A Time for Change: Kennett Square's November 4th Election
- Russ Crane
- Oct 1
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 3
The Challenge Ahead
As Kennett Square Borough approaches the November 4th, 2025 municipal election, residents face critical decisions about the future of their community. Behind the charming historic streets and thriving downtown lies a growing list of challenges that demand experienced, fiscally responsible leadership from the Mayor and Borough Council.
Since 2017, the mayor and council have all been Democrats. Their decision-making has not benefited residents—just unbridled spending and growth with no opposing views. During the last decade, the all-Democrat borough government has caused the fabric of our town to unwind. We value the fabric of our town, yet the council continues to disadvantage existing businesses that are part of that fabric by favoring new businesses and developers.
The Council is fueling unchecked growth, which will ultimately result in a real reduction in the quality of life here in Kennett Square:
Congestion will explode across our already-strained streets
Housing growth will outpace basic services and infrastructure requirements
Infrastructure upgrades will become very expensive, leading to higher taxes
The character that makes Kennett Square special will be lost forever
Existing residents and businesses will continue to be sidelined
The borough's aging infrastructure—some of it over a century old—presents ongoing challenges. Water main breaks, deteriorating streets, and aging sewer systems require constant attention and significant investment. While the Public Works Department works tirelessly to address these issues, the scope of needed improvements extends far beyond emergency repairs. Strategic planning, efficient management, and sound fiscal policies are essential to modernize infrastructure while maintaining the character that makes Kennett Square special.
Beyond infrastructure, borough leadership must balance the needs of long-time residents with those of newcomers, manage growth responsibly, support local businesses, and ensure that municipal services are delivered efficiently and cost-effectively. These challenges require leaders with proven track records, business acumen, and deep community roots.
Republican Solutions: Experience, Accountability, and Community First
The Republican candidates running for Kennett Square Borough office bring exactly the kind of experience and perspective needed to address these challenges head-on.
Leon Spencer for Mayor: Proven Leadership Returns
Leon Spencer isn't new to the mayor's office—he served Kennett Square with distinction from 1999 to 2010. As an educator and highly respected community leader, Spencer understands both the practical needs of municipal government and the importance of bringing people together to solve problems.
Spencer's previous tenure as mayor demonstrates his commitment to public service over politics. His experience navigating borough finances, working with council members, and addressing infrastructure needs gives him unique insight into the challenges facing Kennett Square today. Rather than learning on the job, Spencer can hit the ground running, bringing institutional knowledge and established relationships that benefit the borough from day one.
His background in education also shapes his leadership style—he listens, he teaches, and he believes in collaborative problem-solving. These qualities are essential in a mayor who must work effectively with council, coordinate with other municipalities, and represent the borough to county and state officials.
For more information or to contact the candidate, please go to https://www.ksqareagop.com/spencer.
Troy Thompson for Borough Council: Bringing Financial Expertise
Troy Thompson brings more than 30 years of experience in financial services, with expertise in risk management, operations, business analysis, and development. This is exactly the kind of background the borough needs as it makes critical decisions about infrastructure investment, municipal finances, and economic development.
Thompson's career in the private sector means he understands accountability, efficiency, and results-oriented management. He knows how to analyze complex financial situations, identify risks, and develop strategies that protect taxpayer dollars while achieving necessary goals. His experience in business development also positions him to support local businesses and help Kennett Square's economy continue to thrive.
As a retired executive, Thompson has the time and energy to dedicate to council responsibilities, attending meetings, studying issues thoroughly, and being accessible to constituents. His approach is methodical and data-driven—essential qualities when making decisions about spending, borrowing, and long-term planning.
For more information or to contact the candidate, please go to https://www.ksqareagop.com/thompson.
James Miller for Borough Council: A Local Business Owner's Perspective
James Miller isn't just talking about supporting local business—he lives it every day as the owner of State Street Pizza & Grill, which he has successfully operated since 2012. His experience as a business owner gives him firsthand understanding of the challenges facing Main Street entrepreneurs, from regulations and permits to parking and foot traffic.
Miller's background also includes service as a Chester County correctional officer, demonstrating his commitment to public safety and his understanding of law enforcement needs. This dual perspective—business and public safety—makes him uniquely qualified to address quality of life issues in the borough.
As a business owner, Miller deals daily with the realities of property taxes, utility costs, and the impact of borough decisions on small businesses. He understands that every dollar the borough spends comes from taxpayers—many of whom are small business owners working hard to make ends meet. His focus will be on responsible spending, streamlined regulations, and policies that help local businesses succeed.
Miller is also deeply embedded in the community. When residents walk into State Street Pizza & Grill, they're not just customers—they're neighbors. This connection to everyday life in Kennett Square gives Miller insight that no amount of meetings or studies can provide.
For more information or to contact the candidate, please go to https://www.ksqareagop.com/miller.
A Vision for Kennett Square's Future
Together, Spencer, Thompson, and Miller represent a comprehensive approach to borough leadership:
☑ Fiscal Responsibility: With Thompson's financial expertise, the team can ensure that every taxpayer dollar is spent wisely. This means careful analysis of infrastructure projects, competitive bidding, and long-term financial planning that protects the borough's fiscal health.
☑ Business-Friendly Policies: Miller's experience as a business owner will inform policies that support economic development while maintaining Kennett Square's unique character. The borough should be a partner in business success, not an obstacle.
☑ Experienced Leadership: Spencer's proven track record as mayor means the borough won't miss a beat. He knows the systems, the challenges, and the opportunities. His leadership will provide stability and continuity during a time of significant change.
☑ Community Connection: All three candidates are deeply rooted in the Kennett Square community. They live here, work here, and care about the future of this borough because it's their home too.
The Choice on November 4th
Voters face a clear choice on November 4th: continue with the status quo or elect proven leaders who bring fresh perspective, relevant experience, and a commitment to responsible governance.
Leon Spencer, Troy Thompson, and James Miller aren't career politicians looking for a stepping stone to higher office. They're community members who see challenges that need addressing and believe they have the skills and experience to make a difference.
Spencer brings governmental experience and collaborative leadership. Thompson brings financial expertise and strategic thinking. Miller brings business acumen and grassroots community connection. Together, they offer Kennett Square Borough the kind of balanced, experienced leadership needed to tackle infrastructure challenges, support economic vitality, and ensure that the borough remains a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.
The November 4th election offers residents an opportunity to choose leaders who will prioritize transparency, fiscal responsibility, and common-sense solutions over political posturing. It's a chance to invest in experience, elect proven problem-solvers, and chart a course for Kennett Square's future that honors its past while embracing necessary progress.
For more information about Republican candidates Leon Spencer, Troy Thompson, and James Miller, visit www.ksqareagop.com/candidates. Early voting and election day information is available through the Chester County Voter Services office.
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