The Peru 2nd Ward election on April 1 features incumbent Jason Edgcomb and challenger Tom Riordan. Key issues include the municipal pool and affordable housing. Edgcomb is cautious about funding allocation, while Riordan emphasizes transparency and community needs. Both candidates seek to address affordable housing solutions and engage residents in governance.
In anticipation of the upcoming April 1 election, the focus remains on the municipal pool in Peru, following the successful referendum in November. Incumbent Alderman Jason Edgcomb faces competition from resident Tom Riordan in the sole contested race for the 2nd Ward aldermanic position.
Edgcomb expressed reservations about utilizing hotel/motel funds for a municipal pool but stated, “That was the question on the ballot, and I will honor what the voters asked for.” He acknowledged concerns regarding how the pool could impact future city projects. In contrast, Riordan emphasized the necessity of the pool’s return to its previous location, stating, “The city has gone long enough without a pool. I was born and raised in Peru and used the pool practically every day as a kid. It needs to return.”
While Edgcomb highlighted the city’s growth and the challenges of managing a balanced budget, he stressed the importance of meeting the increasing demands of the police and fire departments. “We need to find ways to pay for those needs without raising any of the taxes of our constituents,” he remarked. Riordan, however, placed greater emphasis on transparency, asserting that the community is often left in the dark about decisions being made. “When they tell us something is happening, most of the time it’s never been discussed in the open,” he commented.
Riordan proposed focusing on affordable housing as a necessity for the community. He suggested collaborating with developers to create suitable developments or constructing small duplexes for families and elderly residents. He stated, “Other than trying to attract a developer for that, it’s really out of the city’s hands.” Edgcomb concurred, expressing interest in partnering with those who could provide affordable single-family homes or condo-type housing, citing the success of similar initiatives in nearby communities.
Both candidates for the 2nd Ward position have provided detailed questionnaires that are accessible to the public, inviting increased community engagement in local governance issues.
The April 1 election for the 2nd Ward aldermanic seat highlights critical local concerns, including the future of the municipal pool and the need for affordable housing. Candidates Jason Edgcomb and Tom Riordan present differing perspectives, yet both express a commitment to honoring the voters’ wishes and promoting transparency in governance. Engaging with residents and addressing their needs will remain paramount as Peru continues to develop.
Original Source: www.shawlocal.com
