. I believe the neighborhood watch committee will deter juvenile delinquency, drug trafficking, and social deviant behavior. Even if I do not become a councilman I will have an active role in the neighborhood watch. MARK MATYLEWICZ Age: 44 Party: Republican Family: Married, two children Education: Scranton High School, 1986; bachelor’s degree in business, University of Scranton, 1991. Please see Page V13
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 OLD FORGE AND OLYPHANT FROM PAGE V12 Employment: Sales representative for pharmaceutical company. Co-owner with wife of Dooley’s Pub & Eatery Experience: Board member, Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? I have good relationships with several officers in the borough. They do not have an easy job, that’s universally understood. How they are perceived varies greatly. I have had discussions with several of them about getting back to the basics. That means, “To Protect and Serve” like it states on all their vehicles. I feel that the department may be judged rather harshly. Unfairly, I may add. The police are a valuable asset to this community, be proud of that fact and lead by example. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? It’s no secret that nepotism is alive and well in Northeast Pennsylvania. The ideal hiring process should be like that of corporate America. Jobs should be posted for a specified time frame. Applications received should be reviewed and interviews set up with qualified individuals. The appropriate officials should meet, review and select best candidate before any offer or promises are made. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? As long as the neighborhood watch does things within legal boundaries and do it safely, they will have my full attention and support. Involvement in the community is a cornerstone of a strong community. LOUIS MAZZA Age: 63 Party: Republican Family: Single, one son Education: Old Forge High School, 1968; bachelor’s degree in Commerce
and Finance from Wilkes University, 1972; Master of Business Administration, Penn State University, 1975. Employment: Retired audit supervisor for the Pennsylvania Utility Commission Experience: School board member, Old Forge School District 1995-2001. With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? I don’t believe that a bad apple or two spoils the whole bunch. I, for one, have faith in our Police Department. Although the Police Department is the mayor’s responsibility, I believe the council should at least have some oversight so as to ensure that what has happened in the past does not occur in the future. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? I feel that the borough manager should perform preliminary interviews and provide council with the three top candidates. Council, through a personnel committee, would then decide to hire based on the borough manager’s recommendations or conduct follow-up interviews of the recommended candidates prior to making its selection. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? I think the council should be kept aware of the group’s activities. I, as a councilman, would like to be assured that the group is operating legally and safely. Since I personally have no experience with such groups, I would ask our Police Department for whatever input they may have on the groups activities. BOB SEMENZA Age: 39 Party: Democratic Family: Married, two children. Education: Old Forge High School, 1993. Employment: Laborer for the Lackawanna Valley Sanitary
Authority Experience: Appointed to borough council in 2012 to fill term of his deceased father. With a police chief and police captain having faced allegations of sexual assault, what are your plans to improve the community’s faith in the Old Forge Police Department? I believe we have a good group of officers in our Police Department, they are confident and qualified officers that do a good job. We will hire more confident and qualified officers when needed. The role of mayor is to run and be the strength of the police force. We as council have and will continue to support the mayor and police force. What do you think would be the ideal hiring process for borough employees? I think we have a very strong hiring process in place that is designed very well. We run good quality ads, we interview everyone, and we only hire the most qualified person for the job. We run background checks and drug testing if he or she is to be hired. Community members have recently started a neighborhood watch in Old Forge. As a councilman, do you see yourself having a role in the group? As a councilman I support the neighborhood watch 110 percent. I think it’s a great idea what is being done, I will provide them with support and anything they may need to be a successful group. I plan on being involved in helping them keep this group strong and growing to help protect the people of this great town.
Company No. 1 in Olyphant. In hindsight, do you think the removal of the head of the Department of Public Works was handled properly? I was at that meeting. They could have done a couple of different things, but it was what it was. Yes, it was handled properly. Olyphant remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue in this role? Yes, because we do get cheaper taxes. It pays most of the budget, too. What concern do you hear most from residents and what would you like to do about that? We have to do more work downtown. Make it a bit more presentable. EUGENE L. LIBERTY Age: 67 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Rose Ann; daughter, Nicole; one grandson
Education: Lackawanna College for three years and Fayetteville State University in North Carolina. Associate degree in business management from Lackawanna College. Employment: Worked at Tobyhanna Army Depot electronics repair. Experience: Olyphant council from 2007 to 2011 and has been on the planning commission for 15 years; Army, 22 years E7 Sgt. 1st Class. In hindsight, do you think the removal of the head of the Department of Public Works was handled properly? He was a great worker, but a supervisor? No. No supervisory talents at all. I wasn’t on council when he was removed. If I was there, I would have voted for that. Olyphant remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue in this role? Yes. That finances 90 to 98 percent of the city. The tax roll that comes in isn’t even enough to pay for the Police
Department. We would not be able to handle the same about of DPW workers. Our light rates are high right now, but when I was there, I got them lowered. I think there’s another way to lower rates a little bit more. What concern do you hear most from residents and what would you like to do about that? A lot of people are saying, “Let’s revitalize downtown, fix up the storefronts, and try to work something out between the owners and the borough.” If there’s any grant money available, I’d like to go after that. CHRISTINE POWELL Age: 37 Party: Republican Family: Husband, Bob; son, Eric, and two stepchildren: R.J. and Sabrina. Education: Delaware Valley Please see Page V14
Olyphant Council Four are vying for three seats. The seats have a four-year term. DAVID KRUKOVITZ Age: 62 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Joyce Ann; two children, Laurie and Elizabeth Education: Mid Valley High School. Employment: Mechanic for 38 years; worked for Corkey’s Garden Path since April. Experience: Volunteer firefighter, 28 years; served as fire chief of Excelsior Hose THE SUNDAY TIMES OCTOBER 27, 2013 V13
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 OLYPHANT AND TAYLOR
High School in Milford; Penn State, three years of study in health and human development. Employment: Administrative assistant at Macy’s for two years Experience: Volunteer firefighter for 11 years. In hindsight, do you think the removal of the head of the Department of Public Works was handled properly? No. I think that it was done unfairly and that he should have been given a chance to at least defend himself. But to demote somebody because of the simple fact that he’s too nice of a guy is not a valid reason. Olyphant remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue in this role? I feel that Olyphant should still keep the electric in the community but research different options to save money. I’d also like to see the community and residents involved in a citizen’s electrical committee. What concern do you hear most from residents and what would you like to do about that? The residents need to be made more aware what’s going on and that too much business is being conducted behind closed doors. Also, residents are concerned about the roads. If I am elected, I want to start improving the roads. GERARD TULLY Age: 63 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Ann; son, Gerard III Education: Graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in Olyphant; Degree in electrical engineering University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. Employment: Custom Auto and Cycle, owner, 12 years Experience: Olyphant councilman for 12 years. In hindsight, do you think the removal of the head of the Department of Public Works was handled properly? Yes. Frank Naughton is very good employee of the borough of Olyphant. In the supervisory position, he wasn’t assertive enough. It hampered him in getting the work done that the bor-
ough required. Olyphant remains one of the last municipalities to buy electricity for its residents. Should the borough continue in this role? We only take in $330,000 in taxes. We offer so many amenities. The money also pays to keep our streets clean and safe in the winter. It subsidizes our normal bills that the borough incurs. Without selling the power, we would have to raise our taxes about four or five times what they are now. What concern do you hear most from residents and what would you like to do about that? Everybody is concerned about their roads. Next year, if I get elected, we will initiate a paving project. One of the things I’d like to see is having the downtown cleaned up. Present council members have tried very hard to try to encourage the downtown businesses to do more, clean up more, to make Olyphant’s downtown the way it was in the past.
of Taylor should have considerable input into how this area is developed. My vision of that land is to see a center of activity and vitality created. It would be a mix of new business, new housing and recreational areas for our families. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? We need to create quality jobs in Taylor and bring in new business so we can broaden the tax base of the borough. This would relieve the tax burden on our current residents, without eliminating essential services. I am committed to promoting Taylor to the business community that would be needed to make this happen. TED PRASCHAK Age: 64 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Diane; children, Trina, Paula and Ted Education: Riverside Jr.-Sr. High School, Taylor mayor Pennsylvania State Police ROXANNE PAULINE Northeast Training Center, ACT Age: 53 120, Crime Prevention Officer Party: Certification Democratic Employment: Retired Taylor Family: Borough Police Officer Husband, John Experience: Member of the Education: Taylor Veterans Memorial Riverside High Committee, vice president of School 1978 the Fraternal Order of Police Graduate Northeastern Lodge No. 63 for Employment: Coordinator/ 30 years; life member of the Northeast Pennsylvania Area Taylor Fire and Rescue Hose Labor Federation Company No. 2 for more than Experience: Taylor Veterans 35 years; Taylor Borough Police Memorial Committee, Taylor Officer for 31 years, retired in Democrat Committee Person 2006; crime prevention officer Ward 3, founder of Northeast for Taylor Borough Police Pennsylvania Citizens in Action, Department for 26 years; Lackawanna County Federation Pennsylvania State Police of Democratic Women, Northeast Training Center ACT Northeast Pennsylvania 120, class president; member Coordinator Hands Across of the American Legion, Post America 306 in Taylor for more than 30 With the Alliance landfill no years; member of the Veterans longer a substantial source of of Foreign Wars, Post 4954 in revenue, council had to levy Old Forge for more than 30 property taxes for the first time years; served in the U.S. Navy in decades. Would you have for six years during the Vietnam done anything differently? No, War Era as a borough it is important With the Alliance Landfill no that we do not go into debt or longer a substantial source of cut vital services such as law revenue, council had to levy enforcement and public works. property taxes for the first time What potential development in decades. Would you have do you see out of the undeveldone anything differently? oped land of the Taylor Ultimately, the duties of the Colliery? I believe the residents Taylor Mayor are to ensure pub-
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lic safety. Borough Council must make vital decisions to govern Taylor. With our slow economic recovery, the Council had to levy property taxes so that the town limited future reliance on the money generated from the landfill. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? I can see a great opportunity for potential development on the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery. The land can be sold to small businesses and for industrial usage in order to create an economic center of our borough. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? We need to introduce new businesses and more industry into our community in order to create and expand revenue sources for the town. With additional sources of income to the town, our community public safety departments could function with continued funding from the Council. With this funding, our police department, DPW, and fire departments can have the most up-to-date training available to keep our residents safe.
have to use money on that for a few years. The people are happy and they get a lot of benefits here in Taylor. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? Sell some of this land so we can bring in some new homes and new families to Taylor. The colliery, that will be mostly commercial. Some big businesses bringing in taxes, as long as it’s not a business that’s going to hurt the people. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? The most pressing issue in Taylor is getting the taxes back down. We had to get about $120,000 last year. We had money saved from the landfill and kept using that but now we’re at the point where we can’t use it anymore. We had to go onto the tax roll. JAMES DIGWOOD Age: 60 Party: Republican Education: Riverside School District, 1971 Employment: Retired Experience: Member of Taylor Taylor council Council for 24 Years; served as Six are vying for four seats. vice president; 16-year chairThe seats have a four-year man of the Department of term. Repeated efforts to Public Works committee; current Gene King were unsuccessful. chairman of the Recreation Committee; member of the EDWARD DERENICK Development Authority of the Age: 74 Borough of Taylor (DABT), Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Helen, more than Certified Borough Official program graduate, treasurer of the 48 years; three sons, David, Taylor Police Fund. Thomas and Chuckie With the Alliance landfill no Education: Taylor High School, longer a substantial source of 1955 revenue, council had to levy Employment: Running the property taxes for the first family automotive repair shop time in decades. Would you since 1989 have done anything differentExperience: Been on council ly? About three years ago, we for more than 34 years saw the potential for a drop in With the Alliance landfill no disposal at the landfill. Council longer a substantial source of was faced with the reality of revenue, council had to levy having to reestablish property property taxes for the first time taxes or wait to see if the in decades. Would you have expansion permit would be done anything differently? No. You can’t put any taxes on peo- issued. At that point, Taylor had a $2 million surplus. We opted ple if you’ve got money in the to use the surplus in balancing bank. We had no choice. What we did, we fixed up the borough the budget for two more years without a tax. Unfortunately, as good as we could, getting in the third year arrived, disposal police cars. Everything is up to date. The DPW has good equip- volume is still down and taxes had to be reinstated after nearment, so we’re hoping not to
ly 20 years. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? As a current councilman and member of the Development Authority of the Borough of Taylor I see myself as having a dual opportunity to advance the Taylor Colliery’s Development. The initial investment of $500,000 has been leveraged through smart planning to over $4 million. We will continue to advance this rebirth and rebuilding of our tax base in an intelligent, well-planned fashion. It is a high priority to return this property as well as Feltsville to useful property for all of our citizens. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? Continuing to provide the levels of service our citizens expect at a reasonable price. Our police department gets busier everyday so we have to insure the public is able to be safe within our community. Our DPW maintains our roadways and keeps the community clean and safe during times of bad weather conditions and it is our duty to see they all can perform these tasks in a safe economical, cost effective manner. EUGENE GALLAGHER Age: 33 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Holly, married five years; daughter, Jayda, 4 Education: Riverside High School, 1999; attended Lackawanna College Employment: Linde Corp., Pittston Experience: Ran for council two years ago, Taylor Lions Club, Vikings Helping Vikings, secretary for Ancient Order of Hiberians, American Legion Post 306, St. Georges social club, Devine Mercy Parish, volunteer in splash park project, Act 235 certified. With the Alliance landfill no longer a substantial source of revenue, council had to levy property taxes for the first time in decades. Would you have done anything differently? With Please see Page V15
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 TAYLOR AND THROOP FROM PAGE V14 taxes back in place it’s going to be tough on our seniors, people on fixed incomes and the working poor. With better planning from day one, we could have gotten more longevity from the revenue we received from Alliance. In all fairness to them, we do have two holdovers from this era still serving on council — Mr. Digwood and Mr. Derenick — who are probably better equipped to answer questions about our budget’s shortfall and taxes. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? The colliery area is the future of our town. There’s residential, commercial, recreation and small business opportunities. I’d like us to take a more aggressive approach to getting this area developed as soon as possible. Residents ask constantly, when are we going to do something with that land? What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? The most pressing need for our community is transparency, unity and trust. Taking the residents’ needs and concerns and addressing them in a timely fashion, creating confidence in our local government and trust in one another. Trying to always make the right decisions for the greater good. CHUCK MCKEEL Age: 48 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Kathy; daughter, Karla; son, Kyle; grandchildren Billy and Madison Education: Bishop Hannan High School graduate Employment: Moses Taylor Hospital Experience: Recreation chairman, Veterans Memorial Splash Park Committee With the Alliance landfill no longer a substantial source of revenue, council had to levy property taxes for the first time in decades. Would you have done anything differently? Since the Alliance landfill is no longer a substantial source of income, at the present time, I see that the choices were very limited. Without raising the taxes, we were left with cutting vital borough services and public safety as our option. It is a
tough choice; however, it needed to be done to give us the opportunity to increase our revenue through other sources. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? The potential development that I see for the Taylor Colliery is unlimited. It is a valuable resource that could generate income to the borough. There are business opportunities for development, new homes, recreational opportunities and all of these expenditures can create new jobs. Our tax base will rise as well. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? The most pressing need for our community is more jobs to entice our young people to stay and raise their families. Taylor is a small community where everyone knows each other, everyone looks out for each other and we have that small town feel of days gone by. We need to ensure that we keep our town vibrant and attractive to see an influx of people to keep us growing. New business and jobs will do that. JOHN TIGUE Age: 41 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Sheri; children, Justin and Meghan Education: Riverside High School, 1990; Lackawanna College, accounting degree Employment: Prudential Financial, manager of financial operations, pricing department Experience: Served on Taylor Borough Council for three years, one year as vice president and on Public Safety and Finance Committees, Taylor Borough Fire Chief, 2008-09, firefighter with Taylor Fire Department No. 1 for 24 years, currently Ladder Captain, Vice President of the Company, Secretary of the Relief Association and Back Hall Superintendent. With the Alliance landfill no longer a substantial source of revenue, council had to levy property taxes for the first time in decades. Would you have done anything differently? Bringing back property tax was a tough decision. We balanced our $3.5 million annual budgets with the savings for two years. We used all savings that the bor-
ough had obtained throughout the years, showing taxes was a last resort. The reason we held off adding taxes was, we were hoping once the landfill received permission on the expansion, that the tonnage would start coming in. The tonnage did not come in and our only way to offset our daily expenses was to add a property tax. What potential development do you see out of the undeveloped land of the Taylor Colliery? I would love to see business brought into our community. Business provide jobs, something that is needed in our area. I feel we also have area for residential properties to be built on the colliery area. We are moving forward as we have been in discussion with developers and as many who drive up Oak will see signs for Land for Sale. This area off Oak will make beautiful residential properties. What do you think is the most pressing need for your community? Since the increase of tonnage for the landfill is out of our hands, the most pressing need is for Taylor to cut expenses and develop land. We need to also continue upgrading our sewer and storm water lines. Examples of these upgrades were West Taylor, Pond and Prince Street. These funds can be obtained by grants. We need to continue to provide the best public safety and upgrade our equipment for the police department and support our two volunteer fire departments.
Throop council Five are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. NEIL FURIOSI
Age: 69 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Lillian; daughter, Jessica Education: West Scranton High School Employment: Retired Throop police chief; part-time deputy in Lackawanna County sheriff’s office Experience: Four years on borough council; 35 years in law enforcement Are you concerned with the Marcellus Shale drilling waste being allowed to be dumped in Keystone Sanitary Landfill?
Speaking for myself I don’t believe the Marcellus Shale will have a impact in our community. What do you think should be done with the borough’s 48 acres of reclaimed mine land? I would like to see some development made for the elderly like some type of housing. What part should Throop Borough Council play in helping borough fire companies work together? At the present time our council has formed a committee of three council members and are talking to the heads of all three fire companies. As for myself, I would like to see all three consolidate. THOMAS LUKASEWICZ Age: 54 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Bernadine; son, Thomas, three stepchildren Julie, Megan, Sal Education: Mid Valley High School; bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Mansfield University Employment: General contractor Experience: 20 years on borough council ROBERT MAGLIOCCHI Age: 32 Party: Republican Family: Three children, Gianna, Kaylah, Alana Education: Mid Valley High School Employment: Maintenance director at Saber Healthcare; construction company owner Are you concerned with the Marcellus Shale drilling waste being allowed to be dumped in Keystone Sanitary Landfill? I am concerned about any potential toxic waste being brought into my borough. I think it would be foolish not to be proactive on the waste being brought in and the potential negative effects 10 or 20 years down the road. Our residents cannot be put at risk as they were with the Marjol Battery Plant. What do you think should be done with the borough’s 48 acres of reclaimed mine land? I feel that we should utilize the space by constructing new little league and softball fields there instead of the current site where council is interested in investing
hundreds of thousands of dollars. We can have a dog park, walking trails and possibly a skate park. There are a lot of possibilities that I feel should be looked at before any more spending is done on another location. What part should Throop Borough Council play in helping borough fire companies work together? I feel council should mediate and assist the companies in compromising. We are all concerned about our community and need to act in the best interest of the residents. Egos and personal vendettas need to be put aside. MARK MAZAK Age: 62 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Joanne; children Mark and Lisa Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Bloomsburg University; master’s degree in administration, University of Scranton Employment: Retired Mid Valley School District educator, athletic director and director of student services Experience: Borough council, 1986-1991 and May 2012-present; former member of borough zoning board Are you concerned with the Marcellus Shale drilling waste being allowed to be dumped in Keystone Sanitary Landfill? The Throop Council can’t decide what is to be deposited in Keystone Landfill. DEP determines what can and can’t be deposited in the landfill. It is our job as a council to monitor and analyze all reports and data we receive from DEP, for the protection of our residents. If council had the final determination of what could be deposited, I believe things might be different in regard to what is deposited. What do you think should be done with the borough’s 48 acres of reclaimed mine land? The current deed restricts the use of the 48 acres only for recreation. My vision for the 48 acres if a clear deed can be secured would be a combination of housing for the elderly and a green space recreational area. If deed restrictions can’t be withdrawn, then the only use of the land would have to be for recreation. What part should Throop Borough Council play in helping
borough fire companies work together? I am currently serving on Throop Borough Emergency Services Committee. The committee is comprised of three councilman, our Borough Fire Chief, along with the chiefs of our three fire companies. The purpose of this committee is to work with and help resolve any issues and concerns that our fire companies might be experiencing. So far the committee has been very productive. This kind of interaction among our companies can only lead to better fire protection for our residents. JOHN MUSEWICZ Age: 59 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Gail; children, Maria, Jonathon, Kimberly, Scott; guardian of two children; six grandchildren Education: Scranton Central High School Employment: Regional Hospital of Scranton Experience: Eight years on borough council Are you concerned with the Marcellus Shale drilling waste being allowed to be dumped in Keystone Sanitary Landfill? Keystone Sanitary Landfill has been receiving this permitted waste for a number of years now, and since it has been permitted and monitored by DEP I have a difficult time believing that this agency would not keep our community or any other surrounding communities environmentally safe. What do you think should be done with the borough’s 48 acres of reclaimed mine land? As far as the 48-acre tract of land is concerned we must once again format a master plan for this piece of land. Finalizing a master plan would take numerous discussions on our behalf and I believe it would be a very productive method to take. What part should Throop Borough Council play in helping borough fire companies work together? The Borough Council should continue its meetings with the individual chiefs, communication between both the hose companies and these representatives from council is very vital. These sessions are in place now and I believe are very important in keeping in touch with each companies questions, concerns, needs and wants.
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VOTERS’ GUIDE TOWNSHIPS: CLIFTON, GREENFIELD, JEFFERSON, PITTSTON AND ROARING BROOK Clifton Twp. Supervisor
Do you think the township should have its own police force, rely solely on state police, or pursue a regional police force? I think the best plan is to join forces with a neighboring community like Gouldsboro. It’s a better way to go, and then you’re helping each other out. What concern do you hear the most from residents? Lately, a lot of people are concerned about transparency.
Age: 63
could be purchased by families to honor their loved ones. This Two are vying for one seat. would give the park a sense of The seat has a six-year term. belonging to every resident JANE CASAGRANDE young and old. Age: 61 JOHN PATTERSON Party: Age: 51 Democratic Party: Family: Republican High School Husband with Family: Wife, Employment: Owner of three children Carol; children, Keating’s Heaven’s Gate Farm Education: Jessica, Kelly, Experience: Three terms as a Business, John and township supervisor ending in moved here three years ago, Kristie 2000, member of the board of full-time resident Education: Woodbridge High Greenfield Twp. directors of the Dairylea milk Employment: Retired dental School in Woodbridge Twp., N.J., supervisor company office manager studied at Bucks County What can and should the Experience: None Community College Two are vying for one seat. board of supervisors do about What would you like to see Employment: Construction The seat has a six-year the sewer authority’s financial foreman developed at Clifton Acres term. Neither candidate providcrisis? No expansion until rates park? Clifton Acres Park should Experience: Serving 12th year ed photos. are comparable to other townremain as a conservation area, as a township supervisor, one ships or towns; financial with no financial impact on the TOM CERRA term as judge of elections, 27experts to decide affordability, residents of Clifton Twp. There plus years as a Jefferson Twp. Age: 81 not engineers. Appoint the is no turning back on this projFire Co. volunteer firefighter, Party: Democratic most experienced and knowlect that was not carefully helped set up Jefferson Twp. Family: Wife, Catherine; two edgeable people we can find; thought out by Ted Stout. Historical Society, charter memdaughters, Ann Marie Didato examine every possible avenue ber of Jefferson Twp. Civic Do you think the township and Suzanne Totsky, three for financial assistance, explore should have its own police Association grandchildren regional avenues in finding force, rely solely on state What can and should the Employment: Drives school assistance. Stop bartering with board of supervisors do about police, or pursue a regional students the authority, they pay rent, we police force? I do not believe the sewer authority’s financial Experience: Six terms as pay EDUs. It could be pay neuthe township needs its own crisis? We will continue to supsupervisor tral. Everything is on the books; port the financial turnaround of Police Department. The cost J. ERIC HENDRICKSON no backroom deals. would be an unfair tax burden the sewer authority and help Age: 49 Should the board of supervion the residents who opposed them in any way through this difParty: Republican sors forgive the township’s this 3-1. ficult time. Family: Wife, Cathy; two sons, $502,000 loan to the sewer What concern do you hear Should the board of superviRobert and Matt; brother, authority? No. This would be the most from residents? sors forgive the township’s Timothy taxation without representation. Residents fear more tax increas$502,000 loan to the sewer Employment: Restaurant cook There are a lot of residents not authority? I feel the township es because of planned projects Experience: No prior service on sewers; in 1994-95 the that are not shared, and that supervisors should continue an Should the township have its authority signed a resolution their concerns are not open dialogue with the sewer own police force or rely solely stating they would pay back addressed. authority and look at the money on state police? Yes. Greenfield any/all money forwarded to TED STOUT in question. With the sewer Twp. needs it’s own police force. them by the township. When authority current financial situaAge: 71 It is too large to rely only state the authority was reorganized tion it may not be prudent at Party: Republican police. in 1998, they all voted in favor this time to add an extra burden Family: Two sons and a Should the township of an honorarium to pay back to ratepayers who are also taxdaughter develop more stringent monies forwarded by the townpayers in Jefferson Twp. Education: Moscow High rules on Marcellus Shale ship. An accountant verified the Describe what you envision School activity? I believe the gas amount of 502,000 to be paid the township’s new park to Employment: Retired, worked companies should be held back. Pay back that amount look like when it’s developed. I 35 years for UPS responsible for any probnow? No, but payment details envisioned a new park to be Experience: Supervisor since lems, damages, etc, that should be arranged and welcoming to all residents and August 1972, president for the they cause, but they need to secured now. their families. I would like to past 27 years of the be allowed to operate. Describe what you envision keep a vast majority of the park Lackawanna County Association What is the biggest comthe township’s new park to nature-oriented but also accomfor Township Officials, and presi- plaint you hear from residents look like when it’s developed. modate as many youth and dent for seven years of the and how do you think it should The park should be designed adult activities as possible while North Pocono Councils of be resolved? There is currently with the input from our resicontinuing to seek grants to aid Government no drilling activity in Lackawanna dents because they will be the development of the park. It What would you like to see county. using it. A meeting with parents, will keep any cost to the taxpaydeveloped at Clifton Acres children, township officials, and ers at a minimum. park? Will not known until the Jefferson Twp. design experts for ideas keepmaster site plan study is supervisor ing safety in mind would take Pittston Twp. done. The study will evaluate place. I would like to see a Two are vying for one seat. Supervisor environmental issues and memorial to our veterans who determine exactly what can be The seat has a six-year term. have served this country, pavers Two are vying for one seat. done with the land. WILL KEATING Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Karen Alunni; children, Neil and Nicholas Education: North Pocono
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The seat has a six-year term. BARBARA ATTARDO Age: 65 Party: Democratic Family: Widow, one daughter. Education: Plains Memorial High School, 1966 Employment: Part-time clerk, Pittston Twp. Experience: Served 11 months on township supervisor board in 2009 to fill the unexpired term of her husband, Tony, who died while in office. Serves on executive committee of the Luzerne County Democratic Party. Serves on the board of the Pittston Township Sewer Authority. The supervisors turned down a plan to build a transitional home for veterans on the Pittston Bypass. Do you agree with the decision? Yes, solely because of the township’s zoning laws. The proposed transitional home required a rezoning of the area. Such rezoning would potentially give way to a multitude of other rezoning requests on the bypass and on Route 315. The supervisors decided they did not want to open the door to giving favorable treatment to individuals, and I would have to support their ultimate decision on the matter. Do you think the township’s police force should be consolidated with neighboring police forces? Yes, eventually I believe that would be a prudent choice. However, before this could even become a possibility, the township will have to look into administrative issues, insurance and potential liabilities. Additionally, we would have to thoroughly research the abovementioned criteria in whatever cities, townships or boroughs that may be involved. What do you think is the most important issue facing the township? With the economy being so tumultuous, the most important issue will be to continue to keep taxes down for all residents, especially senior citizens and new home buyers, in the township. DOMINICK PEPE Age: 66 Party: Republican
Family: Married, three grown children Education: Northeast Area High School, 1965 Employment: Part-time zoning/code enforcement officer for Exeter borough; retired construction company owner
Roaring Brook Twp. Supervisor Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a six-year term. ERIC SCHIELD
Age: 45 Party: Republican Family: Married; two sons Education: Graduate of North Pocono High School Employment: Roaring Brook Twp. roadmaster Experience: Member of Elmhurst-Roaring Brook Volunteer Fire Company since 1986; served on township planning commission for several years; assistant coach and volunteer with Dandelion Little League Do you think the township should have its own police force, rely solely on state police, or pursue a regional police force? I am in favor of having a local Police Department. I do not feel the township can rely solely on state police coverage. They have enough responsibilities throughout the county and they can’t be counted on to provide dedicated coverage to our residents. Several years ago, many municipalities in the North Pocono area inquired about a regional force. A study was done, and this type of police protection was determined to be very expensive. What is the most important issue facing the township? Money. Like most municipalities we could always use more. The costs of vehicles, materials and labor keep increasing. One big issue is the prevailing wage laws. We previously were able to pave roads without paying the higher rates; however, a few years ago that changed. Now we are forced to pay the higher rates. This along with reduced funding from the taxes on fuel, Please see Page V17
VOTERS’ GUIDE ROARING BROOK, SCOTT TWP. AND SPRING BROOK FROM PAGE V16 have hampered our liquid fuels account which covers road maintenance. Is there any major project you think the township needs to undertake in the near future? I would like to see the township have a more aggressive paving program. Although we have repaved most of the roads since 1993, a few haven’t been repaved and some of the roads that we originally repaved are starting to show their age and are in need of a surface treatment. WALTER SEROWINSKI Age: 67 Party: Democratic Family: Married; two children; five grandchildren Education: Graduate of former Scranton Technical High School Employment: Self-employed; owns 1st Due Graphics printing company in Scranton Experience: Member of Elmhurst-Roaring Brook Volunteer Fire Company for 50 years; member of Kiwanis Club of Scranton; St.Eulalia Parish Council Do you think the township should have its own police force, rely solely on state police, or pursue a regional police force? Roaring Brook should keep its own Police Department rather than rely on Pennsylvania State Police. But the board must make sure the police are used in the most efficient manner possible by scheduling of both full-time and parttime officers to provide the maximum number of hours the township can afford. What is the most important issue facing the township? The most important issue is finances. As per your Sunday TimesTribune headline the pension for the Police Department is severely underfunded. Are the taxpayers in for a massive tax increase to fund this? Is there any major project you think the township needs to undertake in the near future? The most important project is a five-year financial plan. You can’t know where you’re going in the future, unless you figure out
how to pay for every project you want to do.
capacity. With that in mind, what would you want future candiScott Twp. supervisor dates the supervisors appoint to the authority to do about it? Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a six-year term. Anyone appointed to the board in the future as well as the curDAVE MAKALA rent board members must be Age: 44 fiscally responsible in any deciParty: sion they make that could Republican impact rates. They should conFamily: Wife, tinue to seek alternative financJudy; son, ing for the current debt. Charlie Although several alternatives Education: have been considered, none Lakeland would significantly reduce the Junior/Senior High School grad- user fee. As interest rates uate change and new programs Employment: Construction become available, each one manager at Reilly Associates must be explored to determine and former Fire Chief for the if refinancing the current debt Justus Vol. Fire Company would be beneficial to the rateExperience: Elected as townpayers. ship supervisor in 2007 (sixBOB NOLDY year term) Age: 58 What ways can the superviParty: sors improve oversight and Democratic communication with the Police Family: Wife, Department after charges of Debora; chilintimidating a witness were dren, Jake and made against the township’s Leah police chief? The situation with Education: Chief James Romano is currentLakeland Junior/Senior High ly being handled by the judicial School graduate. Earned electric system as it should be. Upon being made aware of the investi- and welding certificates from Scranton Technical School. gation, the supervisors took Employment: Corrections offiimmediate and appropriate cer at Lackawanna County action. The Scott Township Prison. Police Department is wellExperience: Volunteer at trained and professional. The Susquehanna County 4-H Club. alleged off-duty activity of one What ways can the supervidepartment member does not sors improve oversight and change the fact the during my communication with the Police tenure as supervisor in charge Department after charges of of police, the department has intimidating a witness were consistently strived to maintain the highest standards of integri- made against the township’s ty and performance through the police chief? The chief is implementation of new practices accountable to the supervisors, who are accountable to the peoand procedures. ple. The entire board of superviWhat, if any, is your greatest concern going forward with the sors should be actively involved township’s sewer authority proj- in a supervisory role over the Police Department, not one, as ect? We must do whatever we is the current practice. We must can to maintain or lower the monthly user fee. The grant that not lose our objectivity. When that happens, the taxpayers sufwe obtained to decommission fer. the treatment plant at the tech What, if any, is your greatest park will help. By adding addiconcern going forward with the tional users to the system, it will be enable the sewer authori- township’s sewer authority projty to hold the line and avoid fee ect? My greatest concern is to make sure operating costs are increases. By selling the water kept to a minimum. The townsystem and tying the tech park into the central system, the tech ship must do all it can do to park becomes available to busi- encourage growth where the nesses precluded from the park sewers already are. Scott Technology Park should be condue to limited sewer and water nected to the sewer system.
That would add 70 EDUs towards the cost of the system, allowing the sewer authority to potentially lower rates. With that in mind, what would you want future candidates the supervisors appoint to the authority to do about it? The design engineer who was fired, and left us with problems on the sewer system because of poor design and inspections, should be held accountable for the mistakes. The present and future members of the authority should pursue legal action for any increased costs during the project, and any changes needed to fix the mistakes. Any money received should be used by the authority to pay toward the debt, and lower monthly sewer bills for residents.
Spring Brook Twp. supervisor Three are vying for two seats. The seats have a six-year term.
JOHN BONACCI Age: 49 Party: Republican Family: Wife, Leigh Ann; children Joseph and Christie Education: Dunmore High School; studied engineering at Penn State Worthington Scranton Employment: Owner of Keystone Steel Buildings, senior project manager for Reuther+Bowen Engineering Experience: Four years on the board of supervisors and active with the Minisink Lions Club of North Pocono and Moscow Masonic Lodge Do you think the township needs to do more to address residents burning brush? We recently launched a brush recycling program. Residents can bring brush, leaves and grass clippings to the township building for recycling. This program was started to give our resi-
dents a place to dispose of brush in lieu of burning. Those that have taken advantage of this program to date have offered positive feedback. As word spreads regarding this program, many more residents will take advantage of it, thus reducing their need to burn. More information can be found at www.springbrooktownship.org A project to replace a sinking culvert Swartz Valley Road was canceled earlier this year in favor of paving township roads. Do you agree with the decision? The Culvert Replacement Project was not canceled, only postponed until summer 2014. We have applied for Disaster Relief Grant money that recently became available through DCED. The guidelines of the grant indicated that if the project was started in advance, monies from the grant could not be applied towards reimbursement. DCED has indicated that Please see Page 18
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013
Seven vie for five Scranton School Board seats
Transparency, hiring among top issues in city school district BY SARAH HOFIUS HALL STAFF WRITER
Funding and achievement — and how transparent and respectful board members are when making decisions on subjects like those — are the top issues in the Scranton School Board race. Six candidates are running for four seats on the board, which are all four-year terms. Two candidates are running for one two-year seat. For the four-year seats, Robert Casey, Cy Douaihy, Mark McAndrew and Bob Sheridan are running on
the Democratic ticket and Mr. Douaihy, Mr. Sheridan, Carol Oleski and Bob Lesh are running on the Republican ticket. Mr. Lesh is also running on the Republican ticket for the two-year seat, against Kyle Donahue, who is running as a Democrat. Only three candidates — Mr. Lesh, Mr. Sheridan and Mr. Douaihy — are currently on the board. Mr. Casey said he wants to see programs added to the high schools, including a course on time management.
He also wants to see the district share services with the city and improve its transparency by posting meeting minutes and agendas on the district website in a timely fashion. Mr. Donahue said he wants to bring respect and transparency to the board. He also wants to create an anti-nepotism policy and to have every job advertised, at least on the district’s website, but preferably in the newspaper. The district’s current nepotism policy permits the hiring of relatives as long as the
relationship is disclosed and the board member is disqualified from voting on the potential hire. Since Mr. Douaihy was appointed to the board in April he said he has learned what a “huge enterprise” the district is — far more encompassing than what he was exposed to as a teacher. He said he is proud of the administrative hiring policy he helped create and hopes to update the teacher interview process, including updating hiring lists once a year, instead of once
every three years. Mr. Lesh is seeking his fifth term on the school board and said funding and adopting the new Common Core standards are key issues for the district. In his time on the board, he is most proud of building the new Scranton High School, along with the $60 million renovation and construction projects completed a few years ago. Mr. McAndrew said funding is the district’s biggest hurdle and that the board must avoid tax increases while still providing teachers with necessary tools to increase student achievement.
Mrs. Oleski said student achievement is her biggest concern and that all funding must be used for items that directly impact education. The district must also employ a grant writer to apply for funds and to try to buy supplies in bulk with other districts. Mr. Sheridan, who is seeking his second term, said he wants to continue to make sure schools are safe and look at ways to “cut waste out of the budget.” He wants to look at the way supplies are purch a s e d a n d h ow c o py machines are leased.
Party: Democratic Family: Married; two children Education: Undergraduate, Penn State University; medical school graduate, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Employment: Self-employed physician, internal medicine, with a practice in Scranton Address: Waverly Twp. Experience: Incumbent township supervisor, elected six years ago, seeking a second term The township has for some time tried to have addresses changed so residents use Waverly Twp. rather than, for example, Clarks Summit. What would you do to move this issue forward? The D.C. office of the U.S. Postal Service denied our appeal to use Waverly Twp. in our addresses. Our next step is to take the matter to the USPS Regulatory Commission. I recently wrote a draft of a letter stating our case to them. The other
supervisors, solicitor and manager of Waverly Twp. are helping to refine this letter. If we still do not get a satisfactory answer, we will pester our congressman and senators. What is the most important issue facing the township? Preserving the basic character of our township is perhaps most important. We are fortunate to live in a picturesque setting. Preserving the nature interwoven among our houses, filled with an abundance of animals, seems vital to our residents, and is important to me as well. Waverly also has a wonderful sense of community as we saw when hundreds of people volunteered to help restore the playground at the Comm. Is there any major project you think the township needs to undertake in the near future? Our roads need to be made safer for bicycling, walking and running. We also need to maintain and create more facilities for healthy recreational activities for all of our families to get out and enjoy.
Contact the writer: shofius@timesshamrock.com, @hofi-
SPRING BROOK AND WAVERLY
FROM PAGE V17 this project meets the intended purpose of the grant and anticipates it’s approval. This grant would amount to a savings in excess of $200,000.00 for the township. Do you think the township should have its own police force, rely solely on state police, or pursue a regional police force? In a perfect world, I would love to have 24/7 police coverage, but it’s not practical. We do not have the tax base to support even a part time police service. In the scenario of a regional police force, a recent study determined that Spring Brook Twp. would need to be the largest financial contributor based on the miles of roads and number of residents. This is something that we could not afford without a substantial tax increase, therefore I am not in favor. JOHN FLYTE Age: 79 Party: Democratic
Family: Wife, Marie; children Cathy Rummel, Wendy Smith and Laurie Dantonio Education: Moscow High
School Employment: Retired 42-year heavy construction equipment operator Experience: 12 years on the board of supervisors, active with Biddy Basketball and Little League, Korean War veteran, seven year member of heavy construction equipment operator union Local 542 KENNETH GENOVESE Age: 59 Party: Democratic, Republican Education: North Pocono High School; associates in carpentry and building instruction from Johnson School of Technology; bachelors in consumer services with a concen-
tration in business from Indiana University of Pennsylvania Employment: Retail business manager for United National Foods, Inc. Experience: Six years on the board of supervisors, previous member of the zoning board, training from the state Society of Township Supervisors, active in the community Do you think the township needs to do more to address residents burning brush? We currently have a good burning ordinance in Spring Brook. The new yard waste recycling program will make disposal more convenient. A project to replace a sinking culvert Swartz Valley Road was canceled earlier this year in favor of paving township roads. Do you agree with the decision? I applaud the board’s efforts at obtaining a PEMA/ FEMA grant for the Swartz Valley project. Do you think the township should have its own police force, rely solely on state police, or pursue a regional
police force? If elected my focus will be public safety in a three pronged approach: 1) Efficient road maintenance under the direction of our road master. 2) Continued support of our volunteer fire company. 3) Basic police service. Based on our population, I do not favor establishment of our own police force but all options should be placed on the table and thoroughly discussed. I prefer contracting with a neighboring municipality with a planned annual budget line of $80,000 to $150,000.
Waverly Twp. supervisor Two are vying for one seat. The seat has a six-year term. Michael Hoban, who is leaving the township and would be unable to serve if elected, did not provide information for this guide. DOUGLAS KLAMP Age: 51
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 SCRANTON SCHOOL BOARD Scranton School director Six are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. Additionally, two, Kyle Donahue and Bob Lesh, are vying to fill one vacancy, with a two-year term, on the board. Mr. Lesh also seeks a seat with a four-year term. ROBERT CASEY Age: 23 Party: Democratic Family: Single; son of Bob and Mary Anne Casey, sister Elizabeth Education: Scranton High School, pursuing degree from East Stroudsburg University in interdisciplinary studies, including business management, history and political science. Will graduate in the spring. Employment: Customer service at Gerrity’s on Meadow Avenue How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? I would recommend that a committee should be formed to include the director of elementary education, all principals of the South Scranton schools, and the presidents of the respected schools’ PTAs. The recommendation of this committee should be sent to the school board and the public no later than May 1. This committee should also not only look at the present enrollment but forecast enrollment for the next five to 10 years. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? All positions should be advertised on the Scranton School District website. The top five candidates should be interviewed by the director of human resources and the director of the department where the vacancy exists. A recommendation of the top candidates should then be submitted to the board for consideration. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? We need to look at districts that are similar to ours that have had success in student achievements. I would recommend that all after-school educational programs be rein-
stated. Due to Gov. Tom Corbett’s educational budget cuts, we need to review all business practices in order to save money. The money that is saved can be put toward our afterschool educational programs. KYLE DONAHUE Age: 27 Party: Democratic Family: Single, son of Daniel Donahue and Elizabeth Nealon Education: Graduate of Temple University, with degrees in political science and public communication, Bishop Hannan High School Employment: Self-employed as a political consultant Experience: Staff member of Vice President Joe Biden’s senate re-election campaign in 2008, worked on election campaigns of state Sen. John Yudichak and U.S. Rep. Chris Carney. How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? A redrawing of the school boundaries is long overdue. It is a short-term solution until a new school in East Scranton can be built. In the meantime, a long-term solution needs to be developed that takes into account a variety of factors including population trends and student needs. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? First, the board needs to have strong anti-nepotism and anti-patronage policies in place. At the very least, open positions should be posted on the website for a certain period of time to reach a greater pool of job candidates. Each position level requires different levels of experience and education; so a separate process needs to be developed for administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? In order for students to get the most out of their education, it is a board member’s job to make sure they are provided with the best learning environment. Board members are responsible for making
sure those students have the best teachers and that those teachers have access to the tools they need to give our students the education they deserve. CY DOUAIHY Age: 67 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Jane Jenkins Douaihy; sons, Douglas and Matthew, who is deceased Education: Scranton Central High School, bachelor’s degree in political science and history from St. Francis College, master’s degree in managerial science from Marywood University Employment: Retired Scranton School District teacher, adjunct professor at University of Scranton, former teacher at Scranton Hebrew Day School and Milton Eisner Yeshiva High School Experience: Current Scranton School Board member, two terms on parish council and secretary/treasurer at Holy Name Society at St. Ann Maronite Church in Scranton; retired member of the U.S. Ski Patrol How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? The district has entered into negotiations with the Diocese of Scranton over leasing the property formerly known as the Nativity School. Located on Orchard Street, it offers 12 classrooms, a library, science room, gym/cafeteria and complimentary offices. Superintendent William King is the district’s point person on this project, and I am optimistic that we will have this completed by Dec. 1. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? The board has begun the process that will be completed at our Nov. 12 meeting that brings a new and transparent process to interviewing and hiring administrators. The teacher hiring process should be updated, but it is still very much a solid standard that has no board involvement. The “temp” approach is very much a solid system of adding new staff to our maintenance and clerical staffs.
As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? Our school’s responsibility and mission is to educate the next generation of U.S. citizens for the challenges that our democracy will face; as well as prepare them to be independent, functioning and successful contributors to our American economy. As a board member, it is incumbent on me to do everything that I can to provide our students, and their classroom teachers, every possible advantage and tool to make them successful in this endeavor. BOB LESH Age: 56 Party: Republican Family: Daughters, Michelle Burke and Rose Lesh, sons, Robert Lesh and Martin Lesh, grandchildren, Raven Sudnick, Christopher Burke and Haley Lesh Education: Scranton School District GED, welding certificate from Johnson School of Technology, trowel trades and building maintenance certificates from the Career Technology Center Experience: Four terms on the Scranton School Board, Marine Corp veteran, past vice president of 20th Ward Social and Athletic Club, member of the O’Neill Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, social member of the German American Federation, social member of the Tauras and Polish clubs. How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? The most economical solution right now is to rent either Nativity or St. Mary’s which will free up space in all elementary schools in South Scranton. We also have to look at the new housing developments opening in South Scranton and determine if the residents will primarily be new Scranton residents or existing residents who may be moving from another part of South Scranton or the city. This information will be important in determining additional steps. How should the district hire employees, including adminis-
trators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? The Scranton School District for years has used a teacher selection process based on merit known as the Walton Plan. The school board is in the process of implementing a new multitiered administrative merit selection process. The recommendation from this process, as is the case with teacher hiring, will be mandatory. As for maintenance and clerical, potential employees would first work on a substitute basis and get the recommendations of the respective department head and personnel director. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? The keys to student achievement for 21st century learners are reading and early intervention. We have to identify children who are having difficulty reading very early. We should then use a team approach to get these children the remediation or services they need. Toward that goal, we are piloting two new elementary reading programs and implementing a new elementary math program this year. A big help would be the restoration of after-school tutoring monies that the state cut. MARK MCANDREW Age: 51 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Anne Marie; daughters, Mariah, Mackenzie and Markie Education: West Scranton High School, graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, vocational 1 certification from Temple University, pursuing vocational 2 certification from Temple Employment: Culinary arts instructor at the Career Technology Center, adjunct instructor at Luzerne County Community College Experience: Member of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, food safety council, certified ServSafe instructor How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? The first issue that should be addressed with overcrowding is
boundaries. Boundaries should be redrawn and exemptions should not be allowed. Discussions should be made with community leaders regarding the new housing project and its impact. Will this be a shift in living arrangements or will this housing project produce more students and how many? Consensus amongst taxpayers and board members must be reached before any costly longterm building commitment can be made. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? The Scranton School District should hire all employees, from temporary summer positions to superintendents, based on experience and education. However, the education component should be beyond academic. For permanent positions, one should possess a keen knowledge of the Scranton School District’s demographics and needs. All applicants should be certified while points should be given for being bilingual, dual certification, first aid and CPR. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? As a board member, I would improve student achievement by making sure every resource available is provided to the teacher for the student. I would remove barriers to success such as lack of textbooks, large class sizes and outdated curricula. I would also favor professional development opportunities for teachers that directly relate to best practices for improving achievement. The Scranton School District needs to better promote all forms of student achievement in the press, on its website, and in community buildings. CAROL OLESKI Age: 50 Party: Republican Family: Husband, Thomas; children, Jennifer, Thomas Jr., Katrina, Brandon, Jessica and Donna, who is deceased Education: West Scranton High School, Empire Beauty School Employment: Paraprofessional Please see Page V20
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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 SCRANTON, CARBONDALE AND MID VALLEY
FROM PAGE V19 at Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit Experience: More than 25 years as a foster parent, with more that 100 children enrolled in Scranton School District, past PTA president at numerous Scranton schools, neighborhood crime watch groups How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? Tackling the issues related to school overcrowding will require input from school district personnel as well as the South Scranton community. In order to address the issue, I would recommend that the school board form a task force of parents, educators, school administrators, taxpayers and students to identify the key issues and recommend possible solutions. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? The school district should post all vacancy announcements on the district website. Every announcement should include a job description, detailed and specific qualification requirements, salary scale, as well as the dates that applications will be accepted. In addition, vacancy announcements should be made at all school board meetings. All positions should be open for a minimum of two weeks. Candidates for both certified and non-certified positions should be evaluated on a point system, with the most qualified candidate receiving an offer of employment. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? In my estimation, improving student achievement is the most pressing issue facing the school district. I will work to ensure that our resources are spent on those things that directly impact classroom instruction, such as appropriate educational materials, enhanced teacher training, and rigorous curriculum development. When we provide our students and teachers with the tools they need to succeed, I believe we will see a significant improvement in student achievement.
BOB SHERIDAN Age: 59 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Marlene; daughter, Norma Jean; sons, Adam and Stefan Education: Scranton School District GED, Act 120 program and advanced police courses at Lackawanna Junior College Employment: Retired Scranton police officer, owner of D&S Auto Sales, Lackawanna County deputy constable Experience: Vice president of the Scranton School Board, president of the Dutch Hollow Neighborhood Association, secretary of the Scranton Police Officers Memorial Fund How should the district address overcrowding in South Scranton? Addressing overcrowding, we need more classroom space in South Scranton. The SSD should lease Nativity or St. Mary’s (high school may be available) in order to relieve overcrowding. If we can afford to build a new elementary center in the Hill Section we could return John Audobon students to the Hill. How should the district hire employees, including administrators, teachers, maintenance and other staff members? Whenever possible merit should be involved in hiring. Our teachers are hired after an oral and written examination. The teachers are hired only from the list in the order based on score. Currently our administrators are going through a new hiring policy, the first revision in years. The hirings from this list will be mandatory. Clerical and maintenance are hired first as temporary and after proven performance are hired full time. As a board member, how would you improve student achievement? The district has implemented new reading programs. A student cannot do math if he or she cannot read. We also have a new math program. Finally we have a joint tutoring program with Lackawanna College.
Carbondale Area School director, Region 3
parents how they can approach their child’s educational needs. In my tenure as a board member and parent, I have always Two are vying for one seat. favored finding the best fit for a particular child, especially when The seat has a four-year it comes to their education. term. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified canTRACEY ANDREWS didate for a teacher position is Age: 58 hired? Should school districts Party: have an anti-nepotism policy? Republican Municipality: An anti-nepotism policy is in my opinion crucial to all phases of Carbondale the hiring process. I don’t feel Family: that if a family member is the Husband, Bill; children, Carrie most qualified person for a position they should be overAndrews, 35, Christopher looked. I do feel that a board Andrews, 33, Frank Andrews, member should not be able to 32, Matt Andrews, 30, Katura Taylor, 28, Ashley Machiesky, 26, serve if they have immediate family members working for the Carl Andrews, 24. district, as this complicates conEducation: St. Rose High tract negotiations. Furthermore, School. I feel that the administration Employment: Retired, previshould interview candidates and ously, owned and operated their recommendations should Squeekies restaurant, bar and banquet hall for about 10 years be acted on. CINDY TURONIS ARTONE in Carbondale. Experience: Girl Scout leader, Age: 44 five years; cheerleading coach, Party: one year; Northeast Education Democrat Intermediate Unit, seven years; Municipality: Carbondale Area School Board, Carbondale 2003-2007; 2009-present. Family: The school district and its Husband, Sam; teachers union are currently daughters, negotiating a contract. What Alexandra and Maresa, both 14, would you like to see come out and Samantha, 13 of those negotiations? Education: Carbondale Area Increased communication Junior-Senior High School, between the teachers union, the attended Penn State district, as well as new staff Worthington Scranton and members is necessary for sucWilkes University cessful contract negotiations. In Employment: Waitress, mantoday’s economy, contracts need ager at Frank’s Place Restaurant to be more sympathetic to taxand Bar payers as the cost of health The school district and its care increases. Teachers need teachers union are currently to know that we recognize the negotiating a contract. What job they do every day while would you like to see come out simultaneously contributing of those negotiations? I have toward health care premiums not yet seen the teacher’s conand increases in retirement tract. The teacher’s contract has funding. Competence at all levto be fair to both the teachers els of negotiations is of utmost and taxpayers. importance. Do you think the school Do you think the school board should improve its relaboard should improve its relationship with Fell Charter eletionship with Fell Charter elementary school? How might it mentary school? How might it do that? I believe we can do that? As a long-standing improve our relationship with member of the school board, it Fell Charter through communicahas always been my goal to tion. The ultimate goal is the increase relations between all best education for our students. educational facilities. Although Both my husband and I attendFell Charter provides the same ed Carbondale Area. Our three services as Carbondale Area, it daughters are now currently gives parents another option for attending and I believe are
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receiving a quality education at Carbondale. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? The anti-nepotism policy is something I would like to look into further. In some situations, a relative might be the best candidate. We should not penalize the students if this is the case.
Mid Valley School director Three are vying for two seats. The seats have a four-year term. Repeated efforts to reach Cathy Jones for this guide were unsuccessful. RICK BARONE Age: 59 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife, Debbie; daughter, Erica Pricci; son-in-law,
Vince Pricci. Resides in: Throop Education: Scranton Preparatory School; bachelor’s degree in music from Marywood University, master’s in school counseling from the University of Scranton. Employment: Taught music at Pittston Area High School from 1981 through 1987; music teacher and guidance counselor at Mid Valley High School from 1987 through 1998; from 1999 through 2004, guidance counselor at Abington Heights High School; guidance counselor from 2004 through 2009 at Lakeland High School, when he retired. Mentors at Lackawanna College. Experience: 32 years of experience in education. What are you looking for in a superintendent? Proper direction to give to the board members so we can make the right decisions. What is your main concern with the building project at Mid Valley? No concerns. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? By picking the administrator’s recommendations and making
sure it’s the right person for the job. No. There will be young men and women who are qualified and should be able to be hired by the board, and they shouldn’t be hurt by an anti-nepotism policy. CATHY JONES Age: 51 Party: Republican Family: Husband, Keith Jones; kids, Barbara Jones, 30, Keith Jones, 28, Stephanie Jones, 24. Resides in: Throop Education: Graduate of Mid Valley High School Employment: Retired Experience: One term on the Mid Valley school board, volunteer with Throop Hose Company 3, member of Pennsylvania Fire Police Association, member of the Police Athletic League, member National Night Out Against Crime, former Girl Scout troop leader, school board representative at Lackawanna County Career Technology Center, school board representative for the Pennsylvania School Board Association, member of the National School Board Association, treasurer of Mid Valley school board MARY RUTH GAFFNEY TANNER Age: 45 Party: Democratic Family: Husband, Russell, and four children: Matthew, Joshua, Noah and Gabriel. Resides in: Throop Education: Associate degree in early childhood education from Keystone College. Employment: Director of Throop Civic Center since 2003. Before that, worked for the civic center part-time and was a preschool teacher at Waverly Preschool. Experience: One term on the school board from 2005 to 2009. What are you looking for in a superintendent? A qualified individual who has the pasPlease see Page 21
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 MID VALLEY, OLD FORGE AND PITTSTON FROM PAGE V20 sion to run our school district effectively. What is your main concern with the building project at Mid Valley? To provide a conducive environment for learning that meets our children’s needs. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? By having an effective hiring policy and abiding by it. To an extent, but if they’re the right person for the job, that’s what you’re looking for.
Old Forge School director Five are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. JOE “GUS” GASDIK Age: 78 Party: Republican Family: Married to Barbara for 53 years, two children and two grandchildren Education: Associate degree from Lackawanna College in business administration Employment: Retired house painter Experience: None in public office A major sticking point in negotiations with the teachers, the school board has decided teachers should pay health care premiums. Do you agree? As a former union painter, I believe it is reasonable for the teachers in our town to pay a little for their benefits. If the teachers pay $48 a month, this decreases their cost to the taxpayer by one mill, and that’s about $40,000. The teachers were supposed to voluntarily move to Blue Cross access coverage, but they reneged. Along with a higher deductible, the district could save more every year and still provide their health care. A raise plus no-pay health care is unreasonable. No teachers union has gone on strike in the last decade more than Old Forge’s. Why do you think that is? It is a proven fact, that regardless of the board members, our teachers
are not cooperative, and do not care about the fact that a small, independent school district can be closed because of their demands. This is a big part of strikes being staged at Old Forge more than any other district. Do you think there should be discussion with merging Old Forge School District with a neighboring district, specifically Riverside? I do not want to see our proud town join with any other district, but I worry how long that can last. Our state representatives are the only ones that can call for a jointure. I would hate to see the proud Blue Devils teams come to an end because our teachers do not have reasonable demands. Our state senator and state representatives should change the law to ban teacher strikes long before they end the Blue Devil legacy for ever. CHRIS JONES Age: 46 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Single Employment: Marketing Director for Superior Home Health company Education: Old Forge High School, Misericordia University class of 1992 with a general education degree Experience: Five previous years on Old Forge School Board ROBERT NOTARI, D.M.D Age: 39 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife and daughter Education: Old Forge High School, Wilkes University, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine Employment: Self-employed dentist, operates private practice in Old Forge Experience: Old Forge School Board 2001-05 A major sticking point in negotiations with the teacher’s, the school board has decided teachers should pay health care premiums. Do you agree? I don’t agree with the school board’s position to individualize
this issue as a focal point of the negotiations. We have already seen that the savings from this stance isn’t large enough to have a significant impact on our budget. Instead, they should be basing their negotiations on our available and future budgetary funds and providing an overall compensation package from that pool of money. How their specific salary and benefits are defined shouldn’t be a consideration. No teachers union has gone on strike in the last decade more than Old Forge’s. Why do you think that is? We have contentious negotiations because of the flawed ideology I mentioned previously. Instead of discussing how to best spend a dollar, the school board and union continue to argue over dictating to each other how many nickels and dimes will make up that dollar. Until we change that mind set, we will slog through the mechanism the state Legislature has put in place until it is ultimately decided in the courts. Do you think there should be discussion with merging Old Forge School District with a neighboring district, specifically Riverside? No. The people who promote merging don’t understand that the financial ramifications aren’t as beneficial as they think. If the educational and financial gains were so beneficial to our community, it would have been done along time ago. It’s not a cultural thinking, or a prideful beating of the chest that keeps this a singular borough school. It’s the historical and continued success of its graduates that provides our belief that we are better off as an autonomous school district. JASON O’HEARN Age: 38 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Wife and three daughters Education: Old Forge High School, Bloomsburg University (Bachelor of Arts in secondary education/ social studies) Employment: Teacher, Scranton School District Experience: President of
neighborhood homeowner’s association A major sticking point in negotiations with the teacher’s, the school board has decided teachers should pay health care premiums. Do you agree? It is not in the best interest of the district to argue any point solely on principle. Some members of the board have advanced the argument that they pay for health care premiums so the union should as well. However, any real negotiation needs to focus on the fixed amount of money the district has to work with. If a true negotiation is going to happen, the parties involved cannot make this personal. No teachers union has gone on strike in the last decade more than Old Forge’s. Why do you think that is? It is impossible to point fingers in regard to this labor unrest because there have been so many different union and board members involved. I believe that perhaps due to the unique size of the district and the familiarity that a large portion of the citizens have with the union and the board members, contract disputes can often become divisive and hurtful, much like a bitter family feud. Do you think there should be discussion with merging Old Forge School District with a neighboring district, specifically Riverside? I am a proud alumnus of Old Forge High School and I do not have any agenda of closing the school. However, for years there has been talk of state-mandated school consolidations and the size of Old Forge obviously makes it a target. Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a conversation to examine the effect this would have on education, school experience, and the financial implications this may have on taxpayers. KELLY DOUGHER TANSLEY Age: 40 Party: Democratic Family: Divorced, three children Education: Riverside High School, Luzerne County Community College Employment: Self-employed
hospice nurse Experience: None in public office A major sticking point in negotiations with the teacher’s, the school board has decided teachers should pay health care premiums. Do you agree? I believe everyone should pay for health care. Doctors and nurses also have to pay for their health care. No one is exempt. No teachers union has gone on strike in the last decade more than Old Forge’s. Why do you think that is? The other school districts are in bigger towns and cities and Old Forge is a very small town. Therefore, there is less tax money to pay out with. We cannot compete with what other districts pay out. Do you think there should be discussion with merging Old Forge School District with a neighboring district, specifically Riverside? I believe there will be a discussion of merging if the school board and the teachers cannot settle. This is where the governor will step in and make the decision for us. The downfall is some teachers will be left without a job due to the merging.
Pittston Area School director Six are vying for four seats. The seats have a four-year term. Repeated efforts to reach John Adonizio failed. KENT BRATLEE Age: 64 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Alice Endres Bratlee; daughter, Nichole Okuniewski (husband, Keith); son, Michael Bratlee (wife, Christa); grandchildren, Rhiannon and Addison Okuniewski, and Jacob Bratlee. Education: Wyoming Area High School, Luzerne County Community College, 1969, with a business degree Employment: Retired bus driver for Yatesville Bus Company and former owner/operator of Valley Meat and Deli in Avoca Experience: Six years on Pittston Area School Board Resides in: Avoca BRUCE KNICK
Age: 44 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Son, Bruce Jr., student at Pittston Area High School Education: Pittston Area, 1987, two years of classes at Luzerne County Community College in business administration Employment: Pennsylvania Game Commission Resides in: Dupont MARTIN QUINN
Age: 77 Party: Democratic, Republican Family: Married to Barbara, three sons and three
granddaughters Education: Pittston Central Catholic High School, 1954 Employment: Retired line foreman for Lehigh Valley Railroad Experience: 22 previous years on Pittston Area School Board Resides in: Pittston ROSANNE RICOTTA Age: 62 Party: Republican Family: Single Education: Misericordia University, 1972, sociology and education double major Employment: Retired training coordinator for Pennsylvania Bureau of Disability Determination Experience: None in public office Resides in: Hughestown With costs continuing to rise, in what ways can the school district save money or increase revenues to balance the budget? Schools need to better prioritize and monitor their spending. We need to take advantage of the number of corporations doing business in our districts and ask them for their financial support. We need to subsidize spending by acquiring more grants and also encourage volunteerism of parents, teachers and members of the community to safeguard against the elimination of programs and positions. Should Pittston schools be Please see Page V22
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VOTERS’ GUIDES 2013 PTTSTON AREA, RIVERSIDE AND VALLEY VIEW
FROM PAGE V21 staffed with school resource officers? It would be wonderful to be able to hire trained resource officers for all of our buildings, but budgetary issues make it problematic. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? All teacher candidates need to provide proof of their certification, college transcripts, and references. A selection committee should question the individual on knowledge of the Keystone Standards and ask how they plan to address those standards. Only the top candidates names should be submitted to the superintendent and the Board of Education for hiring. There should be a policy which prohibits the board from substituting name(s) of the selected candidates with that of a family member or friend. MARILYN STARNA Age: 59 Party: Republican Family: Married, Robert; daughter, Leslie (husband, John Widdick); two grandchildren, Beau, 5, Milania, 22 months. Education: Plains High School graduate, various semesters at Wilkes University and Luzerne County Community College Employment: Wells Fargo store manager and vice president for Main Street, Pittston location Resides in: Pittston Twp. With costs continuing to rise, in what ways can the school district save money or increase revenues to balance the budget? I believe that the taxpayers are at the saturation point. It is very difficult for school districts to increase revenue since we are only allowed a certain percentage each year by state standards without requesting an exception or putting a referendum on the ballot. Pittston Area working as a whole may offer the best solution. Soliciting ideas and getting feedback from everyone on how much and when we should spend the funds we have available may
originate some effective costcutting measures. Should Pittston schools be staffed with school resource officers? Nothing is more important than safeguarding our children. Resource officers would be a welcome addition to the school district but I do believe that there would need to be very specific training so they are schooled in what steps to take and how to handle students of all ages. . Funding as always is an issue but we really need to look into trying to find the funding and taking the necessary steps to protect the students. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? Currently, we have a hiring policy that I believe if used correctly is effective. A pool of candidates is interviewed by a committee and then the top three candidates are brought before the board for a final interview which includes a mini-demonstration for a lesson plan. The successful candidate is then picked from this final three. Pittston Area also has an anti-nepotism policy. I do believe that we need this policy to prevent individuals being hired for who they know rather than what they know.
Riverside School director Two are vying for one, twoyear unexpired term. CAROL KAMINSKI ARMSTRONG Age: 64 Party: Republican Family: Harry Armstrong Jr., husband and children Abbey Armstrong Judge and Harry Armstrong III. Grandchildren are Jack Judge and Shayn Judge. Education: Graduate of TaylorMoosic High School, nursing diploma at Geisinger Medical Center, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science at Wilkes University, Board Certified – Nursing Education, Board Certified – Neuroscience Nursing. Employment: Clinical Nurse Educator at Geisinger
Community Medical Center Experience: Currently serving 16 years on Riverside Board of Education. Held office of president for five years, vice president for one year, secretary for three years. Legislative representative for the Pennsylvania School Board Association for one year. Served four years as president of the state Association of Healthcare Educators and Trainers. Served one term on Board of the Lackawanna County Chapter of the American Cancer Society. Graduate of Leadership Lackawanna. CPR Instructor for the American Heart Association. Member of the Geisinger Medical Center School; of Nursing Alumni Association. How can the school board improve student achievement at Riverside? Achievement is paramount to a student’s success. We need to solicit input from our educators, administrators and students to formulate a workable plan to improve achievement rates. Once this plan is developed and implemented we need to continuously monitor and evaluate that plan, making improvements as needed. This is a dynamic process, requiring consistent monitoring to successfully meet all of our students’ needs. Do you think the district needs to improve technology available to students? Can the district afford to do that? Districts need to find funding for technology. During my tenure, Riverside has implemented state-of-the-art technology initiatives. It is a valuable educational resource, not only for our students but also for our educators. We have Smart Boards in our classrooms as well as computer access for our students. Several distance learning opportunities have occurred as a result, where our students have had the opportunity to discuss perspectives with others from across the country. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? Specific guidelines must be established to move a candidate through the selection process ensuring not only that each candidate receives an
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objective, unbiased evaluation but also to assure that the process is consistently preformed. This procedure will not only provide the best candidate, but also demonstrate that person was hired based on qualifications not relationships. Therefore an anti-nepotism policy need not be adopted. Quality people should not be prohibited from hire simply because of who they are related to. STANLEY KANIA Age: 55 Party: Democrat Family: Wife, Janet, and two sons, Stan (S.J.) and Paul Education: Bishop Klonowski High School; degree in Business Management, Lackawanna College Employment: Claims manager, state Department of Labor & Industry Experience: School board director, Riverside School District (current); eight-year member of Moosic Borough Planning Commission (current) How can the school board improve student achievement at Riverside? Provide our faculty and administrators with the proper tools to ensure the highest quality education and extracurricular programs to prepare our students for success in their future endeavors. Do you think the district needs to improve technology available to students? Can the district afford to do that? The diligent work of the district’s IT Department in researching and securing state and federal technology grants has allowed us to maximize the quality of educational tools utilized to supplement the delivery of education to our students. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? Riverside has a very thorough screening and interview process to ensure we are hiring the most qualified applicants for all positions within the district. It is because of this that I feel an anti-nepotism policy would negate the effects and legitimacy of our candidate screening
department constantly looks for any avenues to access equipment and very often works Valley View School beyond the school day to get our technology up to speed. Director Three are vying for two seats. They know where to look for the best deals for district dollars. The seats have a four-year What is the best way to term. ensure the most qualified canELLEN NIELSEN didate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts Age: 67 have an anti-nepotism policy? Party: Our interview protocol and our Republican/ hiring policy have given us the Democratic best teachers. Many candidates Family: Husband of 44 have offered very positive comyears, Charles; ments on the rigorous interview process that we have in place. I six children, do not think an anti-nepotism Paul, Eric, Melissa, Matthew, twins Kara and David; six grand- policy is needed. children KEVIN O’SHEA Education: Graduate of Age: 33 Archbald High School and Party: Marywood College with a Republican Bachelor of Arts in English; Family: Wife, graduate studies at University of Mary Ann; chilScranton dren, Lilly Employment: Retired; taught O’Shea, 6, for 37 years, 35 years at Valley Kevin O’Shea, View 5, and Kelsey O’Shea, 3 Resides in: Archbald Education: Graduate of Experience: Served two full Scranton High School, underterms as Valley View School graduate work at East director; Valley View representa- Stroudsburg University tive on NEIU 19 board; served Employment: Auxiliary truck as president, vice president and driver, Scranton School District treasurer of Valley View board; Resides in: Archbald previous work as adjunct for Experience: Parishioner of Wilkes University as student Christ the King Parish; member, teacher observer; member of Eynon-Archbald Lions Club; Christ the King Parish and member, Archbald Notre Dame serves as coordinator of reliClub; Social Member of the Irish gious education. Cultural Society; T-ball coach, Among the ways the district Archbald Little League; union saved money included a tempo- member of the SEIU local 32 rary pay freeze from teachers. BJ; member, Valley View In the future, how do you conElementary PTA tinue to balance the budget? Among the ways the district We try to maintain a balanced saved money included a tempobudget by cutting costs wherev- rary pay freeze from teachers. er possible without losing serIn the future, how do you convices to our students and withtinue to balance the budget? In out burdening our taxpayers. We our current economy, it is unreahave explored the use of adver- sonable to ask for another pay tising by community businesses; freeze, so we will have to look we have consolidated bus runs elsewhere for finances and not to save money; we work closely rely on the backs of our school with our business manager to employees. To balance our budtry to trim extraneous items and get, we need to tighten our to determine where we can save belts and look for alternate on costs of supplies. sources of income, such as Do you think the district state and federal grants. In needs to improve technology addition, heavy population available to students? Can the growth in our district from the district afford to do that? It is construction of new homes and important to improve technology housing developments means and we have made every more tax revenue. attempt to keep our students Please see Page V23 on the cutting edge. Our IT and interview processes that the district has in place.
VOTERS’ GUIDE 2013 VALLEY VIEW FROM PAGE V22 Do you think the district needs to improve technology available to students? Can the district afford to do that? As a father, I would love to see a major improvement in our technology department. We live in the digital age and our children deserve the same opportunities as their peers to stay competitive after graduation. As a director, I would make it a priority to find ways to make educational technology affordable for our district. What is the best way to
ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? I believe teaching candidates should be chosen based on qualifications, such as experience and their own education. A fair grading system should be put in place, ensuring the most qualified rise to the top. I believe there should be a clearcut, statewide anti-nepotism policy in place for all hires. The best educators should be selected for what they know, not who they know.
THOMAS OWEN Age: 60 Party: Democratic Family: Wife, Erin Owen Moran; son, Thomas Owen Jr., daughter, Morgan Owen Englehardt. Education: Graduate of Valley View High School 1971 Employment: Project estimator, Bear Owen Paving CO. Resides in: Archbald Experience: Board member of Valley View School District
served as secretary for six years; member of the Archbald/ Eynon Lions Club, Ambrose Revels American Legion (Archbald) Among the ways the district saved money included a temporary pay freeze from teachers. In the future, how do you continue to balance the budget? It is my goal even with the state funding gap to make firm decisions while not affecting the quality of education, currently we are considering a performance contract that will replace outdated equipment and save
taxpayers money in the future. Do you think the district needs to improve technology available to students? Can the district afford to do that? Yes, the district definitely needs to improve technology. The proliferation of social media and technology is changing the way educators think and how our students learn. It is my goal that as technology advances our district does with it, for instances iPads and Podcasts in our classrooms. This would save money by not purchasing outdated textbooks and allow the stu-
dents to be more hands-on and advanced when they are ready for post-secondary options. What is the best way to ensure the most qualified candidate for a teacher position is hired? Should school districts have an anti-nepotism policy? The most qualified way to hire the best candidate is a committee and strict policy and procedure process. Our hiring process is currently conducted by administrators, director of curriculum, and our teachers, at which point a recommendation of a candidate is given to the board.
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