2 lifelong Harrison residents vying for 3rd Ward nomination

Two Harrison residents well-known throughout the community will face off for the Democratic nomination for 3rd Ward commissioner.

Gary Hines and Eric Bengel, both lifelong residents, are seeking the only available four-year term on the board.

No other Harrison neighborhoods have contested races.

Incumbent Chuck Dizard is running unopposed in the 1st Ward, as is incumbent Gary Means in the 5th Ward.

Hines, a political newcomer, is retired from the township water authority, where he served as a utility laborer and Class A licensed water treatment plant operator.

The 59-year-old said he is eager to continue serving the community where he grew up and worked.

“I feel I will be an asset to the community by combining my extensive knowledge of the local infrastructure, water system and community operations that I gained during my years of working for the township,” said Hines, a Highlands High School graduate.

“I will promote transparency and be available to the residents to hear their concerns. I want to be the voice for the people of the Third Ward.”

The voting district runs from Springhill Road to the Freeport border, hemmed by Freeport and Saxonburg roads.

Bengel, 58, said, when he was elected to his first term as a commissioner four years ago, he had several objectives.

They included prioritizing resident safety, fostering economic development, maintaining a clean and vibrant area, improving infrastructure and using tax dollars efficiently.

“I feel that I have successfully delivered on each objective,” he said.

Bengel said, during his time on the board, he recommended extra funding for EMS during budget negotiations and has remained in close contact with fire personnel.

He said public safety remains a priority, especially given the challenges fire departments face with recruitment.

Bengel believes the township’s economic base is solid and said he will continue to work to attract new development.

“I am focused on the Heights Plaza, which, after finally coming out of bankruptcy, needs to be front and center as it is important to attract new businesses to restore its past vibrancy,” he said.

For Hines, a priority if elected would be spurring revitalization and beautification.

Hines said he wants to work with Township Manager Amy Rockwell to look for ways to eliminate wasteful spending and keep taxes down.

“I would work on attracting young homebuyers and businesses to our township,” he said. “I would also support our police and first responders with necessary equipment, training and funding to keep our community and residents safe.”

Bengel said his 30 years of running a business have given him valuable perspective.

“I always use logic and common sense and vote for what is in the best interest of all the residents,” he said.

If reelected, Bengel said he would continue to listen to residents and propose policies that make sense for the township.

“I have been responsive to the residents of our township, and I am willing to challenge the status quo to ensure the best outcomes for the township,” he said.