Two New Candidates Vying for Seat as Hatfield Township’s Newest Commissioner

Dan Sokil | The Reporter•

Come January, at least one new commissioner will swear an oath in Hatfield Township.

Democrat Shahidul Partha and Republican Ann Leslie are both running to represent the seat now held by incumbent Ward 3 commissioner Deb Zimmerman, who is currently the only Democrat on the board, and chose not to run again.

Both candidates were asked the same questions, and below are their answers:

PARTHA

Shahidul Partha (Submitted photo)

Describe your background and qualifications for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners.

My background and qualifications for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners are rooted in both my professional experience and my deep commitment to our community. As a Software Engineer with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a professionally certified Agile Scrum Master (CSM), I have honed skills in leadership, project planning, and implementation. These skills have allowed me to excel in roles that require strategic thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving – all of which are essential for a commissioner.

Furthermore, my years as a resident of Hatfield Township, where I live with my family on Truman Drive, have provided me with an intimate understanding of the issues facing our community. I appreciate the diversity of Hatfield Township and cherish the quality of life it offers. This perspective has motivated me to step up and serve my fellow residents effectively.

Why are you running for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners?

I am running for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners because I am deeply committed to our community and believe in the power of local government to make a positive impact on people’s lives. My decision to run was further reinforced by the endorsement of Ms. Deborah Zimmerman, our current commissioner, who has dedicated herself to serving our community.

First and foremost, I am a long-time resident of Hatfield Township, and my family and I have chosen to make this place our home. I have witnessed the strengths and the challenges that our community faces, and I feel a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to its well-being. I want to give back to the place that has given us so much.
Furthermore, I deeply appreciate the diversity of our beautiful community and the quality of life it offers to its residents. I want to ensure that Hatfield Township remains a place where families can thrive, businesses can prosper, and everyone can enjoy a high quality of life. My goal is to represent the interests and concerns of Ward 3 residents effectively, bringing fresh ideas and a new perspective to the board.

I am committed to addressing key issues facing our community, such as stormwater management, traffic and public safety, the growth and accessibility of our parks, and the preservation of open spaces. I am also passionate about supporting community projects like the construction of a new police facility and improvements to parks like Clemens Park.

In summary, I am running for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners because I believe in the potential of our community, and I want to work tirelessly to make it an even better place to live, work, and raise families. I am dedicated to serving all residents of Ward 3 and ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. Together, we can build a stronger and more vibrant Hatfield Township.

What would be your goals and priorities for your term?

During my term, my primary goals and priorities for Hatfield Township would include:

a. Maintaining the stormwater programs: Ensuring that our stormwater management systems are effective and well-maintained to prevent flooding and protect our environment.

b. Addressing traffic and public safety issues: Collaborating with local authorities to improve traffic flow and enhance public safety measures.

c. Overseeing the growth of parks and open spaces: Promoting the development and accessibility of our township’s parks, ensuring they remain valuable assets for our community.

d. Advocating against overdevelopment: Safeguarding the open spaces within our community to maintain Hatfield’s quiet, green environment for all residents to enjoy.

e. Supporting important community projects: Backing initiatives like the construction of a new police facility, renovations to improve accessibility at Clemens Park, and partnerships such as the Garden of Health at the Park.

Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.

You can find more information about my campaign and stay updated on my progress through the following channels:

Email: [email protected]
Facebook: ShahidulPartha4HatfieldTwpCommissioner
I encourage residents of Ward 3 to connect with me on these platforms, ask questions, and share their concerns. Your input and support are essential to building a better Hatfield Township together.

LESLIE

Ann Leslie (Submitted photo)

Describe your background and qualifications for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners.

My career as an Executive Director at several local YMCA’s parallels working as a township commissioner in many ways. Serving the local community is the heart of all YMCA’s missions. My career with the Y has allowed me to serve community members of all backgrounds, oversee aquatic facilities, childcare centers, fitness centers and many other community events and offerings. Fundraising to provide resources to those in need, means I spend a good deal of time collaborating with local businesses, municipalities, school districts and Boards of Directors. In my role I not only deal with multimillion dollar budgets but also oversee capital improvements and focus on safety and risk assessment. I currently serve 22,000 members and oversee 400 staff.

Why are you running for a position on Hatfield’s board of commissioners?

I have raised my three boys here in Hatfield Township for the past 22 years. I have spent countless hours volunteering in the North Penn School District, with local sports organizations, and attending St. Maria Goretti Church. I know how lucky I am to live in Hatfield, and now I feel it is my turn to take my community service a step further, and I humbly ask voters to support me so I will be able to share my experiences and passion and give back to the township and its residents.

What would be your goals and priorities for your term?

I am excited about the prospect of using my professional and personal experiences to assist the township and the residents. Having a background in risk management I am always thinking of safety whether internal, external or environmental concerns. Safety can include traffic issues, expanding police and fire departments, as well as having safe parks, pools, sidewalks and structures. I walk my neighborhoods daily, and have never had a problem calling the township with questions or concerns. Being a mother gives me an ever greater perspective when it comes to township safety and how it affects the residents. The YMCA is an organization that promotes diversity and inclusion and that has afforded me the opportunity to hear opinions and ideas from folks of all ages, and from all walks of life. I look forward to the possibility of being able to do that as a township commissioner as well.

Your campaign website, social media pages, and/or anywhere else our readers can find you.

None provided.

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