Keep Moliterno to keep Boardman on growth path

To the federal govern- ent, the Mahoning Valley is formally known as the Youngstown-Warren-Boardman Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area. Many in the Valley, however, might reasonably argue that Boardman gets short shrift and deserves top billing in that triumvirate. After all, the sprawling township, much unlike the struggling cities of Youngstown and Warren, ranks highest in commercial vitality, economic growth and sound, productive and progressive leadership.

As the Nov. 3 general election for Boardman Township trustee nears, township residents should work to prolong that stellar reputation. They easily can do so by re-electing Larry Moliterno to a third term on the board of trustees.

THEN VS. NOW

Things, however, weren’t always so bright in Boardman. Eight years ago, Moliterno entered township government at a time when chaos and crisis ruled the day. In his own words, Moliterno described that era as a period of fractured leadership and fiscal emergency. “I wanted to establish a transparent government that operated as a business, developing long-term sustainable solutions, not knee-jerk , rash decisions.”

In his eight years in the forefront of township government, Moliterno achieved those ends – and more.

From making Boardman the first township government in the region to join the state’s Online Checkbook for transparent public sharing of its financial books to dealing responsibly with a $3 million cut in its budget to drafting a forward-looking strategic plan for the township, Moliterno has been on the front lines to ensure Boardman residents get exemplary leadership and the biggest bangs for their bucks.

His thoughtful agenda for the township, however, remains incomplete. He needs and deserves another four-year term to continue such tasks as revising the strategic plan with an eye on 2020, putting the finishing touches on a comprehensive land-use plan, continuing the township’s multi-pronged war on drugs, finding a suitable solution to Boardman’s need for an updated central fire station and working to modernize the township’s aging infrastructure.

Were it not for Moliterno’s track record of success and his energetic yet realistic vision, township residents could have given serious consideration to his opponents in the race. One of those opponents, longtime Boardman resident Jim Villani , articulates some sensible ideas to strengthen block watches, increase recycling and work cooperatively with other government entities to end pollutant discharges into Mill Creek Park wetlands.

Villani, however, lacks the experience and insights of Moliterno to continue the township on a responsible growth track.

A third candidate, Anthony DeFrank, chose not to attend an interview with The Vindicator Editorial Board and thereby is ineligible for endorsement consideration.

Township voters who consider and value proven experience, talent, transparency, results, progress and commitment in their local government have no choice but wMoliterno for township trustee this fall. The Vindicator endorses him confidently.