Haverford Township Primary Election Information

Many Haverford Township residents will be participating in the primary elections on Tuesday.

Below is information from some of the candidates who filled out a Haverford-Havertown Patch's political questionnaire. For those who did not return the questionnaire or could not be reached, their information is also included as best as possible.

Also, the polling locations can also be found as a PDF below the pictures. It should be noted that the voting place for the 8th ward, fourth precinct is located at the Suburban Jewish Community Center, 560 Mill Rd., Havertown.

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Name: Bob Burke

Age: 61

Town you live in: Havertown

Political party: Republican/Democrat

Campaign website/Facebook link: www.judgebobburke.com

Current elected position: Magisterial District Judge 32-1-25

Position you are running for: Magisterial District Judge 32-1-25

Brief background: I graduated from Penn State with a degree in Political Science. I entered the US Army rising to the rank of Captain after serving 13 months in South Korea. I attended law school at night while working full time as a law firm clerk during the day. I earned my law degree from Widener University. I became a senior partner of my law firm, managing our Havertown office for the past 11 years. 

In 1981, I came to Havertown and fell in love with the people and the neighborhood and decided to raise my family here. I have 2 children, Ashley and Jason, both of whom attended grade school at Sacred Heart School. I became active in the community, joining the Bon Air Fire company, serving as Solicitor and as a member on the Board of Directors.

I served on the Haverford Township Skatium Rink Advisory Board, and as Vice Chairman of the Haverford Township Planning Commission. My involvement with the youth of Havertown continues through my service with the Havertown Optimist Club of which I am the current Vice President.

In 1999, I was elected as Magisterial District Judge in Haverford Township.  I am currently finishing my second term.

Why people should vote for you: To be a respected Magisterial District Judge, you have to know the community, the law, the rules of court, be able to administer justice in a firm, fair and impartial manner and be blessed with some good old fashion common sense.  I am the candidate who fulfills these criteria.

As a 30 year resident of Haverford Township who has raised my family here, I know who "we" are.  As a perennial volunteer and involved member of the community, serving with several organizations and on governmental boards and committees, I understand the needs and issues that affect our residents.

As a leader, serving as a Captain in the US Army, and as a senior partner of a law firm, I have the tools to solve problems, and to create ways to deal with issues that affect all of us.

As your Magisterial District Judge for the past 11 years, over 40,000 cases have been processed through my court.  I have the experience, knowledge and good judicial temperament to dispense justice in a fair and impartial manner.  I am proud of my record of service and my reputation as an honest, fair judge who has integrity.  For these reasons I ask that you vote for Bob Burke on May 17th.

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Name: Philip Lozano

Town you live in: Havertown

Political party: Republican/Democrat

Campaign website/Facebook link:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lozano-for-District-Judge-Haverford-Township/134344856607423

http://www.electlozano.org/

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: None

Position you are running for: Magisterial District Judge 32-1-25

Brief background:"Philip was born and raised in Ardmore, and has been a resident of the area for most of his life. He attended grade school at Ss. Colman – John Neuman, and graduated from Lower Merion High School. He learned the value of hard work as a caddy at the Merion Golf Club while excelling at soccer and lacrosse. As a young man, he demonstrated a great love for learning and a desire for justice.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Franciscan University in Ohio, Philip served his community by working in a group home for troubled teens. While working full-time at a large law firm in Philadelphia, he attended Temple University’s Beasely School of Law in the evenings

Philip currently works as an attorney at a well-established firm in Philadelphia, not far from Independence Hall. His practice is focused on defending the rights of working people by ensuring that their pensions are protected and well funded. The majority of Philip’s practice involves litigating complex matters in Federal court," according to his website. (Editor's note: The emailed questionnaire sent to Mr. Lozano did not reach him, so in order of fairness, Patch used the information from his campaign website.)

Why people should vote for you: "The track record among District Judges in Delaware County is terrible:

Former Judge Anthony Truscello did jail time in 2009 for tampering with public records; Former Judge David Murphy, pleaded guilty in July of 2010 to forgery, identity theft and related offenses for forging signatures on his nominating petitions; Gerald Liberace, the former Senior District Judge in Haverford Township, was convicted of endangering the welfare of a child and corrupting the morals of a minor on January 6, 2011.

Enough is enough. If we are to expect fair and impartial justice we need to make our voices heard through the democratic process. It is time for voters to stand up and make a clear choice for integrity, fairness and a commitment to put “service” back in public service.  

In Haverford Township, District Judges serve in the neighborhood where they reside. I am running for the district that covers wards 1, 2, 3 and 7 because I am committed to public service and want to see our neighborhoods flourish," from his website.

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Name: Jon Tancredi

Age: 44

Town you live in: Haverford Township

Political party: Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link:

1)     https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Jon-Tancredi-for-Commissioner/215828188431605 

2)     http://smartvoter.org/2011/05/17/pa/dl/vote/tancredi_j/

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: None

Position you are running for: Commissioner, First Ward, Haverford Township

Brief background: I’ve been a resident of the First Ward since 1995 and am blessed to have two wonderful children, Jenna Grace, 14 and Jack Owen, 11.

I’ve been fortunate and try to give back to the County and Haverford Township.   Over the years, I’ve volunteered at City Team, taught illiterate adults to read, coached youth athletics in the Township, served on the board of Haverford Youth Football and Cheerleading, volunteered for the PTO and served as a member of the Haverford Music Festival.  Serving as Commissioner would be a continuation of my community service.

As group director at a marketing communications agency and former faculty of Temple University’s Strategic Communications department, I know how to work cooperatively with many different parties on one issue.  I teach and practice that to accomplish a goal and come to a resolution, creative, sincere and honest communications are what make the difference.

Why people should vote for you: I’m a regular guy.  I’ve been fortunate and work to give back to our community.  I have a strong professional and volunteer background.  I attend monthly commissioners’ meetings and engage many residents.   I will be a true advocate for our First Ward and Haverford Township.

I will be very responsive to residents’ inquiries.  I’ll let them know what I think and how I can, or can’t, help.  First Ward residents will always get a speedy and considerate response from me.

In addition, I will be proactive in my communication with First Ward residents.  As director at a marketing communications agency and former faculty of Temple University’s Strategic Communications department, I realize the importance of effective communication. 

I speak with many people who are unaware of major recent issues such as billboards, the costly Haverford Township/Swell Gum court battle or the creation of the Human Relations Commission.  I hope to communicate with residents via website/Facebook, e-mails, twitter posts and old-fashioned community meetings and newsletters.

I will fight ardently against billboards in our Township and work with others to create an attractive economic environment for businesses here in Haverford Township.

My family and most Township residents plan wisely and thoroughly for expenses, so should the Township. 

I am so deeply committed to representing the First Ward, I am funding this primary campaign 100% with my own money.  I have not asked for or accepted ANY money or engaged in any fundraising. 

The only thing I ask for is your vote on May 17.

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Name: Steve D'Emilio

Town you live in: Haverford Township

Political party: Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Re-Elect-Steve-DEmilio-Commissioner-1st-Ward/122774157790950

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: 1st Ward Commissioner

Position you are running for: 1st Ward Commissioner

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Name: Tom Shiffer

Town you live in: Haverford Township

Political party: Democrat

Campaign website/Facebook link: http://www.haverforddemocrats.com/candidates/ward1/ward_home.html

Position you are running for: 1st Ward Commissioner

Brief background:

• Worked as Pension Plan Administrator for 40 plus years 
• 1st Ward Haverford Democratic Committee Member
• Active member of Trinity Lutheran Church
• Volunteer for Life Center of Delaware County serving the homeless and needy of the county -- From his website.

Why people should vote for you:

       Key issues

• Traffic Calming
• Support for Small Businesses 

       Key Goals as a Commissioner

• Implement effective traffic calming measures to create safer neighborhoods
• Create a positive business climate to attract new businesses to and allow existing businesses to thrive. -- From his website.

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Name:  Jane Hall

Town you live in:  Ardmore, PA  19003

Political party:  Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link: None

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: None

Position you are running for:  3rd Ward Commissioner Haverford Township

Brief background:

• Lived in Ardmore, Merion Golf Manor for over 27 years
• BA Villanova University
• ABA Paralegal Villanova University
• PA Licensed REALTOR
• 4 years Haverford Township Civic Council
• Established Merion Golf Manor Neighborhood Association

Why people should vote for you: The voters will know, and do know, how dedicated I am to this township.  I have spent many years working with the township and my community to make improvements in small but important ways.  I believe in preservation, promotion, beautification, and dedication.  With support and determination, we can make great things happen for all the residents and businesses of Haverford Township.  I would like the opportunity to take my commitment to this township to a level where I can truly make a difference.

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Name: Jeff Miller
 
Age: 46
 
Town you live in: Haverford Township
 
Political party: Democrat (fiscal conservative)
 
Campaign website/Facebook link: JeffMiller3rdWard.com
 
Current/former elected position you are currently holding: President, Haverford Free Library
 
Position you are running for: Commissioner 3rd Ward
 
Brief background:

• Project Manager, Registered Architect & LEED Accredited Professional experienced with designing
• schools, airports, and transportation facilities. with specialties in historic structures and planning.
• Bates College B.A. Political Science and Psychology; Drexel University B.Architecture Cum Laude
• President, Haverford Library Board of Trustees since 2003
• Secretary, Haverford Township Civic Council

Why people should vote for you: My desire is to be serve the residents of my Ward and Township.  I’ve been very active in local government and organizations for the past 11 years. I bring a wealth of experience in public policy and planning knowledge. I know the current administration staff and personnel which gives me a working knowledge of our government from the start. I have management and financial experience that will help the Township in long-range strategic planning. I’m able to make the tough choices required to maintain our first-class community.

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Name: Darin Hayton  

Age: 43 

Town you live in: Haverford 

Political party: Democratic 

Campaign website/Facebook link: N/A 

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: None

Position you are running for: 5th Ward Township Commissioner 

Brief background: I have lived in Haverford for six years now with my family. I teach History of Science at Haverford College and strive to bring the fruits of my scholarship to a broader audience through public lectures, informal presentations to local schools, and outreach. I have been fortunate to live in a variety of places and learn from many different cultures. We moved here from Oxford (England), where I had a research appointment at Oxford University. Before that we lived in South Bend while I completed my Ph.D. at the University of Notre Dame. During our time there I received a Fulbright Fellowship to conduct research in Vienna (Austria). I have a B.S. in Chemistry, an M.A. in History, and a Ph.D. in History and Philosophy of Science. In addition to my academic pursuits, I enjoy running and was a competitive cyclist for a number of years. 

Why people should vote for you: I want to make Haverford a better place to live for you and your family. I want to meet and work with residents of the ward to find out how the township can help improve the quality of your life.As Township Commissioner, I would begin by finding out what issues matter to you, the Haverford resident. What are the daily, neighborhood issues that affect you most—traffic problems or a deteriorating local park? What are the larger concerns you have about the township—taxes or billboards? I would work to meet every household in my ward to find out from you what we can do to improve your quality of life. I will start by understanding the issues that matter to residents and then will work with you in searching for solutions to those problems. I would draw on my broad experiences and expertise to find creative and responsible solutions.

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Name: Jeff Heilmann

Town you live in: Bryn Mawr

Political party: Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link: N/A 

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: 5th Ward Township Commissioner

Position you are running for: 5th Ward Township Commissioner

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Name: Larry Chrzan

Age: 52

Town you live in: Havertown

Political party: Democrat

Campaign website/Facebook link: http://www.LarryChrzan.com

Current/former elected position you are currently holding:

• 2003-2009, Haverford Library Board Trustee, including two years as President
• 2004-2011, Haverford Township Democratic Party Committee, current Ward Leader in the 7th Ward

Position you are running for: Haverford Township 7th Ward Commissioner

Brief background:

• Owner and Principal Consultant for Blue Horseradish, LLC, a web marketing and search engine optimization services provider.
• Previously worked for a regional economic development agency and a global supply chain planning company, providing consulting services for large and small businesses, including Fortune 500 companies.
• B.S. Industrial Engineering, 1993, University of Pittsburgh, Summa Cum Laude.
• Community involvement includes six years as a Trustee and Past President of the Haverford Township Free Library.

Why people should vote for you: This 7th ward commissioner election is a clear choice between the old ways of the incumbent and the new and innovative direction I will take as commissioner.

The priorities of a commissioner should be on planning for the future of the township and overseeing its $30+ million finances. The incumbent has focused almost entirely on personally providing constituent services. As a result, there has not been a comprehensive plan for the township in 20 years. Our township’s assets - buildings, business districts, parks - are in need of improvements because of this. As commissioner I will focus on planning and budget oversight while makings sure that township systems work as they should and services are efficiently provided for everyone - without the intervention of a commissioner.

I am the only candidate for 7th ward commissioner that takes no campaign contributions from people who do business with our township, and I never will.  I want to eliminate “pay-to-play” while the incumbent has taken significant amounts of such contributions (proof of this is on my website at www.LarryChrzan.com/VoterInfo). I will responsible only to the taxpayers and will not be influenced by contributors when contracts and jobs are awarded. If you want a commissioner who looks out only for the residents without regard to pressure from contributors, I’m the only choice. 

With your support, I will use my business skills, engineering background and community commitment to bring the much-needed change in focus and direction that will improve and guide our township forward.

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Name: Jim McGarrity

Town you live in: Havertown

Political party: Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link: N/A

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: 7th Ward Township Commissioner

Position you are running for: 7th Ward Township Commissioner

Brief background: "Jim McGarrity and his wife, Fran, both grew up in Haverford Township.  They have three children and nine grandchildren.  Jim has served the community as coach, Cub Scout leader, and board member of various organizations for many years.  He is serving his fifth term as commissioner.  Jim is retired after working 32 years for SEPTA's Red Arrow Division.

Jim sees his role as Commissioner as an advocate for the people:  first, to enhance the community and quality of life of its people; and second, to be a liaison between the residents of the Seventh Ward and the Township.  Haverford is a wonderful place to live and raise a family.  However, the Township and the community need to work together continually to encourage new business, revitalize the older areas, provide additional recreational space, and to always strive to improve this beautiful community of Haverford Township," according to his profile page on the township's website.

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Name: Bill Wechsler

Town you live in: Havertown

Political party: Republican

Campaign website/Facebook link: N/A

Current/former elected position you are currently holding: 9th Ward Township Commissioner

Position you are running for: 9th Ward Township Commissioner

Brief background: "Bill Wechsler has been a Township resident since 1986, and was first elected Commissioner in 2008.  He and his wife Betsy have four daughters and three grandchildren.  Bill graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point after attending St. Dorothy Grammar School and St. Joseph's Prep.

Bill's goal is to continue to make Haverford Township America's Best Hometown.  Effective planning and working together with civic groups and other government entities is a top priority.

Developing, maintaining and expanding local businesses as well as first class facilities and services for our residents are major objectives," according to his profile page on the township's website.

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Incumbents

• Maxine Murdoch-Republican/Democrat
• Lawrence Feinberg-Republican/Democrat
• Patricia Giambuzzi-Republican/Democrat
• Joseph Martin - Republican/Democrat

Newcomers

• Colleen Bennett - Republican/Democrat
• Matthew Kenney - Republican