2 candidates in running for 2nd Ward East Deer commissioner's seat

East Deer’s 2nd Ward commissioner’s seat is up for grabs as two candidates throw their hat into the ring.

Incumbent Ed Kissel will appear on the Democrat ballot, while newcomer Alexander James Gigler will be on the Republican ballot.

Kissel did not respond to multiple TribLive requests for comment.

Gigler, 34, has lived in the community for 31 years. He hopes to mitigate blight within the township.

“We need consistent, proactive code enforcement and to hold landlords and property owners accountable for the condition of their properties,” Gigler said. “Many parts of East Deer are beautiful, but you often have to drive past rundown areas to see them.”

He said he plans to closely examine the township’s budget to assess new projects based on necessity and impact. Gigler said he’s willing to explore grant and partnerships, and advocate for the redirection of excess or what he finds is unnecessary spending in order to redirect funds to needed projects.

He said road, sidewalk and storm drainage infrastructure projects are worth investing in.

“These are investments that benefit everyone, improve safety, and help attract new families and businesses,” Gigler said. “I’d also support modest upgrades to parks or public spaces if we can match those improvements with outside funding or grants.”

Gigler earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in secondary education. He is a teacher at Deer Lakes Middle School, where he runs the school’s eSports club. He said he regularly volunteers for community events, holiday decorating and township trash cleanup events.

“At Deer Lakes, I’ve led successful math intervention and eSports programs in addition to my successful classroom work,” Gigler said. “I’ve volunteered countless hours to improve East Deer without holding office. Imagine what I’ll do when elected.

“I take care of my home and self, and I’ll hold my care for the township to that same standard.

“This is my town. I am raising my family here, and I want to make it a place we can all be proud of.”