America is facing some of its toughest challenges, and Ambler is not immune.   While our property values have proven resilient and we have outperformed our neighboring towns , we need to work together to ensure that Ambler thrives.  Not just on a relative basis, but on an absolute basis.  Today, Ambler’s economy is comprised of many small businesses and merchants, and they are struggling.   As a community, we need to band together to ensure these businesses not only survive, but thrive.

This town has the assets to win, not just survive.   Success, however, will depend on strong leadership to handle many of the tough decisions that lay ahead.   I am the strong leader that Ambler needs. I bring integrity, hard work and strong values to the position.   I may not have the political background, but I am a community member in this town committed to make it better.    I am a strong leader that will stay focused on the issues at hand and balance the need to maintain the beauty and value of the community with the need for economic growth.

Whether the recession is winding down, or lasts for a few more years , we have the tools and community to help make Ambler’s economy grow.  I believe that a greater sense of community- supporting local professionals, merchants and businesses- will position us for strength in the future.  As we support our own businesses, we will be well positioned to weather the storm and emerge in a position of strength. Encouraging our residents to spend money locally will create a stronger sense of community, and generate real returns.  After all, America was formed off the backs of the small business owner.  We need to keep our taxes low to encourage local spending, which will stimulate economic the growth in Ambler needs.  

 Even though I haven’t spent my entire life in Ambler, I am deeply committed to this town.  We were attracted here because of its good school system, community character, downtown district , and its prospects for the future.   My wife and I moved to Ambler in 2004 after we graduated from graduate school in Syracuse.  We have a 2 year old daughter, and ensuring this community provides a bright and prosperous future is our top priority.   I can no longer stand by as others make decisions on our behalf, and think it is time that the community elects someone to represent their views.   I have always believed that it is local politics that impacts us the most.  This is the place where the rubber hits the road and real changes can be made and real challenges can be met head on. 

I am not running on the concept of change, because I strongly believe this community already possesses the tools for success.   I am scared by those who argue for change, just for changes sake.   The past efforts of the borough government , Ambler Main Street and local entrepreneurs are the very reason I moved here. Ambler has a sound framework and I believe that it is the past efforts are the very things that will create future prosperity.  We need to remove the obstacles to our success, and make sure success does not come at the expense of the community we have built.

Josh Kanaplue