To the Editor:

I strongly support the return of Monica Hodges and Chris Peischl to the South Whitehall Board of Commissioners because their belief in transparent participative government, moderate growth and concern for community safety in the face of high-density development are principles I feel are most important for any local government official.

The present board has accomplished much.

They have completed, with full citizen participation, the 10-year Comprehensive Plan for township growth.

Board meetings are live-streamed and a welcoming environment has been established for those in attendance.

The attitude is “citizens first.”

The township website has been vastly improved and includes current events and advisories, recordings of past meetings, township financials and departmental information.

It’s built “to serve” us, the citizens.

A very responsive, citizen-oriented township manager was hired and, most recently, after an extensive search, a well experienced chief of police was hired.

Looking to the future, all members of the present board are on record with Harrisburg opposing state legislation (House Bill 2045 and House Bill 1976) which would take certain zoning decisions regarding high density housing out of the hands of the local municipalities.

I strongly agree, believing that zoning and community development decisions belong at the local community level with citizen involvement through their local elected representatives.

As one who has followed township activities and board meetings for nearly the past decade, my view is the board of commissioners is among the best we’ve had.

I am voting for Monica Hodges and Chris Peischl to return to that very effective team.

You might consider doing the same.

David Burke

South Whitehall Township