Candidate Profile 2021: Andrea Ahern, Newtown Township Supervisor

NEWTOWN, PA — Andrea Ahern, a vice president and business development officer at Firstrust Bank, is a Republican running for Newtown Township Supervisor alongside candidate Kyle Davis.

Ahern, a Council Rock graduate, has lived in Newtown for 38 years. One of the main issues she will work on fixing is the tax increases in Newtown, which she believes are too high. Her knowledge of finances and business practices will aid her and Davis in helping the township.

If elected, this would be Ahern's first elected or appointed office.

The general election will take place on Nov. 2.

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

Age (as of Election Day)

46

Party Affiliation

Republican

Family

Son - Ryan Ahern, 19, 2020 CR North Graduate, Sophomore at Temple University
Son - Conner Ahern, 17, Senior at Council Rock North
Mom - Rosa Ortiz, retired, resident of Newtown Township since 1983 and Temple University and Rider University Graduate

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Council Rock Graduate
Temple University Graduate with BA in English and Minor in Criminal Justice

Occupation

Currently I am a Commercial Lender with a Community Bank. My specific passion and focus is on Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, where I work solely to assist small to mid size businesses grow. I have been on the lending side of small business transactions since 2014; however, I started my career in 2005 working as a Business Broker where I managed the sale of privately held businesses. At this point, my entire career has been dedicated to working closely with Main Street business owners.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

Campaign website

DavisAhern4Newtown.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I have lived in Newtown for the better part of 38 years and have always cared deeply for this town and its unique charm. I noticed that charm being compromised as a result of a planned residential development proposed on parcel directly behind where both myself and my Mother own homes. As my involvement lead me to the Township level I became disenchanted with the lack of collaboration present at the Township Board and felt that my years of negotiating, financial acumen and professional disposition could lend to helping bridge gaps at the Township Level.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Newtown Township has seen tax increases of 240% since 2017, with another proposed increase in the 2022 Budget. I am concerned that the current Board majority is leaning on Newtown Township residents to bridge cash flow gaps, rather than getting creative and working together to find synergies within the budget. Additionally, generating organic Township revenue (ie: not via tax increases) is a concern. I believe that my 15+ years working with small to middle market businesses will lend itself to helping bring businesses back to Newtown in an effort to create additional revenue streams.

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

The largest difference is my depth of financial, small business and negotiating experience. I have a vast network of business owners, financial experts, etc who I have worked with my entire career and who share my passion for small business growth. I have already worked with Economic Development Councils as an SBA lender. Small business is the engine to our local economy and Newtown Township needs Supervisors focused on revitalizing Newtown as a business center. Also, I’ve had businesses in my portfolio with top line revenues higher than that of the Township; as such, the budget process and understanding financial nuance are very familiar to me. I far surpass my opponent in this vital skill set.

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

This is an open seat.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Over development is a key issue and the catalyst for my involvement in local politics. I am incredibly concerned about how the current Supervisor majority has voted and managed development projects, such as Arcadia or the congestion at the Village of Newtown.

Newtown historically has been known for its charm, which we are losing. The time is now to hold the Supervisors accountable and insist they fight to maintain what is left of Newtown’s small town character.

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

I currently sit on the Board of the Daniel K. Wepryk Foundation, which is focused on bringing awareness to the Opioid crisis facing Bucks, Chester and Delaware Counties. I am the Chair of the Eagle Ridge Community Association Finance Committee. I am the Treasurer of my networking group, Your Executive Round Table. I have managed the sale of privately held business where I negotiated hundreds of business transactions. I understand financial nuance, how to grow revenue and manage expenses.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

No one promised you good cards, just play the ones you’re dealt well.

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

I have been working hard since March, 2021 to prepare for this position. I am ready to get to work and look forward to the opportunity to serve my hometown.