Candidate for
Commissioner; Township of Lower Merion; Ward 13; Democratic Party

I very much appreciate the confidence I've been given by the Board and many neighbors. That said, I realize that I have a long way to go to earn your confidence in my ability to represent you on the many issues that come before the Township and the Board. I want you to know that I am taking this challenge very seriously, and that I hope to have the chance to discuss any issues of concern or interest to you in the coming weeks.

I have found most Township residents + especially those in and around Ward 13 + to be very knowledgeable and engaged in the range of matters the Board considers. My approach to the position is simple: to listen to residents' views and concerns, and to make policy decisions based on the broad public good and a set of values that I think the vast majority of us share.

Lower Merion is a fantastic place to live in every sense + a rich history, very good transportation (I ride the Cynwyd Line to my office!), great academic and religious institutions, nice parks and open spaces, a world-class library system, and top-notch municipal services. My main objective is to do what I can to help preserve + and when possible enhance + what we have in all these respects. I also serve an important role in helping solve problems residents bring to my attention + things like traffic, storm water, snow removal, zoning, and other Township-related issues.

Lower Merion didn't become a great place to live by accident. Generations of citizens, taxpayers, and neighbors have worked together through civic associations, community groups, HSAs, congregations + and yes, their local government + to make this a "First-Class" Township, both in name and reality. I do not know of another municipality where a tradition of community involvement and civic participation is so broad, deep and vital, and I believe Bala Cynwyd and Merion Park demonstrate these attributes as clearly as anywhere. As your Commissioner, I need your perspective and advice if I am to appropriately represent you as Township policies are considered. I will be spending a great deal of time seeking input at the grocery store, community events, civic meetings, and in residents' homes.

It is an honor to serve as your Commissioner, and I consider it a solemn duty to do the best job I possibly can in representing the residents of Ward 13.