4 Dems seeking party nominations for 3 seats on Blawnox Council

Editor’s note: The Fox Chapel Herald is publishing election previews with candidate interviews for contested municipal and school board races only. Previews for Aspinwall’s contested council race will run May 4.

Blawnox Democrats will pick from four candidates seeking their party’s nomination for three open seats on Blawnox Council.

Newcomer Charles Stipetich will vie against incumbents Kathryn Specht-Coban, John Simmons Jr. and Elaine Palmer.

There are no declared Republican candidates seeking the GOP nomination for council seats. Barring a write-in campaign, the winners of the Democratic nominations could be unopposed in the November General Election.

Here are responses from the four candidates to questions posed by the Tribune-Review. The candidates are listed in ballot order:

Charles Stipetich

Age: 58

Political affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Teacher; more than 20 years as an auxiliary police officer in Blawnox

Education: College

Political experience: More than 20 years as an elected constable in Blawnox

Why did you decide to run for election?

I have lived in Blawnox now for half my life. There are people in council that have been on council for as long as I can remember. I think it’s time for change. Get some new ideas and try some different things.

What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?

Stipetich: I believe it’s the issues people face who live in Blawnox. The safety and security of all residents is first. Second, it would be finances.

I think there has to be a way to lower things like water bills, garbage services and maybe even taxes.

Why should people vote for you?

With my background, I have been solving problems my whole life. I do not take ‘No’ for an answer and I accomplish all my goals.

I want to bring back all the business that we have lost over the last few years.

Kathryn Specht-Coban

Age: 55

Political affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Fox Chapel Area School District cafeteria worker for 24 years.

Education: High school graduate.

Political experience: 12 years on Blawnox Council

Why did you decide to run for re-election?

I decided to run again since I enjoy meeting new people and I believe people have a great deal of knowledge to bring to our community.

We have different events in town and many reasons for everyone to get involved and bring a friend.

What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?

The biggest issue in town is getting people involved.

Why should people vote for you?

I want to create a safe place to raise children and create a friendly environment to grow with.

I would like for our children to share their childhood memories with their children’s children.

John Simmons

Age: 71

Political affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: Retired business owner

Education: High school graduate with one year of college

Political experience: Seven years on Blawnox Council

Why did you decide to run for re-election?

Serving as public safety committee chairman, of course my main issue is the safety of our community.

What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?

We just received notice that we are receiving a grant for the installation of two blinking solar crosswalk signs and two solar blinking school crosswalks signs.

Also, in this grant is money for a new sidewalk at our community park. These are just two of the projects that I’ve been working on over the years.

Why should people vote for you?

I am committed to serving the community as best I possibly can.

Elaine Palmer

Age: 57

Political affiliation: Democrat

Occupation: owner of Eclips Hair Studio.

Education: Pittsburgh Beauty Academy

Political experience: Five years on Blawnox Council

Why did you decide to run for re-election?

Serving on the property and planning committee, I’d like to see the completion of our community basketball court, funded by a (state) DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources) and Greenway’s Trail grants. I’d like to continue our council’s efforts to search for grants to better our community park.

What is the biggest issue that needs to be addressed?

The biggest issue for me is balancing a small town with bigger business appeal.

Why should people vote for you?

I consider myself a problem solver. In a small community, a council that works well together is very important for positive change, which we all are working towards.