Editor’s note: The North Allegheny Journal is featuring candidate interviews only in contested races.
Three Republicans are vying for two supervisor seats in Marshall for the May 20 primary.
Here is a look at the candidates:
Nina Faber
Age: 50
Political affiliation: Republican
Political experience: Nothing recent
Education: Bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame; juris doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law
Occupation: I am a licensed attorney who serves as the chief of human resources for Armada Sunset Holdings.
What is the biggest issue facing our community?: One of Marshall Township’s most attractive and unique qualities is the abundance of green and open space, while conveniently located near thriving business centers. For those reasons, Marshall is appealing for development — both residential and commercial. But with growth comes challenges and change. The township is currently faced with balancing the pace and type of growth permitted. It is important that we support growth that reflects our values and preserves our character — not just what’s profitable. And any approved development needs to protect our parks and trail systems, making sure they serve residents today and in the future. Similarly, the pace of growth also puts a strain on our infrastructure. Roads, traffic flow and similar issues are not flashy, but they matter. Solving the challenge of balancing the pace of growth with preserving our character and values will require input from the community and a strategic board willing to listen.
Lynn Purvis-Yund
Age: 73
Political affiliation: Republican
Political experience: None
Education: Bachelor of fine arts from Carnegie Mellon University; master’s degree in education from Carlow University; doctoral program at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Education
Occupation: Artist/preschool teacher
What is the biggest issue facing our community?: Marshall Township’s most prevalent issue has been the impact of development on neighborhoods.
James ‘J’ Tracy
Age: Declined to answer
Political affiliation: Republican
Political experience: None
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science with a minor in accounting from Northern Illinois University; master’s degree in business administration from Southern Illinois University. He also is a certified public accountant and has a certificate of management accounting.
Occupation: Retired
What is the biggest issue facing our community?: For over three decades, I have proudly called Marshall Township my home, while raising a family and cherishing its unique character. During my business career, I engaged with a number of clients, including government, banks, utilities and health insurers. My background and professional experience will make me a valuable addition to the Marshall Board of Supervisors as we work to address the security, infrastructure and recreational needs of the community while maintaining the character of the Marshall that we love and cherish.