As a result of these efforts, I am pleased and excited to announce that the Column 1 slate for the June 7th Primary Election is:
For Mayor: John DeSimone
For Council: Gil Hawkins and Doug Salmon
These candidates will continue the mission to build a stronger Leonia, which began last year when the entire DMC and the incumbent Democratic council candidates were overwhelmingly defeated in the June Primary. Last year’s elections demonstrated that Leonia’s electorate was dissatisfied with the existing Democratic leadership, including our current Mayor.
Throughout the past year the LDMC has been talking to Leonians in their districts to understand what is important to them and what they expect from the Mayor and Council. One of the issues of concern we keep hearing about is the need for a revitalized business district. Leonia’s downtown is like a smile with a batch of very visible cavities. We have more vacant storefronts than ever and a development policy that seems to be schizophrenic. We’re looking to promote a makeover!
This is one reason why we’re running a businessman, John DeSimone, for Mayor. John has managed the flagship store in town for over 40 years. He has served as the “people’s” mayor all these years, discussing issues of importance to Leonians on a daily basis. He has been successful as a small businessman in spite of pressures from Home Depot and Lowe's that have led to the downfall of similar small businesses. This expertise is what we need to “turn it around” and develop a thriving Leonia.
John is new to the mayoralty, and we want “new.” Working with our two council candidates and the existing council, of which he is a member, John can lead us where we need to go in building a stronger business environment and a better Leonia.
As for our council candidates. . .
Gil Hawkins has demonstrated a continued passion for doing what is best to develop a sustainable Leonia, with a strong future. He was the first to push the use of solar panels in town, which is now a reality that will lead to cost efficiencies and a greener Leonia. And, of course, Gil heads up the Overpeck Preserve, a natural, environmental habitat that is so important to Leonia and our neighbors.
A new face on the slate is Doug Salmon. Doug moved to Leonia almost 40 years ago with his wife, Maria Di Dia and four kids. He has worked as a concerned citizen behind the scenes to facilitate last year’s change in Leonia’s political landscape. He’s a Director and Treasurer of the Leonia Taxpayers’ Association and has been a moderator on Leonia’s Listserv. Doug is retired from a fulfilling career as a senior executive and Board Member in a number of public and private technology firms. He also consulted with several firms and successfully helped them achieve growth and profits. He achieved this by asking questions, stimulating discussion and coaching the principals. This is exactly the kind of expertise that will make Doug a strong councilman as he helps Leonia address its issues and drive effective change. Doug served in the Air Force Reserves after graduating from Penn State with a BS in Business Administration. He is also a committed life member of the Sierra Club.
You will be hearing more about our candidates and platform in the months ahead. John, Gil and Doug are exactly the team we need to lead Leonia today!
Bob Leap
Chairman, LDMC
