What are the qualifications required to run for county commissioner? Actually, none. It is up to the voter to decide.
Here is what matters to me: life experience, work ethic and vision — a plan for Armstrong County going forward.
One candidate checks all those boxes — Anthony Shea. Shea has numerous life experiences to draw from. He is a 22-year veteran of the Air Force. He currently works in the banking industry. He is president of the Leechburg School Board and chairman of the Lenape Joint Operating Committee. Life experience — check.
While in the military, Shea attended night school, receiving his degree in computer engineering. In addition to currently working a full-time job, he also volunteers with the Elks Drug Awareness Program, two school boards, the Armstrong County and state Republican Committees and the Gilpin Rifle Club. Work ethic — check.
Shea wants to see Armstrong County become a place where people come to enjoy the outdoors and stay to raise their families. Where people can work from home. Where students learn marketable skills that are utilized by businesses within our county. He wants to make Armstrong County a great place to visit, live and retire. Vision — check.
These are just a few of the details of the qualifications that I think are important to consider when deciding who to vote for. I ask that you do your research, discover the qualifications of each candidate and vote using qualifications, not popularity.
Darlene Smail
Kittanning Township