Candidate Profile 2021: Frank DeLuca, Mayor Of New Hope

NEW HOPE, PA — Frank DeLuca, who previously served as New Hope Borough Constable, is running as the Democratic challenger in the race for mayor of New Hope.

He is running against Republican Laurence D. Keller, who is seeking reelection.

The general election will take place on Nov. 2.

Here's DeLuca's profile, as filled out by the candidate:

Age (as of Election Day)

64

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

Husband Dr. Reynaldo Velasco, pediatrician

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

None

Education

Associates degree criminal justice. Bucks County Community College and Temple Self defense instructor, member of Bucks County’s Major Incident response team. Certified in many courses throughout my career in the New Hope Police Department.

Occupation

6 years as Army Intelligence analyst and 34 years as Police Officer and Interim Police Chief

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

New Hope Borough Constable

Campaign website

frankdelucaformayor.com and Facebook, Frank DeLuca for Mayor

Why are you seeking elective office?

I’m running for Mayor so that a generation from now, New Hope remains a worthy destination and home.

The single most pressing issue facing our community is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Their ability in keeping our children safe from Covid-19 and hoping parents will educate themselves in believing in the science that has been proven effective by wearing masks as well as getting vaccinated.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I’d be more transparent for one, having weekly police press releases. And under LGBT, my Republican opponent took 1 year to sign on to Mayors for Marriage Equality. Had I’ve been there I would’ve signed on immediately.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

Our current Republican Incumbent mayor, doesn’t attend Borough Workshops, doesn’t perform wedding in summer months, doesn’t do monthly mayor’s reports, and will not release weekly police reports. Current mayor of 24 years makes appearances. I would be more proactive taking initiative is to improve our safety and quality of life for all residents. A mayor can do much more than cut ribbons.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

For sometime now I wanted to make a difference in my community. As mayor I would be a spokesperson for residents and the business community. A sounding board and listening to concerns.I want to keep New Hope’s small-town charm. The future of our tiny borough is at stake.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

In one instances, for years, the Borough was experiencing issues with motorcycle noise primally on weekends. A noise ordinance was enacted in 2004 and I was the primary enforcer being the Boroughs only bike patrol officer. Using a decibel meter, I was able to stop riders and inform them of the new ordinance. Many who had removed their baffles suppressing the noise, replaced them, just so they wouldn’t be stopped by the “New Hope Bike Cop”.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Maya Angelou “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel“

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I’ve always treated people with dignity and respect. New Hope to me in so many ways represents freedom, freedom to be who you are and love whoever you want.
I’ve served under 5 Mayors and 6 Police Chiefs during my career here. I am familiar with many aspects of the position, it’s obligations, challenges, and opportunities.
I’ve served on the Boroughs Shade Tree Commision making our town beautiful with more greenery for the public to enjoy.