Meet the Candidates: Thomas Heckman

Age: 62

Residence: Nazareth

What is your political affiliation: Democrat

Education:

• Graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting

Profession/Work Experience:

• Retired accountant

Community Service:

• Nazareth Borough Council
• Former auditor for the borough
• Former chairman of the borough's Shade Tree Commission

Why are you running for Nazareth Borough Council?

To continue to serve the citizens of Nazareth; I feel they deserve a voice.

I'm one of the few people who asks the right questions.

What qualifies you to serve on the council?

My experience on council, plus my financial background.

What do you see as the council’s roles and responsibilities?

To provide services to borough residents while keeping taxes down.

Where do you think the borough can reduce spending and/or save money? (Please be as specific as possible)

We're looking at options for the police department; also I think there is unnecessary spending in all departments, such as advertising.

The summer recreation program, it was not a break-even, it lost money. It should at least break even.

What are your ideas for promoting economic development in the borough? (Please be as specific as possible)

We need to help downtown activities. We've been trying to work with the [] and the landlords to fill vacant storefronts… and try to work with landlords to reduce rents.

What are your hopes for Nazareth’s police department?

I would hope -- although we have good officers -- for an improved department. We're looking at all options.

Do you feel contracting services, the mayor's recommended option, is the way to go? Why or why not?

I think we should look at all the options; we need more discussion with surrounding municipalities, including Upper Nazareth.

What one thing would you most like to accomplish if elected to Nazareth Borough Council?

To get an improved police department.

Anything else you would like voters to know?

I am not a "yes man."