Candidate for
Council Member; Township of Upper Darby; Ward 3

I believe that we are at a critical crossroads in our Township's history, one where we could choose a path to determine our long-term future. We could use our existing assets to create lively, eclectic neighborhood business centers and neo-traditional Main Streets, with a variety of income levels and housing stock, comparable to areas in Media, Ardmore, and Wayne. Or we could continue the trend of disinvestment, increased Section 8 housing, vacant storefronts and houses, and rampant crime, as seen in many areas of West Philadelphia and sections of Chester.

We could become a leader in environmental public policies and practices, giving us an edge in the burgeoning "green collar" jobs market. This could help us redevelop our industrial and commercial areas and redefine our image as a progressive, forward-thinking community with a core of new high-tech jobs. Or we could continue to lag behind other communities in these areas and keep the image of an industrial-age era, first generation suburb that has already seen it's best days.

In order to help accomplish some of these lofty goals, our government must be open and repsonsive to those it serves and encourage active community involvement. No more cronyism. No more closed-door sessions. No more vague budgets. Clarity and honesty lead to good government and we need to do this for our Township to be successful.

I've seen what can be accomplished through smart planning policies and practices and I want to use that knowledge to benefit our entire Township!

As an urban planner with more than 10 years of experience, I know that good communities don't happen by accident, they require a plan. If the people of Upper Darby want a plan, elect a planner!