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2009 VOTERS GUIDE

SUMMIT COUNTY PRIMARY ELECTION - SEPTEMBER 8, 2009

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

CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON COUNCIL-AT-LARGE

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 3 – Term commences 01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

RICHARD BURROUGHS 275 N. Hawkins Ave. Akron OH 44313

JOHN CONTI                       1235 Flanders Ave.     Akron OH 44314        Age: 60

QUESTION 1:  2009 is my 18th year on city council, having served the past 8 years as a Councilman-At-Large.  I have held the leadership positions of President-Pro-Tem and Vice President.  I possess the broadest budget experience because I have chaired the Finance and Planning Committees.  I earned a BS in Business Administration.

QUESTION 2:  Public Safety!  I will work with the mayor and council to increase the number of essential city personnel.  Recent events have shown there is a compelling need for more dispatchers, and police officers. Although somewhat less visible, the city also needs more housing inspectors, sewer workers and other essential personnel.

QUESTION 3:  City council should place before Akron voters a .25% increase in the city’s income tax rate.   The voters would decide if those working in Akron should pay a little more, in order to avoid essential employee layoffs and maintain the existing level of all city services, or not.

JOHN D. DREXLER           241 Dorchester Rd.     Akron OH 44313        Age: 26

QUESTION 1:     I am a concerned citizen of Akron having lived here for the last 14 years.  I have a degree in Public Relations from the University of Akron and own a small business here in Akron.  I attend Church regularly and hold no affiliations outside Akron. 

QUESTION 2:    Crime and the economy are the most serious issues.  Growing the economy and having more police on the streets will reduce crime.  If finances are lacking for more police, neighborhood watches could be organized, using young men and women.  Remuneration could take the form of education stipends or reduced tuition.

QUESTION 3:    We need more small businesses in Akron for tax revenue.  We should encourage small business development by holding workshops on forming them.  We should ask business leaders and attorneys to donate time for these workshops, appealing to city pride. We could have a moratorium on licensing fees.

JOE FINLEY            1585 Hyde Park Ave.             Akron OH 44310    Age: 60\

QUESTION 1:     Married 37 years to Alexis, 5 children in the military, BA in Education, Retired teacher, Small business operator, City Council Ward 2 - two terms, Democartic State Representative - two years - 27th district, Endorsed by: AFCME Council 8 AFL-CIO,

Ohio Fraternal Order of Police

QUESTION 2:   Safety forces and their staffing levels current and future for Akron.    See REFORMAKRON.COM  for my entire plan.

QUESTION 3:  Cuts must be made first from the executive budget, which is clearly bloated. The last cuts, which Reform Dems believe can be avoided, would come from safety forces. Medical and perscription benefits that public employees enjoy will have to be negotiated to save the taxpayers bill. One example might be*

*exceeded word limit

JEFF FUSCO            2117 Forest Oak Drive           Akron OH 44312        Age: 50

QUESTION 1:    I retired from the city of Akron in 2007. Before that I was a Deputy Service Director 1997 to 2007. I was on Akron City Council from 1986 to 1997. I graduated from St. Vincent St. Mary High school, attended the University of Akron and graduated from Leadership Akron. 

QUESTION 2:   Continuing to compete for jobs in the global economy for Akron's residents is the most urgent issue facing Akron. We need to revisit and create a way to provide a college education for our youth and work force. I will work to find a supportable option.

QUESTION 3:   For the long run, Akron needs to look for cost cutting measures with Summit County and others by combining services. For the short run cost cutting measures need to be explored before layoffs are used and services are cut. Ideas for cutting cost can be found from our city workers.

KELLY MENDENHALL   430 Woodland Ave.     Akron OH 44302

HEATHER NAGEL            384 Crosby St.             Akron OH 44303

LINDA OMOBIEN              2104 Brookshire Rd.   Akron OH 44313        Age:  56

QUESTION 1:    A 20+ year licensed mental health administrator with a Master’s degree in  Community Counseling. I served as President thrice in my 16 year tenure on the Akron Board of Education, the third largest employer in the City. I served on the board that oversees Akron’s largest $800 mil rebuilding project.

QUESTION 2:   Most urgent issue facing the city is the economy, loss of jobs and homes.  If elected, will work to attract businesses, continue the school rebuilding project which is jointly overseen by the city and school district and apply for all Federal Stimulus dollars to create jobs, and rapidly rehouse individuals. 

QUESTION 3:  First step would be developing a list of positions that are critical,  and eliminating positions that are not absolutely necessary, beginning with part-timers, and as-needed employees.  Ask department heads to reduce their budgets by a certain percentage.  Freeze all hirings, salary increases, and reduce overtime.  Discontinue discretionary programs and activities.    

JIM SHEALEY                    1258 Delos St.                        Akron OH 44306

QUESTION 1:  I have been a teacher for the Akron Public School system for over 30 years, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from The University of Akron. I am a public servant in various capacities including elected Ward 5 Councilman in 2000 for eight years, Chairman of Public Safety Committee.

-    QUESTION 2: The most urgent issue today in Akron is jobs. I will help keep and create our jobs. Provide the growth and creation of small businesses through incubators, and maintain an educated workforce through job training. I will work to keep businesses like Goodyear, Firestone, Sterling, and First Energy.

      QUESTION 3:  I would suggest a plan be in place where more businesses come to Akron and allow more jobs to stay in the city of Akron, employing people within the city that would keep a steady revolving flow of money into the city by the city taxes.

MICHAEL D. WILLIAMS 1263 Country Club Rd.  Akron OH 44313   Age:

QUESTION 1:  Member of Akron City Council for 22 years. Served as the 4^th Ward Councilman (10 years) and At-Large (12 years). Deputy Executive Director for Alpha Phi Alpha Homes, Inc. Graduate of Buchtel High (1975), Morehouse College (Bachelor of Arts 1980) and the University of Akron Law School (Juris Doctorate 1985). 

QUESTION 2:  Vacant properties and associated crime are the most important issue. It is discussed at every citizen meeting. While the current budget deficit is being acted upon, drastic cuts in the safety forces and Health Housing must be avoided. I will push for a budget that reflects citizen priorities and concerns. 

QUESTION 3:   The amount of taxpayer resources committed (debt – city income tax) to every economic development project must be carefully examined from a cost/benefit perspective. Future commitments must be severely limited or suspended. All non-essential spending must be eliminated; with a focus on maintaining an adequate police presence in our neighborhoods.

CITY OF AKRON COUNCIL-AT-LARGE

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 3 – Term commences 01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

MICHELLE M. DIMEFF   956 Jefferson Ave.      Akron OH 44302

JOSHUA LEE JONES         232 E. Woodsdale Ave.          Akron OH 44301

DAVID J. KIRSCHBAUM 156 N. Highland Ave.                        Akron OH 44303

CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 1

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

DAVID F. DROGE              149 N. Highland Ave.            Akron OH 44303

QUESTION 1:  Veteran U.S. Army,  BS. and AS. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. Plant, pet , baby sit, dish washer bar-back, waiter bartender, store clerk, GM apprentice mechanic, high school. Stock, bond recovery research major brokerage Wall Street, crew scheduling management TWA. Flight operations in Europe, U.S. Qualifications city council? And a pulse. 

QUESTION  2:  Peoples voice is represented not city halls. I don't know the two priorities, until I get under the hood. I will work to reduce the need for emergency sessions and make sure we follow protocols, allow the citizens of the ward more access legislation before the vote.

QUESTION 3:  I do feel a complete financial audit and review by a totally independent organization be done and published. I do believe we should follow the charter of the city and state constitution, always put principal before party and represent the wards voice and not city halls.
 

JIM HURLEY                      1227 Clifton Ave.       Akron OH 44310        Age:  52

QUESTION 1:  I am currently the Ward 1 Councilman with 2 ½ years experience.  I was appointed for 6 months succeeding Danny Horrigan, and then elected, holding this position for two years.  I am a 1976 North High School graduate and a small business owner of J.P. Hurley Electric.

QUESTION 2:  My primary concerns are our youth, and the climbing rate of empty houses and unkept landscapes.  I am currently working with people in the community that are implementing several youth programs, and also working with City department heads and various groups investing and repairing homes to revitalize our neighborhoods.

QUESTION 3:  The City is being forced to cut back in all areas of our government.  I continue to work with the Mayor and fellow councilpersons, as well as City staff, to work through a very difficult time.  We are learning to become very creative in this process. 

KEITH MILLS                     596 Dayton St.                        Akron OH 44310

WARD 1

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

MARK A. LAVOIE             402 Merriman Rd.                   Akron OH 44303

CHARLY MURPHY           1117 Dayton St.                      Akron OH 44310

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 2

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

DOMINIC A BASILE         793 Clyde St.                          Akron OH 44310

BRUCE KILBY                   1750 Olalla Ave.         Akron OH 44305        Age:  58

QUESTION  1:  EXPERIENCE:  I have served on Council for twelve years.  My service, unlike my opponent's, has been serving and representing  the people not the politicians downtown.

QUESTION  2:  NEIGHBORHOODS FIRST:  Unlike my opponent who said;  "We must continue to invest in downtown".  I want to invest in our neighborhoods that have been ignored. COMMUNITY POLICING:  We must reorganize the Police Department so that they are in the neighborhoods.  Before we can do that we must heal the bad relationship that exists between the police and the administration. 

QUESTION  3:  HOUSING:  Vacant and abandoned houses are a blithe on our neighborhoods.  There are eight thousand of them in our City.  We can use the stimulus money to keep and get families back in them.

WARD 2

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES

JOSH SINES                         851 Ranney St.                       Akron OH 44310

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 3

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

JANICE O. DAVIS              667 Euclid Ave.          Akron OH 44307        Age:  56

QUESTION 1:     Adjunct Instructor Brown Mackie College. Summa Health System—1973-2003. AAS Legal Assisting, 1999 the University of Akron, BA, Business 2002, Malone College,  MBA Healthcare Administration 2006, Baldwin Wallace College. Doctoral Studies in progress, Argosy online, Global Multicultural Leadership. 

QUESTION 2:  Economic Development, Education. Engage in dialogue with city and private contractors to encourage minority training and hiring.

QUESTION 3:   Review  budget items line by line. Conduct a force field analysis of allocations. Make tactical and strategic recommendations as appropriate. Use Lean Six Sigma Resources to eliminate waste and streamline processes. Measure success through the use of the Balance Score Card.

DAVID GOODE                   526 East Avenue         Akron OH 44320

MARCO S. SOMMERVILLE        618 Copley Road        Akron OH 44320

NO REPUBLICANS FILED FOR WARD 3

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 4

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

RENEE L. GREENE           477 Mineola Avenue   Akron OH 44320        Age:  60

QUESTION 1:   I have served as Councilwoman 4 Ward 4 for twelve years.  My qualifications include but are not limited to the time spent on the job.  Retired in 2002 from the Akron Public Schools teaching for over 30 years.  Graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in Elementary Education. 

QUESTION 2:  Two primary concerns are safety (quality of life), and education.  I work closely with citizens and APD forming Block Watch groups to ensure a safer environment and problem solving.  I monitor the progress of the public schools and volunteer in the schools to enhance academic outcomes.  

QUESTION 3:   Steps are being taken currently to seek voluntary retirement and eliminating or altering over-staffed areas.  By using wisely Stimulus funds coming in-new and additional jobs can be created in other venues.  The day furlough program seems to be working in many cities across the country.  I would support these efforts.    

RUSSEL C. NEAL, JR.       476 Moreley  Ave.      Akron OH 44320        Age:  47

QUESTION 1:  Resident in the ward over 38 years, I serve/served on various grassroots and community boards that address the needs of the ward and the city. Owner of Graffitti Print Shop, self-employed 20 years. Graduate of Buchtel High School and Ohio University, BA Management & Marketing.

QUESTION 2:  Develop a strong sense of community by networking businesses, block clubs, organizations and churches to form and communicate a common community vision and plan to address community concerns. Get banks and faith based community to partner to address high number of foreclosed properties in area.

QUESTION 3: To adequately answer this question need to review the last independent audit of the City's finances. Implement a hiring freeze in all city departments that are not related to the safety of the residents of Akron.  Work closey with Akron Chamber to recruit new business to area.

NO REPUBLICANS FILED FOR WARD 4

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 5

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

ANTHONY DiLAURO        410 Chittenden St.  P.O. Box1188     Akron OH 44309

QUESTION 1:  My qualifications for Ward Council include deep family roots throughout the Ward and a commitment to putting people first. I have reached out to voters to boost participation and collaborative problem solving. I was educated at Akron's public schools and at Harvard College. I own a small business (www.dsvcinc.com)

QUESTION 2:  My two primary concerns are (1) reaching out to voters to help coordinate a neighborhood driven approach to addressing a variety of important issues, such as youth activities and crime, and (2) better connecting people with education and training to stay competitive in a global economy.

QUESTION 3:  Current financial challenges are best addressed by improving operating efficiencies wherever possible, and helping businesses and residents compete today and prepare for tomorrow. I suggest facilitating collaborative efforts between entrepreneurs, workers, and educators to stay ahead of the curve, and cooperating to responsibly develop our region's unique natural resources.

KEN JONES                         767 Garfield St.          Akron OH 44310

WALI RAHIM                      58 ½  W. Glenwood Ave.       Akron OH 44304

WILLIE L. SMITH              225 Chittenden St.                  Akron OH 44306

RONALD D. STREET        704 McKinley Ave.                Akron OH 44306

WARD 5

REPUBLICAN WRITE-IN CANDIDATE

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

DWIGHT C. PULOS           590 Carpenter St.        Akron OH 44310        Age:  56

QUESTION 1:  Born and raised in the city of Akron. Resident of Ward 5 for approximatley 17 years.  Consultant for SD Myers Inc., Tallmadge, OH.  Attended University of Akron.

QUESTION 2:  Lawlessness and economic development. Long-standing laws dealing with civil behavior need to be upheld with stricter penalties.  Creating a safe environment and a user-friendly city government for business development. Leave it to the private sector for economic development—that’s their role, not the government’s.

QUESTION 3:  Limit  spending to the vital services necessary  for having a safe and healthy community.     Overseas ventures by our mayor?  That’s the state’s role, not his.  How much does that cost the city for five star hotels and expenses for him and his entourage? Wasteful spending—you decide!

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 6

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

WAYNE KARTLER                       2786 Shelburn Ave.                Akron OH 44312

QUESTION 1:  I am a Ward 6 resident.  I am dedicated to ALL the constituents of the Ward.  I am able to evaluate/resolve problems in a timely matter.  Service is a fact, not just a promise. Occupation: Field Service Engineer. Education: Associates degree in Applied Science in Electronic Engineering Technology

QUESTION 2:  Jobs and Police and Safety. Without jobs, people will loose their homes.  We need to encourage new jobs, while KEEPING the old ones without offering TIFS. We need more police in the city.  Pay for this by stopping wasteful spending downtown, and taking pay cuts for council and Mayor/Mayor’s cabinet. 

QUESTION 3:  I believe we can curb the city’s finances by regionalizing  some services, taking 10% pay cut for council and mayor/cabinet, combining cabinet positions, eliminating unneeded cabinets, limiting travel and economic development budget,  and stopping unfair land/tax deals that favor millionaire developers.

ROBERT J. OTTERMAN  1969 Wells Creek Run   Akron OH 44312       Age:  77

QUESTION 1:  Retired High School teacher & counselor. B.A. Degree in Social Studies M.A. in Adm. Both from the University of Akron. Former 6^th Ward Councilman – 8 years,   Akron City Councilman At Large – 22 years, Ohio State Representative, President of the All-Amer. Soap Box Derby 

QUESTION 2:  Economic Development & Jobs – good paying jobs, Work with the city adm. In every way, Have to tighten our belts, so we can ensure our city adm does the same.  How every tax dollar are spent wisely, so that we can spread our tax dollars the furthest.

QUESTION 3:  Work to pass legislation to support locally-owned businesses.  Take the led in passing legislation in keeping major employers here in Akron (Goodyear-Firestone).  Work with local businesses, our number one priority.

ERIC PIROGOWICZ          330 Middlefield Drive       Akron OH 44312        Age:  53

QUESTION 1:  I graduated from Ellet. My family has been in the Ellet Community for four generations. I work for Goodyear, served on the Union/Company safety committee for 10 years. I've refereed high school soccer for the past 6 years and I'm involved with the children's ministry at my church.

QUESTION 2:   Crime is a concern. My sister was a victim two months ago. We need more education, area neighborhood block parties, even decoy police cars can be a defense. We need to clean up our neighborhoods, reporting drug houses, picking up litter, and petitioning against gaming businesses would improve our community.

QUESTION 3:   The city is in the process of offering 5 furlough days to save the city two and a half million dollars to help avoid layoffs. With all the gaming rooms and bill boards that litter our neighborhoods, we could put a tax on these eye sores.

ERNIE TARLE                    339 Sieber Ave.          Akron OH 44312

NO REPUBLICANS FILED FOR WARD 6

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 7

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

ANTHONY HOLT                 773 Reed Ave.                        Akron OH 44306

TINA MERLITTI                  304 Clinton Ave.         Akron OH 44301         Age:  38

QUESTION 1:  My over 12 years of experience in government helps me resolve issues quickly and bring resources to Ward 7.  I have been on City Council for 4 years.  I currently work as a Communication Specialist for the County of Summit.  Bachelors Degree in Political Science from The Ohio State University.   

QUESTION 2:  Increase in rental properties and crime are problems.  Both of these issues can be resolved with increased community involvement.  I have been actively working to increase the number of block watches in Ward 7.  I will continue to support efficient innovations in law enforcement and housing inspection programs.

QUESTION 3:  We need to continue working with other government agencies to combine resources and efficiently utilize tax payer dollars.  Personnel cost, especially health care, has increased exponentially over the last several years.  A countywide health care package would save money not only for Akron but for all Summit County Communities.

DAVID REYMANN               632 Cooper Ave.         Akron OH 44306        Age:  69

QUESTION 1:  I graduated from Garfield High School am a retired business owner a Martin Marietta retiree and former union steward of  local 856.  Married for over 40 years with two children and four grand children. A lifetime resident of Firestone Park and have belonged to St.Paul's Catholic church for 69 years.

 QUESTION 2:   1. Teenage crime - need for  police bike patrols in neighborhoods Too many City officials and  Ward 7 Councilman are covering up problems. Mayor has tied  hands of  police who are worried about retaliation for doing there jobs. 2.  Deterioration off our streets and sidewalks. Hire seasonal workers to repair sidewalks, curbs.  

QUESTION 3:   Mayor has us so deep in debt that we can't get out. Partial solution would be to eliminate half of cabinet and reduce pay for the rest.  Police and fire departments should be reorganized.  Temporarily re-assign officers in COPS program to street duty, to eliminate need for any lay offs. 

WARD 7

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

DUANE L. SCHRAMM, SR.             878 Austin Avenue      Akron OH 44306

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 8

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

BRUCE BOLDEN                  148 Kenilworth Dr.      Akron OH 44313         Age:  49

QUESTION 1:   I’m a lifelong resident, with a BA from the University of Akron.  I have 26 years of business experience, currently  Territory Manager with GreatWork!, a local staffing company, and am the only candidate with extensive legislative experience and proven results as Ward One Akron City Councilperson from 10/1991 - 12/31/97. 

QUESTION 2:   The concentration of Section 8 housing in Treeside/Zahn area is causing blight and crime.  I’ll work with City, AMHA and Police on zero tolerance enforcement of crime and housing violations.  The proposed cuts in Police force will directly affect our neighborhoods. I’ll push to keep our safety forces staffed appropriately. 

QUESTION 3:   Institute a 35 hour mandatory workweek for all non emergency city employees, keeping safety forces at full strength, cutting only as a last resort.  Reduce curbside recycling to every other week, street cleaning to once per month, and reduce staff and hours at Community Centers, by 2 hours every morning.

RAYMOND COX                  122 Avondale Drive   Akron OH 44313        Age:  60

QUESTION 1:  I am the incumbent Councilman.  I have worked in the public service for nearly forty years.  I helped shape public policy, as a political appointee, as a public servant, and as a consultant for all levels of government. Occupation:  Professor of Public Administration; University of Akron. Education: PhD; Virginia Tech

QUESTION 2:   My surveys suggest that the two major issues are crime and infrastructure.We have block watchs and Public Safety Committee to monitor crime.  Better cooperation between the police and residents is important, but removing the source of crime—particular drugs is critical.  Road resurfacing must continue, despite the disruptions.

QUESTION 3:   The voluntary separation plan is critical.  Layoffs and reduced hours will come next.  These cuts fall disproportionately on city employees.  Service cuts — one leaf pick up, less street cleaning, slower replacement of streetlights, filling potholes and street cleaning yield small savings. If revenues remain down, new fees will be explored.

SANDRA KURT        140 Mayfield Ave.      Akron OH 44313                     Age:  47

QUESTION 1:   As a degreed Industrial Engineer (Iowa State University, 1985), my career has focused on increasing efficiency and making the best use of resources.  City government will benefit from my instincts to get more out of what we have, through both fully leveraging our resources and engaging new and innovative practices. 

QUESTION 2:   My two concerns are ensuring that residents of Ward 8 receive the critical city services that they support financially and that residents receive timely responses from their councilperson.  I commit to providing the latter and will work with the city administration to address any gaps in the former.

QUESTION 3:   My professional life has been dedicated to doing more with less and I will bring that sensibility to City Council.  We no longer have the luxury of maintaining the status quo. We must examine assumptions, assess the effectiveness of current practices, and be willing to make tough decisions.

WILL PADILLA        993 Hampton Ridge Drive       Akron OH 44313         Age:  38

QUESTION 1:   I have spent the last 16 years in an industry that helps folks protect the most important investment of their lives, their homes. I am currently Senior Title Underwriter with First American Title Insurance Company and a graduate of Drew University and Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. 

QUESTION 2:   Safety and property values. I will leverage my experience to ensure our safety is not compromised when our budget is. I understand the issues that impact our property values and will work diligently to address them. 

QUESTION 3:   We must manage our current resources responsibly while looking to invest in innovative businesses. Throughout my career I have been tasked with improving efficiencies and reducing wasteful spending. Having also developed a business incubator, I understand first-hand how important local businesses are to the future of Akron.

MARIAN L. SHANK             644 Schocalog Rd.       Akron OH 44320         Age:  44

QUESTION 1:   BSBA Akron University, Analyst - Windstream. Take great consideration in doing what is right, honest and fair to all people. Intelligent-can comprehend many issues and open minded enough to hear and consider all positions. Good judgment-can make decisions honestly and in the best interest of the people. 

QUESTION 2:   Safety and jobs. Ward 8 has an alarming increase in crime. Will work hard to promote and encourage others to become involved in crime prevention, crime watch and crime reporting through safety committees and police efforts. Jobs-Implement the Regional Prosperity Initiative in a honest and correct way.

QUESTION 3:   Audit overall City Finances. Schools-Don't come to taxpayers for money. Audit overall School Finances. Reconsider tax abatement to help support school expense. Encourage local business in all areas of Akron and restrict eminent domain to public use like roads, parks or hospitals not for developers. 

WARD 8

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

ELIZABETH BERRY SMITH          1529 Bryden Drive      Akron OH 44313

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 9

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

JASON CHARLTON             694 Lakemont Ave.     Akron OH 44314         Age:  34

QUESTION 1:   B.A, Ursuline College. University of Akron, Juris Doctor, 2009; Master’s in Taxation, 2010. Highly decorated veteran of the U.S. Army and Ohio National Guard.  Proud parent of a Pfeiffer Pirate. Member of Akron Public Schools PTA. Experience with multiple law firms and local businesses. Employed by University of Akron.

QUESTION 2:   Need for increased police presence and expansion of public and social services while lowering income tax for residents. Making Kenmore more attractive to young families by working with community leaders to accent its potential and ensure that Kenmore
remains an important, viable part of the City.

QUESTION 3:   Re-assess asset relocation without loss of City jobs. Spend tax dollars more intelligently for City benefits. Partner with University of Akron to harness its reputation for new technology development, to grow Akron as an emerging center in green/environmentally friendly technology, creating jobs for Akron residents.

JON D. DIED             475 W. Waterloo Rd. Apt. #5  Akron OH 44314         Age:  59

QUESTION 1:  1980-81 Cuyahoga Community College, College graduate – Akron University (1991), Instructor – Public Safety Dep’t – Teacher – Security

QUESTION 2:  1.  Better parks in Nesmith Lake area. 2.  Regular meetings for (COPS) programs & call for F.B.I. oversight city wide.

QUESTION 3:  (COPS) funding was cut before Issue 17.  Regular meetings to make the program work city-wide should be a priority.  Arts & historical sites funds are available.  The mayor is meeting with me to discuss local history via Daniel Whittaker Schedule ofc.

TAMMY DRESSEL               1054 Witner Ave.        Akron OH 44314         Age:  41

QUESTION 1:  I am a resident of Kenmore and life experiences has given me the skills to serve and relate to the working people of Kenmore. I understand the value of a dollar, how to budget, prioritize and negotiate.  I am an Accounting/Billing Clerk for Bridgestone and have a BA from WSU.

QUESTION 2:  Lack of jobs: I would like to see small business growth by offering incentives to entrepreneurs in the Kenmore area.  Lack of community support for people in Kenmore that have fallen on hard times: I would like to develop programs and education for them.

QUESTION 3:  There needs to be an independent audit of city finances and find out what programs are draining on the city economic infrastructure.  Green Technology is the future and we need to support current and invest in new businesses and become a leader in innovation for going green.

MIKE FREEMAN                  1914 19^th Street SW     Akron OH 44314         Age:  52

QUESTION 1:  I have effectively served as councilperson for the past 8 years. I grew up in this ward and understand the concerns of my constituents. Occupation-Director of Planned Giving for The Salvation Army. Education, Kenmore High graduate, 1975, Massillon Baptist College, Bachelor of Divinity 1979

QUESTION 2:  Concern #1  - Loss of sense of community due to high rate of transients and non-invested residents.  Connect residents at different levels that encourages community. Concern #2 – Aging housing stock. Use of local organizations to assist those homeowners who cannot adequately care for their residence.

QUESTION 3:  Cuts to non-essential social activities, overhaul city employee health plan and introduce a co-pay to unions for consideration. Decrease city debt and thereby decrease the annual debt obligation. Police and fire should be absolute last cuts made.

NO REPUBLICANS FILED FOR WARD 9 

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CITY OF AKRON  PRIMARY ELECTION – SEPTEMBER 8, 2009  

CITY OF AKRON CITY COUNCIL

 WARD 10

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES

Vote for no more than 1 – Term commences  01/01/10

QUESTION 1:  WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF COUNCIL-AT-LARGE?  PLEASE INCLUDE OCCUPATION AND EDUCATION.

 QUESTION 2:  WHAT IS THE MOST URGENT ISSUE FACING THE CITY OF AKRON TODAY?  IF ELECTED, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?

 QUESTION 3:  WHAT STEPS WOULD YOU SUGGEST FOR ADDRESSING THE CITY’S CURRENT FINANCIAL CHALLENGES?

KELLI CRAWFORD            1460 Seminola Avenue       Akron OH 44305 Age:  28

QUESTION 1:  Education: Graduate of the University of Akron, B.A. Business and Organizational Communication-Public Relations.  Currently employed as a Finance Consultant to the Ohio    Democratic Party.  Have worked in all three branches of government and understand how good government works.  As the incumbent, I have experience as Councilperson.

QUESTION 2:  Crime and vacant homes.  To continue forming and utilizing neighborhood watch groups, continue Ward and crime watch meetings and work to rebuild sense of community. Continue working with Health Department to board up vacant homes and work to secure additional funds for demolition or reconstruction.

QUESTION 3:  Continue to make short term cuts to extras such as overtime spent on community festivals and events, as well as production costs for these events.  Long term, we need to look at regionalism, to provide the same level of service by combining with other entities that provide the same services.

JAY MOORE             461 Eastland Ave.       Akron OH 44305         Age:  40

QUESTION 1:  In my business, I have had the opportunity to work with cities all over the country. And see how it is done in a program that works. I think I have learned some valuable tools to help bring Akron back from the edge.

QUESTION 2:  Crime, forclosers, and the fact that no new jobs have been brought into ward 10. And unlike the current state of things. I plan to not just talk about it. But actually do something about it. 

QUESTION 3:   First and foremost. The City government is to fat. 14 Deputy Mayors may be to many. Footing the bill to Fly people in from Germany to sell things. May not be a necessity. And giving away City banked property with no future financial gain, should be looked into.

JOHN BRIAN NICHOLAS               536 Lindell St.             Akron OH 44305

CHARLES W. YERKEY       1471 Indianola Ave.   Akron OH 44305        Age:  26

QUESTION 1:  I have two degrees in Information Technology and have worked with a range of business types in that capacity.  I am working on a Master’s in Special Education and have worked as a substitute teacher for four years, including Akron Public Schools’ FACTT Program. 

QUESTION 2:  Juvenile Crime is my primary concern for ward 10.  I believe immediate behavior-linked punishments and parental accountability are effective options to control it.  The second concern is with rental properties.  Landlords should be held accountable for their properties.  They also need protection from non-paying and destructive tenants.

QUESTION 3:  To improve city finances, we need to bring families back to Akron. Families who buy houses, shop at local stores, and pay local taxes.  The only way to bring families back is to spur job growth.  Industrial, technology, and union jobs are jobs families can be based around. 

NO REPUBLICANS FILED FOR WARD 10

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