Leaders Who Listen, Serve, and Include — That’s the Chatham Way

Dear neighbors,

As a 19-year-old, second-year voter and lifelong Chatham Borough resident, I recognize that voting is one of our most important rights. We should use that right to help shape the future of our community.

In this year’s election, I’m proud to endorse longtime Councilwoman Karen Koronkiewicz and first-time candidate Miles Gilmore for Chatham Borough Council.

I’ve gotten to know Karen over the past six years and deeply appreciate her service. She has done a great job since joining the Council in 2020, including during the pandemic, when she helped the Borough navigate difficult challenges. I also enjoy seeing and chatting with Karen around town and when she volunteers at St. Patrick’s Church. I especially appreciate her inclusive spirit and dedication to the community.

I had a very positive first impression of Miles when I saw him at the League of Women Voters debate. Based on his responses, I could tell he’s someone who listens carefully and has good judgment. Since then, I’ve had the chance to get to know Miles a bit more. He told me he loves living in Chatham, and I appreciated his inclusive outlook during our conversation. Miles is an active volunteer in the community — serving as a Scout leader and as a member of the Shade Tree Commission for the past few years. His service in the U.S. Army has also prepared him for moments like this.

I love living in Chatham and appreciate the efforts of Mayor Carolyn Dempsey and the Borough Council to help residents feel connected and valued. In 2024, I received a proclamation from the Council recognizing Autism Acceptance Month. Earlier this year, I worked with the Council to acknowledge the leader of the Buddy Ball program as part of Autism Acceptance Month. The proclamations recognizing Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Suicide Prevention, Black History Month, Pride Month, and more are meaningful—they help residents feel acknowledged and included.

I’ll be voting for Karen Koronkiewicz and Miles Gilmore to keep our town moving forward, continue supporting special events like the concerts at the Gazebo and the Christmas Tree lighting, and to uphold Chatham’s strong spirit of inclusion.

Sincerely,

Patrick Ryan