3 candidates vying for 2 Collier commissioner seats
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Two Republicans and a Democrat are on the Nov. 7 ballot for two seats on the Collier Township Board of Commissioners.
The candidates were asked for biographical information and to answer the question:
What do you view as the most pertinent issue for Collier, and how do you plan to address it?
Gabriel Benvenuti (R)
Age: 49
Education: BS, Columbia University; MBA, Carnegie Mellon University
Occupation: Technology consulting, technology program management
Previous public office, if any: None
For the last decade, Collier Township has been on a population growth trajectory, with its combination of a family-friendly environment, a beautiful landscape/parks/outdoors, reasonable tax rates and a quality school district.
The most pertinent issue is to manage the growth trajectory by continuing to grow a broad tax base. This is done through commercial and residential development that provides a combination of attracting new businesses and new residences.
I intend to work with the current commissioners to continue to move this effort forward, and keep Collier Township one of the best places to live in the county.
Ethan Styche (D)
Age: 34
Education: Working towards criminal justice degrees
Occupation: Self-employed
Previous public office: Previous chair in Manchester, current Collier constable
Some of the issues that are very important to me revolve around making sure residents are safe, welcoming new neighbors, and continuing to grow not only as a township but as a community.
I would work with the other commissioners to continue bringing in development, resources, and amenities to strengthen the community. By working with the community as a constable and a resident, I’ll be dedicated to ensuring the safety and stability of our township for all of those who live, work and play here.
Dawnlee Vaughn (R)
Age: 45
Occupation: I work at St. Clair Hospital in the Health Information Management department
Previous public office, if any: Current Collier commissioner
The most pertinent issue to me in Collier Township is expanding our community parks. With the current growth we are seeing, it is very necessary.
I am working with the Parks and Recreation Department in regard to expanding our parks by adding new baseball field(s) for the youth in our community. It all starts with the youth in our township. They will be the future for our beautiful township.