By Rick Dandes
SUNBURY — Two Valley residents announced Thursday their intentions to seek state legislative seats in the 85th districts.
Maurice Brubaker, a Lewisburg accountant and clothing store owner, said he'd like to use the same approach as state Rep. Russ Fairchild, who will retire Dec. 31.
"Russ' integrity, common-sense approach to issues, and attention to the needs of this district have served all of us well and I look forward to continuing and building on those standards," Brubaker said.
A lifelong Union County resident and public accountant for more than 15 years, Brubaker said he understands the challenges the Valley faces in improving the economy and infrastructure, building the Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway and addressing its rural needs.
"I will make job growth a top priority," he said. "This will not be an easy task and it cannot be done overnight, but let me be clear, I will be relentless.
"We need Harrisburg to understand the needs of those who live and work in rural Pennsylvania. It is time to look at Harrisburg's open checkbook policies to cities and municipal governments who year after year need help and bailouts due to improper policies and corrupt management."
A former Republican State Committee member, Brubaker is president of Keystone Council of Governments and treasurer of Lewisburg Downtown Partnership.
Another candidate, Frederick Keller, 44, of Middleburg, said Thursday night that he wanted to "serve the people of the 85th district in the same good way that Russ Fairchild has."
Keller, plant operations manager for Conestoga Wood Specialties, in Beavertown, said: "My heart has always been in public service."
He has just completed a six-year elected term as Middlecreek Township auditor and said that he has worked in various local and statewide campaigns.
His top priorities would be jobs and the economy.
"We've seen job losses in the area and obviously, bringing businesses to the area is extremely important," he said.
Keller is a deacon at the First Reform Church in Sunbury.
Meanwhile, in Northumberland County, a former aide to retiring state Rep. Merle Phillips says he has formed an exploratory committee to determine if he should launch a campaign for the Republican nomination in the 108th Legislative District.
"As a resident of Northumberland County, I have a vested interest in the continued growth and economic progress of this region," said David A. Comes, of Dalmatia.
"Through Merle Phillips, I have become very familiar with the people and the issues facing the 108th district. My desire to carry on his vision has led me to consider a run for his seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives."
Northumberland County Controller Charles Erdman Jr. has already announced he is running for the GOP nomination in the 108th District.
