Two candidates are seeking one spot as a Lehigh County commissioner in District 2, which includes the townships of South Whitehall and Upper and Lower Macungie and the Borough of Alburtis.

The Press asked the candidates the following question: As a Lehigh County Commissioner, how could you help the senior citizens of the Lehigh Valley?

Their responses follow.

SHOAIB CHAUDHARY (D)

At a recent County Commissioners meeting I’m proud to say I spoke on behalf of our seniors, imploring the Commission to approve some much needed, long overdue renovations to Cedarbrook’s South Whitehall facilities.

The County finally stepped up, listened to our appeals and approved the funding needed. This approval came after three years of debate. These kinds of delays are unacceptable.

I’m old school in this way, but I believe that our senior’s contributions to our families and community must be respected. We simply cannot wait on quality senior services, and as Commissioner I would make this a top priority.

PERCY H. DOUGHERTY (R)

As a senior citizen, I understand the problems seniors face. As a Commissioner, I support our high quality programs: Aging and Adult Services, senior housing, neighborhood senior centers, personal care, prescription discounts, Meals on Wheels, and consulting services. Our Cedarbrook Nursing Home recently attained 5 stars and is planning a $68,000,000 renovation.

It is important for seniors to stay in their homes by keeping taxes low. If reelected, I will build on our successes and maintain high service levels in the face of tight budgets. I will work with State officials to restore funding to human services and senior programs.

In District Five, Nathan Brown is running unopposed on both the Democrat and Republican ticket.