Southern York County Life

Stewartstown candidates stress police, growth issues

In the election for Stewartstown Borough Council, some of the same issues surfaced as in the mayoral race: police coverage, growth and completion of the sewer plant expansion. Five candidates—three incumbents and two challengers—are running for three seats on the council.

The candidates have varied backgrounds. Two—incumbents Wilberetta Gibbs and Guy Hook—are retirees. Incumbent Christopher McGraw is a business administrator at a funeral home. Challenger Christopher Reed, who did not mention police as one of his issues, is a law enforcement officer in Maryland. The fifth candidate, Republican challenger Gordon Wisnom, did not respond to inquiries.

Three candidates discussed police coverage. Gibbs said she wants to make sure the police department is running well, and McGraw wants to expand it.

Hook said the police force is working toward 24-hour coverage, depending on funding. He would also consider forming a regional police force with surrounding communities. He said he wants to make sure there is sufficient funding to expand police service.

Stewartstown Police Chief Charles Reid II said expanding to 24-hour coverage would require increasing the five-member department by two officers. That would cost about $70,000, he said.

The York Dispatch asked the candidates the following questions.

1. What do you see as the most pressing issue facing Stewartstown, and how would you address it?

Gibbs: The expansion of the sewer plant, getting the streets finished, and making sure the police department is running well. “We all work together on the council, so we will find money in the budget and make these things happen.”

Hook: Police protection and coverage are his top issues. He says they are working their way toward 24/7 coverage. “We have had some setbacks, but we are working on them. Also, he is considering creating a regional police force with surrounding communities as a solution.

McGraw: “Growth is the biggest issue as well as everything that goes with it, like increased services and police coverage. It is important to have growth, and do it in a smart way.” He said he plans to look at problems with the council and work to find the best solution available.

Reed: According to Reed, the economy is the biggest issue. “We need to do what we can to bring business back. We also need to ease the burden on taxpayers, and business if there is enough money for that. But I would go to property owners first for relief.” He wants to go to prospective business and persuade them to come to Stewartstown. He also says while he doesn’t want to cut corners, the process of bringing business in should be easier.

2. If elected, what will be your other priorities, and how will you address them?

Gibbs: “I want to serve the borough as best as I can.” She also sets fiscal responsibility as a priority.

Hook: No other priorities.

McGraw: “We need to recapture the history of this town.” He suggests ordinances to fix old or dilapidated buildings. “We really need to play on our heritage. A lot of people care.”

Reed: “I would make sure that the best and the brightest are hired to work for the borough. I also want to make sure that our first responders have the best equipment available.” He plans to open a dialogue with other municipalities to expand the police department.

3. What makes you the best candidate for the job?

Gibbs: “I have interest, I’m willing, and I have the time to do it. I have a lot of effort and energy, and I love this town.”

Hook: “ I really love this town, and I care about it. I have 20 years of experience to back that up.”

McGraw: “I’m running for the right reasons. My father was on this council and he passed away two years ago. I want to follow in his footsteps.”

Reed: “I have the most overall experience. I can look at and develop long-range plans. Also, I know where to get grant money and how to use it.”

Source: The York Dispatch (we obtain permission for external material)
by MITCHELL SELL
Posted by Dan Baldwin on 11/04/2005 at 04:15 PM in News

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