Editor’s Note: The Morning Call solicited Your Views from the two candidates in the race for the Lehigh County executive’s seat, Josh Siegel, a Democrat who is a state representative for the 22nd House District, and Roger MacLean, a Republican who is a former Allentown police chief, county detective and City Council member. The candidates were asked to discuss the main issues they feel are facing the county, and how they would approach them. They were further asked to focus on their plans, rather than attacking their opponent.
Your Views from the Northampton County candidates for executive were published Wednesday.
As I have travelled across Lehigh County for the last 10 months, I have encountered thousands of people who are concerned with the future direction of Lehigh County.
Most have expressed concerns not only with the national economy, but also with the overall affordability of their daily lives and the ability to make ends meet. This includes local factors such as rent, property taxes and job opportunities.
I’ve met young couples looking to start a family and purchase a home who have come to the realization that the American dream isn’t as attainable as it was in the past. And I’ve heard from senior citizens who are being financially squeezed and wondering if their retirement will last.
But it’s not just economic issues that are concerning Lehigh County residents, they are increasingly concerned with their families’ safety and the security of our communities. When people do not feel safe from crime, harm or violence, they cannot succeed, live normal lives, or focus on other functions like their education or careers.
These are just two of the reasons why I decided to run for Lehigh County executive. I believe that Lehigh County residents deserve to have their concerns addressed and have confidence that their elected officials are interested in serving the public, not self-serving politicians interested in the public serving their political ambitions.
I’m a lifelong resident of Lehigh County. I was born and raised in Allentown, graduated from Allen High School and earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice from DeSales University.
Growing up, my parents instilled in me the value of hard work and service to my community. So, I joined the Allentown Police Department and over the course of my career spanning more than four decades, I rose through the ranks from cadet to serving as the chief of police for eight years. Following my service with the Allentown Police Department, I joined the Lehigh County district attorney’s office as the chief investigator at the James B. Martin Regional Intelligence and Investigation Center.
In addition to my law enforcement career, I served for four years on Allentown City Council. During my time on City Council, I respected my fellow council members, attempted to work toward consensus on issues and focused on making residents’ lives better. I consistently voted against tax increases, including a 26% tax increase, and fought against a new stormwater fee.
I believe that we are truly at a crossroads in Lehigh County, which is why I decided to run for county executive. Lehigh County deserves someone who will do what is in the best interest of every Lehigh County taxpayer, not what’s in the best to further a politician’s career.
On the issue of fiscal responsibility and protecting taxpayers, my record is clear. Cut unnecessary spending and look at every option possible before looking to raise taxes. Individuals, seniors, families and small businesses are hurting. The last thing that we need is a tax increase.
We were promised property tax relief in exchange for expanding gambling and casinos. I’ve yet to meet anyone who believes that their property taxes were reduced by gambling.
When it comes to public safety, I have an unwavering appreciation for the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. For over 50 years, I stood side by side working with them to make our area safer. Public safety is the No. 1 priority of government. As county executive, I will always support our law enforcement, firefighters and emergency service personnel.
Lehigh County is my home. It always has been, and it always will be. I care deeply about it and those who also call it home. I share their values. As Lehigh County executive, I will do what I always have done: Listen and work with anyone that shares my passion for making Lehigh County better and continue to make taxpayers and their families my No. 1 priority.
This is a contributed opinion column. Roger MacLean is a former Allentown police chief, county detective and City Council member. The views expressed in this piece are those of its individual author, and should not be interpreted as reflecting the views of this publication. Do you have a perspective to share? Learn more about how we handle guest opinion submissions at themorningcall.com/opinions.
