Longtime Chestnuthill Township supervisors Chuck Gould and Roger Kutzler, running on the Democratic ticket, are being challenged by Republicans George Strunk and Deborah Modica.

Strunk did not respond to the Times News requests for information.

Chuck Gould

Background: I am a fourth-generation farmer, a life member of the West End Fire Company and currently serving as chairman for the Chestnuthill Township board of supervisors; and the Chestnuthill, Jackson, Eldred, Ross and Polk Township’s Regional Planning Commission. Additionally, I have served as the regional director for the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts and our Monroe County Conservation District. As a lifelong resident I am dedicated to protecting our residential neighborhoods and important natural landscapes.

Why you are running for office: I am running for office because of my unwavering commitment to protect our quality of life. This Township has seen property values at their highest levels in history. I have worked to protect residential neighborhoods from “party houses” where short-term renters disrupt the peace of residential neighborhoods. Recently, I voted for Commercial Solar Ordinance 2023-01 that does not allow large scale solar fields in residential areas.

The biggest problem facing the township and how you would you solve it: The biggest problem facing the Township is for self-interest developers to take control of the Township and pursue a development at any cost approach to our local government. I want to protect our way of life and support local businesses while providing for smart growth that keeps with the character of Chestnuthill Township. I am not in favor of the unbridled commercial growth that follows central water and sewer lines.

Additional comments: I believe that we should continue to permanently protect farmland, adding to the 1,250 acres already in a program which ensures our farmers ability to produce food locally for our residents. Additionally, the township has safeguarded over 1,500 acres of environmentally sensitive areas that protect our waters and woodlands and add value to our homes and businesses. I also fully support the continued operation of our recycling center and compost facility.

Roger Kutzler

Background: Since moving to Chestnuthill Township in 1987, I’ve been deeply involved in our community. Retired after 35 years in transportation, with 15 years as the owner/operator of Kutzler Trucking, I’ve also contributed as a former owner of Northwood Nautilus Fitness Center. My civic roles include 11 years on the Chestnuthill Township Planning Commission, time on the zoning hearing board, and serving as the current Township Supervisor.

Why you are running for office: I cherish Chestnuthill Township - it’s where I raised my children. My goal upon re-election is to serve our community with unwavering integrity and transparency. I’m dedicated to actively listening to our residents’ concerns and ideas, preserving our unique rural character, while also championing growth by attracting new businesses to our village.

The biggest problem facing the township and how you would solve it: Balancing growth with preservation is pivotal. Our township has successfully conserved thousands of acres of open space and farmland. My aim is to maintain this rural essence, while strategically working with stakeholders to attract new businesses. By fostering collaboration and emphasizing sustainable development, we can ensure a thriving community that respects its roots.

Additional comments: I’m inspired by John F. Kennedy’s words: “Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer but the right answer.” My commitment remains to serve our township beyond partisan lines, focusing on what’s truly best for our residents. With your support, I’ll continue to strive for progress, transparency, and community involvement.

Deborah Modica

Background: I am married and a mother ofthree who lives on a farm in Saylorsburg, Chestnuthill Township. I have been in some part of agriculture my entire life. My true passion is with our farmlands, and making sure they are protected. I have been a PA licensed realtor since 1996, and a broker since 2009, now an associate broker with Weichert Acclaim. My favorite part of real estate is helping guide our seniors.

Why you are running for office: I am running because I truly care about my community. I feel I can add to the growth of our community through leadership, humility, and empathy, and my determination to never stop learning and growing. I am concerned about our tax base. Most of our seniors have no way of obtaining more income and are faced with harsh choices. We also must look at what will help bring back our youth after high school.

Biggest problem facing the township and how you would solve it: One of the biggest issues we have here is our taxes; they are out of control not just here, but across the nation. My other HUGE concern is term limits. Term limits for all seats of government is needed to help stop career politicians ... even for local government. There is one more concern, and that is the Samsung proposal for a 500-acre industrial solar farm in Polk and Chestnuthill townships.

Additional comments: I believe industrial solar should not be allowed to destroy our most valuable asset, our farmlands. There must be a different way for them to do this without destroying our forest and farms. We are being told big government says we must; well it’s time to take back our communities and make plans to protect us from this.