Candidates running in the Nov. 4 general election are providing background about themselves and their positions on the issues to voters in these profiles, which will run in Patch individually for each candidate.
BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA — Jesse Sloane is running for a seat on the Bensalem Township Council in the Nov. 4 general election.
Sloane, a Democrat, is among the candidates vying for three, four-year terms on the five-member council. Longtime Republican Councilman Joseph Piniero did not seek re-election.
The candidates are Republican newcomer Will Walker, and Councilwomen Stacey Champion and Michelle Benitez. They are running against Democrats Joseph Wenzel Jr., Ed Tokmajian, and Jesse Sloan.
Biographical Information Name: Jesse SloaneAge: 45Town of Residence: Bensalem TownshipPosition sought: Bensalem Township CouncilAre you an incumbent? NoWhat Towns Does Your Position Cover? Bensalem TownshipParty Affiliation: DemocratFamily: Married with three childrenEducation: B.S. in Mechanical Engineering & Mechanics, Drexel University; M.Eng. in Nuclear Engineering, Penn State University; Licensed Professional Engineer Occupation: Nuclear Engineer for a clean-energy company focused on nuclear waste solutions Candidate Questions
1. How do you feel about the township’s future development?
Bensalem’s future depends on smart redevelopment, not unchecked expansion. We need to revitalize underused commercial areas and clean up empty storefronts, instead of paving over what little open space we have left. After more than 30 years of Republican leadership that’s allowed developers to chip away at our green spaces, it’s time to prioritize preservation and thoughtful planning that truly serves residents — not special interests.
2. What are your thoughts on political violence in the country?
.Political violence has no place in our community or anywhere in this country. Ed Tokmajian and I have a proven record of serving all Bensalem residents, regardless of party affiliation. The goal of local government should always be to unite the community, strengthen trust, and improve the municipal services that help residents and businesses thrive. Every one of us has a responsibility to reject violence and division and to lead by example in how we treat one another.
3. What are the biggest challenges facing the borough?
Mayor DiGirolamo and the Republican Council have mismanaged our township’s finances for years. A safe and secure future is in jeopardy because they’ve been reactive instead of proactive. Recent infrastructure repairs are examples of their “too little, too late” approach. We need to work together to stabilize township finances, preserve vital public safety resources, ensure every dollar of casino revenue is used efficiently for residents, and respond more quickly to community and business needs. Above all, we must focus on improving quality of life so Bensalem can truly thrive for decades to come.