2019 primary election: Kresge announces candidacy for Carbon commissioner

Shawn Kresge, a Democrat, is announcing his candidacy for Carbon County Commissioner.

Raised in Franklin Township, Shawn, a Lehighton Area High School graduate, is a licensed master electrician and owner of Kresge Electric Services, which is a certified HVAC dealership along with construction and Real Estate Management Company. Property management services are offered through Shawn Kresge Real Estate. Kresge Electric was the recipient of the 2016 Greater Carbon Lehigh Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.

Announcing his candidacy, Kresge said, “My business ownership experience, strong work ethic and management skills uniquely qualify me for commissioner. I’m committed to valuing our employees and constituents by listening to their ideas to make our county government function at an optimum level. I will work to implement appropriate business practices to ensure proper checks and balances are in place for improved oversight.”

He continued, “Working collectively with our constituents, elected officials, government agencies and business community we can make Carbon County a progressive place to live. Additionally, we have a strong tourism industry. As such, we should find ways to grow that success throughout the county while being keenly aware of and protecting our environment.”

“Carbon County is undertaking building projects costing millions of dollars. We must review current proposals while also exploring alternative options. I will use my business acumen to ensure these projects are built properly and on budget. As a sole-proprietor business for over 20 years developing and completing projects, I have a keen understanding of project development including budgeting, specifications, bidding process and permitting obstacles,” he said.

Kresge is not new to charitable giving and public service, starting with the 4-H program, Boy Scouts, local volunteer firefighter and a wildland firefighter. Kresge has donated and rendered services to the SADD program, Summit Hill Lions Club, Sam Miller Playground, Franklin and Jim Thorpe Little Leagues, to name a few.

Kresge currently sits on the Mauch Chunk Trust Company advisory board, Carbon County Airport Authority and is a Penn Forest zoning board alternate.

Shawn and his fiancee Sara Schaeffer reside in Penn Forest Township.

Please visit our website www.kresge4carboncounty.com.