A Letter From Ward Three Commissioner Candidate

Radnor is a very special place to live!  However, a local government that imposes annual tax increases while cutting services put our township’s future at risk.  Seeking to secure Radnor’s future, I decided to run for Township Commissioner from Ward Three.

Radnor’s residents have endured annual tax increases amounting to a 42 percent increase just since 2004.  While taxes have skyrocketed, our police force has been cut – crime has since spiked – and additional cuts loom as the adoption of next year’s budget approaches.  Our community faces additional challenges.  Managing an aging sewer system, addressing storm water management issues, and dealing with  township-owned real estate while evaluating new parcels of land all carry considerable price tags will be just a few of the many issues our BOC will face.

As Commissioner from Ward Three, I recognize that real problems require real solutions, not easy fixes that result in tax increases. Unfortunately, the current BOC majority is too willing to take the easy way out.  This is unacceptable, particularly considering that neighbors tell me they still have the same problems they had two years ago- storm water issues, snarled traffic, decreased library service, parking, and now crime.  While the township is reaching deeper into your pocket, you’re getting less in return!

As Commissioner, I will insist that Township government lives within its means as our families must.  I will promote expansion of public-private partnerships such as the recent one with AIS which allows for improved services for residents.

I believe that open space is an integral part of Radnor’s character and why our community is such a special place.  As Commissioner, I will support open space efforts in the context of the needs of the entire township and the costs and use of parcels under consideration. 

Most importantly, I will serve as Commissioner with no agenda but the best interests of our community and its residents.  I will demand accountability and transparency in all areas of local government.  Residents must be respected – not bullied – when coming before the BOC and taxpayers have the right to know that their elected officials are serving the public’s interest and making decisions in the light of day rather than in back rooms.

Emily Hobson, Wayne