MERCER, PA. 2 newcomers, 1 councilman vie for seat in mayoral race

A high school senior, a college student and a 55-year-old businessman all want to be the next mayor.
By HAROLD GWIN
VINDICATOR SHARON BUREAU
MERCER, Pa. -- The race for the office of borough mayor might best be described as pitting youthful exuberance against years of experience.
Incumbent John G. "Jerry" Johnson chose not to run for the post this year, opting instead to take a run at a two-year council seat.
That left the part-time, $1,875-a-year mayor's position wide open, drawing the attention of two political newcomers as well as a longtime councilman.
All are filed as Republicans, so the race will most likely be decided in the May 15 primary.
On the experience side is Kenneth R. "Ross" Vernon, who served on council for 18 years.
On the youthful side are Christopher D. Portman, a senior at Mercer High School, and John Kish, a student at Youngstown State University.
Councilman's focus: Vernon, who chose not to seek re-election to council two years ago, said he isn't focusing on the inexperience of his opponents but is focusing on his own track record to win votes.
He served three terms as council president and was chairman of the finance committee. He also served as policy and resolution chairman for the Mercer County Boroughs Association.
A lot of residents asked him to run again for council but he decided to take a shot at the mayor's post, saying it is the mayor's job to bring the needs of the people to council and that's what he'd like to do.
Vernon said he has always tried to aid the elderly with their concerns, particularly getting them in contact with state and federal agencies that can help them, and he would continue that assistance as mayor.
Youngest candidate: "I want people to overlook the fact that I'm 18 and focus on the kind of man I am," said Portman. "This town has done so much for me. I just want to give something back. I feel it is my civic duty."
Portman said he wants to pursue a life in politics and that he has gained some experience in the process, having worked as an intern for U.S. Rep. Phil English of Erie, R-21st.
He said he wants to involve community, church and school groups in working together to maintain Mercer as a safe and friendly community as well as work with county agencies, and Mercer businesses to develop plans for economic development, job retention and tourism promotion.
Portman said he will also push for broader use of the borough's recycling program and a ban on open burning because of health concerns for older residents.
Bringing out voters: Kish, a freshman at Youngstown State, isn't focusing on his age either but said he does think this particular slate of candidates could increase voter participation in the borough. Getting more young people involved in the political process is one of the reasons he is running for mayor, he said.
Utility companies digging up streets and yards is one of the areas of focus in his campaign.
It happens year after year, Kish said, noting he hopes to work with the utility companies to find a way around the problem.
Kish said the borough's burning ordinance is generating some debate among residents. Some people want to ban the burning of leaves, limbs and other debris but Kish said he thinks that some burning of such materials should be allowed.