May 18, 2003 2 min read

By Josh Krysak Herald-Standard

Of the three Democrats running for Perry Township supervisor in Tuesday’s primary, two say they are willing to forgo their salaries to benefit the township and the third could not be reached for comment.

In a township that has seen their share of fiscal woes in recent years, both candidates say that their salaries could be put to better use in the township to help finance some of the projects that have been delayed due to the financial troubles.

Bob Johnson, 50, of Star Junction has two daughters and said he currently is not working due to disability.

Johnson said that he began attending township meetings about five years ago and has been one of the township watchdogs ever since. Johnson said that he would act as an on-call supervisor and that any resident could call him at home about any problems in the township.

“I just didn’t wake up and decide that I wanted to be a supervisor,” Johnson said.

According to Johnson, two of the current supervisors are doing a good job running the township and he said that he will help them in any way he can.

“I feel they are doing a good job. We are just getting our head above water,” he said.

Johnson said his decision to forgo his salary as a supervisor will allow more roads to get paved and new equipment to be purchased, something he sees as a necessity in the township.

“Let that money go to the community. Let the taxpayers get what they deserve.”

Norman Zimmerman, 63, has lived in Perry Township with his wife and four children since 1970.

Zimmerman said that his nearly 40 years in the construction business will give him the expertise need to help the township save money without cutting services.

According to Zimmerman, his experience includes a vast knowledge about contracts and contractors as well as specifics related to gas, water and sewer lines, septic systems, housing development and snow removal. He said he is also a drainage specialist.

“If I am elected, I will work without pay for the first year of office.”

Candidate Wayne Rose could not be reached for comment. Current supervisor Adam Muccioli is not seeking re-election.