A former Tyrone Borough Council person, Sarah Jane Miller, has decided to give it another try by placing her name on the ballot for a four-year term in this year’s May 17 Republican primary.
In a release to The Daily Herald, Miller said, “I have joined a diverse group of people who have chosen to participate in local government.”
The group she referred to has billed itself as “Team Tyrone”. Five Tyrone citizens seeking four council seats and the mayor’s chair in the borough. The group announced their candidacies at the same time and have appeared together during a recent paper mill visit.
“Together we will sit down to review and discuss issues openly among the public and ourselves,” she added. “We will listen to opinions from the public by encouraging community participation. Together we will resolve issues to benefit the entire community.”
She also touched on another issue which has received a lot of attention since high waters plagued the area last September.
“I believe it’s important to explore flood control,” said Miller. “Tyrone is sitting down stream from Altoona, Duncansville, Hollidaysburg, Antis Township and Bellwood.
“These communities have joined forces to solve their flooding problems by working together,” said Miller. “It is important for Tyrone to realize their solution may very well become our problem. We must be proactive in flood control to stay ahead of the curve, not reactive and have to deal with it after the fact.”
Miller also voiced her support for CDBG money for the housing rehab program.
“There are many families within the community who pulled their weight paying for their fair share over the years and now when they’re in need of help we should be there for them,” stated Miller.
“Isn’t that why they put their trust in their elected officials?” asked Miller.
“Everyone knows money’s available through grants for repairing sidewalks; we’ve all seen the Streetscape in our downtown,” said Miller. “Have you ever wondered why it is the only downtown receiving all the attention? I have. There are other grant programs like Elm Street grants that expand improvements throughout a community within one mile of downtown. I believe it’s important to seek out these grants and bring Streetscape to everyone that is eligible.”
Miller also voiced a common theme of Team Tyrone – working with other communities.
She said, “Working with Antis Township, Snyder Township, Bellwood Borough and others, Tyrone can benefit greatly from the creation of jobs. We’re not only landlocked by Snyder Township, but also limited in space for industrial expansion. Making it happen will take a lot of creativity on our part, working with surrounding governments, but I believe we can do it.”
Miller offered a promise to residents when she said they’d be encouraged to attend council meetings.
“Opinions and concerns will be welcome, with the understanding we face some legal constraints,” explained Miller. “People shouldn’t fear speaking out; they’re paying the bills. As a councilperson, I will listen to issues the public may have and try to resolve them in their best interests. Residents shouldn’t hesitate to share opinions, concerns or ideas.
“It’s our responsibility to ensure taxpayers are treated fairly and also with respect,” said Miller.
She also offered the idea of public comment being offered at the end of council meetings.
Miller said public comment should be offered there, instead of before the discussion of agenda items.
“Residents are entitled to join discussions during borough council meetings,” said Miller. “Issues not prohibited by law will be discussed in the public meeting. Everyone’s entitled to know what’s happening in their borough. We all deserve to have our town back.”
