Owner and operator of Bell Hardware and Supply Inc., Joe Rudderow, Maidencreek Township, announced that he will seek the nomination to represent the citizens of Berks County in the State House’s newly created 5th District.
‘I am motivated to run for this seat because I want to cultivate the best in Berks County,’ Rudderow said. ‘To me that means listening to people and using common sense to foster job growth for present and future generations. Common Sense simply means approaching an issue with plain ordinary good judgment along with exercising sound practical sense. Too many times government tends to complicate the issues. Our legislature sometimes fails to recognize the cause and effect of legislation that is proposed or passed in relationship to the people, businesses and industries that will be affected. The law of unintended consequences always becomes realized after the fact and usually at the expense of our liberties, freedoms and finances.’
He is currently president of Bell Hardware and Supply.
‘As someone who signs the front of the paycheck, I understand firsthand the challenges our job creators face and the impact bad public policy has on people’s livelihood,’ said Rudderow. ‘As a parent and husband I know the many challenges that face families in Berks today. We see the rising cost of running our households as energy and food costs continue to climb along with a steady rise in fees and taxes. We see the ongoing struggle with the cost of basic and college education in both public and private schools.’
Rudderow also acknowledged the burden property taxes have on Pennsylvania’s families, seniors and overall economy. ‘We must provide our children with the highest quality of education possible while preserving the individual rights of property owners.’
He believes, ‘a strong vibrant economy bolstered by successful businesses and meaningful tax reform will help Pennsylvania retain its senior citizens as well as its High School and College graduates.’
In addition to his private sector experience, Rudderow has served his community in various local government positions over the past decade, as a member of the Maidencreek Township Planning Commission and Township Board of Supervisors.
‘I have learned a lot about our community and local government during my years of service to the township,’ concluded Rudderow. ‘I understand the importance of private property rights and the proper role of government in our communities. I understand the importance of being a good steward of the taxpayers’ money. I understand the importance of listening to our residents, learning about the issues, leading the charge for resolution and lastly, legislating if necessary.’
He resides in Maidencreek Township with his wife of 22 years, Claudia, and their six children.
The 5th State House District includes the townships of Alsace, Bern, Bethel, Centre, Exeter (PART, Precincts 01, 05 and 09), Jefferson, Maidencreek, Marion, Ontelaunee, Penn, Ruscombmanor, Tulpehocken, Upper Bern and Upper Tulpehocken and the boroughs of Bernville, Centerport, Fleetwood, Leesport, Strausstown and Womelsdorf.
For more information about the candidate, visit www.joerudderow.com.
