We are Shepherdstown residents who see an urgent need for changes in town governance. We support the election of James Gatz as mayor, as he brings the focus and ability to implement a number of shared priorities.

The first priority is a strategic plan for smart land use and growth. The town’s Comprehensive Plan should actively be used to guide decisions. The town should have a proactive strategy for town influence over land use within the Growth Management Boundary and actively encourage the participation of all relevant stakeholders.

The second priority is enhanced infrastructure. Town government should install realistic plans and effective partnerships to make real progress to support and enhance our community’s infrastructure to include building code enhancements, sidewalk repairs, green space/path plans, train crossing safety and clear signage.

The third priority is to support a vibrant downtown. Town leadership should initiate a proactive plan to encourage small businesses and landlords to work with the town to ensure that the downtown storefronts are filled with active establishments.

The fourth priority is a transparent town government. Town leadership should lead in the use of modern and professional approaches that promote community engagement and set goals and report progress on a regular basis, including easily accessible and detailed financials and regular public discussions of town issues.

James Gatz brings over 30 years of professional government and managerial experience, along with new energy to get things done. He has ably represented Shepherdstown county-wide on the development authority, helping to refocus it on local and small business support, and he helped launch Shepherdstown Shares. We are confident that James Gatz is the right choice for Shepherdstown, right now.

Marellen Aherne, Elise Baach, Carolyn Rodis and Deb Tucker, all of Shepherdstown