LETTER: Michelle Gulden for Shenandoah Council

The following is a letter submitted by Michelle Gulden, candidate for Shenandoah Borough Council.

My name is Michelle Gulden.

I’ve lived in Shenandoah for all of my adult life and proudly spent my childhood as a “patch girl” from Lost Creek #2.

With nearly 20 years of management experience, time as a small business owner and my current role in the behavioral health field I bring a unique and grounded perspective.

I have independently focused on addressing issues related to blight throughout Shenandoah. I personally walked every street in the borough, documenting and photographing properties, and recording addresses.

This comprehensive list served as a vital resource to the county in allocating funds for demolition projects and was also utilized by local fire departments to mark unsafe structures. These efforts directly contributed to firefighter safety by identifying buildings deemed too hazardous to enter during emergencies.

In addition to this work, I committed myself to learning more about land use and community redevelopment by attending both Land Bank and Council of Governments (COG) meetings. I also engaged with residents to answer concerns about neighboring properties and provided them with updates on property status and potential action.

Beyond these initiatives, I have coordinated the annual town-wide yard sale for the third consecutive year, with all proceeds supporting our free public library.

Furthermore, I collaborated with two local women to assemble and distribute toiletries and non-perishable items to our homeless population—efforts we have funded personally, recognizing the critical need in one of the county’s most affected areas.

I have been committed to grassroots community improvement, public safety, and mutual aid.

I am proud of what has been accomplished and deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute in meaningful ways.

While I’m running for borough council I don’t consider myself a politician – I am an advocate for the people.

I am tired of the “business as usual” mentality. I will be your voice and fight for a better stronger Shenandoah .

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Letters may be submitted to The Shenandoah Sentinel at [email protected].

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