Democrat Carl Gobrecht, 63, a self-employed carpenter, is the challenger in the race. Hoping to hold onto their seats are longtime supervisor Stanley Wysocki and Nils Parr, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board.
The York Dispatch asked the candidates the following questions:
Questions and Answers
1. If the board of supervisors could make one change to improve the quality of life for township residents, what change would you recommend supervisors make? Explain your answer.
Wysocki: Advocate for tax reform. Encourage our state legislators to eliminate the real estate taxes. This, I believe, would have the greatest positive impact on families.
Parr: West Manheim Township is the best place to live in our area. Think of it as a beautiful little farm pond, surrounded by fields of corn, beans, forage, lakes and stands of timber. Mom and dad are grilling chicken and corn on the cob while the kids play with the dog and a few geese swim on the pond. If the geese continue to fly in and stay, however, the pond will soon be a mud hole, the grass matted by hundreds of webbed feet and littered with discarded feathers and goose dung. The one change to improve the quality of life for township residents would be to pursue changes, in cooperation with neighbors, York and Adams counties, and the state
Gobrecht: The growth in West Manheim is exploding, many young families with children have moved into our community. We do have a responsibility to ensure quality of life for residents. The West Manheim Recreation Board is building a park, which is a very positive addition to our community. The concern I have on this issue is that the recreation board is not supporting the existing West Manheim Recreation Association. I was a past member, volunteer, and coach for the Rec. Assoc. for many years. Organized sports programs were offered to many youth in the township. I feel the supervisors, rec board, and rec association need to work together as a team to continue this service to our youth.
2. At 2 mills, West Manheim Townships property tax rate is the second highest among 35 townships in York County. Are taxpayers getting their moneys worth from township government? Why or why not? Are there avenues the township should explore to save money or control costs? What are they?
Wysocki: Our township is composed of predominantly residential development which requires high costs of service. I am in favor of some well planned, quality business expansion, which would broaden the tax base and lessen the tax burden on residents.
Parr: I would like to see more activities which will keep our teenagers and young adults fit and happy, like more playing fields and sports through the Recreation Association, a place for graduate musicians to meet and play together, perhaps even holding occasional dances to help support their band or orchestra, a central location with easy access and plenty of parking for a monthly, or even weekly community yard sale, so that those residents who are harder to find will have access to more buyers.
Gobrecht: At 2 mills I am aware that West Manheims property tax is among the highest in the county. One mill is primarily designated for the road system, to improve and repair roads. As a taxpayer who travels daily on one of the much needed improved roads, I too am asking, "What are they doing with this allotted money?" Unfortunately this is a slow and expensive project. The projected timetable for the roads to be completed is 2013. As a supervisor I would consider reducing millage at the point of road completion.
3. At a time when many townships are part of regional police forces, West Manheim relies on its own township force. How do you feel about the service being provided by the department? Is it a cost effective means of police protection? Do you foresee a need for a change in police coverage over the next six years? Should the township consider a merger with other nearby departments? Why or why not?
Wysocki: History has proven that regional police forces are no guarantee of lower costs or better services. Our township police force has a good record and I feel secure.
Parr: I am very proud of our West Manheim Police Department. Perhaps neighboring jurisdictions could contract with us for units of police coverage. A township might elect to receive as little as four hours of coverage a week, or 16, 20, 24 or even 40 hours or more with West Manheim Police Department providing administrative support and equipment. This system could make the entire area safer and more attractive.
Gobrecht: The decision on what is the most cost efficient police protection for our community is very important. I know at this time the expense of our township force is a sizable part of our budget. I am also not convinced that being part of a regional force is the direction to go. I need to be more involved and better informed on these options to decide which will serve our community most efficiently, and still ensure us the utmost protection and safety.
4. Why should voters support you in you bid to be a member of the West Manheim Township board of supervisors for the next four years? What issue(s) would you like to address?
Wysocki: Experience and trustworthiness; please look at my record of fiscal responsibility, pro-active and progressive thinking, honesty and integrity.
Parr: I am convinced that the residents of West Manheim Township have the ideas that will help us control traffic congestion, keep us safe, healthy, fit and happy, and protect us from the hordes who want to live here. The number one issue is to "Save Our Pond."
Gobrecht I care about the future of our community. Ive been fortunate to live here my entire life. I have raised my children in a safe and healthy environment. I wish for the families of our township to have the same privilege. Ive been involved with the planning and zoning boards for over 30 years. As a supervisor I will research and openly discuss all issues for the welfare of the community.
Candidate Profiles
Stanley J. Wysocki
Republican
Age / Address: 78; Smeach Drive
Family: Married 50 plus years to wife Margaret. We have five children, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Occupation: Retired treasury agent, currently works as a legislative assistant to state Rep. Stephen R. Nickol
Nils A. Parr
Republican
Age / Address: 72; Sunset Drive
Occupation: Retired teacher and health inspector, B.S., M.F., Ph.D.
Public Service: West Manheim Planning Commission
Carl Gobrecht
Democrat
Age / Address: 63; Kennedy Drive
Family: Spouse, Faye; three children; four grandchildren
Occupation: Self-employed carpenter
Education: South Western High School
Community Involvement: Past member of the planning commission, and also served on the zoning and hearing board. I am involved in church, a choir member, and presently director of the bell choir.
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