Election 2023: Republican Stephen VanHorn For Horsham Council

Candidates running in the Nov. 7 general election are providing background about themselves and their positions on the issues to voters in these profiles, which will run in Patch individually for each candidate.

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —Stephen VanHorn is running as a Republican for a seat on the Horsham Township Council in the Nov. 7 general election.

VanHorn and Council President Mark McCouch are running as Republicans against Democrats Samantha Slaff and Ellen Zschucke for two seats on the Horsham Township Council.

Biographical Information

Name: Stephen VanHorn

Age: 38

Town of residence: Horsham Township

Position sought: Horsham Township Council

Incumbent: No

What towns does the position cover: Horsham Township

Party affiliation: Republican

Family: Ashley VanHorn (wife), daughters Aria and Victoria

Education: Hatboro-Horsham High School

Occupation: Small Business Owner

1. What are the top issues currently facing your position and how do you plan to address them?

An integral part of Horsham Township is that it is a safe, family-oriented community. With near-weekly activities ranging from Horsham Day to the recent and highly acclaimed Farmers Market, the township continues to foster a sense of community and strong neighborhood bonds. In 2022, Horsham Township was named one of the safest communities in Pennsylvania, ranking 48 out of over 2,500 municipalities.

By not only providing our law enforcement with the necessary resources but also by continuing our sense of community and vigilance, we can help to ensure a safe and thriving future for all residents. While continuing to make township-wide upgrades and improvements, effective leadership has allowed Horsham township residents to remain one of the lowest taxed in Montgomery County. Through that same effective leadership and thoughtful budgeting, I am determined to help residents keep their own
money.

2. Identify specific goals or ideas you have to enhance life in your position:

With over 800 acres of an ever-expanding public parks system, of which I personally enjoy daily at the Power Line Trails, I am not only committed to maintaining these open spaces, but also look forward to preserving usable and viable land.

Horsham Township has not just been devoted to a sense of neighborly community; it has also harbored a thriving business community. By attracting industries such as Life Sciences and ongoing support of local old and new small businesses, we can continue the same success that Horsham has endured.

3. What in your experience or background prepares you for election to office?

As a Councilman, I eagerly anticipate leveraging my experience as a small business owner, where I
engage directly with clients, manage employees, collaborate with vendors, manage budgets, and
prioritize planning. As a lifelong Horsham resident, I am committed to nurturing the strong sense of community that Horsham has long offered.