Politics & Government

Long Time Resident James Gekas Runs for Council Seat in University Park's Ward 2

The second in our series of candidate profiles for University Park election.

After living in University Park for over 30 years, 65-year-old James Charles Gekas has decided to represent Ward 2 on the town's council after retiring from his federal government job.

Gekas, who lives on Tennyson Road, is a political newcomer, other than his stint as his high school class president back in Lakeland, Michigan. However, he currently serves as treasurer for University Park Community Solar.

He graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1968 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and then completed his master's degree in physics in 1972.

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After serving in the U.S. Army, Gekas moved to Takoma Park, then Hyattsville and finally settled in University Park in 1979 with his wife and they had three children.

Patch spoke with Gekas about his run for office and what he hopes to accomplish during his term.

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Riverdale Park-University Park Patch: How can residents benefit from your representation on council?

James Gekas: I think by the number of years that I have spent with the federal government working for the energy business I might have some insight on how to best use the grant the town relieved from the U.S. Department of Energy. After retiring two years ago, I got involved with University Park Community Solar group so I've met people in the neighborhood that way and from living here for so long.

Patch: What are your goals for your time on council?

JG: I'd like to continue planning the solar project within the town and use some of the grant money towards a solar project and make the town more energy efficient. I've always wanted to set up a system so that twice a year we can collect hazardous items that can be recycled like paint cans.

Patch: What are some issues that concern you or your ward? How will you address them?

JG: Street maintenance has been an issue in the past and I want to make sure residents are satisfied with projects going as they should. But, budgets are my central focus. Also I want to keep an eye on the number of renters, we don't want to lose the neighborhood cohesion.

Patch: Why do you love living in University Park?

JG: You know your neighbors really well and there's not a lot of turnover. There's a lot of talent in this town and a sense of family and community.


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