3 run for open Oakland Township tax collector position
Oakland Township’s current tax collector, Sherry Filges, is retiring from her position when her term expires at the end of 2025. Three candidates have stepped up to run for the job in the May 20 primary.
They are: Sarah Filges, who works as an accountant at Slippery Rock University; Mary Ellen Sanko, who — along with husband Doug — owns The Gathering Spot meeting and banquet hall on Chicora Road in Oakland Township; and Kathleen Bauer, a stay-at-home mom of two daughters who has experience working as an insurance agent under George Pry.
All three candidates are running as Republicans, making it likely the winner of this primary will be unopposed in the November general election.
Filges did not respond to requests for comment.
Bauer: I enjoy working with the public and helping others, as a self-motivated leader. I have never been in politics, however (in) my past employment, I worked closely with educators to offer them life, health, auto, home and retirement needs.
Sanko: With 10 years of human resource management experience, as well as a very successful sales career with a multimillion-dollar territory in the building materials industry, my accounting and customer service skills are exceptional.
Bauer: I have loved and been blessed to be a stay-at-home mom the past five years, and this position would allow me to continue that, as well as (provide) a little financial bonus for our family.
Sanko: I want to serve our community here in Oakland Township, which is the driving force for my desire to serve in this capacity.
Bauer: If I were to be elected I would take responsibility and pride in taking care of the Oakland Township residents.
Sanko: Our current tax collector has done an amazing job for Oakland Township, and it is my intent to move forward with record-keeping accuracy, as well as represent our township with exceptional customer service and accessibility.
