Letter to the editor: Vote for candidates with integrity

Nov. 4 is Election Day. Normally when the president’s office is not on the ballot, there is low voter turnout. This is a critical election for local and county offices, and your voice is much needed, so please vote.

I view integrity as the most important characteristic a candidate should bring to any office. Because I focus so heavily on integrity is why I was saddened by Todd Mentecki’s decision to leave New Kensington City Council.

I believe we can make up the loss of Mentecki’s integrity by voting for Phil Toney. Toney’s 40 years with the New Kensington Water Authority means that he knows our streets and alleys better than most people. That, combined with his successful business that required people skills, makes him the best candidate.

Nicholas DiCarolis earned my vote because his four years on the New Kensington Area School District school board shows both his ability to work with others and his dedication.

County judges are on the ballot, and again integrity is one of the main ingredients that earns my vote. I believe it’s a must that we retain Judge Scott Mears. I first met Mears in 2015, his first time running, at a “meet the judicial candidates” event I hosted at Mt. Calvary Church. Out of all of the candidates, Mears was the overwhelming choice.

At this critically important time, the retention of Mears cannot be overstated, so please join me in making sure Mears is retained, and voting for Toney and DiCarolis adds integrity to New Kensington’s City Council.

Melvyn Smith

New Kensington