TRR photo by Charlie Anzman Democratic Pike Commissioner incumbents Gerry Hansen, right, and Karl Wagner to his right, announced their re-election campaign last week. Also pictured are Denny Wagner and Monroe County Commissioner Jim Cadue, left. (Click for larger image)

Democrats announce Pike campaigns

By CHARLIE ANZMAN

MILFORD, PA — Incumbent Pike County Commissioners Gerry Hansen and Karl Wagner, Jr. kicked off their campaign for a second term with a gala fundraiser at the Dimmick Inn in Milford last Thursday evening, February 27.

Jay Tucker, who managed their campaign the last time around, used the opportunity to introduce others who will also be announcing their candidacy for 2003, including Irv Rosen and Missy Strub for Pike auditor, and attorney Vern Lazaroff for district attorney.

Tucker, who was sporting an ‘I Like Mike’ button, also recognized Milford attorney Michael Weinstein, who has announced his candidacy for judge of the Pike County Court of Common Pleas.

Wagner noted that this is the first time in two decades that the commissioner’s office has had a Democratic majority and only the second time in a century.

Tucker said that a successful second run by the Democrats would be unprecedented.

Hansen credited the promotion of tourism as the primary reason for no county-level tax increases in the past two years, calling it a “remarkable accomplishment considering what is happening at other levels of government.”

The mention of tourism brought applause from business owners in the room. Hansen went on to say that they had kept their campaign promises and was proud of the team spirit in the commissioner’s office. Recounting accomplishments, Hansen spoke of initiatives in conservation, healthcare, a county website, contributions to the Mountain Laurel Performing Arts Center and the new Dingman Township Branch of the Pike Public Library. He said the updated county GIS system is the “most important planning tool the county owns”.

Wagner pointed to the completion of the Pike Industrial Park, higher education, and open space initiatives as goals for a second term.