BY MIKE CETERA
We asked candidates for the April 7 election a series of questions we hope will help voters make an informed voting decision. Up now: Batavia mayor. Find their surveys attached after the jump.
There are three candidates for the position.
Britta Wilk McKenna, 47, is the executive director of Batavia MainStreet. She was previously a Batavia Park Board commissioner from 1999 to 2005. Said McKenna: "Voters need to decide for themselves what type of future they want for Batavia and which candidate is best qualified to move us ahead towards that vision. I believe my background as a small business owner, a non-profit executive director, elected official and leader of many boards uniquely qualifies me to move Batavia ahead during trying economic times to craft an inclusive and positive future for all Batavians."
Jeffery D. Schielke, 60, is a Realtor with A.L. Allen Land Co. in Batavia and Geneva. He has served as Batavia's mayor since 1981. Said Schielke: "I am very proud of my 28 year record of service.We have experienced major growth of retail business in town with a corresponding growth in sales tax. The city's share of property tax bills has been reduced from its high point in the early 1980s of $1.05 per $100 of EAV to its current rate of $0.54. This is one of the lowest municipal rates in the region.
Alan P. Wolff, 42, is a master auto technician with Citgo Service Center of Batavia. He has served as a Batavia alderman for 5 1/2 years. Said Wolff:"It's time for a fresh outlook for Batavia's bright future! Leadership that becomes stagnant is not leadership."
When Alan Wolff declared his candidacy for mayor of Batavia, he stated to the press that he would withdraw if Mayor Schielke ran. Why is Alan Wolff running against Mayor Schielke? Will Alan Wolff make other promises he can't keep?
An individual only gets one chance to make a first impression. Which Batavia mayoral candidate survey leaves the best first impression for the Beacon Blog? Which candidate supports what residents absolutely need for Batavia? First impressions can be lasting impressions. Vote for practicality and not for popularity.