Frank Graziano III announces campaign for Easton City Council's District 1

EASTON, Pa. — A member of Easton’s Planning Commission will take on Roger Ruggles for the District 1 seat on city council, intending to shift attention from big development to improved quality of life for residents.

Frank Graziano III announced his campaign earlier this week, stating his focus will be focused on “a deep commitment to fostering inclusive and transparent governance, enhancing community resources, and advocating for the needs of Easton’s diverse neighborhoods.”

Graziano, who lives in the northeast corner of the West Ward — a portion of the district he is running for, which also includes the Downtown district, College Hill, and the 4^th Ward — described himself as a “dedicated member of the Easton community,” citing 18 years of experience at Tower Products, his time on the planning commission, and involvement in the West Ward Neighborhood Plan.

“My roots run deep in Easton,” Graziano said.

“Having lived in Downtown, the South Side, and the West Ward over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to witness firsthand the challenges and triumphs that make our city unique. I’m running to bring a transparent, results-driven approach to City Council and ensure that every resident in District One feels represented.”

According to a release issued by Graziano, priorities for his campaign will include creating transparent governance and ensuring “that local government operates in a way this is open, accessible, and accountable to all residents,” advocating for affordable housing by addressing the challenges of rising costs and absentee landlords in order to attain sustainable for all, enhancing community spaces via investments in recreational areas, and supporting small businesses by championing growth and development.

“Easton has undergone pretty big transformation over the past decade or so. The city is a lot different, and we have challenges today we haven't had before either. So I think we really need to change some of the focus from the bigger developments toward quality of life issues. And the other thing is transparency, too,” Graziano said.

Citing an incident at the city’s zoning hearing board meeting Monday, Graziano said the couple who had to hire an attorney to formally request information concerning the construction of a six-story mixed-use building near them should have had ready access to plans and details.

“I just don't think that's how it should be — if a person wants to know what variances the developers are going for, they shouldn't have to pay for an attorney,” Graziano said.

“The good thing is, we do have newer members of council who I think are bringing transparency and a lot of community engagement as well, and that's what I hope to contribute to council myself.”

Furthermore, Graziano said, that project at 70 N. 4^th St. would eat up 60 spots at the 4^th Street garage, leaving workers and visitors to the area at a loss for parking, another quality-of-life issue he attends to address.

Graziano says he holds a “lifelong dedication” to the city, pointing to his community service efforts, organizing cleanups, serving on committees, and working to improve the neighborhoods of Easton.

Describing himself as a “proud father of three” — including two sons actively serving in the Air Force and Marine Corps, along with one retired Army veteran who serves as an ICU nurse — and husband to his high school sweetheart, Graziano said he emphasizes family values and the importance of building a future “for all generations.:

“I believe in the power of community,” Graziano said. “With your support, we can tackle the challenges ahead and ensure Easton remains a vibrant and thriving city for years to come.”