During a loud and crowded rally at Bethlehem's Steelworkers' Hall, NorCo Controller Tara Zrinski made it official last night. She's running for NorCo Exec. Though I arrived early, I was barely able to find a parking spot. The hall was packed with nearly 100 supporters that included a potpourri of Democrats, from people who fought with her against sludge and a landfill expansion, to elected and former elected officials.
Zrinski was introduced by Lamont McClure, NorCo's current Executive. He said she supported the county on what he considers the three most important issues: (1) keeping taxes low, and even voting to cut them during one year of his administration; (2) voting for measures that would preserve farmland, acquire open space for three county parks and supporting environmentally sensitive land purchases: and (3) helping the "moral obligation" to keep Gracedale, the state's largest public nursing home, county-owned. He closed by giving his "enthusiastic" endorsement.
For her part, Zrinski delivered a rousing speech to the Democratic party faithful. Her goals as County Exec, which were also included in a statement released earlier that day, are the following:
Fiscally Responsible Policies: Ensuring taxpayer dollars are allocated effectively to meet the needs of all residents.
Good Government: Promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in County operations.
Quality of Life for Working Families: Supporting initiatives that strengthen the economic and social well-being of working families.
Maintaining Essential Services: Preserving and enhancing the quality of services provided to residents, including the protection of Gracedale Nursing Home.
Transparency in Government: Upholding open communication and accessibility in all facets of government.
As Executive, she pledged to address employee retention and to provide fair compensation, affordable healthcare and safe working conditions.
“I am ready to make history as the first woman elected to the office of County Executive—not because of my gender, but because I am a prepared, skilled, and compassionate public servant who has proven herself time and time again.”
She also surrendered her spot behind the podium to other persons who are seeking office. Unfortunately, I had to leave before asking her any questions or listening to other candidates because I was saying goodbye to a good friend.
Before doing so, however, I asked her to pose with three Executives: Lamont McClure, Gerald E "Jerry" Seyfried and Glenn Reibman. She was in pretty good company.
There are two other announced candidates. Former Elections Registrar Amy Cozze, who left the county to work for US Senator Bob Casey, is also running for the Democratic nomination. NorCo Council member Tom Giovanni, who is in his second term and has been a dedicated public servant, seeks the Republican nod.
The people have a choice.
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