Ken Kolowski leads Doug Bernabei in the Peru mayoral race, with unofficial figures showing 1,679 to 561 votes. Tensions have increased between the candidates despite earlier commitments to a non-contentious campaign. Key issues include the proposed municipal pool and differing views on city financial challenges.
In the upcoming 2025 election for mayor of Peru, incumbent Ken Kolowski has established a strong lead over challenger Doug Bernabei. Unofficial tallies indicate that Kolowski has garnered 1,679 votes compared to Bernabei’s 561, with all precincts reporting prior to the count of early voting.
Despite initial agreements to maintain a civil campaign, recent weeks have witnessed escalating tensions between the candidates, particularly on social media platforms. During a recent mayoral forum, both candidates acknowledged the importance of engaging the community, yet disagreements regarding city priorities have emerged.
A crucial topic of discussion has been the proposed use of the hotel/motel fund for a municipal pool, a decision resonating from a successful referendum. Kolowski advocates for the pool as a potential revenue source, while Bernabei emphasizes his commitment to supporting community-led initiatives regarding the pool’s feasibility, stating, “I look forward to the current pool study and recommendation that is forthcoming from a very dedicated group of two aldermen, two community members and the parks and recreation director.”
The candidates also differ on the most pressing issues confronting the city. Kolowski highlights inflation as a primary concern, warns that the city’s rapid growth may not be sustainable under current financial pressures. Conversely, Bernabei argues the city is grappling with a significant financial crisis, noting,”In just these past four years, the general fund budget has exploded to well over $23 million, and the $4.3 million has been spent away.”
As results of the election are anticipated, they will be made publicly available online.
The race for mayor of Peru in 2025 reveals a stark contrast between incumbent Ken Kolowski and challenger Doug Bernabei, with Kolowski currently holding a substantial lead. Key issues such as inflation and financial management have emerged as significant points of contention. Both candidates display differing visions for the city’s future, particularly concerning community initiatives like the municipal pool proposal. It remains to be seen how these dynamics will evolve as the election results are finalized.
Original Source: www.shawlocal.com
