by Dennis Dalman
(NOTE: There are three candidates vying for two seats on the St. Stephen City Council in the Nov. 8 general election. They are Danita Traut (incumbent), Gene Skaj (incumbent) and challenger Mike Gerdes. As of this date, the Newsleader has not received questionnaire answers from Skaj or Traut. Gerdes, however, did make the deadline for the return of the questionnaire.)
Mike Gerdes, candidate for St. Stephen City Council, said he is a firm believer in being responsible with city finances and letting residents’ voices be heard.
The following story is based on Gerdes’ responses to questions submitted to him by the Newsleader.
St. Stephen Council candidate Mike Gerdes: Spend money wisely
What are the best strengths and the worst weaknesses of St. Stephen? How can the strengths be made even better and any weaknesses improved?
Gerdes said that without a doubt, the number one strength is the people of the city.
“In the two years I have lived here I have met many great people walking by my home and at a garage sale we had our first year in our home,” he said.
One of the city’s weaknesses is its website, according to Gerdes.
“As for the weakness, it is tough to say but, when deciding to run for city council I went on the city’s website to find out more, and I noticed there is a big need for updating the web site to keep the community informed,” Gerdes said. “Knowledge is power, and I think our citizens need to be better informed of what is happening in our city. Our strengths can be made better by continuing to embrace each other and our weakness can be improved by making city business more transparent for our residents.”
What specific issues or needs of the city would you prioritize on your “Must Get Done” list?
“I believe in being responsible with the city’s money,” Gerdes said. “I also believe we can do more to make the city more inviting for future residents, developments and commercial business opportunities.”
If you could use only one word or phrase to describe St. Stephen, what would it be?
“Peaceful.”
Please feel free to offer any further comments.
Voting for me is voting to be responsible with city finances and keeping the residents voices heard. I believe in less government and more power to the residents.
Background
“My wife, son and I moved to St Stephen two years ago from the St. Augusta area. My wife and son work for Capital One, and I am the broker/owner of Frontier Real Estate Group. I have over 20 years of real estate-related experience.”
Michael Gerdes
