Darryl Bertani challenges West for 3rd Ward nomination

Brian West
Age: 46
Residence: Quarterhorse Drive
Family: Wife, Janis; three daughters
Education: Norwin High School; West Virginia University, bachelor of science in elementary education
Party: Republican
Background: Manager at Innovative Carbide in North Huntingdon; volunteers with the Shore Foundation, which assists organ recipients.
Darryl Bertani
Age: 46
Residence: Tara Drive
Family: Wife, Treasure; one son, one daughter
Education: Norwin High School; Gannon University, bachelor of science in electrical engineering technology
Party: Republican
Background: Service technician for Automated Entrance Systems in Oakmont; member of Circleville Volunteer Fire Department.
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The incumbent seeking the Republican nomination for North Huntingdon’s 3rd Ward commissioners seat said he is driven by a desire to make the township “a vibrant and safe community.”
His challenger said it is time for some “common-sense leadership” on the board and that he has the background and ability to provide it.
On May 19, voters will decide which message they like best.
“I’ve lived here all my life, and I love this community,” said Brian West, 46, who has served on the board of commissioners for the past six years.“I want this to be a place that is vibrant and safe. I’d like to see more economic prosperity here by attracting business instead of just being a bedroom community so people can not only live here, but work here.”
His challenger — Darryl Bertani, 46 — said he his professional and military background makes him a good fit for the job of township commissioner.
“I’m looking to put my years of military experience to work for the community,” said Bertani, who has served 24 years of active and reserve military duty, including a tour in Iraq. He currently is a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves.
“The military teaches us to use critical thinking to make our decisions, and I want to bring that to the board because I think that is something that is lacking.”
West said it can be difficult to bolster economic development “because you can’t force business to come here.” But he said he thinks government can play a critical role in enticing businesses to consider North Huntingdon.
“We’ve worked hard to keep our tax rate low, which makes this a place where companies can not only do business, but where their employees can afford to live,” he said.
West said the township’s recent branding effort is a way to reach out to companies to highlight what the township can offer. He said the commissioners lowered the millage four years ago and have not increased it.
“I think we’ve been good stewards to the taxpayers,” said West, adding that his goal is to continue earmarking budget reserves for infrastructure improvements, such as road paving.
Bertani acknowledged that serving as a township commissioner is not an easy job but said he is concerned that decisions often are made “with not a lot of thought going into it.”
“I learned as a junior officer that you have to put issues to the common sense test,” he said. “I’m not pointing fingers at any of the people serving on the board or saying that I’m better, but sometimes, it seems that there’s a lack of common sense. And I’d like to change that.”
Township commissioners serve four-year terms and are paid $4,375 a year. No Democrats are running in the 3rd Ward primary.
Tony LaRussa is a Trib Total Media staff writer. Reach him at tlarussa@tribweb.com.

source

Darryl Bertani challenges West for 3rd Ward nomination – Tribune-Review

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