Royersford Dems Sweep Council Race, Gain Board Majority

Democrats swept the Royersford Borough Council in a big way on Tuesday – not only marking the first time Democrats have won a spot on the board in decades, but taking control of the seven-person board, according to to unofficial Montgomery County election results.

Anil Dham, Matt Stehman, David Stehman and Shawnette Jones beat out incumbents Bruce D. Buckwalter, Paul Chrisman, Charles J Bowers and John Grispon on Tuesday. David Stehman was the top vote getter with 353 votes; beating out the top Republican, Buckwalter, by more than 75 votes.

In a Patch candidate questionnaire, Dham, Matt Stehman and David Stehman told Patch that they have not previously held elected positions, and that the real revitalization of the borough, and safety of residents, are the top of their priorities list.

“By 2017, I want other towns and boroughs talking highly about Royersford's revitalization,” Dham said, who added that skyrocketing taxes and wasteful spending are also big issues in the borough.

Matt Stehman is a Spring-Ford High School graduate, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“Crimes such as vehicle break-ins, home burglaries, and drug related activity are increasing rapidly in the borough,” said Matt Stehman.   “At the same time, residents we have spoken to have told us vehicles speeding and not stopping remains an issue that has gone unaddressed — we are at a critical time to tackle these before the problems overwhelm and take over the community.”

David Stehman is a local EMT with Friendship Fire Company who has lived in Royersford almost his entire life. He hopes to see a more open and transparent government.

“People who live in our borough have a right to be able to find out where their taxes are being spent,” Stehman said.

The team expressed appreciation to voters, and excitement to get to work.

"We wish to acknowledge our heartfelt thanks to all of Royersford's residents who came out to vote for new leadership.  We received votes from folks from all political stripes and we will work diligently to revitalize Royersford, bring businesses back to the borough, and bring about more community events while keeping taxes from increasing,” said the team after learning of the win.  “Thank you to our wonderful community for trusting in us."