Letter to the Editor: Why I’m running for supervisor

Posted by ChaddsFordLive on March 17, 2015

Chadds Ford is a treasure, but it can be so much more. That’s why I’ve decided to run for supervisor. Our historic and alluring hometown is something to behold, yet its potential remains untapped. I believe that Chadds Ford can become an even greater place to live, play and visit by focusing on three key priorities: Establishing a “walkable” historic corridor; creating more opportunities for families, friends and visitors to gather; and promoting preservation while accommodating safe and sustainable growth. None of this can be achieved without the type of accountable and responsible leadership that I can help to provide the township.

I enter this campaign with the experience and background that can offer a strong compliment to the current and, frankly, impressive Board of Supervisors. (In fact, I had the pleasure of attending Samantha Reiner’s first meeting as supervisor and found her and her colleagues well-prepared, inquisitive, and eminently sensible.) I can bring a valuable and healthy perspective informed by more than 20 years of practicing law; leading compliance, ethics and environmental sustainability programs for a large, global company; and serving on the boards of several non-profit organizations. A place like Chadds Ford can thrive through diverse, pragmatic and strong leadership. Difficult questions associated with growth, open space, and community health and safety will only be solved through consensus building, relevant experience and sound judgment. That’s what I hope to deliver as a supervisor.

My campaign will be about effective and trusted leadership, not partisan ideology. While I am new to elective politics, I am not new to the township. My wife, three sons and I have lived in Chadds Ford since 2002, save for a three-year overseas assignment to the United Kingdom. I would like nothing more than to give back to this special town we call home. I am not deterred by the perceived challenge of electing a “Democrat” to township government. People do not vote out of habit, but rather with their hearts and minds. Therefore, over the coming months, I plan to talk to as many of my fellow residents as possible; involve new people in the process; share my views on the opportunities and challenges we face; and present my experience for what it is and is not. I trust and hope that the people of Chadds Ford will decide that what I can offer the township is valuable and worthy of their vote: passion, commitment and a fresh, accessible voice for our entire community.

Alan B. Horowitz
Candidate for supervisor
Chadds Ford Township