Editor’s note: We’ll be publishing candidate profiles through Saturday in advance of the general election on Tuesday.

Mary Anne Clausen, Democrat, and Gary A. Hoffman, Republican, are running for one spot for Eldred Township supervisor.

Mary Anne Clausen

Town: Eldred Township

Background: I am a lifelong resident of Eldred Township, first as a summer resident and, for the last 30 years, year-round. I have a Ph.D. in German Literature from Bryn Mawr College and a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania. I raised a family while working as a teacher and then as a lawyer. Since retiring, I have served on several township committees and was a township supervisor from 2014 through 2019.

Why are you running for office: I am concerned that the current board’s priorities do not address the full range of our residents’ concerns as well as they should. There has been overspending on equipment and professional services at the expense of quality of life issues, including recreational opportunities. In addition, I would like to expand our outreach to make information about our township - including its services, parks, and volunteer opportunities - more readily available.

What is the biggest problem facing the township and how would you solve it: An obvious problem is overspending; our municipal property tax rate has increased by 55% over three years.s Spending should be curbed. A more far-reaching problem is the lack of a clear vision for the township’s future and a plan to achieve it. How will we preserve our natural beauty, what businesses do we hope to attract, how should we improve our parks? The board should be guided by a vision for the future.

Any other comments: Eldred is fortunate in the number of people who are willing to serve on the township’s boards and committees, who volunteer for its fire company, operate the Thrift Store and Food Pantry, serve on the Veterans’ Commission and, through the Historical Society, are restoring our historic post office. I hope that, as people learn more about the business of the township through expanded outreach, even more people will participate.

Gary A Hoffman

Town: Eldred Township

Background: I’ve been a proud resident of Eldred Township for over 50 years. During this time I’ve been employed for over 45 years in the field of public safety communications (911). Throughout my career I was required me to work directly with all levels of government: Federal, state, county and local municipalities, I understand how government functions.

Why are you running for office: My motivation is to keep Eldred Township moving forward through the appropriate utilization of technology and fiscal planning. We must move ahead through goals that are affordable, attainable and without unnecessary government over reach.

What is the biggest problem facing the township and how would you solve it: I believe the largest problem facing our township is our limited “tax base.” Our operational costs continue to rise while the tax base doesn’t. The only way to generate more revenue in the future is to increase taxes. Our operational costs will continue to rise but people don’t want business or township services cut back. There must be balance and proper planning, but the answer “no” is just not going to work in the future.