Candidate Profile: John Escoto Shenandoah City Council Position 3

Editor's note: Some responses have been edited for clarity.

Montgomery County voters will soon make their decision on local races in the May 1 election.

John Escoto, who is running for Shenandoah City Council Position 3, shared with Patch why he should be elected to represent Shenandoah residents.

Profile: John Escoto

Age (as of Election Day): 70

Position sought: City of Shenandoah, City Council Position 3

Party affiliation: Not running under party affiliation; registered Republican

Family: Eileen, wife

Campaign website: https://www.jescotoforshenando...

Q&A with Escoto

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

What is your educational background?

College

What is your occupation?

Retired federal law enforcement (US Customs/DHS Special Agent)

Why are you seeking elective office?

Continuing public service to my community.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Traffic (mobility)

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

10-plus years of residency in Shenandoah vs. 10 months for my opponent. Presently serving in the Shenandoah Planning and Zoning Commission.

How do you think local officials performed in responding to the coronavirus? What, if anything, would you have done differently?

They performed as expected, followed guidelines and suggestions.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Consistent electrical power for our residents. Maintaining low property taxes and low water and sewer rates.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My experience in executive management while in federal government. Experience in mission accomplishment during a 26-year Army active duty and reserve service.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

"How will my actions as a public servant benefit my community?"

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am professional, ethical, experienced and responsible.