Peru 2nd Ward Aldermanic Candidates Discuss Pool and Housing Priorities Ahead of Election

The 2nd Ward aldermanic race in Peru features incumbent Jason Edgcomb against challenger Tom Riordan, with key discussions focused on the municipal pool, transparency, and affordable housing. Edgcomb raises concerns about funding and tax implications while Riordan underscores the need for transparency and the urgent requirement for affordable housing developments.

In Peru, Illinois, the upcoming April 1 election features a contested race for the 2nd Ward aldermanic seat, with incumbent Jason Edgcomb facing challenger Tom Riordan. A significant focus is on the municipal pool, which remains a priority for voters following a successful referendum.

Incumbent Jason Edgcomb expressed his concerns regarding the funding for the municipal pool, emphasizing that hotel/motel funds might not be the most effective allocation. He stated, “However, that was the question on the ballot, and I will honor what the voters asked for.” Edgcomb highlighted the importance of balancing the budget while addressing city growth and essential services.

Challenger Tom Riordan affirmed his commitment to fulfilling voters’ wishes for the pool, insisting that the city has gone too long without one. He remarked, “The city has gone long enough without a pool… It needs to return.” Riordan expressed nostalgia for the pool from his childhood, advocating for its reinstatement in its previous location.

Edgcomb boasted about Peru’s recent growth while stressing the challenges of managing this expansion alongside a stable budget. He asserted that the city must enhance its police and fire services without imposing additional tax burdens on constituents.

In contrast, Riordan emphasized transparency as a fundamental issue, claiming that essential discussions often occur without public awareness. He noted that communication from current officials is lacking, stating, “When they tell us something is happening, most of the time it’s never been discussed in the open.”

Riordan highlighted the necessity of developing affordable housing in Peru, pointing to the potential for small duplexes to accommodate families and elderly residents. He articulated a need for developers to address these housing shortages and improve availability.

Edgcomb echoed the need for affordable housing, proposing partnerships to develop single-family residences that have proven successful in nearby communities such as Ottawa.

Both candidates have provided extensive responses to a questionnaire addressing these issues, which can be accessed online.

The upcoming election for the 2nd Ward aldermanic seat in Peru centers around critical issues such as the municipal pool, budgetary constraints, transparency in governance, and the need for affordable housing. Candidates Jason Edgcomb and Tom Riordan offer differing perspectives on these matters. Edgcomb prioritizes financial prudence while honoring voter wishes, whereas Riordan advocates for increased transparency and proactive development of housing. Voter engagement and awareness will be essential in solidifying these priorities ahead of the April 1 election.

Original Source: www.shawlocal.com