What has been most challenging issue for the county in the last decade?

Northampton County has missed out on a decade of economic development opportunities that could be contributing much needed tax revenue.

What has been the most promising development of the last decade for the county?

Broad recognition that the Lehigh Valley is an excellent place to start or relocate a business. While Northampton County has missed out on opportunities, the potential still exists if we make economic development a priority.

What do you feel is the most important issue currently facing the county?

The multi-million dollar deficit in the 2014 proposed Northampton County budget.

How would you like to handle that issue?

The deficit is reflective of much deeper structural operating issues within the County. We will need to undertake a systematic approach to identify root causes and create a strategic plan that incorporates short, medium and long term solutions to alleviate the deficit.

What issue do you think you could tackle immediately?

Economic development in Northampton County.

How would you like to handle the issue you could tackle immediately?

We have to create an environment where economic development is a priority not just in the larger municipalities but across all thirty-eight communities. Northampton County must become proactive around economic development and leverage our partnerships with organizations such as the Lehigh Economic Development Corporation and the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber to drive economic development opportunities.