To Borough Council President; Mr. Matt Moon:                                                                                                                

 March 05, 2026

            I am writing in response to Chad-Alan Carr’s recent resignation as Mayor of Gettysburg. I am shocked as he ran an excellent campaign and he deserved his nomination. I truly wish him all the best. I would like to submit my interest to be appointed in his place. I realize that I am a Republican, and I also realize that we are on opposite sides in many matters pertaining to this small historic town. However, that does not disqualify me for the position. My passion is with the residents, businesses, and tourists, who help to make this town one of the best in the world.

            But as you know, I am vehemently against permit violations during these weekly Saturday protests. But at no time have I ever stated not to allow them. Violating someone’s 1^st Amendment rights is not something I would do. My position has always been to make sure the revenue of the businesses was not harmed; to make sure the tourists who are eating lunch are not bothered by megaphones (which are a permit violation); nor have children and parents listening to or reading signs of profanity and vulgarity. We can have a difference of opinions as long as the protests are in fact peaceful. Disruption of crosswalks is also dangerous to the safety of our town. Safety and security should be the mayor’s number one priority as I have always stated. I do not know if the Gettysburg Police Department was in fact restructured under the Borough Council. But if so, I would still ask for more of a police presence during the protests. There again, this would be to ensure public safety. I have a great deal of respect for the GPD. I think the town was a lot friendlier, when they were allowed to be more interactive with the public. For instance, when they were on patrol on bikes. People felt safer. I also believe businesses, especially the ghost tours, should be allowed to conduct their tours without fear of retaliation from the leadership, provided they also respect the Borough Ordinances.

            As the next Mayor of Gettysburg, I would be present and not stuck in an office all the time. I feel the mayor should be personable, welcoming, attentive, and listen to the needs of the people. The position is more than just waving at parades. It is about being approachable! It is about not discriminating against someone for their political or personal beliefs. A mayor must remain neutral and treat each person with dignity and respect. A mayor must listen to the complaints and respond appropriately.

            I am also extremely committed to the historical aspects of this town. I am an author, producer, and photographer. I have spent countless hours out on the battlefields. I plan to, at some point, open my own bookstore in town. Economically, I am not privy to the numbers. I believe several organizations do incredible jobs of bringing events to this town. People often ask me, “If I were Mayor of Gettysburg, would I try to stop Pride Week from happening?” I know this isn’t the best response, but I have Gay family members. It is not up to me to judge someone based on their sexual preference. My only goals for Pride Week would be the same as Bike Week: “keep it clean,” and “while in town, power down!” It doesn’t mean that there shouldn’t be dancing in the streets and having fun, as it is my personal opinion that it is desperately needed. But we can all have a good time, without disrupting ordinances and legalities.

            I believe having a Republican mayor, in the midst of a Democratic leadership, will bring a much-needed balance; a much-needed different voice; and a much-needed open door for other Republicans and Independents, who are afraid to speak up and voice their own grievances and opinions. I was the only Republican last year to step up and run for this position, even as a write-in. I was late coming into the campaign due to illness. But after I saw that no-one else ran, I felt the need to. Why? It is because I deeply care about this town and the people in it.

            I am aware of what the position of mayor entails. But I am also aware there are some things that must be learned while on the job. However, I am excellent at publications and blogging, and I will make it a point to communicate via newsletters and social media to the town, and those on the email list. I feel keeping the public informed is imperative! But in closing, let me say this. From someone who suffered from chronic illnesses, I believe in helping others to regain a sense of stability, whether that be physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. I am also fluent in Sign Language and was a Deaf Interpreter for many years. I worked with Special Olympics as a Figure Skating Coach. I have many certifications from the Professional Skaters Association. I would be happy to re-certified in CPR and other much needed certifications from the American Red Cross. We need to be more aware of how we can truly help others! As your next Mayor of Gettysburg, I would do just that. Gettysburg is a community filled with people from all walks of life, races, backgrounds, disabilities, and social statuses. A mayor has the influence to help close the gap in someone’s shattered integrity! For those at the homeless shelters, or addiction centers, it would be my honor to assist them. It doesn’t take much to lift someone’s spirits!    

            Thank you for your consideration of appointing me as your next Mayor of Gettysburg! Please feel free to reach out for any questions or concerns.

Respectfully,

Juliana Love