Editor’s note: The Times News is highlighting key local races in the municipal election on Nov. 7.

Seven people are running for four four-year spots on Summit Hill Borough Council.

Incumbents are Democrats Michael Kokinda, council president and David Wargo. Karen Ruzicka is running on both tickets, and Alan Kruslicky is on the Republican side.

Challengers are Republicans Sandra L. Dellicker and Marlene Basiago and Democrat Lacey Gonzalez.

Kokinda and Basiago are also running for one two-year spot.

The candidates were asked to respond to the following questions in 75 words or less. The ones who responded are listed in ballot order:

Karen Ruzicka

Background: I have lived in Summit Hill for the last 24 years and love this town. I am married for 30 years, have one daughter and two grandchildren. I have an associate degree in criminal justice. I also own two businesses in Summit Hill.

Why you are running: I served on Summit Hill Borough council for 8 years. I am very involved with the Summit Hill Recreation Commission. I helped to get several programs up and running in the community center including Paint and Sips, yoga, etc.

The biggest problem facing the borough and how you would solve it: I will continue to implement more programs if re-elected. I also started writing grants for the borough. In spring 2023 I applied and was awarded for a grant to upgrade the electrical is Ludlow park. I have plans to write future grants for 2024 for our community. Since being on council I have voted no to any tax increases and will continue to work to keep the budget in balance with no tax increases.

Other comments: I will continue to work hard for all residents of Summit Hill. I appreciate your vote on Nov. 7.

Lacey Gonzalez

Town: Summit Hill

Background: I graduated from PVHS in 2000 and earned my BA and MBA from Alvernia College by 2006. I also obtained a teaching certificate from Temple in 2017 and am working toward a Doctorate at Franklin University. Working for LCCC since 2007, I currently serve as an Associate Professor in Business and Division Coordinator. Additionally, I operate a tax practice in Summit Hill, serve as Coaldale Borough Treasurer, and volunteer at Lansford Library preparing taxes.

Why you are running for office: I am deeply committed to fiscal responsibility and believe in the power of sharing best practices among local towns. Ensuring that taxpayer money is used efficiently is of paramount importance. Through collaboration and knowledge exchange with neighboring towns, we can identify cost-saving measures, reduce redundancy, and implement strategies proven to foster community growth and development. This approach will not only conserve our resources but also guarantee the best outcomes for our residents.

The biggest problem facing the borough and how you would solve it: One challenge Summit Hill faces is the need for economic growth and opportunities. In response, I commit to be actively involved in upcoming Economic Initiatives aiming to bolster our small businesses and cultivate local entrepreneurship. Moreover, I believe in the profound impact of education and recreation for our youth. Thus, I am committed to enhancing our educational standards and invigorating interest in recreational activities. Together, these strategies will shape a prosperous and vibrant Summit Hill.

Other comments: Growing up in Summit Hill, I’ve learned the value of hard work, dedication, and determination. I believe it’s crucial to have qualified individuals serving in all roles within the community. If elected to this position, I will embody the values of the Summit Hill community and those essential for any leadership role, including knowledge, integrity, transparency, and honesty.

David Wargo

Town: Summit Hill

Background: I am a lifelong resident of Summit Hill. I’m president of the GAR Cemetery. I’m a founding member of the Summit Hill Historical Society and past president. I also was a founding member and past board vice president of the Summit Hill Heritage Center. I have served on Summit Hill Council for 10 years and past member of the planning commission and civil service commission.

Reason for running: I’m running for office in order to continue the work I’ve been doing to serve the people of Summit Hill. I enjoy helping people in the community and I like working to solve our problems in a way the benefits and protects our community. I consider it a privilege to serve the people of my town. If reelected I will continue to work hard for my fellow residents.

The biggest problem facing the borough and how you would solve it: The biggest challenge facing our community is the influx of non resident landlords buying properties and not taking care of them. The second problem is a lack of businesses. I helped write the landlord ordinance and I continue to advocate its aggressive enforcement. I asked to form and became Chairman of Economic Development and we are enacting a 14-point strategy. I’m pursuing building a major tourist attraction which will bring jobs and business opportunities.

Other comments: I believe the solutions to our problems are working together and striving to think outside the box to accomplish goals. My philosophy has always been if you are going to criticize someone for the work they do you should be prepared to do that job. I am grateful to my neighbors who have supported and humbly request they continue to support me as I believe I am working to give Summit Hill a great future.

Marlene Basiago

Background: I have resided in Summit Hill all my life except for when I attended college. I owned and operated the Helping Hand Clinic in the Vermillion Professional Building for 24 years. I was very dedicated and supportive of helping the residents of the Panther Valley area. I am a hardworking, determined, and ambitious person who loves and cares for our community.

Why you are running: I am running for council for several reasons. The community is seeking a change! I desire to be a voice as many complain little is passed along to them. I will attempt to secure accountability for how the police handle their current duties. As rubbish has become a concern on properties, I desire to explore how best to maintain buildings. I also feel we need to watch more closely with how landlords handle their parcels.

Other comments: Working together we can achieve much success. I desire to explore starting a Crime Watch Program. We can clean up our backyards and properties from overgrown grass and bushes to help renew pride in our community. Most of all, I need your support and humbly seek your vote on Nov. 7. Thank you very much for your time and support.

Sandra Dellicker

Background: I worked various administrative assistant positions, last at I.B. Dickinson Crane Co. in Reading. I also owned and operated a beauty salon in Topton. I worked with the Brandywine High School Band for 20 years as majorette adviser and band front coordinator. I am married, have two daughters, and three grandchildren. I served as president of the Lehighton 9/12 Project, treasurer of our church in Fleetwood and treasurer of the local Carbon County Republican Committee.

Why you are running for office: I am running for Borough Council to serve our community. I will work to keep taxes down and revenues up. I believe we can do that by limiting spending and enforcing debt collection. I would like to see tighter control on the quality of life zoning and enact measures to keep properties clean, garbage in proper containers, only curb side during designated hours would help. I will work with our police to curtail drug problems.

The biggest problem facing the borough and how you would solve it: There are several problems facing the borough, while all need solutions that will take effort, perhaps we should recognize that some of the problems are aggravated by a lack of common sense. The infamous rat problem could start being controlled by requiring sturdy garbage cans with tight lids instead of putting out plastic garbage bags. This would prevent easy food access for rodents or other hungry wildlife. Residents’ input is a valuable asset for all.

Other comments: By taking time to hear from our residents, respecting their opinions and suggestions, together, “We the People” and Borough Council will bring common sense back to Summit Hill.

Alan Kruslicky

Background: My name is Alan Kruslicky. I have been a resident of the borough of Summit Hill my whole life. I went to elementary school at St. Joesph’s school and graduated from Panther Valley High School. After graduating high school, I became an active firefighter of Summit Hill Diligence Fire Company No.1. In the last few years, I have been mostly volunteering my time with the Anthracite Little League and Lansford Teener League.

Why you are running for office: With my experience I am hoping to be able to provide practical and financially responsible solutions to the Borough of Summit Hill. I would like to continue to make good decisions that will benefit the residents of the community.

The biggest problem facing the borough and how you would solve it: The top issue currently in the borough of Summit Hill in my opinion is the vacant and or run down properties within the community. I will support holding the property owners accountable to clean up and maintain their properties. Attempt to provide a solution of removing/renovating the blighted or abandoned buildings in the borough, without increasing the tax burden on the residents of Summit Hill.

Other comments: When I became a member of Summit Hill Council this year, I did not have an agenda. My goal was to work with the members of council to help the community as much as possible. If you have a question and if I am able, I will answer it and if not I will try to find the answer. If you ask me for my opinion on issues, I will give you my honest opinion.