While Democrat Frank McGehee and Republican Mike Summersgill are campaigning strongly against each other for the lone open seat on the TC, they showed signs of mutual respect and a willingness to work together after the election at a recent event.
During the Oct. 15 candidates forum sponsored by Senior Share at Le Saison Inn, each was asked if he would seek to keep his opponent involved in Township issues if they won.
Both said yes.
"I was stuck by Frank's experience with the Economic Development Commission," Summersgill said when asked. "It is probably something we should tap into with Frank ... I would love it and I would support bringing back a citizen member and, Frank, I think you would be an excellent person for that job."
McGehee offered a similar view, and revealed the two had actually been sociable during the campaign.
"Mike and I actually sat down for coffee a couple of months back," McGehee admitted. "We said we were going to meet and not talk politics, we're going to talk about each other and get to know each other as people. At the end of the day we're citizens, we're residents."
He then said the two have mutual friends who might be stuck in the middle when asked to support one over the other.
"We have relationships, we have lots of mutual friends," McGehee said. "It's taxing on some of them, and we understand that, we appreciate them just being our friends. I think Mike is dynamic and I think Mike brings a lot to Maplewood ... I think Mike's going to be here for a long time and I'm going to work with Mike on some of the things he's talking about."
"If I am to win, the election, Mike and I will sit down and instead of coffee, we'll have a beer and talk about what he wants to do and I'll support that."
See that entire candidates forum below:
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