2021 Candidate Profile: Chris Harding, Yardley Mayor

YARDLEY, PA — Yardley Borough Mayor Chris Harding is seeking re-election for what he has said will be one more term in office.

First elected to the post in 2014, Harding, a Republican, faces opposition from at least one other candidate. David Applebaum, president of Experience Yardley, has announced plans to run for mayor as a Democrat.

2021 Candidate Profile: David Appelbaum, Yardley Mayor

In Pennsylvania, municipal primaries are set for May 18, with the general election scheduled for Nov. 2.

Here is Harding's Patch's profile, as filled out by the candidate:

Age (as of Election Day)

51

Party Affiliation

Republican

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

The Lawrenceville School '88 / West Chester University '92 BA Political Science & '94 MBA, Finance

Occupation

Senior Loan Officer, Northeast Equitable Mortgage, 10+ Years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Current Yardley Borough Mayor (serving proudly since 2014), Yardley Borough Council Member 1998-2006, Council President, Vice President, Public Safety Chairperson, Finance Committee Chair

Campaign website

http://www.facebook.com/MayorC...

Why are you seeking elective office?

As Mayor, I have always challenged myself to act as a voice and a representative of the community, and I consider this an essential duty which I will continue if I am honored to be re-elected Mayor.

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

After the multiple significant floods in the early 2000s, I led a process to implement new and effective emergency response procedures. Working with residents and public officials, a plan was created to establish a support system for Boro residents affected during and after an emergency. Since that time, Yardley Boro has continued to grow through both our wonderful residential neighborhoods and our vibrant business community. Unfortunately, we know too well that emergencies can come without warning. As Mayor, I have the experience to ensure that the Boro has an effective emergency response support system for both our residents and our businesses. I have had the privilege to work closely with all of our local emergency management providers (Police, Fire, and Rescue), over my years on Yardley Boro Council and as Mayor, and this experience provides me with the unprecedented knowledge and leadership skills required to manage and lead when called upon.

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

As Mayor I have and will continue to campaign on bringing a vibrant energy and attitude to Yardley Boro. Over the past eight years that I have been privileged to represent our Boro, I have grown our social media as an effective information resource. In addition, I am honored that Yardley is now a "Rally" location for the Carry The Load organization, honoring our military and emergency service providers. I have also launched the "Yardley Boro On Air" radio show as a forum for discussion of Boro issues and promotion of local events. I am honored to work in conjunction with Chief Kelly of our Yardley Boro Police Department, and I am proud of their professional growth and commitment to their core values. Most importantly, I am confident I have achieved my goal of providing a voice for our residents.