What I Would Do Differently If Elected to Office

By Mandy C. Santiago

If elected to office, there are a few projects I would happily volunteer my time, energy and resources to pursue:

1) Establishing a Youth Council. Based on the photos on the Springfield Township's website, it appears most - if not all - of the current Commissioners are over the age of 45. (I win, I would be the first person under 40 to hold the seat.)

If we want our Township to continue to be an attractive place for people to live, work and visit, we need to make sure we are providing the services and amenities residents and taxpayers want. By enabling students and young adults to have an active voice in governmental affairs, our Township will benefit from new ideas and be willing to explore new possibilities.

2) Minimize future tax increases by applying for state and federal grants. Since neither the job description for Commissioner nor the Township budget are posted online, I cannot say with 100% certainty that the Township has someone on staff dedicated to researching and applying for grant opportunities.

As a fundraiser, I am ready, willing and able to apply for grants that help to reduce an organization's operating or building costs. Tax increases can be avoided by offsetting the Township's budget with private grants.

3) Utilize social media effectively. The Township has finally updated its website in an effort to become more user-friendly; however if you need access to a particular file or service you are limited to 9-5 office hours, which is extremely inconvenient for someone who works during the week. I will be happy to start an e-newsletter to communicate Township projects and events (...which will also save on postage and printing), use Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to share information easily and affordably.