Seven candidates are on the Nov. 5 ballot for Emmaus Borough Council. This is a 4-year term. Vote for no more than four.

The candidates were asked to respond to the following question in 100 words or less:

Council member quality

“What qualities do you think voters are looking for in a council member?”

Democrat

John Hart

I believe that the voters of Emmaus would most benefit from having an individual with extensive and in-depth financial, managerial and operational experience to help lead in the creation of realistic near and long-term plans for the future of our borough. As Emmaus has a predominantly residential tax base with limited available land for commercial expansion, we face the challenge of finding innovative solutions to continue to support our current high-quality borough services. This challenge will take out-of-box critical thinking, a willingness to do things differently and a collaborative approach.

Jim Kercher

I believe voters are looking for a council member that puts the best interest of Emmaus first. Regardless of party, someone who looks at the situation pragmatically to determine the best direction. I also think voters are looking for more transparency into the decisions being made to understand how the council comes to their conclusions.

Teri Sorg McManamon

I believe voters are looking for HONESTY in actions and approach to issues. COMMITMENT in doing the job right with dedication of time and energy. MOTIVATION in serving the public interests with integrity and broader vision of the overall community now and in the future. BALANCE in representing all of the people regardless of perspectives and interests. EXPERIENCE in work, civic life and life experiences that lend an interesting perspective to Council. Being FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE in approach to policy and decision making. LISTENING respectfully and weighing differing opinions. CURIOSITY to research the issues and decide on a course of action that is best for the Borough.

Democrat/Republican

Chris DeFrain

Voters look for someone who has the same passion about their community as they have. They want individuals who understand the issues their community faces and that they have experience in dealing with similar issues. They want people who can work together. I have lived in Emmaus for 41 years. I have seen the infrastructure and financial issues that Emmaus faces. My experience as a Certified Public Accountant and my role as a Chief Financial Officer have given me experience in dealing with both issues. My leadership roles have allowed me to effectively work with many different people.

Republican

Chad Balliet

That’s a great question and as a voter myself I would look for things like the candidate’s integrity and demeanor. What type of communication and negotiation skills do they have? The job is going to be full of compromises and they’re going to have to do that well. Why is the candidate running for office? Are they chasing a personal agenda or are they actually trying to create progression in bettering the community? What type of achievements has the candidate had in the past? Where is their commitment level? Is the candidate a visionary?

David Bocchino

I think voters are looking for honesty, integrity, openness, friendliness in a borough council member. Someone who is a good neighbor and watches out for the community both physically and financially.

Trevor Schneck

I think the people of Emmaus are looking for an honest council. A council who does what’s best for the people of Emmaus. I don’t believe they really care if you have a D or R next to their name. If they look to lower taxes and cut the spending then they are happy with whichever nominee wins. The reason behind myself running is because I don’t think the current members are trying all that hard to stick with a reasonable budget. I hope to change that.