Open Letter to Voters in the 146th

Although we struggled at times, my parents afforded our family a middle-class upbringing. Marie and James emphasized the values of sacrifice, hard work and service to others. I was the first in the Ciresi house to go to college.

My campaign for state representative has been about people, not special interests. While knocking on doors, I’ve met wonderful people who deserve someone who fights for them in Harrisburg.

In Pottstown, I spoke to a man in his 80s who is struggling to stay in his home and pay his property taxes. In Trappe, a single mom told me about her long days working as a nurse just to keep up. I heard a similar story in Limerick, where both parents were each working two jobs to pay the bills.

Why did I decide to run for this legislative seat in the 146th?

I have been involved in the Spring-Ford region for over 15 years, including volunteer work with Petra Community Housing, which builds affordable housing for seniors and the disabled. I am passionate about the arts and serve on the board of the Trappe Community Music School. So it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to sing for the Pope alongside Aretha Franklin and Andrea Bocelli earlier this year in Philadelphia. Pope Francis’ message of service and compassion -- especially for the most vulnerable -- is inspirational.

You may know me from my 11 years of service on the Spring-Ford Area School Board. We work across party lines to improve educational opportunities for all students. My peers, at one time all Republicans, elected me to lead the board as president. Together with outstanding teachers, we have moved Spring-Ford into the top 3 percent of districts in Pennsylvania. We have also worked to reduce our debt.

In addition, you may have heard that the school board raised your local property taxes. That is a fact.
While no one wants to raise taxes, it’s also true that Pennsylvania funds education at lower levels than it has historically and less than most states. This creates pressure on the 500 school districts in the state to raise revenue for education through local sources – primarily property taxes. We simply cannot leave future generations behind, but we must be stewards of your hard-earned tax dollars.

If elected, I will fight for a fair funding formula for all schools that is equitable and fair. I will champion the restoration of passenger rail service between Pottstown and Philadelphia.

I am not a career politician. So, you will not be receiving 15 mailers from my campaign for state representative between now and Election Day. I ask for your consideration on November 8th when you go to the polls. For more information, visit www.ciresiforpa.com