Local Spotlight - Joe Van Houten for Doylestown Township Supervisor

This Patch article is sponsored and paid for by Joe Van Houten for Doylestown Township Supervisor. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

Patch: What attracted you to politics, and how did you get started?

Joe Van Houten: I joined the Public Water and Sewer Advisory Committee over 20 years ago in response to a sewer project proposed for my neighborhood. That involvement provided vast insight into the functions of local government and culminated in one of the largest public sewer projects in the township. Over the years the Board of Supervisors appointed me to serve on the UCC Board of Appeals and Municipal Authority where I serve as chairman. I enjoy working with my fellow board and committee members as we help bring public water and sewer to members of our community.

Patch: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your campaign.

Joe Van Houten: As a business owner I have private and public sector experience. Doylestown needs leaders who listen, and who understand that good ideas aren’t owned by any one party.

Patch: How long have you lived in Doylestown Township?

Joe Van Houten: 30 years

Patch: Tell us about your career and service in Doylestown Township.

Joe Van Houten: As President and CEO of an international company I know the importance of balanced budgets and proper planning for unforeseen economic downturns. My decades of service to the community include Chairman of the Municipal Authority and Public Water and Sewer Advisory Committee. Working with fellow board and committee members we have focused on finishing projects on time and within the budget. Both positions involve obtaining grants and financing to achieve lowest possible costs for residents and customers of the Municipal Authority.

Patch: What are some ways you give back to the community?

Joe Van Houten: In addition to donating my time serving on township boards, I also donate time serving on a committee responsible for one of the largest local fundraisers run by the Doylestown Rotary. As a private pilot I have been involved with the local pilots association.

Patch: If you were to be elected, what would some of your top priorities/policies/changes be?

Joe Van Houten: On day one I would focus on keeping taxes fair, supporting our police and first responders, maintaining safe roads, and protecting the quality of life that makes Doylestown a special place to live. To that end, working with our Township Manager and team identifying areas to reduce expenses is a priority. In doing so I will ensure residents have valued input all along the way before any decisions are made.

Patch: What distinguishes you from other candidates?

Joe Van Houten: My opponents recently sent out a fundraising message that said, “We need your help now to keep Doylestown blue.” I want to serve our entire community — Democrats, Republicans, and Independents.

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced during this election?

Joe Van Houten: Asking people to put aside partisan politics to have meaningful discussions impacting all residents of our town. Once that barrier is dropped I find most residents share the same concerns.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part about running in this election?

Joe Van Houten: Exploring all corners of our township while meeting the residents that make Doylestown such a special place to live. These are the people I hope to represent for the next 6 years.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your campaign?

Joe Van Houten: Please visit my website at www.joevanhoutenforsupervisor.... or facebook at www.facebook.com/JoeVanHoutenForSupervisor.