There are six candidates seeking seats on Catasauqua Borough Council: Democrats Trudy Warner, Vincent Smith and David Bernini and Republicans Paul Cmil, Howard Cunningham and Jill Smerdon. Voters will choose three in the Nov. 2 election.

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

What do you see as the most important issue for voters in this election?

TRUDY WARNER

I believe the most important issue for voters this election is the division we feel as a country right now stems from a two-party system. So many of us go into the voting booth already knowing which box you will check without even speaking with or knowing a candidate’s stance. Go out and meet all the candidates, talk to them, even if you don’t have the same opinion on all subjects. No candidate will ever be the perfect fit, but the beauty of democracy is that their job will always be a temp job.

VINCENT SMITH

Taxes. As a councilman with over 35 years of business experience, I use budget oversight and grant sourcing to save taxpayers money and project creation, such as Iron Works and the upcoming developments across from Sheckler school, to bring in permanent additional revenue to Catasauqua. The three developments are projected to bring in $400,000 to the borough and $1.2 million to the school district annually, helping us hold the line on taxes. These projects also bring with them positive housing, retail and entertainment quality-of-life enhancements, while increasing current property values, safety and the overall appearance of the borough.

DAVID BERNINI

I believe the most important issue for Catasauqua voters is maintaining progress and investment toward Catasauqua’s full potential. A candidate’s intention to tax and spend fairly, responsibly and based on need should go without saying - a core duty of elected office; however, responsible spending should not be misrepresented to mean “no spending.” Investment in our community through grant writing, borrowing and taxation must be measured against tangible short- and long-term benefits. Ambitious strategic initiatives like Iron Works will deliver community revitalization and engagement, improved downtown infrastructure and critical tax revenue to fund important initiatives, like rehabilitating our park’s pool complex.

PAUL CMIL

Those who own property have seen our taxes in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 and have more taxes scheduled in 2022. Plus, we have had our water and sewer rates increased and another expected rate increase in 2022. Every municipality - from the biggest city to the smallest hamlet - knows about “smart growth.” Why doesn’t Catasauqua never use these proven techniques? We have enough tax revenues to meet our basic needs. We know our borough. We do not need the Philadelphia mafia to run our town. This is Catasauqua. We know what we need.

HOWARD CUNNINGHAM

Taxes have been increased almost annually for several years, which is frustrating Catasauqua taxpayers. The budget should link to a broad view of Catasauqua’s goals and focus on getting the best outcome-based value while holding the line on taxes. Catasauqua’s infrastructure should always be the foremost priority, which includes public improvements of, but not limited to, sewer, water, roads, stormwater management and the high cost of homeownership in relation to average incomes. Responsible planning creates a systemic process that anticipates and plans for the future while managing time constraints and the budget.

Smerdon did not respond.