VOTE411 Voter Guide

My family has called Halfmoon Township home for generations. Throughout that time, Halfmoon Township has largely remained a unique area that provides the best of both worlds: rural living within close proximity to the urban life of State College. It's a priority of mine to preserve the quiet and freedom of this rural township, along with the agricultural impact it has always provided. Preserving farmland from being turned into condensed housing has the added benefit of increased safety by not putting further strain on an already busy Route 550. It's important to me to be able to maintain the infrastructure in our community without raising taxes and placing further burden on our residents, especially at this time with the quickly rising cost of living. Therefore, I vote to avoid overspending in order to get the best benefits for our taxpayer dollars.

- I will maintain the rural living nature of Halfmoon Township by voting "no" to any ordinance changes that restrict residents' rights to utilize their properties in a "rural residential" manner. - I will maintain the current township budget priorities including voting "no" to hiring a Township Manager or signing another contract with Shlow Library (which we do fund at a reasonable level with a budget line item). - I will vote "yes" to increasing the roadworks projects within budget limits and to provide equipment upgrades when justifiable.

Essential Services: Ensure the continuation of essential services by working closely with the Upper Bald Eagle/Halfmoon COG to secure future funding. Implement thorough planning and accountability to maintain township roads, parks, and buildings.

Citizen Engagement: Foster increased resident involvement by sharing and responding to citizen emails and meeting comments. Enhance communication by upgrading the township website to provide searchable information on local issues and events. Restore committee reports to strengthen transparency and participation.

Rural Preservation: Protect the township’s rural character by managing growth through the rural preservation plan. Support the Open Space Program to mitigate development pressures. Actively engage citizens in all aspects of community planning to ensure sustainable growth.

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Here are my top 3 priorities and the means for addressing them as our Township Supervisor: 1. Ensure Community Safety • Maintain viable and responsive emergency services by providing adequate funding for Port Matilda Fire Company and Port Matilda EMS • Ensure safe, well-maintained, and high-quality roads with an effective road crew • Support and implement best practices for stormwater management by seeking grants and other resources available  • Protect and preserve our drinking water resources 2. Encourage Open Communication and Build Trust • Actively listen to citizens’ concerns and ideas during township meetings • Foster meaningful two-way dialogue with residents • Maintain a fiscally responsible budget through thoughtful strategic planning 3. Preserve Our Rural Character • Protect and strengthen the Open Space Program • Pursue permanent conservation easements • Engage the community in planning processes to ensure a rural future • Maintain parks and provide recreational activities