Broadsides- October 31

Article in this weeks Main Line Life. I am humbled.
Letter of endorsement to John Nagle from Joe Sestak, Member of Congress
“Your tireless work within the community represents your heartfelt dedication to the residents of Radnor. As a member of the Township Parks ad Recreation Board and a founding Board member and the Secretary-Treasurer of the Radnor Conservancy you have consistently looked for ways to protect the local environment. I was also very pleased to see that the $20 million open space referendum you worked for was approved by the residents of Radnor in last fall’s election. This certainly would not have occurred without the dedicated efforts of yourself and the rest of the Radnor Conservancy. I know that each of these opportunities, in addition to your passion for issues, such as preserving our environment, open space, and land use, as well as zoning and planning will enable you to serve the residents of Radnor and the community at large in the manner in which it deserves.”

“Again, I am very happy to endorse your candidacy for Radnor Township Commissioner for the Fifth Ward.”

“John will bring a strong, independent voice to the Radnor Board of Commissioners. His engineering and business experience will enhance the decision-making powers of your board. His commitment to Radnor through his involvement on the Parks and Recreation Board and the Conservancy is well proven…” (Letter to residents of Radnor’s 5^th Ward, Connie Williams, State Senator)

It’s not unusual for one successful public servant to support the election of another-in fact, it’s often expected when they emerge from the same political party. In the case of John Nagle, candidate for Radnor’s 5^th Ward, however, the endorsements are enthusiastic and genuine because they’re backed by years of service that occurred long before Nagle had any intention of running for commissioner in Radnor Township.

To begin with, Nagle’s no public service neophyte. He’s been a concerned resident for over twenty years and has been engaged in local leadership for thirteen years as a member of the Parks and Recreation Board. One of the most important issues he confronted there was the use of pesticides and herbicides on our township’s playing fields. Since hundreds of our kids enroll in soccer, Little League, and other sports that are played outdoors, the elimination of those “cides” is a tremendous health plus. Ask any parent who has a son or daughter suffering from asthma or allergies.

In addition, he’s one of the founders of the Radnor Conservancy and is currently its treasurer. Years ago, he fought for the creation of the Radnor Trail- a topic that was divisive, controversial, and not easily understood when it was initially presented. Furthermore, he became the first Chair of the Environmental Advisory Committee, a sub-committee of the Board of Health.

Once you’ve spoken to John, you see why he was chosen by his mostly Republicans peers-to lead them as Chair of the Park and Recreation Board. You’ll find a man who believes that running for public office is part of his long term commitment to community well-being. It’s just the “natural thing to do”-a progression from one sort of involvement to another.

His background’s in engineering, (licensing and regulatory work in the nuclear power field) but he’s also earned an MBA, bringing a broad spectrum of skills to the table. Yes, he served his country; he was a member of the US Air Force. Why’s he running? “Actually, I’m not interested in politics, per se but I’m a firm believer in community service and the saying, “If you aren’t happy with the situation either change it or shut up!” Last time this incredibly active Democrat ran for commissioner he missed by a handful of votes. Don’t allow that to happen again. Make sure you get to the polls-for him, for all of us.