McCandless to see GOP contests for Ward 1 and Ward 5 council nominations
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The only contested council races in McCandless in the upcoming May 16 primary are for the Republican nominations for seats in Ward 1 and Ward 5.
Each race features one incumbent and one challenger. There are no declared Democratic candidates seeking party nominations for Ward 1 and Ward 5 seats, according to unofficial county election records.
Brian Snyder is running unopposed for the Republican nomination for the Ward 3 seat. There is no declared Democratic candidate seeking the party’s nomination.
Patricia Cloonan, a Democrat and incumbent, is running unopposed for her party’s nomination for Ward 7. There is no declared Republican seeking the GOP nomination.
Representatives are elected to serve a term of four years.
Profiles of the candidates follow in ballot order.
Ward 1
Douglas Arlow
Age: 58
Political affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Regional Manager Water Treatment with Brenntag North America
Education: Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering, Ohio University, 1988; Master of Business Administration, Robert Morris University, 2000.
Political experience: None
Why did you run for election?
I believe that the Town of McCandless is a special place to live having been a resident for nearly 50 years. I want to preserve the safe and friendly community that we all enjoy. This has motivated me to represent and serve this community.
What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?
We need to utilize technology to give the police and the Town employees the tools they need to maintain the safe and secure community that we reside.
Why should people vote for you?
I will represent each constituent and will make myself available and accessible for needs and concerns of each resident at the local Town hall level. I am a year-round resident of this community and pledge to be in attendance and in person at town hall meetings.
Mary Ann Eisenreich
Age: 72
Political affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Semi-retired, non-profit consultant
Education: Master’s degree, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Adult and Community Education; Bachelor’s degree, University of Pittsburgh, Psychology and Education.
Political experience: Appointed to McCandless Council in January; Southwest Regional Director, Office of Governor Tom Corbett, State Workforce Investment Board.
Why did you run for election?
Since my appointment, I have learned that this is a council and Town manager who work well together, get things done and do not have a political agenda. Many things that have been neglected in our Town are now being dealt with. I would like to continue to use my experience to serve.
What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?
1. There is the long overdue rehabilitation of our watersheds and stormwater runoff areas. 2. Traffic and pedestrian safety throughout the Town including the need for license plate readers and cameras on major roads. 3. The updating of technology for our administrative staff, public works, firefighters and police.
Why should people vote for you?
Having been in state government, I bring experience, time and a bi-partisan network. Serving my constituents is my top priority, no problem is too large or too small to be addressed. Throughout my career, I have been a negotiator, a problem solver and a communicator. I would like to use these skills to serve McCandless.
Ward 5
Joe Wall
Age: 57
Political affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Senior Security Strategist, Director of Government Division, ESI Convergent
Education: History and Communications, University of Pittsburgh
Political Experience: Has not held elected office
Why did I run for election?
The residents of Ward 5 desperately need leadership with business experience. My business experience, my experience as a security executive with emergency readiness and preparedness, as well as my leadership experience in business should help with the challenges the Town and the residents will face in the near future.
What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?
We need to keep taxes low and be accountable to taxpayers. We need to provide the absolute best of police, fire, and ambulance services. We need to reinvest in parks and recreation. We need to promote small businesses and reasonable and responsible development. Most of all, we need to listen to our constituents, find what is important to them, and act.
Why should people vote for you?
I love where we live. I am offering bipartisan leadership because I believe that the divisions and gridlock from Washington D.C., have no place where we all call home. I am the one with a fresh approach, with a can-do attitude to challenges we most certainly will face.
Kathleen Roppa
Age: 66
Political affiliation: Republican
Occupation: Assistant Superintendent of Schools; Educator (Retired)
Education: Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh, Administrative Policies and Studies with an emphasis on school law
Political experience: McCandless councilwoman, currently represents Ward 5, appointed in October of 2021.
Why did you decide to run for election?
I love the town of McCandless. I agreed to serve to give back to the community. I was concerned about the stormwater and infrastructure. I want council to be open, honest, and transparent. We need to continue working on current projects, including traffic license plate readers, new technology, and police negotiations.
What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?
Some of the most important issues are watersheds, retention ponds, and storm water. We also need new technology for the township, police and fire departments. Our ambulance authority is at a critical stage of reorganization to maintain stability. I believe I can help due to my experience working with the community and schools.
Why should people vote for you?
Because I get things done! We have a very cohesive council that shares the same vision. There’s no longer the philosophy of ‘if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.’ We need to be proactive and not let things get stagnant. A vote for me will ensure our citizens of continuous improvement for our Town.