Contributing editor
Rising Sun's two member Ethics Commission reviewed the financial disclosures and other campaign forms for the coming election.
The candidates (in alphabetical order):
Bob Fisher is a former town mayor. He is retired and moved to Rising Sun in 1939. He was in the Army. He also lived outside of town from 1994-2011. He has served on numerous boards and committees in organizations in the community. He is retired. "I want to improve the Town of Rising Sun and I have the time to devote to it," said Fisher.
Dale Gerber, Jr. has lived in Rising Sun about a dozen years. He works at District Court in Baltimore City.
He formerly worked in the Planning and Zoning department for the City of Havre de Grace. "I have a lot of government experience. I think I can make a difference in the town and look out for the best interest of the town," said Gerber.
Brian Leishear wants to keep up with his neighbors. He lives in the same court as Mayor Marion and Commissioners Authenreath and Warnick in the Maple Heights subdivision. "We're all neighbors and we all talk about the town," said Leishear, who works as a Director of Information Technology and serves on the Town Board of Appeals.
"I basically, want to keep the positive vibe going. The current board is working together. I want to make sure things stay on track," said Leishear.
Joanne Osborne is a former town commissioner. She has lived in the town for a dozen years and also worked in town for several years. She is a certified public accountant. "I can bring some practicality and restraint to keep government out of people's private lives as much as possible," said Osborne.
Joe Shephard has lived in Rising Sun for nine years. He is a graphics specialist for the University of Maryland Medical System. He is also active with Rising Sun Little League. "I really think I want to take an interest in the town. It's time for some new ideas instead of business as usual," said Shephard, who also said he wants to "continue the positive direction in which the town is moving."
The two seats up for election were held by Jennifer Scully and George Walker. Walker resigned in August. Scully stated last week that she is not running again due to a job conflict.
The election will be held Monday, October 19 from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
The election judges have been appointed to serve for two years each. They are Steve Miller, Melissa Copenhaver, Kim Weidner, and Mary Lou Benjamin.