Election 2025: Ed Tokmajian For Bensalem Council

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 — Ed Tokmajian is running for a seat on the Bensalem Township Council in the Nov. 4 general election.

Tokmajian, 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: Ed Tokmajian
• Age: 49
• Town of Residence: Bensalem Township
• Position sought: Bensalem Township Council
• Are you an incumbent? No
• What Towns Does Your Position Cover? Bensalem Township
• Party Affiliation: Democrat
• Family: Married 24 years, two children, 25 and 20; two grandchildren
• Education: MBA from Holy Family University
• Occupation: Finance Director

Candidate Questions

1. How do you feel about the township's future development?

Bensalem has experienced tremendous growth over the past 30 years, but with that growth have
come real challenges — increased traffic, persistent stormwater management problems, and the
overdevelopment of housing and commercial properties.

During my time on Township Council, former Councilman Jesse Sloane and I helped preserve more than 25 acres of open space, worked with PennDOT to secure greater investment in repairing our state roads, and began addressing flooding issues along State Road.

If elected, I will build on that progress by proactively acquiring more open space, prioritizing
solutions to stormwater and flooding issues, and focusing on smart redevelopment — filling
existing vacant retail and commercial spaces rather than approving new overdevelopment. I’ll also
continue investing in our infrastructure to better manage traffic and improve the quality of life for
residents across Bensalem.

2. What are your thoughts on political violence in the country?

I have always condemned any and all acts of political violence. No matter your political beliefs or party affiliation, there is never any justification for violence in our democracy. We need leaders who can bring people together, focus on our shared values, and show respect for differing viewpoints.

3. What are the biggest challenges facing the borough?

Two of the biggest challenges facing Bensalem are continued overdevelopment and ongoing budgetary issues. In recent years, the township has approved multiple tax increases — the most recent in 2024 — while also drawing down its general fund balance to cover budget deficits. This trend reflects a lack of long-term financial planning and responsible management of township revenues.

At the same time, we continue to see development projects that overlook key factors like road
infrastructure, stormwater management, and responsible land use. Both financial stability and
smart development must be top priorities moving forward.

Public safety will always remain a core focus — ensuring that Bensalem continues to be a safe,
vibrant community where families can live, work, and thrive.