Meet Cinnaminson Committee Candidate Lisa Killion-Smith

CINNAMINSON, NJ — For the first time in a long time, there will be a contested election in Cinnaminson in the fall. Incumbent Republican Stephanie Kravil faces a challenge from Democrat Lisa Killion-Smith for an open seat on Cinnaminson Township Committee in the Nov. 5 general elections.

Patch asked each candidate to complete a questionnaire outlining biographical information, their platform and their stands on a handful of issues. Patch will run both profiles this week.

Profiles are presented here in the same format as the questionnaires given to the candidates. There were no further instructions, and none of the responses has been edited (beyond basic proofreading and formatting). Readers can make their own judgments on how the candidates did or didn't answer the questions.

Today's profile: Lisa Killion-Smith

Why are you running for Cinnaminson Committee?

I made a bucket list about two years ago of the things that I felt as though I want to accomplish. One of the things that I wanted to do was make a difference in my own community. I have spent the last 20 years in service either running a non-profit or volunteering. I wanted to make a difference in the town that I chose to raise my family in. When I was asked if I was interested in running for office, the pieces connected to what I was meant to do.

Have you ever held a public elected office? If yes, please name the governing body (school board, township council, fire commissioner) and years of service.

No, I have never held a publicly elected office but I have been appointed by the Governor to several councils. In addition, I have been appointed by the Burlington County Freeholders for two advisory councils.

Why do you feel you are qualified to serve as a member of the Cinnaminson Committee?

I have over 15 years experience managing a non-profit agency. When I was appointed director, the agency was floundering and was on the brink of closing. I was able to fix the problem and grow the agency to multiple locations and a staff of almost 40. We run many programs and help thousands of people every year with services. I have been in some sort of management position since high school. I have experience with managing large budgets, negotiating contracts, grant writing, and managing a large team of people with diverse backgrounds. I also have experience in public speaking and dealing with the public.

What is the biggest issue facing Cinnaminson? How do you feel the issue should be addressed by Committee?

Cinnaminson is a great town, but like any great town it could be better. It is no secret that taxes are a huge concern in Cinnaminson and New Jersey as a whole. The current Township Committee members say that taxes haven’t gone up, yet residents are paying more each year. I will keep a watchful eye on taxes and make sure our residents know where their hard-earned money is going.

What do you feel is Cinnaminson's biggest asset at this time? How would you exploit that asset to the township's benefit?

Cinnaminson’s biggest asset is the people who live here. I have witnessed our town rally around people in times of need whether it was a family who suffered a devastating loss, our schools and sports teams, or even things like girl/boy scouts. We are blessed with volunteers who commit their time and energy to helping make our community better. There are untapped resources that need to be recognized.

How do you plan to balance spending and revenue in tough economic times?

I will look at all spending critically. I have professional, non-profit, experience of creating and managing budgets. I know what it is like to balance providing services for my residents against a finite amount of money. I will rely on my over 15 years of executive experience to help see our town through tough economic times.

Do you feel the current Committee is effective? Why or why not? Where do you think the governing body could improve?

The current Committee is a good group of people that I believe love our great town. However, it's important for good governance for township representatives to hear voices from different perspectives. It is what makes our democracy work. For too long now we have had only one voice in Cinnaminson. I believe it is time to have someone who speaks for the marginalized and the people who feel like they haven’t been heard. It is time for someone to speak from another perspective. It is time to get back to grass roots and for us to listen to what the people need from all areas of our community.