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2008 VOTERS GUIDE

SUMMIT COUNTY GENERAL ELECTION - NOVEMBER 4, 2008

 Published by the League of Women Voters of the Akron Area Education Fund

Ohio Attorney General 

Term Beginning January 2009

Richard Cordray - Democrat

Address:          340 E. Fulton Street

                        Columbus, OH 43215

Phone:             614.227.3330 

Biographical Information

http://www.cordrayforohio.com/about/biography.html

Question & Answer 

1)         What specific actions should the Attorney General take to protect consumers in Ohio?

“Ohio’s Attorney General should use all the powers of the office against anyone who tries to scam Ohioans or use ‘gotcha’ tactics to take their hard-earned dollars.  As Attorney General, I would carry on the work begun in the State Treasurer’s office to educate consumers about predatory practices and making informed financial decisions.  Financial education helps, but the rule of law is the critical tool to protect the financial security of Ohioans.  Specifically, we will continue our work on foreclosure prevention (taking on predatory lenders, appraisers, flippers, and foreclosure “prevention” scammers); stand up for fair consumer practices by credit card companies (including marketing to students on campus); initiate a Senior Strike Force to prevent consumer fraud against seniors; and battle every kind of unfair financial practice that takes money out of our pockets or jobs from our hometowns.” 

2)         What changes would you propose in the authority of the Attorney General?

“As the only candidate who has actually worked in the Attorney General’s office as Ohio’s first State Solicitor, I understand the expansive powers of the office and do not plan initially to seek broader powers.  Instead, I intend to exercise my authority to uphold the standards of professionalism and restore public trust in the office.  I also will protect the financial interests of Ohioans and be a strong partner to local law enforcement.  I will reconstitute the Criminal Law Project to help local prosecutors arguing in the Ohio Supreme Court to keep criminals behind bars, establish commissions to assist on budgetary issues for local law enforcement, and work closely with small businesses to provide an early warning system and dispute mediation to reduce costs.  If the structure or functions of the office prove inadequate, I will work with both sides of the aisle in the General Assembly to address that.” 

Mike Crites - Republican

Address:          211 S. Fifth Street

                        Columbus, OH 42315

Phone:             614.456.1224

Biographical Information

http://www.critesforohio.com/biography 

Question & Answer 

1)         What specific actions should the Attorney General take to protect consumers in Ohio? 

“As Attorney General I will make the protection of Ohio consumers one of my top priorities.  I am a career prosecutor, not a career politician.  I have 21 years of prosecutorial experience, more than the last seven Attorneys General combined  As United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio I prosecuted every type of criminal from members of the Mafia, to dangerous drug dealers to tax evaders.  I pledge to use that experience to uphold the consumer laws of Ohio and to go after criminals, both individuals and businesses, who illegally prey on Ohioans.” 

2)         What changes would you propose in the authority of the Attorney General? 

“I believe the Ohio Revised Code statutes that refer to the Office of Attorney General currently in place are well thought out and give the office an appropriate amount of authority.  We have arrived at this special election not because of a failing in the authority of the office of Attorney General, but rather because of the personal failings of the last Attorney General.  The office has worked very well under the last several Attorneys General and therefore I do not believe that sweeping new authority is needed. However, I have offered several policy proposals as to how I would improve the office, including the creation of an Ad hoc committee to streamline the various ongoing investigations into the office, the creation of new fellowships to reward professionalism and improve morale, and a Public Corruption Commission to ensure that these types of scandals never again taint the office.” 

Robert Owens - Independent

Address:          46 N. Sandusky Street Suite 300

                        Delaware, OH 43015 

Biographical Information

http://owens2008.com/home/about-robert/ 

Question & Answer

1)         What specific actions should the Attorney General take to protect consumers in Ohio? 

“Protecting consumers starts by sacredly guarding their tax dollars, eliminating the “corruption tax,” which by some accounts has been as much as $2,000 per family.  This means changing the system that awards no-bid contracts to large campaign contributors representing special interests.  It also means eliminating the current “slush funds” that are created by monies collected by the attorney general’s office through settlement and litigation.  Those funds should be returned to the people’s treasury.   As attorney general, I will work to reduce regulation on small business (often falsely marketed as “consumer protection”), while increasing focus on prosecuting fraudulent business practices. Finally, consumer protection means fighting crime.  I will work to expand capabilities for the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) forensic lab in order to better support law enforcement across Ohio.  I will also work to expand education to communities and law enforcement regarding citizen rights to self defense.” 

2)         What changes would you propose in the authority of the Attorney General? 

“The attorney general should not have the authority to unilaterally distribute hundreds of millions of dollars in no-bid contracts.  I am the only candidate to propose, from the beginning of the race, that every contract be subject to a full, open competitive bid process. All financial transactions of the attorney general’s office should be readily available (i.e. online), open to public and media scrutiny.  The only way to restore integrity to the office of attorney general is through independent oversight and full transparency.  I am the only candidate to sign the Buckeye Institute’s “Transparency in Government” pledge. Let there be no more blind trust in politicians.  The system itself must be changed.  As an independent, I alone have the ability to make these changes without concern from party politics and big money special interest pressure.”

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13^th DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/03/09)

QUESTION 1:  WHAT SHOULD THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DO, IF ANYTHING, TO ENSURE THAT EVERY AMERICAN HAS HEALTH COVERAGE?

QUESTION 2:     WHAT STEPS DO YOU PROPOSE TO STRENGTHEN THE U.S. ECONOMY? 

QUESTION 3:     HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO THE UNITED STATES POSED BY UNAUTHORIZED IMMIGRANTS? 

DAVID S. POTTER                                           Age:       46                                           Republican

13916 Maple Circle

Strongsville, OH 44136 

OCCUPATION:  Full-time Candidate; previously employed by Cardiva Medical, Inc. as a Territory Sales Manager

EDUCATION:     B.S. Marketing, Political Science Minor, Ball State University

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Successful businessman who has a thorough understanding of the health care issues facing our country as a result of working in the industry for over 20 years.                                                       

ANSWER 1:         The government should NOT be in the business of healthcare.  This is clearly proven by recognizing all of the amount of fraud and waste that exists in our existing Medicare program.  I am opposed to universal healthcare or a single payor system.  This will drive the brightest of our human talent pool away from pursuing careers in medicine.  For all who call for government regulation and intervention, sound tort reform would be the place to start!!! 

ANSWER 2:         Our economy has experienced significant challenges due in large part to our assistance in building up third world nations, who are now our strongest competitors.  Both parties are to blame.  Moving forward we must:

• Make the Tax Relief Act Permanent
• Reduce the Federal Gasoline Tax
• Eliminate the Death Tax
• Abolish the Capital Gains Tax
• Implement the Free Choice Flat Tax and move towards the Fair Tax
• Cut spending,:  Terminate the Earmark Process

ANSWER 3:         Our immigration challenges are another example of how the contentious partisanship that exists between our elected representatives in Congress have failed us over the last 30 years.  I will stand up for:

• Enforcing the Simpson-Mazzoli Immigration Bill of 1986
• Securing our borders to prevent further illegal immigrants from entering our country
• Enforcing current immigration laws on employers and levy penalties to those who knowingly hire illegal workers
• Oppose ANY new forms of amnesty programs

BETTY SUTTON                                                              Age:       *              Democrat

1700 W. Market St., #155

Akron, OH 44313 

OCCUPATION:  United States Congresswoman (OH-13)

EDUCATION:     Barberton High School, 1981; Kent State University, BA in Political Science, 1985; University of Akron, Juris Doctor, 1990.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Barberton City Council ,  Summit County Council,  1991-1992;  State representative 1993-2000 

ANSWER 1:         We must ensure that every American has access to quality and affordable healthcare.  I am a cosponsor of the U.S. National Health Insurance Act, to provide comprehensive health insurance coverage for all Americans.  We must immediately focus on ensuring that our children have access to the healthcare they need.  I was proud to have voted for and stood up against President Bush’s veto to expand SCHIP coverage to ten million children in this country and over 160,000 children in Ohio.**   

ANSWER 2:         Support investment in education, innovation and research in areas such as alternative energy, bio-sciences and technology to spur jobs for today and tomorrow.  Continue working to reform trade policies so they will not leave our workers and businesses at an unfair disadvantage in the global marketplace and stop rewarding companies that ship jobs overseas.  Continue working to implement a plan to rebuild our nation’s infrastructure to create jobs, spur economic development and boost our economy.” 

ANSWER 3:         We need comprehensive immigration reform that tightens security at the border, provides stricter enforcement and tougher penalties on employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants and profit by driving down wages and incomes of workers.  But rounding up 12 million illegal immigrants and deporting them is unrealistic.  We must hold people who crossed the border responsible by requiring them to earn their citizenship, pay taxes, and learn English, as well as the basics of American civics and government.

14^th DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/03/09) 

question 1:   What should the federal government do, if anything, to ensure that every American has health coverage?

QUESTION 2:   What steps do you propose to strengthen the U.S. Economy?

QUESTION 3:   How will you address the challenges and opportunities to the United States posed by unauthorized immigrants?

STEVEN C. LATOURETTTE      AGE: 44  Republican

P.O. Box 516

Painesville OH

OCCUPATION:  Member of Congress for 14 years                                         

EDUCATION:   BA from University of Michigan/J.D. from Cleveland Marshall College of Law

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    Not given

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    The healthcare system in the U.S. is broken and healthcare is unaffordable to too many. It is not only hurting American families,  but, it is putting American businesses at a disadvantage in the global  economy. That is why I introduced legislation with Rep. Marcy Kaptur  (D-OH) to ensure that Americans have access to insurance modeled after the federal  program that provides coverage to Members of Congress.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    We need to create more jobs in the U.S. by rebuilding our infrastructure, which translates to 47,500 new jobs for every $1 billion we invest. We need to create new green  manufacturing jobs and build on our region?s strong healthcare industry. We should also reduce regulations and job-killing tax burdens on small business, which is the economic engine of the economy.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3:    I don’t support illegal immigration or any legislation that provides amnesty for those who have come to our country unlawfully. We must focus first on securing our borders and enforcing laws already in place. We should also work to make documents tamper proof so that we can ensure that employers are hiring only those here legally.  

BILL O’NEILL          AGE:   60 Democrat 

119 Waverly Lane 

South Russell, OH 44022 

OCCUPATION:   Registered Nurse, pediatric emergency room, Hillcrest Hospital, former judge, Ohio Court  of Appeals, 11th District (1997—2007)                                                

EDUCATION:   B.S. Ohio University; J.D. Cleveland Marshall School of Law; RN, Huron School of Nursing

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   As a former judge, a veteran who earned the Bronze Star in Vietnam and retired in 2001 as a **

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   As an ER pediatric nurse, this is personal for me. We need to make bold changes to the way we pay for health insurance in America, and we must ensure that no one  will ever be forced to go without health insurance, regardless of their employment status. Expanding affordable health care to all would save money and help restore our competitiveness in the world economy by easing the burden placed on our nation’s employers.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:   I believe that our current energy crisis comes with an opportunity to create new jobs through strong investments in alternative energy sources that will flex this region’s manufacturing muscles and mass transportation. We need to crack down with more stringent regulations on Wall Street and the financial industry. And, finally, we need to get  our priorities straight and stop entering into trade agreements that put our manufacturers at a disadvantage in the global economy.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3:   I, like so many Americans, am frustrated with Washington’s failure to take this issue head-on. We must start by enforcing the laws we have, and that means deportation for illegal immigrants who have committed crimes in this country. It means cracking down on businesses that are abusing the law. And it means finding fair, common-sense ways to allow those already here to make right what is wrong and get in line to become citizens. 

17^th DISTRICT CONGRESSIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/03/09) 

QUESTION 1:  WHAT SHOULD THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DO, IF ANYTHING, TO ENSURE THAT EVERY AMERICAN HAS HEALTH COVERAGE? 

QUESTION 2:     WHAT STEPS DO YOU PROPOSE TO STRENGTHEN THE U.S. ECONOMY? 

QUESTION 3:     HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO THE UNITED STATES POSED BY UNAUTHORIZED IMMIGRANTS? 

DUANE V. GRASSELL                                  Age:       57                           Republican

P.O. Box 182

Mogadore, OH 44260 

OCCUPATION:  Math Teacher, Department Chair, Akron Public Schools

EDUCATION:     B.A. & M.A. in Education, The University of Akron, almost finished docturate

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  U.S. citizen, taxpayer, longtime student of the Constitution  

ANSWER 1:         There is absolutely no reason for the federal government to ensure that every American has health coverage.  Nowhere in the Constitution does the federal government have the authority to make such a guarantee.  However, the federal government can keep health costs low by ending its interference in the health care industry through its health programs and protect doctors by keeping predatory litigous unscientific malpractice cases out of the federal courts. 

ANSWER 2:         Make deep cuts in federal spending and introduce legislation that will eliminate all federal programs that are unconstitutional.  This will be paired with an elimination of the income tax, the closing of the IRS, with revenue replaced by the consumer oriented Fair Tax as it exists in its present form. 

ANSWER 3:         For those that come here to do honest work & make a decent living for themselves & their families, I would support a path to citizenship, but behind those who immigrated here legally.  All there fines & fees would be paid by those employers who hired them illegally.  For those commit crimes or live off the welfare state, I support instant deportation without constitutional protections.  For those here to commit terrorism, I support arrest & imprisonment by the military.

*TIM RYAN     

* Did not respond                     ** Exceeded work limit

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28^th DISTRICT STATE SENATOR

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09)

QUESTION 1:     WHAT ARE YOUR HEALTH-CARE ISSUE PRIORITIES, AND WHERE WOULD THE FUNDING COME FROM? 

QUESTION 2:     SINCE NOVEMBER 2001, THE UNITED STATES HAS ADDED MORE THAN 7.3 MILLION JOBS, OR A GAIN OF 5.6 PERCENT.  ONLY THREE STATES –MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN AND OHIO HAVE NOT ADDED JOBS SINCE THE END OF THE RECESSION.  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU PROPOSE OR SUPPORT IN INCREASE JOBS IN OHIO? 

QUESTION 3:     HOW HAVE YOUR TRAINING AND EXPERIENCES PREPARED YOU TO SERVE IN THE OHIO LEGISLATURE? 

*JAMES R. CARR

TOM SAWYER                                                                  Age:       63                           Democrat

1298 N. Howard St.

Akron, OH 44310 

OCCUPATION:    State Senator

EDUCATION:     BA, MA Univ. of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Former State Representative; Member Ohio Board of Regents; Mayor of Akron; Member of Congress; Member Ohio Board of Education; Now Ohio State Senator 

ANSWER 1:         Precisely because funding sources are strained on state and local levels (and through private insurance coverage), these sources should first be used to leverage maximum federal participation in state programs, as with Medicaid, to stretch their effectiveness as far as possible. 

ANSWER 2:        

• Focus on existing business and industrial strengths.
• Encourage Ohio business and governments to purchase in-state
• Invest in regional skills concentrations; eg polymers, other kinds of synthetic materials, and their applications.
• Recruit, market, and sell worldwide
• Take calculated risks on new ideas.
• Educate, Educate, Educate.

ANSWER 3:         A long, deep, and diverse career of service across a wide range of American government has prepared me well for the difficult work that lies ahead.  I can help.

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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41^st DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09)

Question 1:  what are your health-care issue priorities and where would the funding come from?

QUESTION 2:  Since November 2001, the United States has added more than 7.3 million jobs, or a gain of 5.6%. Only three states—Massachusetts, Michigan and Ohio–have not added jobs since the end of the recession. What steps would you propose or support to increase jobs in  Ohio?

QUESTION 3:  How have your training and experiences prepared you to serve in the Ohio legislature?

RANDY COLE                                                                    Age:       41                           Republican

2399 Amesbury Rd.

Akron, OH 44313

OCCUPATION:      Full-time candidate

EDUCATION:         The Ohio University, Graduate Studies, The University of Akron, Bachelor of                                      Science, May 1989

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  My relationships with government, business and community leaders throughout the district and my experience working in the legislature make me uniquely qualified to address the important issues facing the people who live here. 

ANSWER 1:         Public concern over health care needs to be addressed.  Our long term goals have to be ensuring access to care, eliminating employer responsibility for coordinating benefits, and instilling personal responsibility and preventative care into individual health decisions.  I fully support community based initiatives like Summit County’s “Access to Care” program.

ANSWER 2:         I am meeting with local leaders to inventory their needs.  We must match those with funding sources, like I did to help develop Embassy Parkway in Bath.  I will strive to lower taxes.  Then we must focus on using the full 1970’s capacity of the Cleveland and Akron water systems. 

ANSWER 3:         I have spent twenty years making government more efficient, effective and responsive to the people.  Most recently, I led a local firm dedicated to increasing access to public information and providing government services online.  As an employee of FirstEnergy, I worked to help government save millions in energy expenses.

BRIAN G. WILLIAMS                                                     Age:       66                           Democrat

1725 Brookwood Drive

Akron, OH 44313 

OCCUPATION:  State Representative (Incumbent – 41^st District)

EDUCATION:     Bachelors/Masters in Education, Akron University

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Professional educator; Teacher, Principal, administrator, Superintendent of Akron Public Schools (1995-2001) 

ANSWER 1:         Health care priorities focus on the youngest and oldest Ohioans.  No Ohio child should be uninsured:  I propose expanding the SCHIP program including all needy children paid for with increased medicaid funds.  For senior citizens: save millions by reducing placement in nursing homes and providing services in seniors’ homes.

ANSWER 2:         I support the Strickland-Fisher initiatives including their Building Ohio Jobs stimulus package and their Dept. of Development strategic plan which taken with Ohio’s new advanced energy plan should return Ohio to Economic prosperity.  I support training/retraining programs to provide the work force for these initiatives.

ANSWER 3:         My public service includes 37 years in public education and four years in the Ohio legislature.  For six years I served as Superintendent of the Akron Public Schools overseeing a $350m budget, 30,000 children and 3000 employees.  I was fiscally responsible and accountable in this executive position.

42^nd DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09) 

Question 1:  what are your health-care issue priorities and where would the funding come from?

QUESTION 2:  Since November 2001, the United States has added more than 7.3 million jobs, or a gain of 5.6%. Only three states—Massachusetts, Michigan and Ohio–have not added jobs since the end of the recession. What steps would you propose or support to increase jobs in  Ohio?

QUESTION 3:  How have your training and experiences prepared you to serve in the Ohio legislature?

MIKE MORAN             Age:  44                   Democrat

93 E. Case Drive

Hudson, Ohio 44236                                                                                         

OCCUPATION:   Manager for 13 years in law publishing industry

EDUCATION:   B.S. Civil Engineering, 1988, University of Colorado; J.D., 1991 Georgetown University

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Married with two children; Supports public schools; Elected  to Hudson City Council in 2005 (currently president); Trustee for Rotary Club; Advisory Board for Community First; Member of First Congregational Church

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    ♦Improve efficiency of healthcare system to help affordability ♦Emphasize prevention and wellness coverage  ♦Allow individuals and small businesses to join groups to negotiate better rates  ♦Extend access to affordable healthcare for lower-income individuals

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    ♦Promote a positive business environment through lower taxes  ♦Invest in innovation and technology to promote business and job growth  ♦Support workforce development to help provide needed skills for new jobs  ♦Modify economic incentives to promote job growth over job moves within state

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3:    ♦Experience with setting priorities in a $22 million city operating budget ♦13 years of budgeting, cost-cutting, efficiency-promotion and personnel experience as a manager in business ♦Civil engineering training gives me an appreciation for investment in our state’s infrastructure ♦Prior law work and council service give me a strong foundation to be active in the legislative process  ♦Active community member, which gives me strong ties to those I represent

RICHARD NERO                                      AGE:   37                   Republican

39 Wellgate Dr

 Hudson, Ohio  44236

OCCUPATION:   Healthcare Industry Consultant and Sales Manager

EDUCATION:   Kent State University BA, Criminal Justice and Political Science.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Healthcare and former education consultant for nearly ten years, a former small business owner, and a business professional exposed to economic development in Ohio and around the country.  Born, raised, committed to Northeast Ohio.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   Our District is home to talented physicians and the best medical facilities. But not every resident can afford healthcare due to rising costs. As a healthcare industry consultant, I have worked to reduce expenses and improve technology to keep expenses down for patients. Healthcare can be improved by allowing consumers more **

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:  In 2006 and 2007, Ohio received the Governor’s Cup Award from Site Selection magazine for new and expanded business facilities.  This recent success was achieved by overhauling the state’s tax code.  Now, with the passage of House Bill 554, there is $1.57 billion available for areas such as biomedical research, **

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3:    Healthcare, education, and economic development are our state’s three biggest issues.  As a former healthcare and education consultant who formerly worked in higher education, I have the necessary experience in these two areas to succeed.  And, as a former small business owner endorsed by the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, NFIB, **

43^rd DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09)

Question 1:  what are your health-care issue priorities and where would the funding come from?

QUESTION 2:  Since November 2001, the United States has added more than 7.3 million jobs, or a gain of 5.6%. Only three states—Massachusetts, Michigan and Ohio–have not added jobs since the end of the recession. What steps would you propose or support to increase jobs in  Ohio?

QUESTION 3:  How have your training and experiences prepared you to serve in the Ohio legislature?

STEPHEN DYER                                                         Age:       36                           Democrat

4362 Ridge View Drive

Uniontown, Ohio 44685 (Green) 

OCCUPATION:  State Representative

EDUCATION:     BA English Tufts University, MA Journalism Kent State University, JD University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Reporter with Akron Beacon Journal from 1997-2006.  Staff Attorney with Summit County 2006. 

ANSWER 1:         I voted to expand SCHIP to cover all Ohio’s children, but the federal government has refused to release the funds for it.  I think we need to look at the Massachusetts plan and others to improve on them.  It is possible.  Others have done it.  We can do better.

ANSWER 2:         The $1.57 billion we invested in job growth was a good start.  Fundamentally, though, we need to grow new business opportunities here that cannot be outsourced or off shored.  The best way to do that is investing in education.  In that vein, I have developed a new school funding plan.

 ANSWER 3:         I have two years in the House already, introducing nine bills, while passing two into law.  I spent 10 years learning about the issues we are dealing with today, whether it’s jobs, education, health care or other matters.  I know the challenges we face and how to overcome them.

JUDY JONES                                                                      Age:       *                              Republican

927 W. Nimisila Rd.

Akron, OH 44319

OCCUPATION:  Cosmetologist/Owner/Operator Beauty Salon, Substitute instructor @ JVS (Portage Lakes), Councilwoman at Large City of New Franklin, Office Manager/Owner (Jones haul-off Company)

EDUCATION:  Graduate Manchester High School, Graduate Gerber Beauty School

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Political Activist, 13 year Member of Board of Zoning Appeals, 2005-2006 Council @ Large New Franklin Village**

ANSWER 1:         I firmly believe in an individual’s ability to decide their health care plan with a portion of their premium paid for by their employer – in turn the employer could use their contribution as a tax credit.  The employer knows & understands their needs better than anyone & will be more cost conscience**

ANSWER 2:         Anytime we have the high tax burden given to employers we are prohibiting growth of good jobs.  Ohio is 5th in the US for such a burden.  We must lower this tax burden to increase jobs thereby helping our State to collect additional revenue.

ANSWER 3:         Ohio is subsidized in a large part by small employers.  Having owned and operated small business for almost 25 years I realize the determination and hard work needed to succeed!  Ohio can survive but we must all do our part.

44^th DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09)

*VERNON SYKES            UNOPPOSED

45^th DISTRICT STATE REPRESENTATIVE

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09) 

Question 1:  what are your health-care issue priorities and where would the funding come from?

QUESTION 2:  Since November 2001, the United States has added more than 7.3 million jobs, or a gain of 5.6%. Only three states—Massachusetts, Michigan and Ohio–have not added jobs since the end of the recession. What steps would you propose or support to increase jobs in  Ohio?

QUESTION 3:  How have your training and experiences prepared you to serve in the Ohio legislature?

JOE M. FAZEK                                                                 Age:       62                           Republican

668 E. Park Ave.

Barberton, OH 44203 

OCCUPATION:  Bowling Center Proprietor, C.E.O. South Summit Chamber Commerce

EDUCATION:     High School

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Bussiness owner over 34 years.  Work with business entities in methods to increase production, expand in our area, and develop relationships with local government.  Lifetime resident of District.  Work well with business, school admins, and Govt. 

ANSWER 1:         Regionalization of health care systems could greatly reduce massive cost duplications.  Testing can be streamlined and co-operation between major health entities allows ease of location for travel and testing.  Funding must come from the private sector.  Nationalizing health care doesn’t work. 

ANSWER 2:         Be sure to have a business relationship between govt. and bussiness that shows co-operation and desire to work for and not against Corp.  The healthy families act was a great victory toward this end.  Dropping from the ballot was a must.  Retool our corp. infrastructure. 

ANSWER 3:         Regular discussions with those who have served and regular meeting with companies experiencing problems in manufacturing has given me much knowledge.  Serving a C.E.O. of our chamber and serving as President of the Ohio Bowling Proprietors allowed me to meet with legislators at all levels.

*JOHN R. OTTERMAN 

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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SUMMIT COUNTY EXECUTIVE

(ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/01/09) 

Question 1: If elected, what will be your three priorities for the next 4 years?

QUESTION 2:  How can  the county executive encourage local governments to work together?

RUSS PRY                                                                AGE:   50                                     Democrat

733 West Market Street   Apt 607

 Akron, Ohio  44303

OCCUPATION:   Executive

EDUCATION:   B.A. Political Science, Kent State University; Juris Doctorate, University of Akron School of Law.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Current County Executive, successful small business owner and manager for 17 years, Law Director of Boston Heights, Counsel for Mogadore Schools, Mogadore Councilmember, and Trustee of the Akron-Summit County Library Board.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   My administration is focused on economic development, job creation, and retention.  My first priorities are to continue the county’s commitment to Goodyear and Bridgestone Firestone.  I am also dedicated to completing the new Veterans Service Commission Facility by the end of 2009, giving our veterans the respect they deserve.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    I have brought government leaders to the table to explore regionalism and revenue sharing.  Under my leadership, local governments are already working together, discussing agreements to prevent “poaching” businesses from cities within the County and cooperating to create jobs that will help all Summit County citizens.

JIM LARIA                                                                  AGE:  53                                      Republican

  600 Tamiami Trail  

Akron, Ohio 44303 

OCCUPATION:    Akron Clerk of Courts

EDUCATION:    The University of Akron, B.S. Education; National Judicial College, Court Administration

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    28 years executive management experience, 11 years as Akron Clerk of Courts, 12 years as Court Administrator for Summit County Probate Court, Former Akron School Board member.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1.    Priority one is stop pay-to-play politics in the executive’s office. No more using our tax money to buy an election. Second, I’ll submit a balanced budget—the current interim county executive failed to do. Third, I’ll work for a productive business climate assuring a fair playing field for … Exceeded word limit

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    With 28 -years of executive experience working with local governments, I will lead a review of jobs and immediately start cutting bureaucratic waste and removing unnecessary jobs held by political cronies. I will optimize the county personnel structure, stop government overspending and provide the critical services necessary for local government **

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 
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SUMMIT COUNTY PROSECUTOR

(ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/05/09) 

Question 1:  Do you believe that the current system of collecting child support and prosecuting   ‘dead beat” parents is working? If so, why? If not, what would you do to improve the current system in Summit County?

QUESTION 2:  As prosecutor, what do you see as your role in addressing the rise in teen crime and in      particular, violent crime?

QUESTION 3:  How do you see the community addressing the issues of quality of life crimes, such as     vandalism, curfew violations, truancy, and disorderly conduct? What do you see the prosecutor’s office doing to help combat these lower-level crimes? 

SHERRI BEVAN WALSH                               AGE: 48                             Democrat             

7519 Warren Point Ln

 Hudson OH 44236

OCCUPATION:   Summit County Prosecutor, (Elected 2001)

EDUCATION:   Capital University Law School, May, 1985; Miami University, B.A. 1982

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Twenty-three years of experience as a city prosecutor, police legal advisor, magistrate, and eight years as Summit County Prosecutor.  Maintains 95% criminal conviction rate; supported by police, firefighters and crime victims.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1.    My office aggressively pursues the collection of child support.  Over $15 million has been collected by prosecuting deadbeat parents who had refused to pay.  Failing to pay child support is a serious issue and should be treated as such. Children deserve the financial support of both parents.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2.    Educating youth and crime prevention are an important emphasis for me. My office is the only prosecutor’s office in the nation to receive a federal grant to teach the Gang Resistance Education And Training program to elementary and middle-school youth.  Youth is of utmost concern to me.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3.    “Quality of life” crimes take a community to address.  Last year, I hosted a well attended forum aimed at juvenile crime prevention.  Speakers emphasized working together on all levels to provide positive activities and supports for our youth; my office maintains a very active community role in these areas.

NANCY MERCURIO MORRISON                                  AGE:  38                    Republican

1938 Cherry Wood Lane   

Akron, Ohio 44312

OCCUPATION:   Attorney   

EDUCATION:    B.S. Political Science St. John Fisher College 1992, J.D. University of Akron School of Law   2005.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    Worked in Summit County Prosecutor’s since 1993. Assistant prosecutor in Child Support, Juvenile and Criminal Divisions, Wrote Briefs on Child Support and Child Abuse Issues for the 9th District Court of Appeals.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   No I do not.  I would like to implement a diversion program for first time felony offenders to encourage consistent payments versus one time payments to avoid prison. My program would assist obtaining employment and offer an avenue to have the child support amounts reviewed on a more consistent basis.  

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    My role is to balance rehabilitation against the need to protect society. I must understand the role that gangs are playing in the rise in teen violent crime.  There is a place for understanding but there is a need for tough penalties for teens acting as adults and assaulting citizens.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 3:    Communities must always be involved in their neighborhoods and their schools as the best offense against these types of crimes. If that fails and an arrest is made, the prosecutor’s office must look at each case and determine if this is a childhood mistake or repeat offender and prosecute harshly.

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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Summit County Clerk of Courts

(ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/05/09) 

  Question:  What would be your two main goals if elected to office, and what aspects of your education or experience would be especially helpful in achieving those goals?

MARY STORMER *                                       Republican                                                      

DANIEL HORRIGAN                               AGE:  45                               Democrat                                         

205 South High Street

Akron, Ohio 44308

OCCUPATION:   Current Summit County Clerk of Courts

EDUCATION:   B.A. Economics,  Kent State University,  B.A. Education, University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   My demonstrated leadership and accomplishments as the Clerk of Courts along with my experience and educational background set me far ahead of any other candidate in this race.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:  My top goals will be to complete our $2.2 million technology upgrade, to continue to adopt procedures to reduce our operating budget and save taxpayers money and to introduce on-line payment options for our constituents. We will also be expanding our Community Outreach program to educate Summit County residents. **

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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SUMMIT COUNTY Sheriff

(ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/05/09)

DREW ALEXANDER                                        AGE:  *                               Republican

2 Starboard Cir.    

Akron, Ohio 44319 

Occupation:   summit County Sheriff

EDUCATION:   Attended University of Akron-2001graduate of National Sheriff’s Institute, 81st Session

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Veteran law enforcement officer, having served 27 years with Akron Police Department, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant in February, 1999. Elected Sheriff of Summit County January, 2001.

UNOPPOSED

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SUMMIT COUNTY FISCAL OFFICER

(1 TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09) 

Question:    What would be your two main goals if elected to office, and what aspects of your education or experience would be especially helpful in achieving those goals?

JOHN A. DONOFRIO                                           Age: 60                  Democrat

67 Sand Run Rd. Akron, Ohio 44313

OCCUPATION:    Summit County Fiscal Officer

EDUCATION:    Ellet High School 1967

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    Over 30 years of county government public service; 23 years as Summit County Treasurer; 6 years as Summit County’s first Fiscal Office; Complete knowledge of operation

ANSWER:   Expand  residential and business linked deposit programs offering reduced rate loans through local banks at 3% below current borrowing rates. $5 million is available. Enhance our GIS capabilities regarding public safety to assist with 911 calls and locating people from cell phones. I have a proven performance record of implementing programs like discounting of taxes, delinquent tax payment plans, fuel quality testing and military assistance.

WILLIAM B. CONTE                                               Age:*            Republican

1364 Gardner Blvd.  Norton, Ohio  44203

OCCUPATION:    Certified Public Accountant, Ohio; Registered Investment Advisor, Pres., Conte Co. CPA, Inc. and Conte financial Services Ltd.

EDUCATION:    B.S. Accounting, 1980, University of Akron, 

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Auditor at international CPA firms; Auditor -  City of Akron Finance dept.; 21 years Conte Co. CPA, Inc.; Practice before Internal Revenue Service;  Practice before U.S. Securities Exchange Commission**   

ANSWER :  1.  My background of 30 years in finance will upgrade the professional and technical skills for this office, to oversee an $800 million annual budget. 2.  I intend to take a more realistic look at overstated property valuations given the current housing situation, and utilize factors such as external economic forces, including  consumer demand, for the tax valuation.  3. Increase the level of fiscal accountability in government.

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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SUMMIT COUNTY ENGINEER

(ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/05/09) 

Question: What would be your three main goals if elected to office, and what aspects of your education or experience would be especially helpful in achieving those goals?

GREG BACHMAN                                                     AGE:   53                     Republican

631 Megglen Ave.

Akron, Ohio  44303

OCCUPATION:   Current Summit County Engineer

EDUCATION:   BS Civil Engineering - University of Notre Dame 1977; MS Civil Engineering - Ohio State University 1984

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Summit County Engineer – last 5 years; Kent - City Engineer;     Hilliard - City Engineer, Service Director, Planning Director, Chief Building Department; Greater Akron Chamber’s “2007 Summit County Elected Official of the Year”

ANSWER TO QUESTION:   1. Fiscal discipline – turned deficit into a $2,500,000 surplus in last 5 years.  Will continue the fiscal discipline. 2. Safe roads and bridges – continued improvement in reducing crashes and improving bridge ratings. 3. Innovations – roundabouts for intersection safety, soil nailing for cost effective landslide repair, adding bike lanes to county roads

ALAN BRUBAKER                                                      AGE:   59                  Democrat

1474 Blair Drive    

Akron, Ohio  44312

OCCUPATION:   Professional Engineer and Professional Surveyor

EDUCATION:   B.S. Civil Engineering - University of Akron College of Engineering

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Professional Engineer / Senior Project Manager, McCoy Associates, Inc., 6 years; City Engineer, City of Kent, 22 years; Airport Engineer / Assistant Manager, Akron-Canton Airport, 5 years; Assistant Portage County Engineer, 5 years.

ANSWER TO QUESTION:    Developing a Countywide Stormwater Management Plan; adopting a Countywide Traffic Access Management Program and improving Pedestrian / Bicycle Access between neighborhoods, schools, parks and shopping. I’m a professional engineer and I’m good at what I do.  My experience and credentials speak for themselves.  I get the job done and done right.

 *Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #1

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09) 

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

NICK KOSTANDARAS, SR                                            Age:       71                           Democrat

3520 Brecksville Rd.

Richfield, OH 44286 

OCCUPATION:  Owner of Nicks Auto Inc/ Summit County Council

EDUCATION:     8 years in Greece 5 years in America

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Summit County Council, Real Estate, Sheriff’s Dept. Union President, C.C.A.O. Trustee 

ANSWER 1:         To uphold the Constitution of the United State the State of Ohio and the charter and codified ordinances of Summit County.  To properly sponsor and pass legislations.  To provide vision and leadership to direct Summit County safely now and into the future. 

ANSWER 2:    

• Projected funding down from 2008

• Property tax down $400,000

• Property transfer tax down 1.3 million

• Recording fees – 700,000.00

• Areas of Budget to cut

• Travel, Continuing education, Advertising, Internships, Consulting care, cell phones

• Discretionary grants, Subsidies, Vacancies due to Retirement, Leave positions vacant longer

BILL ROEMER                                                                 Age:       52                           Republican

3616 Southern Rd.

Richfield, OH 44286 

OCCUPATION:   Educator – Revere Schools and Myers University and retired Director of Sales (Ameritech) AT&T

EDUCATION:     Case Western Reserve University BS in accounting (Summa Cum Laude) and MBA in Finance

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Business and civic leader, CPA (retired) and volunteer.  Endorsed by the Akron Beacon Journal. 

ANSWER 1:         County Council must control spending and lower taxes, grow jobs and respond quickly to constituent issues.  Council needs professional management and prudent spending control.  My business background, managing a $250,000,000 budget, puts me in the unique position to work with local businesses to facilitate job growth. 

ANSWER 2:         Council needs to scrutinize each department’s spending.  Council increased its own budget by over 16% which should be eliminated.  As a fiscally conservative businessman, I’ll insure that Summit County tax dollars are spent better than my own.  Until the County balances its budget, I will donate ½ salary to charity.

SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #2

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09) 

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

*JAMES M. IONA

JOHN SCHMIDT                                                               Age:       53                           Democrat

1460 Curtis Ave.

Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 

OCCUPATION:  Full Time County Councilmember

EDUCATION:     B.S. Akron U, Masters - Kent

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  20 years service as Cuy. Falls Council member, 16 years county public service experience, Veteran – U.S. Navy Reserve (Seabees) 

ANSWER 1:         1) Pursue policies that create job opportunities for the people of Summit County like the agreement we crafted to keep Goodyear and Bridgestone/Firestone here saving thousands of jobs.

                                2) Provide top notch representation to the people of the Second District.

                                3) Keep a close eye on spending of taypayer’s dollars. 

ANSWER 2:         It will reduce tax revenue therefore we must implement budject cuts of 5% across the board in 2009.  We must do this without adversely affecting services to the citizens. I will work with all departments and officeholders to help make this happen.

Summit County Council District 3

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09) 

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

 PAUL V. COLAVECCHIO                             AGE: *                  Democrat

 3414 Haggarty Way 

 Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44223

OCCUPATION:    Attorney

EDUCATION:    B.A. , Political Science, Kent State   J.D., Cleveland-Marshall

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    I have been a practicing attorney for 25 years and County Council has no attorneys. Much of the County budget deals with the Judicial system and my expertise in that area should prove valuable.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:  1. Growing and keeping good paying jobs in the County.  2.  Effectively using regionalization of government and government services in order to scale back the size of government wherever it is practical and prudent.  3.  Being a wise steward over the tax dollars contributed by our citizens.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:  Council has been diligent in holding the line on current necessary expenses and finding innovative ways to avoid additionally burdening taxpayers. Many of the current budgetary problems have been created by improper lending practices and I will look to punish the offenders and not the taxpayers. 

GLORIA J. RODGERS                                    AGE: *                                  Republican

4562 Newcomer Rd.

 Stow, Ohio 44224

OCCUPATION:    Charge Nurse, Portage Path Emergency Services

EDUCATION:    Registered Nurse, Akron City Hospital School of Nursing

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    Small business owner/operator; Public Health Employee; Parenthood, Community Involvement

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    1.  Jobs and local economy  2.  Elimination of wasteful spending  3.  Reduction of tax burden on local families

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    It will cause County Council to reduce the cost of government in Summit County causing costs to be cut across the entire spectrum of county Government

SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #4

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09) 

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

FRANK COMUNALE                                                       Age:       60                           Democrat

25 Berkshire Ct. Apt. 1B

Akron, OH 44313 

OCCUPATION:   Senior Vice President, SA Comunale

EDUCATION:        B.A. History, University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  A dedicated member of Council and a proven leader in our community.  President of the Board of Good Samaritan Hunger Center, Member of the Board of Oriana House, Former President of the Board of Akron-Summit County Public Library,** 

ANSWER 1:         First and foremost the responsibility of a County Council Representative is to be a steward for each and every individual within the county.  A County Council representative must also look for ways to improve and maintain the infrastructure and economic well being of the County while being fiscally responsible** 

ANSWER 2:         In the short term lower housing values and property taxes will have a negative impact on the vibrancy of Summit County’s economy.  However, due to good stewardship of prior budgets the county enjoys a surplus (rainy day fund) which will sustain us during this economic slowdown.  Budget cuts would be**

MIKE HOOVER                                                                Age:       33                           Republican

489 Crestview Ave.

Akron, OH 44320-1300 

OCCUPATION:   Independent Insurance Agent

EDUCATION:       Coventry High School, Class of 1993; George Washington University, 1993-1996; University of Akron, 1996-2002

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Served from 1999-2003 in the Barberton Clerk of Courts Office and from 2004-2005 in the Akron Municipal Clerk of Courts Office as a deputy clerk.  Republican Precinct Committeeman from 2006-2008. 

ANSWER 1:         The first responsibility is fiscal responsibility.  Spending is out of control.  Second, we have to balance the budget.  My opponent voted on an unbalanced budget for 2008.  There is a $4.6 million budget deficit.  Third is keeping our neighborhoods safe.  As a husband, father and homeowner this matters to me. 

ANSWER 2:         It is clear that the county will not collect as much revenue from housing value and property tax declines.  This means less money.  We must end wasteful spending.  There is bloated government in many county agencies and I will work to eliminate cronyism and nepotism at every level.

SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #5

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09)

*CAZZELL M. SMITH, SR            UNOPPOSED

SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #6

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09)

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

JERRY B. FREEMAN                                                      Age:       52                           Democrat

1068 Ledgebrook Dr.

Tallmadge, OH 44278 

OCCUPATION:     State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser

EDUCATION:      High School – some College

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  For past 9 years I have been a Council Person in Tallmadge. 2 years Ward 3 – 7 years At Large.  For the first 6 years I was Council President.  The last 3 years Vice President. 

ANSWER 1:         1. Respond to my constituents

                                2. Work with the County Exc. on budget concerns

                                3. I am a strong advocate of sharing services – Regional approach 

ANSWER 2:         Summit County is the only County in the state that is a charter county.  We as councilmen need to think out of the box in different departments.  In the good years they have set aside money for years – like the past 2.  The county needs to look at sharing services**

CHARLIE LASHER                                                         Age:       31                           Republican

431 Stanley Rd.

Akron, OH 44312 

OCCUPATION:   Criminal Accounts Supervisor, Akron Municipal Court, Clerks Office

EDUCATION:  Attended Kent State University, English Major

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    With over five years in an government office I have come to understand the duties and responsibilities it takes to be an elected official in the greater Akron/Summit County area. 

ANSWER 1:         Regulate the spending of the County’s resources on unnecessary expenditures.  Move forward in the rehabilitation of the County’s industry to bring more companies and jobs to the county.  Stop the constant increase in taxes to allow the citizens some assistance in the time of a struggling economy. 

ANSWER 2:         First budget cuts that should be made are to be to stop all unnecessary spending of the county’s money.  Restructure the budget by tightening down on the allowance of overspending in any and all agency proposals.  If these cuts aren’t enough then the agencies will have to downsize there budget.

SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #7

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09)

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

TIM S. CRAWFORD                                                         Age:       57                           Democrat

4109 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd.

Norton, OH 44203 

OCCUPATION:  Ins Sales Tim Crawford Nationwide Ins

EDUCATION:  Barberton High – Salem College – Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  *

ANSWER 1:        

1. Finance of the County general fund Budget. Control spending making the County fiscal stabil.

 2. Unity among office holders – the courts and the service to the city & Twp. that are needed from County government.  Example:  extend sewer line to area that need central sewer

 ANSWER 2:        The budget can only be cut in one area that is salaries & Benefites all other area of the Budget are small amounts.  Cuting the budget will NOTeffect service if done in the proper manner.  The property tax collection will effect many School and agency of the County government.

*MARK R. YOUNG              167 W. State St., Barberton OH 44302                                  Republican

 SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #8

(1 TO BE ELECTED - TERM COMMENCES 01/01/09)

QUESTION 1:     WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE TOP THREE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE? 

QUESTIONS 2:  HOW WILL THE LOWER HOUSING VALUES AND LOWER PROPERTY TAXES COLLECTED IMPACT THE COUNTY?  WHERE CAN BUDGET CUTS BE MADE?

*JOHN JONES                    232 E. Woodsdale Ave.  Akron, OH 44301                          Republican

PAULA PRENTICE                                                          Age:       59                           Democrat

4235 Aldawood Hills Dr.

Akron, OH 44319 

OCCUPATION:     School Principal Lakeview Elementary

EDUCATION:    BS in Education Kent State

                                 MA in Supervision  U. of Akron

                                 Administration Certificate U of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Incumbent 4 years experience, Chair Human Services Committee,     National Association County Officials Human Services Com., County Com. Representative MRDD, Human Services, Council on Youth 

ANSWER 1:         1) Provide for the safety and welfare of citizens of Summit County  2)  Fiscal oversight & responsibility to tax payers  3)  Economic development providing jobs that pay a living wage and training/education for those positions.

ANSWER 2:  *

 *Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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State Board of Education - DISTRICT 7

Term Beginning January 2009 

Heather Heslop-Licata

Address:        480 Delaware Avenue

                        Akron, OH 44303

Phone:             330.864.1676                                               

Question & Answer

1)         What recommendations should the State Board of Education propose to ensure that community schools and voucher programs are accountable to the public?

“There have been improvements of late to the Charter School Accountability system. We now have a closure provision that allows schools to be closed if they spend two out of three years in academic emergency or if they fail to make AYP in that same time frame. Charter schools that prove to have inauditable books are also subject to closure.However, these measures do not go far enough. They only apply to those schools chartered on or after April 8, 2003. This means that all of the failing community schools that began in 1997 up until the April date are not subject to the same operational, fiscal or governance accountability. The State Board should recommend that ALL community schools, both first and second generation, must be held to identical standards of performance and accountability in all areas. The closure provision should be applied to all schools and we should institute”**

2)         Do you believe creationism (intelligent design) should be taught in the public schools?

“Intelligent Design should absolutely not be taught in public schools. ID Points to any gap in the evolutionary process and states the gap might possibly be filled some unknown intelligence. However there exists no method of inquiry by which one might attempt prove or disprove this claim. It is not empirical, observable or measurable. Intelligent Design is simply not good science and has no place in the classroom. Additionally, Intelligent Design can not separate itself from Creationism; it is a religious belief statement. As such teaching it in the public school classroom is a violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment which prohibits state aid in promoting religion. Individuals are entitled to their beliefs. However the public schools are under no obligation to promote those beliefs under the guise that they are science.” 

*Tammy OBrien

Address           1625 Orchard Drive

                        Akron, Ohio 44333

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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9TH DISTRICT COURT OF APPEALS JUDGE 

            (Vote for no more than one - Term Commences 2/09/09) 

QUESTION 1:   How has your training, professional experience, and interests prepared you to serve on this court?

QUESTION 2:   A 2002 poll commissioned by the League of Women Voters of Ohio Education Fund found that 83% of voters believed that campaign contributions influence judges and candidates more than any other factor. Under Ohio’s Code of Judicial Conduct (Canon 3), judges should disqualify themselves when they cannot perform their duties “impartially and diligently”. What specific criteria would you use to determine whether to recuse yourself from cases involving parties or attorneys who contributed to your campaign? 

William D. Wellemeyer                                                         AGE:   50

ADDRESS:   743 Upper Merriman Rd.  Akron, Ohio 44303

OCCUPATION:   Attorney

EDUCATION:   BA Economics, JD, University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Mediator in 500 cases with Summit County Court of Common  Pleas; former assistant prosecuting attorney with Summit County Prosecutor appeals division -  250 + cases  in the Ohio Supreme Court and the Ninth District Court  of Appeals. See wellemeyerforjudge.com

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   My extensive appeals court work, my many years as a mediator and judicial    attorney in the common pleas courts, and my work ethic and sense of duty have allowed me to develop and hone all skills required to humbly and judiciously serve in this office for many years to come.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:  While the list is not exhaustive, Section (E) of Canon 3 provides several specific criteria. In addition to considering these criteria, ultimately I would determine whether my sworn duty to uphold to the best of my abilities the Constitution and the laws of  the state of Ohio would be compromised.

Eve Belfrance                                                                                   AGE:   46              

ADDRESS:   590 Merriman Rd.   Akron, Ohio 44303

OCCUPATION:   Judge

EDUCATION:      Yale University, BA, 1984; Case Western Reserve School of Law, JD, 1990

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Currently a sitting judge conducting criminal and civil trials and           writing legal opinions; 18 years legal experience-broad legal and appellate experience federal and state court; federal judicial attorney, Washington, D.C.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:  I am devoted to public service.  Having presided over hundreds of criminal and civil cases, I bring judicial experience, scholarship, a rigorous academic foundation, and an understanding of complex legal issues, all of which are necessary to ensure that appellate court decisions are fair, well-reasoned and grounded in the law. 

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2: Presently, campaign finance rules prohibit a judge from directly soliciting or  receiving funds from a donor. As a judge, I strictly adhere to the specific guidelines in the Canons regarding recusal. Full disclosure to parties and attorneys is critical to maintaining confidence that justice will be administered fairly and impartially.

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Note: there are six separate elections

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/02/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

Orlando J. Williams                         AGE:  51

ADDRESS:    209 S. Main St. 8th Fl. ,  Akron, Ohio 44308

OCCUPATION:    Attorney At Law

EDUCATION:    Bachelors Degree from Bowling Green University and J.D. from University of Toledo School of Law.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    I have been an attorney for 22 years. I have been a public servant in this community for all of my 22  years of practicing law.  I have practiced in all areas…..Exceeded Word Limit

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   I do not see myself as a politician, rather a public servant. As such, my first job on the bench, will be to ensure that justice is served no matter the political fall out. Further, courts are not the place to “play” politics. I would therefore be immune from political …..Exceeded Word Limit

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    My Judicial role models are Thurgood Marshal and Earl Warren.  Marshal demonstrated courage, knowledge and skill first as a trial Lawyer who argued numerous historical cases before the United States Supreme Court and later as a Justice serving on that same court.   Earl Warren as Chief Justice of the United …..Exceeded Word Limit

Brenda Burnham Unruh                                            AGE: 50

ADDRESS:    4658 North Ridge Dr.   Akron, Ohio 44333

OCCUPATION:     Common Pleas Judge

EDUCATION:    B.A. in social sciences from Wheaton College; J.D. from the University of Akron, School of Law

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    I have served as a judge for over 10 years.  Before serving as a Judge, I worked as an Assistant Summit County prosecutor and Magistrate in the Summit County Juvenile Court.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    I base my decisions on the law and the facts presented to me.  Partisan politics do not play a role in my decision making.  I think this is evidenced by my being “Highly Recommended” by the Akron Bar Association, a non-partisan organization.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Chief Justice John Roberts.  The role of the judicial branch in our government is to interpret the Constitution and to apply statutes enacted by our legislative branch.  My judicial role model attempts to do that, rather than using the bench to impose his own values on society.

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/03/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

Lynne S. Callahan                         AGE:  51

ADDRESS:   2275 Rickel Dr.  Akron, Ohio 44333

OCCUPATION:   Judge, Akron Municipal Court

EDUCATION:   JD, BA  University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Eleven years as judge; Twenty six years in law and criminal justice. Former prosecutor and police officer; Preside over and instrumental in creating award-winning Family Violence Court; Instructor for Ohio Supreme Court Judicial College. “Highly Recommended “ by Akron Bar Association.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    Independence from political (or any) influence comes from personal integrity. A Judge must earn a reputation for impartiality. Then people expect only fairness, not favors.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Local judges such as Judge Mary Spicer and Judge Patricia Cosgrove. They have taught me much over the years about fairness, integrity and non-partisanism.

*Thomas J. Freeman                                                                                  

ADDRESS:   5115 Beckett Ridge     Stow, Ohio  44224             

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/05/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

Deborah S. Matz                                                AGE:   45                                                

ADDRESS:   2435 Call Rd.   Stow, Ohio 44224                  

OCCUPATION:    Magistrate Domestic Relations Court

EDUCATION:   BBA Kent State; JD Akron University; MS Kent State.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Eight years judicial experience as a Magistrate, four years in the General Division as a Judicial Attorney, three years as a solo practitioner; business experience in banking/finance; working as a board member for non-profit agencies.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:      Judges and Magistrates both must remain independent and are able to do so because they have no knowledge of the litigants’ political affiliation.  Our primary concern is the litigants who are before us not who their attorney is or who they may know.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Judge William Victor is my judicial role model.  He was knowledgeable in the law and respectful to litigants and attorneys as well as members of the court house staff.  He always exhibited the highest level of professionalism and impartiality.

Alison McCarty                                                      AGE:   46

ADDRESS:   96 Winston Rd.  Akron, Ohio 44313

OCCUPATION:   Judge, Akron Municipal Court

EDUCATION:   J.D. ,Wake Forest Law School, N.C.; B.A. English. Wheaton, College, IL

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   As a nine -year municipal court judge, I have handled thousands of cases. I created and preside over Akron’s first DUI Court. As a prosecutor, I handled some of Summit    County’s most serious cases.          

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   Judges must put aside political influences and be impartial and fair. I have the proven record for fairness to all parties, first , for ten years as a criminal prosecutor and also as judge in the Akron Municipal Court. I am Highly Recommended by the Akron Bar Association.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    I admire our newest Chief Justice John Roberts, for his intelligence, dedication to the law and civility. Chief Justice Roberts has improved the degree of collaboration on the Court. I respect Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, who was once a trial Court judge herself, for her  common sense approach to judging.

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 01/06/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

John E. Holcomb                                                                                AGE:  59

ADDRESS:   P.O. Box 5164, Akron, Ohio 44334

OCCUPATION:   Akron Municipal Court Judge

EDUCATION:   Ellet HS, Baldwin-Wallace College-B.A.;  University of Akron- J.D.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Judge 13 years, lawyer 34 years, “Highly Recommended” by the Akron Bar Association, past school board member (state & local), past Law Director and Assistant Law Director/Prosecutor.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    Judges should not be politicians in robes.  Citizens should not be able to identify a judge’s political party either in the election or by his/her decisions.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Judge Sam Bell.  While in private practice, I tried numerous cases throughout the country and Judge Bell was the gold standard of judges. He always treated everyone well, had a keen intelligence, and everyone thought their case was well and fairly tried. 

Mary Margaret Rowlands                                                 AGE:   50

ADDRESS:   736 Evergreen Dr.    Akron, Ohio  44303

OCCUPATION:   Legal Counsel, Summit County Fiscal Office

EDUCATION:   J.D. , 1989 University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  Since graduating from law school, I’ve handled a wide variety of complexcivil and criminal matters in both state and federal courts throughout the country. This experience has given methe insight and the tools to excel.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    The single most important role of the judicial branch of government is to exercise independence in reviewing governmental action and overseeing legal disputes. I have done the soulsearching that each judicial candidate should undertake to insure that I can make the tough decisions independently and free from political influence.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    I have studied legal decisions from around the country and am struck by thefairness, independence, courage and intellectual integrity some judges exhibit. I will strive to model myself, not on any individual, but on those whose careers have been marked and defined by these traits.

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 02/09/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

John Fickes                                                                       AGE:  53

ADDRESS:   892 Sugar Rd. Copley, Ohio 44321

OCCUPATION:  Attorney and Shareholder (Partner) at Brouse McDowell. Chair, Board of Trustees, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority; president, Humane Society of greater Akron.

EDUCATION:    Graduate of St. Vincent-St. Mary High School; John Carroll University (B.A.); University of Detroit (M.A); Case Western Reserve University School of Law (J.D.). Admitted, Ohio Supreme Court.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:    No response given.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    A judge first must acknowledge the issue: the desire to win and retain office invites vulnerability to political influence. Then the judge must hold firmly to the promise of the oath of office and the responsibility of the public trust. Ultimately, a judge needs courage.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Of the outstanding judges I have known, I admire Harold F. White, retired Bankruptcy Court Judge, and Mary F. Spicer, judge of the Summit County Court of Common Pleas. Both are characterized by genuine humanity, superior judicial temperament, and abilities to reach the heart of an issue and effect justice. 

Judy Hunter                                                                                   AGE:   67

ADDRESS:   209 S. High St. , Akron, Ohio 44308

OCCUPATION:   Judge, General Division, Common Pleas Court

EDUCATION:   B.S. in Education, 1963, Ohio State University J.D., 1978, University of Akron, School of Law

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:  

• Eleven years as Judge

• Five years as elected Clerk of Akron Municipal Court

• 29 years of diverse legal experience

• “Highly Recommended” rating by Akron Bar Association

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    Once elected, a Judge must remain faithful to the law and focused on fairness in overseeing judicial matters.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Sandra Day O’Connor, with her pioneering leadership at the highest levels and her exemplary skill in reconciling disparate legal issues, has provided me great inspiration.

Common Pleas COURT Judge

 (ONE TO BE ELECTED – TERM COMMENCES ON 05/01/09)

Question 1:  How can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

Question 2:   Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

Tom Parker                                                             AGE:   54

ADDRESS:   167 Crimson Trail  Tallmadge, Ohio 44278

OCCUPATION:   Private practice attorney

EDUCATION:   Miami University (Ohio) with honors; Case Western Reserve University Law School

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   I am “highly recommended” for this office by the Akron Bar Association, with nearly 29 years experience as a trial lawyer in complex civil lawsuits and criminal cases in courts across Ohio and nationwide.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   Our laws are not partial; the only way we can preserve public confidence in courts is to elect judges who will keep politics out of the courthouse. I have stressed the importance of nonpartisanship in a video on my website, www.tomparkerforjudge.com. I wasn’t picked for this race by political bosses.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Judge David Dowd—for keeping his docket moving and for his careful legal analysis.  Judge Sam Bell—for his keen understanding of people and for the intellectual rigor of his decisions. Judge Brenda Unruh—for her understanding of the human condition of the people who appear in her court.

Robert M. Gippin                                                             AGE:   60                                              

ADDRESS:   929 Eaton Ave.   Akron, Ohio 44303

OCCUPATION:   Judge

EDUCATION:   Akron Buchtel HS, 1965; Dartmouth College, A.B. 1969; Harvard Law School, J.D. 1973

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Lawyer for 35 years litigating complex matters in state and federal courts in Ohio and elsewhere. Appointed April 5, 2008, by Governor Strickland on recommendation of a bi-partisan commission. Rated Highly Recommendated by the Akron **       

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   A judge either has the character and integrity to remain independent of political and other influences, or not. I have demonstrated independence, integrity and strength of character throughout my career and since becoming a judge. I will not be receiving any funds from the Democratic Party, only indirect support.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    My greatest role model is retired federal Judge Sam Bell (incidentally, a Republican). He demonstrated unfailing patience, integrity, intellectual ability, hard work and just plain decency. He was willing to take an active role in settlement when appropriate. My predecessor, Judge Shapiro, also set a very high standard to follow.

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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Juvenile court Judge

(VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN ONE - TERM COMMENCES 1/01/09) 

Question 1:   how can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

QUESTION 2:    Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

Katarina Cook                                                                                AGE:   44

ADDRESS:   2300 Amesbury Rd.  Akron, Ohio 44313

OCCUPATION:   Magistrate, Akron Municipal Court Traffic Division since Feb. 2005

EDUCATION:   1982 –Firestone High School; 1986 B.A. History and Psychology,  University of Rochester; 1990- J.D. University of Akron School of Law.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Assistant Prosecutor, Juvenile Division for 4 years; From 1997-2005 served as guardian ad litem and mediator in various courts.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   A judicial race is non-partisan.  A judge shall be fair and impartial. Political favoritism must not play a role in the treatment of parties, attorneys, or decisions. As magistrate, I abide by the Canons of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which does not permit even an appearance of impropriety.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    There are three: Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia who believes that the worst violation of a judge’s oath is to decide cases based on partisan influences; Judge Deborah Cook whose judicial philosophy is a strict interpretation of the law; and Judge Brenda Unruh who truly listens. 

Linda Tucci Teodesio                                                                                  AGE:   51

ADDRESS:   495 Belmont Park Dr.  Munroe Falls, Ohio   44262

OCCUPATION:   Judge, Summit County Juvenile Court

EDUCATION:   B.S. Education, Summa Cum Laude, University of Akron; J.D. 1982 University of Akron School of Law

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Juvenile Court Judge since 2003, Cuyahoga Falls Municipal Court Judge 1998-2002, Akron Municipal Court Magistrate 1990-1997. I serve on numerous State and National juvenile justice committees.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:    I have collaborated with many groups and agencies during my first term.  Partisan politics have never been a factor.  I will continue to fairly and impartially apply the law to the cases that come before me and work within our community to strengthen our county’s children and families.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Judge Mary Cacioppo is my mentor and I admire her for all she has achieved and her love and faithfulness to the law.   She accomplished much when it was difficult for a woman to enter the legal profession. Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer is a role model for her innovative programming. 

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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Domestic Relations Judge

(VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN ONE - TERM COMMENCES 1/04/09) 

Question 1:   how can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

QUESTION 2:    Who are your judicial role models? Why? 

John P. Quinn                                            AGE: 59

ADDRESS:   2295 Woodpark Rd.   Fairlawn, Ohio  44333

OCCUPATION:   Judge, Domestic Relations Court

EDUCATION:   St. Vincent High School (1967), Ohio State University, B.A. (1972),  J.D. (1975) with honors.        QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   I have the training and experience for this position: Judge (2003-present); Chief Counsel, Prosecutor’s Office (2001-2002); Magistrate (1995-2000); Presiding Judge. Common Pleas Court (2006-2007).

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:   Partisanship primarily impacts the legislative and executive branches which are involved in daily political contests. Most court cases do not have political ramifications.  The cases in our court involve families in crisis not political ideology. I have handled over 10,000 cases without political partisanship.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:   My role models are the Judges I practiced before as a new attorney; Ted Price, John McFadden, Richard Zurz, Adam Gaganac, James Murphy, Ted Schneiderman, William Pike, Mary Spicer, and many more. They were all hard-working, fair and concerned about the people who came before them. 

*Edna J. Boyle                                                                             

ADDRESS:  905 Lockwood Rd.   Barberton, Ohio 44203          

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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Probate court Judge

(VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN ONE - TERM COMMENCES 2/09/09) 

Question 1:   how can you remain independent of political influence in the current climate of partisanship?

QUESTION 2:    Who are your judicial role models? Why?

Elinore Marsh Stormer                                                                   AGE:   51

ADDRESS:  209 South High Street,  Akron, Ohio 44308

OCCUPATION:   Judge, Summit County General Division

EDUCATION:   B.A. Davidson Honors College; J.D. University of Akron

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Judge for 16 years in two courts. Started Drug, Mental Health and Reentry Courts. Considerable experience in court administration and community outreach.  Teacher: judges and lawyers. I would promote links between court and the community.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 1:  In my 16 years as a judge and a democrat, no one has tried to influence me based on parry affiliation, not even in the area of hiring. I am the bipartisan elected Court’s Administrative Judge. Politics and government are distinct; the law and judicial philosophy are my guiding forces.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:  Judges Mary Cacioppo and Mary Spicer are role models. They changed Summit County with their elections, making it possible for women to run successfully. Both are compassionate and hard working, kind and community involved. Both have continuing influence of the best kind on the law and the people here.             

Bill Spicer                                                                                  AGE:   66

ADDRESS:    333 North Portage Path, Unit 27, Akron, Ohio 44303

OCCUPATION:   Probate Judge 

EDUCATION:   University of Akron, B.A., J.D.; National Judicial College: National College of Probate Judges

QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE:   Experience as Probate Judge.  Under my leadership, Summit County’s Probate Court has developed a reputation for efficient and effective service to the public, and as a leader in the reform of probate law and procedure.

ANSWER TO QUESTON 1:  By refusing to be influenced in any way by political considerations when making decisions.

ANSWER TO QUESTION 2:    Oliver Wendell Holmes and Sandra Day O’Connor.  Both are interesting Court moderates who have shown the ability to change strongly held views.

*Did not respond            **Exceeded word limit 

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State issues

ISSUE 1: PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE FOR EARLIER FILING DEADLINES FOR STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES

(Proposed by Joint Resolution of the General Assembly of Ohio) 

To amend Sections 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1g of Article II of the Ohio Constitution 

A YES vote means approval of the amendment.

A NO vote means disapproval of the amendment.

A majority YES vote is required for the amendment to be adopted. 

If approved, this proposed amendment will be effective immediately. 

League Explanation of Issue 1:  This proposed constitutional amendment seeks to make the petition filing deadlines earlier for statewide ballot issues.  Currently, the deadlines are 90 days before the election for statewide initiative petitions (laws and constitutional amendments proposed by citizens) and 60 days for statewide referendums (citizen-initiated votes to repeal new laws). The amendment would change these deadlines to 125 days for both. The proposal adds deadlines for public officials to act on the petitions. It requires the secretary of state to determine whether there are enough valid signatures on a petition by the 105th day before the election. Challenges must be filed in the Ohio Supreme Court not later than 95 days prior to the election.  The Ohio Supreme Court must make its decision not later than 85 days prior to the election.  If necessary, 10 additional days shall be allowed for the filing of additional signatures.  The secretary of state shall check the additional signatures not later than 65 days before the election.  Any challenges must be filed in the Ohio Supreme Court not later than 55 days before the election, and the court must rule on any challenges not later than 45 days before the election.  If no ruling is made, the petition and signatures shall be presumed to be sufficient.  The proposed amendment would give the Ohio Supreme Court sole authority to consider these cases.  Currently lower courts may hear these challenges. 

Proponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• The earlier deadlines will allow more time to determine the validity of the petition and the signatures.  This should reduce the number of invalid issues that appear on ballots and reduce voter confusion.
• If deadlines are met, absentee voters and election-day voters will know which issues were supported by sufficient valid petitions. 
• The process should be more efficient because the amendment provides for specific deadlines for each step of the process.
• Having the Ohio Supreme Court as the sole arbiter of challenges expedites the process.

Opponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• The revised deadlines may still not allow time to print correct ballots.
• The revised deadlines decrease the time for each step of the review and may be difficult to meet.
• The earlier deadlines for referenda may result in long delays for voter consideration of challenged laws because laws challenged by the referendum process are suspended until approved by voters. Challengers have 90 days after a law is passed to file a referendum petition. Because this may not be completed before the filing deadline for ballot issues, a vote on the challenged law may be postponed until the following general election.
• As sole arbiter of challenges, the Ohio Supreme Court will not have the benefit of a record from lower courts.

ISSUE 2:  PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE TO ISSUE BONDS TO CONTINUE THE CLEAN OHIO PROGRAM FOR ENVIRONMENTAL, REVITALIZATION AND CONSERVATION PURPOSES

(Proposed by Joint Resolution of the General Assembly of Ohio) 

To adopt Section 2q of Article VIII of the Constitution of the State of Ohio 

A YES vote means approval of the amendment.

A NO vote means disapproval of the amendment.

A majority YES vote is required for the amendment to be adopted. 

If approved, this proposed amendment shall take effect immediately. 

League Explanation of Issue 2:  This ballot issue proposes a constitutional amendment that would add to funding for The Clean Ohio Program.  The amendment is identical to the bond issue passed by the voters in 2000 and will provide the state with the authority to issue an additional $400 million of bonds. These bonds could be used for the benefit of both governmental and non-governmental entities. This bonding authority must be approved by the voters because the Ohio constitution does not permit an appropriation being made for a period longer than two years.

• Conservation: Up to $200 million in bonds could be issued for conservation purposes such as preservation of natural areas and farmlands, provision of recreation facilities, and natural resource management projects.  Repayment of these bonds would be a general obligation of the state backed by the taxing power of the state.

• Revitalization: Up to $200 million in bonds could be issued for revitalization purposes such as environmental cleanup of publicly or privately owned lands.  Repayment of these bonds would be secured by specific state revenues such as receipts from liquor taxes.

• Limitations: The proposed amendment limits the amount that could be borrowed in any one fiscal year for either conservation or revitalization purposes to no more than $50 million. In addition, the state can borrow amounts which were authorized but not issued in prior fiscal years.

• Reissuance: After a bond is repaid, another can be issued as long as the total amount outstanding does not exceed $200 million for that type of bond.

• Debt Service Expense: The Legislative Services Commission estimates that issuing $400 million of obligations could increase the state’s annual debt service expense by up to $40 million.  The Ohio Office of Budget and Management calculated that principle and interest payable in 2008 for all of the bonds already issued by Ohio is $1,231,640,023.

Proponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• Bond monies could be used to improve drinking water, help keep rivers and streams clean.

• Preserve and protect wildlife and farmland, and expand outdoor recreational opportunities for Ohioans.

• Bond monies could be used to reduce the number of polluted industrial sites and clean up brown fields

• Revitalization of public and private lands could stimulate economic development in urban areas and increase private investment in Ohio.

Opponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• Tax monies will be diverted to paying principle and interest, and this may limit the availability of state revenue for other state programs.
• This authority is not time-limited and permits new bonds to be reissued after the retirement of the original bonds without further vote of the people.
• Proceeds from the sale of the publicly funded bonds may be used to benefit private entities.

ISSUE 3: PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION TO PROTECT PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS IN GROUND WATER, LAKES AND OTHER WATERCOURSES

(Proposed by Joint Resolution of the General Assembly of Ohio) 

To adopt Section 19b of Article I of the Constitution of the State of Ohio 

A YES vote means approval of the amendment.

A NO vote means disapproval of the amendment.

A majority YES vote is required for the amendment to be adopted. 

If approved, this amendment shall take effect December 1, 2008. 

League Explanation of Issue 3:  This proposed amendment resulted from the Ohio legislature’s passage of the Great Lakes Water Compact this past spring.  Some lawmakers feared final approval of the Compact might limit private water rights. The constitutional amendment is intended to recognize that:

• Property owners have a protected right to the "reasonable use'' of the ground water flowing under their property, and of the water in a lake or watercourse that is on or flows through their property.

• An owner has the right to give or sell these interests to a governmental body.

• The public welfare supersedes individual property owners’ rights.  The state and political subdivisions may regulate such waters to the extent state law allows

• The proposed amendment would not affect public use of Lake Erie and the state’s other navigable waters.

• The rights confirmed by this amendment may not be limited by sections of the Ohio Constitution addressing home rule, public debt and public works, conservation of natural resources, and the prohibition of the use of “initiative” and “referendum” on property taxes.

Proponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• This amendment, if approved, is intended to reaffirm the rights and expectations of Ohio landowners to have reasonable use of the water on or under their properties. 

• The proposed amendment does not establish absolute private ownership of water.

• It reiterates the state’s right to regulate water use and water quality.

Opponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• The amendment is unnecessary because current Ohio case law already recognizes property owners’ interests in the reasonable use of surface and groundwater.

• The Ohio Constitution should be a body of fundamental principles, and should not be amended unless there is a compelling reason.

• The amendment could cause unexpected consequences and unintentional changes in current law.

ISSUE 4: (Withdrawn by petitioner’s committee on September 4, 2008.)

ISSUE 5: REFERENDUM ON LEGISLATION MAKING CHANGES TO PAYDAY LENDING PRACTICES

As of September 23, 2008, this issue had not been certified to be on the Nov. 4, 2008, ballot. 

(A referendum on Section 3, House Bill 545) 

 A YES vote will cap the annual interest rate on payday loans at 28% and allow only the new regulations to apply to payday lenders. 

A NO vote may allow payday lenders to charge up to 391% annual interest on a loan. Specifically, a NO vote may create a situation in which both the old and new laws coexist—thereby allowing payday lenders to choose to operate under either law.

A majority YES vote will allow only the new regulations affecting payday lenders to be in effect.

If approved, changes regulating payday lenders would go into effect immediately.

League Explanation of Issue 5:  Voters are being asked if they want to uphold the legislature’s repeal of lenders’ authority to charge interest that could be as high as 391%.  If the referendum is approved (the “yes” votes prevail), all short-term lenders, including payday lenders, would be subject to the following limitations:

• Cap the interest that payday lenders can charge consumers at 28%.

• Limit the amount consumers may borrow from payday lenders to 25% of their monthly income, up to $500 per loan.

• Limit consumers to four short-term loans per year.

• Provide for a minimum of at least 30 days for a borrower to repay a loan.

Proponents of the referendum argue that:

• The new regulations would cap the interest for payday loans at 28%, which effectively ends lenders' ability to charge up to 391% interest.
• Limiting the number of loans customers can take out annually would help break the cycle of debt in which many customers find themselves trapped.  Data show that 99% of payday loans go to repeat borrowers—who typically take out 12 or more loans a year.
• Passage of Issue 5 would give borrowers more time to repay a loan—and by limiting the amount a consumer can borrow, would help insure that customers do not borrow more than they can afford to repay. 

Opponents of the referendum argue that:

• The 28% ceiling on interest rates will not allow lenders to make enough profit to stay in business; lenders will be forced to close locations convenient for borrowers and jobs will be lost.
• The loans provide emergency assistance to cash-strapped borrowers who have no other credit options—and the loans are more affordable, if repaid promptly, than bank overdraft fees and credit card late fees.
• A borrower’s choice is limited if the number of loans available in a year and the amount of each loan are curtailed.  Each borrower should have the right to make their own financial decisions without government restrictions.   

Websites: 

In support of placing new restrictions on payday lenders: PROTECT HB 545 Committee (http://www.yesonissue5.com/)

In opposition to placing new restrictions on payday lenders: The Committee to Reject H.B. 545 (www.ohioans4financialfreedom.com) 

ISSUE 6: PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO AUTHORIZE A CASINO IN CLINTON COUNTY, OHIO

(Proposed by Initiative Petition)

As of September 23, 2008, this issue had not been certified to be on the Nov. 4, 2008, ballot. 

To add a new Section 6a to Article XV of the Ohio Constitution 

A YES vote means approval of the amendment.

A NO vote means disapproval of the amendment.

A majority YES vote is required for the amendment to be adopted. 

If approved, the proposed amendment will take effect 30 days after the election. 

League Explanation of Issue 6: This amendment would authorize a privately-owned casino in Clinton County. 

• The operator would be required to pay a tax of up to 30% annually on gross casino receipts. “Gross casino receipts” excludes payments to winners.  The tax would be allocated in the following ways:

• The Ohio General Assembly would have the authority to determine a reasonable amount to be used to fund a Gaming Regulatory Commission, and receipts will be used to pay the expenses of administering the tax. 

• Up to 1% of the tax collected would be used to fund prevention and treatment programs for gambling addicts.

•  Following those expenditures, 10% percent of any remaining casino tax receipts would be distributed to Clinton County, and the remaining receipts distributed among all 88 Ohio counties on a per capita basis, to be used as each county sees fit.

• If another casino were permitted in Ohio, the tax on the Clinton County casino would drop to 25% of the gross casino receipts or the rate paid by the additional casino, whichever is less.

• The casino operator must make a minimum initial investment of $600 million for the development of a destination resort that would include the casino, a hotel and other related amenities.

• The state may establish an initial license fee not to exceed $15 million, which will be credited against the first $15 million of taxes on gross casino receipts.  There can be no further licensing fees for the Clinton County casino. 

• The state may not limit the amounts of the wagers or the hours of operation.  The casino may conduct any type of card or table games, slot machines or electronic gaming devices permitted by the state of Nevada and states adjacent to Ohio, except bets on races or sporting events.

• Persons must be 21 years old to place wagers at the casino.

 Proponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• Thirty-eight states—including Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, and Pennsylvania—have casino gambling.  By authorizing a casino in Ohio, the profits could benefit our state rather than other states.

• All counties in Ohio may receive tax revenue generated by the casino, and each county can decide how to best spend its money
• The casino will also be required to pay all other applicable taxes.
• The casino will create jobs in Clinton County. 
• The casino will stimulate the economy by adding restaurants, hotels and ancillary businesses.

 Opponents of the proposed amendment argue that:

• The Ohio general revenue fund, which supports basic services for Ohioans, will get $0 from the gross casino receipts tax.

• If an additional casino were an Indian casino, which is exempt from taxes, the Clinton County casino might not pay any taxes, either, on the gross casino receipts.

• Ohioans may spend money at the casino they would have spent at other existing Ohio businesses such as restaurants, movies, or sports events, adversely impacting those businesses.

• Ohio lottery profits, currently dedicated to education, may decrease because people will gamble at the casino instead of playing the lottery.

• The number of gambling addicts in Ohio would increase, and the tax receipts dedicated to providing treatment for addicts (0.3% of gross casino receipts) could be insufficent.

Websites

In support of the proposed amendment: My Ohio Now (http://www.yesonissue6.com/) 

In opposition to the proposed amendment: Vote No Casinos (www.votenocasinos.com)

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city of akron issues

ISSUE 7: PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT CITY OF AKRON

 A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage

Issue 7

Shall the Charter of the City of Akron be amended to authorize Council to appoint the Clerk of Council position in the unclassified service?

Explanation of Issue 7:  Voters are being asked to decide if the clerk of City Council should be appointed in the unclassified service, not in civil service.  An unclassified appointed clerk would serve at the pleasure of council without the oversight of the mayor’s office.

Arguments in favor of the amendment:

1. Clerk needs to be independent of the mayor’s office.
2. Akron is one of the few municipalities in Ohio where the clerk of council is covered by civil service.

Arguments against the amendment:

1.        Removing civil service protection makes the clerk vulnerable to politics.

2.        The clerk could be removed by a majority vote of the council.

ISSUE 8: PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT CITY OF AKRON

 A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage

Issue 8

Shall the Charter of the City of Akron be amended by the addition of new Section 98 AKRON SCHOLARSHIP PLAN, establishing a Scholarship Fund for Akron resident students.

Arguments in favor of the amendment:

1. The Akron Scholarship Plan will provide a way for every qualified Akron high school graduate to attend the University of Akron or an approved Akron technical or trade school.
2. This plan will use the upfront proceeds from the lease of the Akron sanitary sewer system to endow a scholarship program.
3. It will provide for a more educated workforce and the economic growth and sustainability for a positive future for Akron neighborhoods.
4. Makes Akron an attractive place for companies to locate by providing an educated workforce.

Arguments against the amendment:

1. Leasing Akron’s sewer system is a step towards the privatizing of a public utility.
2. Privatizing of a public utility has a direct bearing on what rates are charged to the consumer, employment, services, quality and public oversight.
3. Keeping our utilities public provides for the transparency, accountability and affordability the public needs in order to be assured that the utility is operating in the best interest of the citizenry, not the corporation who leases it.
4. Sewer customers outside of Akron do not benefit.

ISSUE 9: PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT CITY OF AKRON

(By Initiative Petition)

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage

Issue 9:

Shall the Carter of the City of Akron be amended by the addition of a new Section 64, which would read as follows: SALE, LEASE OR TRANSFER OF CUTY UTILITIES.

Arguments in favor of the amendment:  

1. Our public utilities, such as our sewer system, are paid for and belong to the public.  It is the public who should determine whether it is in their best interest to lease, transfer or sell any interest in its public utilities.
2. The sale of a public utility is too important an issue for the voter to be excluded from the decision making process.

Arguments against the amendment:

1. Voters do not have the time to study the details, nor do they have the knowledge or access to the expertise that our elected officials, with their years of public service, would have to make an informed decision on these types of issues.
2. Passage of Issue 9 would lead to micromanagement of our city.  If voters disagree with decisions our elected officials make on our behalf, we can vote them out of office.

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Justice Ohio Supreme Court of Ohio

Term Beginning January 1, 2009 

Maureen O’Connor - Republican

Address:          211 S. Fifth Street

                        Columbus, OH 42315

Phone:             614.228.2481 

Biographical Information

http://www.oconnorforjustice.com/about.php                                                           

Question & Answer 

1)         What is your response to research indicating that judicial decisions tend to favor large campaign contributors? 

“I do not agree that objective research indicates that decisions of the courts favor campaign contributors.  Contributions follow the philosophy of a justice, not the other way around.  There are limits on the dollar amount for contributions.  These amounts are deemed reasonable and as long as Ohio maintains an elected selection process for our judiciary and the contributors follow the law on campaign limits and there is open disclosure, the system should work as it is intended.” 

2)                  Do you believe that all Ohioans have adequate access to legal help and the legal system?  If not, what can be done to provide wider and better access? 

“Ohio has a good system of representation for those who are unable to afford legal representation. Our members of the bar are generous in their efforts to provide services. Having said that I believe that any system can be improved upon and ours is no exception.  The bar in Ohio is encouraged to participate in rendering pro bono services.  I believe that an expansion of the program to start in law school will assist in creating and expanding a culture of pro bono representation among the new lawyers. ” 

Joseph Russo - Democrat

Address:          3099 Huntington Road

                        Shaker Heights, OH 44120

Phone:             877.868.8300 

Biographical Information

http://www.judgerussoforjustice.com/about.htm                                                           

Question & Answer 

1)         What is your response to research indicating that judicial decisions tend to favor large campaign contributors? 

“I am very concerned by public surveys that find that 83% of voters believe campaign contributions influence the decisions of the Ohio Supreme Court.  Numerous newspaper articles have pointed to a correlation between campaign contributions and the votes of members of our Court.  The New York Times in the article “Campaign Cash Mirrors a High Court’s Rulings” points to a correlation between campaign contributions and individual Ohio Supreme Court Justice’s votes in judicial decisions in Ohio.  In that article, the Times states that Ohio Supreme Court Justices “routinely sat on cases after receiving campaign contributions from the parties involved” and “on average . . . voted in favor of contributors 70 percent of the time.”  My opponent votes in favor of her contributors 74% of the time.  I have proposed a rule that would force Justices to disqualify themselves from cases involving their largest contributors.  My opponent opposes this rule.” 

3)                  Do you believe that all Ohioans have adequate access to legal help and the legal system?  If not, what can be done to provide wider and better access? 

“Ohioans do not have adequate access to legal help.  There are several ways to provide wider and better access.  First, for simple cases, we must make forms and instruction available to the general public, as they have in Maricopa County, Arizona, where they have thrown open the doors of the courthouse to the general public with help from court staff and law school students to enable the general public to access the legal system and settle their simple disputes often without the help of a lawyer.  In addition, I believe that we must properly fund our legal clinics throughout the state so that the public has access to attorneys to handle more intricate legal matters.  Finally, a rule requiring every attorney in the State, as part of their Continuing Legal Education requirements, to provide pro bono services to the public should be considered.”

Justice Ohio Supreme Court of Ohio

Term Beginning January 2, 2009 

Peter Sikora - Democrat

Address:          10710 Edgewater Drive

                        Cleveland, OH 44102

Phone:             441.241.4537 

Biographical Information

http://www.sikoraforjustice.com/About.html                                                           

Question & Answer 

1)         What is your response to research indicating that judicial decisions tend to favor large campaign contributors? 

“The strength of our judiciary rests in the confidence Ohioans have in the fairness and impartiality of the court.  The legitimacy of the court is undermined when studies show people believe contributions influence decisions.  There is a serious need to restore confidence in the court, based on the fact that Supreme Court Justices routinely sit on cases after receiving campaign contributions from the parties involved or from groups that filed supporting briefs.  On average, they voted in favor of the contributors 70% of the time.  This emphasizes the need for balance on the court – so that every citizen can be assured that all perspectives will be considered before decisions are made.” 

4)                  Do you believe that all Ohioans have adequate access to legal help and the legal system?  If not, what can be done to provide wider and better access? 

“As a society we need to ensure that people have access to affordable quality legal assistance.  It is incumbent upon all of us – as well as those in the legal profession – to come forward and assist those who can not afford representation. Specifically, this includes an increase in pro-bono efforts in the legal community.” 

Evelyn Stratton - Republican

Address:          211 S. Fifth Street

                        Columbus, OH 43215

Phone:             614.523.3231 

Biographical Information

http://www.strattonforsupremecourt.com/?page=about_justice_stratton                                               

Question & Answer 

1)         What is your response to research indicating that judicial decisions tend to favor large campaign contributors? 

“I believe this portrays an inaccurate perception of the judiciary that is fueled by the media, not by reality.  A New York Times article, published two years ago, reported that I had voted in favor of my contributors in 55% of the cases in which I participated through March 2006.  This was the lowest percentage attributed to any justice identified.  However, this also indicated that in 45% of those cases I had voted against those who had contributed to my campaign.  The vast majority of the contributions to my last campaign were $100 or less.  In addition, there are now campaign limits of $3000 per person and $5500 per political action committee.  These limits greatly reduce the ability of a contributor to use the size of a contribution to influence a judge’s decision.” 

5)                  Do you believe that all Ohioans have adequate access to legal help and the legal system?  If not, what can be done to provide wider and better access? 

“No.  The availability of legal resources for those unable to afford an attorney is a problem in Ohio.  In an effort to help persons gain access to the courts, the Supreme Court of Ohio supports the Legal Aid Society and provides financial assistance to the group.  The Court is in the process of developing legal forms to assist persons in legal matters which should result in better access to the courts.  I also have supported efforts to recruit and train attorneys to provide pro bono services to qualified homeowners in foreclosure cases.  Attorneys should be encouraged to assist those who cannot afford an attorney in all areas of the law.  I will also focus efforts on pro bono services for Ohio’s military veterans and reserve troops in my work on mental health court reforms.” 

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