What I'll Fight For
I won't ever back down when it comes to representing Ephrata and will always prioritize my constituents over any agenda. But I have more than words to back up my campaign; I have a proven record of service and a spark within that won't give up. I'm the only candidate with a clear vision and laid out policies to make Ephrata successful. I love this town and want to see it flourish, and that's why I fight for you Ephrata!
ISSUES
FUNDING THE LIBRARY
Part of what makes Ephrata so great is the numerous parks, trails, and other public squares found throughout town. The Rail Trail, which I ride to Lititz almost everyday over the summer, is a great example of these public services. The Ephrata Public Library is another wonderful institution that the Borough helps fund. However, the streetlamps along the Rail Trail often flicker or go out, and the library has seen its funds cut and its traffic drop. I propose that more upkeep is needed on the trail. The library should also receive more funding, as it is currently significantly underfunded despite providing significant services to the community.
IMPROVING SOLAR ENERGY
Although the Ephrata Borough has one of the lowest tax burdens in the area, there are certain areas where taxes could be lower or gone completely. Specifically, the Borough maintains a 33% tax on solar panels. The Borough ensures that for every kilowatt of energy produced by a solar panel, the Borough takes 1/3 of the energy, meaning the owner only retains 2/3 of their own energy produced. Gutting this tax would not only lower electric costs for many residents, but also would incentive the use of solar panels and improve the environment of Ephrata.
SMALL BUSINESS
For years, revitalization attempts at Main Street have come and gone with no real results. The Borough needs to pass the tax exemption law aimed at cutting taxes on upgrades and renovations on dilapidated buildings and pressure the Mayor to sign the bill into law. This is just the first step. I am calling for the Borough to expand the tax breaks on upgrades to most businesses on Main Street, and not just buildings in disrepair. This will allow for much needed renovation, improve the aesthetics of the town, and most importantly draw in more business.
TRANSPARENCY
The Ephrata Borough needs to develop a stronger relationship with its constituents. I have thorough experience connecting with those I represent from my time serving with the Ephrata School Board and communicating with other students. The Borough should start by updating their website to make it easier to navigate and include portraits of its members and party affiliation. Additionally, there should be a catalogue of each member's voting history on the Borough.
EPHRATA'S ENVIRONMENT
From the gorgeous waters of the Middle Creek Wildlife Reserve to the simple beauty found at the Ephrata Park, we are constantly reminded of Earth’s magnificence. However, we are just as constantly reminded of the challenges our environment faces, both locally and globally. Locally, the water supply of Ephrata remains contaminated, and the Cocalico Creek is a frequent site of pollution. The first part of this policy relies on allocating funds for a clean up of Cocalico Creek. For too long, pollution has piled up in the creek, destroying the water quality. The second part of my new environmental policy would also aim at beautifying our local parks.
I'm running for the Ephrata Borough Council because I believe we need a new perspective on issues facing the community. For too long, projects and revitalization attempts have been proposed and then promptly forgotten. Businesses come and go on Main Street, while multiple shopping centers are under constant construction. We need to focus on our inner most community first and foremost. These issues need to be undertaken by someone who truly understands Ephrata and feels the impacts of these problems. I have a unique experience as someone who daily uses the trail, bikes throughout town, and sees the town through a fresh lens that is necessary for Ephrata to move forward.