123rd Better Together
As a lifelong resident of Schuylkill County I grew up with the fine folks of the "coal region". I returned to my hometown after college in 1981 to join our family business. I had the privilege to serve both local and county-wide organizations who's interests ranged from business and economic development to education and healthcare. Additional service with several charities allowed me to truly get to know the District. In my opinion carving out Shenandoah, Mahanoy City, Mahanoy Twp and Ryan Twp will not improve services for our residents who have been part of our community since the late 1800's and part of the 123rd. since 1968. Our shared history, culture of hard work, and family values hold together these communities that have suffered the demise of King Coal and the garment industry. Pride remains in our roots and the shared challenges make us a stronger community. These boroughs and townships mesh better with the 123rd than the larger city of Hazleton that dominates the 116th. Our small communities have different needs and priorities and fit better into Schuylkill County. Putting all of our county seat of Pottsville and Norwegian Twp into the 123rd District is a positive move and fixes a past split. If members of the Commission would of had the opportunity to tour our area it would become very evident that Schuylkill County is best served together. Unfortunately computer models and satellite maps have not done justice for the 123rd. I respectfully ask that our neighbors can remain together as we fight blight and continue to grow our county that is a great place to live, work, and play.