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2015 VOTERS
GUIDE
SUMMIT COUNTY PRIMARY ELECTION - SEPTEMBER
8, 2015
Published
by the League of Women Voters of the Akron
Area Education Fund |
This Voters
Guide is published by the League of Women
Voters of the Akron Area Education Fund to
provide non-partisan information about
political candidates and issues, and to help
citizens make informed choices at the polls.
The group is solely responsible for its
content. The candidates are given the
opportunity to respond to questions posed by
the League of Women Voters, and to state
their positions in their own words. The
League, in publishing this material, neither
endorses nor rejects the views of any
candidate or political party, and does not
and cannot assume responsibility for the
contents of any candidate's reply.
It is the League of Women Voters of the
Akron Area's mission to provide a voters'
guide each year that assists local voters in
casting their ballot. The guide below is our
service to voters that reflects a deep
commitment to providing information that
promotes citizen participation in the
political process. You will see below a
variety of responses that are the exact
wording of what each candidate has
provided to us. |
CITY OF AKRON MAYOR
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Mayor |
|
 |
Dan Horrigan |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Summit County Clerk of Courts |
Age:
52 |
|
Address:
1230 N Howard St, Akron 44310
Website:
www.horriganformayor.com
|
|
Education:
St. Vincent-St. Mary High School,
Class of 1981;
BA, Economics, Kent State
University; BA, Education,
University of Akron |
|
Training and Experience:
Teacher, St. V-M and Stow-Munroe
Falls High Schools (1997-2006);
Akron City Councilman, Ward 1
(2000-2006); Summit County Clerk of
Courts (2006-present) |
Question 1:
What are your plans for promoting
foreign investments and job creation
in Akron?
My highest priority will be to
promote job growth. We must seek
21st century jobs, and attract and
retain the talent and technology
employers need. We will compete for
jobs globally, but most growth in
employment occurs among businesses
located in Akron, so they need a
responsive, supportive city
government. |
|
Question 2:
Do you have specific ideas for the
future of downtown?
Our downtown business district is
the city’s principle employment
center and its vibrancy –
entertainment and the arts – depend
on strong support from the city and
community. I will work with
Downtown Akron Partnership, and
engage young professional
organizations to find creative
solutions to further generate
downtown business and culture. |
|
Question 3: How
do you propose to improve the City
of Akron’s financial outlook?
Fiscal responsibility is essential
for the long-term future of our
city. I will utilize better
technology and my sound management
skills to streamline operations and
explore ways to balance the city’s
budget. I will also analyze every
system offering public services to
ensure that taxpayers are getting
their money’s worth. |
|
City Of Akron Mayor |
|
 |
Eddie Sipplen |
Republican |
|
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
1320 Shanabrook Dr, Akron 44313
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Mayor |
|
 |
Michael D Williams |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Akron City Councilman-at-Large |
Age:
58 |
|
Address:
1263 Country Club Rd, Akron 44313
Website:
www.WilliamsForAkron.com
|
|
Education:
Buchtel High School - 1975;
Morehouse College B.A. - 1980;
University of Akron School of Law
J.D. - 1985 |
Training and Experience:
Akron City Councilman - 28;
Alpha Phi Alpha Homes, Deputy
Executive Director - 7;
FirstMerit Corporation, Human
Resources Officer - 28;
Ohio
Civil Rights Commission, Field
Investigator - 4;
Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority
- 5 |
Question 1:
What are your plans for promoting
foreign investments and job creation
in Akron?
We will continue efforts to seek and
secure foreign investment without
large entourages and with full
accountability and transparency to
Akron residents. The Economic
Development Department will be
refocused to support and encourage
local small and medium-sized
business development to spur local
job growth and employment
opportunities for Akron residents. |
|
Question 2:
Do you have specific ideas for the
future of downtown?
Young residents will be actively
involved in policy development to
address apathy, behaviors,
retention, education and training.
Initiatives to strengthen
communication between generations
will be developed in cooperation
with senior and youth organizations.
Downtown business development,
housing and entertainment along with
focused marketing of Akron's
strengths will be a priority. |
|
Question 3: How
do you propose to improve the City
of Akron’s financial outlook?
There will be accountability,
transparency and regular reporting
of finances to residents. Business
development and job growth will be a
priority to increase revenues. Use
of technology with a focus on
improving service to residents will
be implemented. JEDD revenues will
be reviewed and prioritized to
address citizen ranked priorities. |
return to top |
|
CITY OF AKRON COUNCIL-AT-LARGE
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 3 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Cynthia D Blake |
Republican |
|
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
928 Bisson Avenue
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voter's
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voter's Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Janice Davis |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
retired |
Age:
62 |
|
Address:
1495 S Hawkins, Apt 202, Akron 44320
Website:
|
|
Education:
MBA Healthcare Administration; BA,
Business; Associate, Legal
Assisting; 27credit hours completed,
doctoral studies |
|
Training and Experience:
Managed two Health Information
Management departments at Summa and
St. Thomas Health Campuses. Policy
making, Project Management, Crafting
Strategic Blueprints, performing
qualitative and quantitative
research, diversity, team building,
and leadership training; United Way,
Board Leadership
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
I will push to conduct a line by
line audit of city finances to
determine the financial strength of
the city and to eliminate wasteful
spending. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I have learned from the many
personal and professional mistakes I
have made. This has allowed me to
reflect and understand what a true
leader is. I will serve my
constituents through servant
leadership, I will listen to their
voices and represent them at city
hall in a way that
exceeded word limit |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I pledge to lead by example, by
effectively listening, respecting
and valuing the opinions of others.
I would encourage the council to set
guidelines for behavior on the
council floor that each council
member must adhere to or be
sanctioned. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Jeff Fusco |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
Interim Mayor of the City of Akron |
Age:
56 |
|
Address:
2117 Forest Oak
Website:
Fuscoforcouncil.blogspot.com |
|
Education:
Saint Vincent Saint Mary high
school, attended University of Akron |
|
Training and Experience:
Extensive course work in Real Estate
appraisal. I am an Ohio General
Certified Appraiser, member of
American Society of Appraisers. My
public experience is as follows:
Ward
10 1986 to 1993; At-Large 1994 to
1997; Deputy Servive Director 1997
to 2007; At-large 2010 to 2015 |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
The budget is one of many issues
that have increased concern over the
last several years. Federal and
State mandates coupled with funding
cuts have challenged all of our
safety and service delivery.
Conversely, we can not afford to
hesitate on our job creation efforts
either. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
Having served on council for many
years i have learned to work with
stake holders and Akron residents.
Serving as Deputy Service Director
has helped in knowing who to go to
and building a positive working
relationship with Akron employees
charged with enforcing ordinances. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
Had several meetings and in depth
conversations with those with a
considerable amount of knowledge in
reference to civility. Here in Akron
we benefit from many who have
studied this political dynamic.
The
community should guide the
discussion, establish expectations
and develop criteria for follow up.
This process has begun. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Andrae Long |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
|
Leocadia A Lorkowski |
Republican |
|
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters'
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Charly Murphy |
Republican |
|
Occupation:
Entreprenuer Stray Dog Carts
|
Age:
36 |
|
Address:
1117 Dayton St, Akron 44310
Website:
|
|
Education:
Akron North High. Honor's diploma;
University of Akron. Studied fine
art photography and entreprenuership;
Moody Bible. BS Biblical Studies;
Liberty University. Master's of
Arts in Religion Liberty
University. Currently studying
Master's in Business Leadership
|
|
Training and Experience:
Many years in nonprofit leadership
and business mentorship. |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
Jobs. Entreprenuership is the key
to job creation. Our city has a
foundation of innovation and the
city ought to be furthering this
effort through programs and
opportunity creation and training.
|
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
Akron resident for all of my life,
however, I am well travelled and
studied many cultures, places,
religions, efforts. I've served on
boards and consulted on many startup
projects. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
My observation- council needs
honesty in interpersonal dealings
and need to eliminate personal
agenda manipulation. Rules need to
be followed in procedural
disagreements, and barriers overcome
through peacemaking.
|
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Linda F. R. Omobien |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Mental
Health Administrator
|
Age:
62 |
|
Address:
2104 Brookshire Rd, Akron 44313
Website:
www.lindaomobien.com
|
|
Education:
BS – Sociology; M.A.Ed. Community
Counseling; LPCC-S, LSW, LICDC-CS;
Doctorate in progress, University of
Akron |
Training and Experience:
Executive Leadership Training -
Harvard University;
32
years of Supervisory /
Administrative Experience;
22
years of Public Service experience -
16 years on Akron School Board & 6
years on Akron City Council |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
The most urgent issues facing
Council are the $1.3 billion
Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO)
project, and lack of jobs. I
support the Integrated Plan recently
modified to reduce the cost.
Believe the new Mayor needs to reset
the clock and relationship with
Judge Adams and the US Environmental
Protection Agency. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
Born and raised in the poorest state
in the union, Mississippi. Parents
were hardworking middle class folks
& have 6 brothers & sisters. Lived
in subsidized housing, attended
public schools, and worked my way
through college, at the local
seafood factory. Completed college
using Pell Grants, work study, and
loans.
|
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
My life’s work has always included
the motto that I’m my brother’s
keeper and to treat others as I want
to be treated. I will encourage my
colleagues to adopt “Rules of Order”
for Council to respect and abide
by. Also, would strongly support a
facilitated retreat to reset
relationships. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
|
John R. Sans |
Republican |
|
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
 |
Veronica R Sims |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Public Administrator
Elected Official - Akron School
Board, Member |
Age:
52 |
|
Address:
396 Briarwood Dr, Akron 44320
Website:
|
|
Education:
Leadership Akron - Class #31;
Masters of Public Administration;
Bachelors of Science in Criminal
Justice/Political Science |
|
Training and Experience:
Administrator, Government
Affairs/Special Projects Regional
Manager, Summit County Board of DD
Director, Outreach and Community
Development Executive Director, Ohio
Legislative Black Caucus |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
Neighborhoods - The challenges and
opportunities are multi faceted,
i.e., jobs, safety, infrastructure,
education/training, etc. Addressing
the aforementioned can only be
accomplished and sustained through
strong partnerships and
collaborations utilizing city
resources and the strength of those
within the community who are already
championing the cause to make
neighborhoods stronger. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I am an experienced Public
Administrator with over 30 years of
serving the residents of Akron,
Ohio. I am passionate about seeing
lives and communities uplifted and
transformed. I am a coalition
builder and value the gifts and
talents of others in the work of
building a prosperous fortified
city. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
Passion that enters discourse around
important issues that impact our
residents will and should occur
occasionally -tempered by dignity
and respect. As an APS Board
Member, a balanced passion and
cooperative/informed decision making
is required to accomplish the
important work of the district. I
will bring these qualities to City
Council. |
|
City Of Akron Council-At-Large |
|
|
Jeffery Wilhite |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
Executive
Director of Family Promise of Summit
County, a homeless shelter program
for families and children. Keeping
families together and getting them
into sustainable housing
|
Age:
54 |
|
Address:
2055 Forest Edge Dr
Website:
|
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Business
Administration-Marketing
The
University of Akron |
|
Training and Experience:
Over 30 years of Private Business
and Public Service experience. I
have served in senior administrative
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
What is the most urgent issue facing
the city and how will you address
it?
City Finances. Residents need to
have a clear picture of where the
city stands financially. Call
together a finance review committee
from the faith community, business,
academia, block clubs, Boards of
Trade the Chamber, senior citizen
organizations, safety forces and
unions to review the finances and
develop sustainable solutions. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
My experiences have prepared me to
think of and search for global
solutions and apply them locally to
resolve problems. Experience has
taught me to be collaborative.
Listen to both sides of an issue and
reach common ground leading to
sustainable solutions to issues. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
Respect dissent. Listen. Act
responsibility without degrading
anyone with a difference of
opinion. To be successful,
Democracy depends on participation
of ideas and opinions not isolation. |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 1 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 1 Council |
|
|
Christina Barry |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website: |
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Ward 1 Council |
|
 |
Rich Swirsky |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
Reading Intervention Instructor,
Firestone High School |
Age:
62 |
|
Address:
183 N Highland Ave.
Website:
|
|
Education:
Bachelors Degree, Ohio University,
Political Science Masters Degree,
The University of Akron, Education |
|
Training and Experience:
My first involvement in public
service was as an advocate for
citizens and communities effected by
job loss. I also worked as a
longtime consumer and environmental
advocate. Advocacy, organizational
skill
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
The condition and safety of our
streets is the most critical issue.
I will make sure our roads are
properly maintained, speeding
reduced and traffic flows safely for
cars, pedestrians, bikes, and buses.
Transportation planning needs to
collaborate with CSO cost effective
green infrastructure that lowers
compliance cost. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
My work as a teacher and community
organizer has prepared me to listen
to residents, bring together all
parties, and resolve mutual
concerns. I hold ward meetings in
different and accessible locations,
respond to residents in a timely
way, and work cooperatively with
other council members and the
administration. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I will work with my fellow council
members and the committee appointed
by Mayor Fusco to increase respect
and trust between council members by
collaboration, compromise and
communication. |
return to top
CITY OF AKRON WARD 2 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 2 Council |
|
|
Lorenzo Butts |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters' reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 2 Council |
|
 |
James P. Hurley III |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
Ward 2 Councilman and owner of J.P.
Hurley Electric (small business) |
Age:
58 |
|
Address:
1227 Clifton Ave, Akron 44310
Website:
|
|
Education: 1976
North High School graduate,
Continuing Education classes with
IBEW Union Local #306 |
|
Training and Experience:
Public Service Chairman, Budget &
Finance Chairman, Reworks Board
Member, Small business owner for 11
years |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
1. Affordability of the C.S.O.
project cost on the backs of
residents. 2. Continue to work with
administration and hold educational
meetings to inform residents of the
community progress of the project,
and a more affordable means to
achieve our clean water system. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I have been a public servant my
entire working career, from running
a service department at a previous
employer to running and operating my
own electrical business, and
listening to resident concerns. I
understand what it takes to
communicate, coordinate, and achieve
common goals in sometimes tough
decision-making circumstances.
|
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
Continue to work with administration
and realize what must be done to
keep our city moving forward. Be
willing to accept challenges that
occur on the council floor and with
leadership skills, work through them
in a more unified fashion. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 2 Council |
|
 |
Bruce Kilby |
Democrat |
Occupation:
RETIRED TEACHER |
Age:
64 |
|
Address:
1750 Olalla Ave, Akron 44305
Website:
|
|
Education:
BA History The University of Akron |
|
Training and Experience:
Ward 2 Councilman 2006-2014
|
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
High water and sewer bills. We have
always relied on a "user pay"
system. I don't believe we can
continue to do that. Council needs
to impose a moratorium on any
further rate increases, and explore
alternative solutions on how to pay
for these unfunded EPA mandates.
|
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
As a ward Councilman I have handled
thousands of neighborhood
complaints. I also have a record of
standing up regular people on
Council. When I run for office I
make an effort to talk to every
single voter. If elected I can
represent them and their
neighborhoods. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
To
talk about issues and not about
personalities. I will insist that
the Council rules be strictly
enforced. All comments must be
addressed to the chair and not to
other members. This will help cut
out the bickering between
individuals. I will also ignore
uncivil behavior from others. |
return to top
CITY OF AKRON WARD 3 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 3 Council |
|
|
Jerry Christian |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters'
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 3 Council |
|
 |
Margo Sommerville |
Democrat |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
return to top
CITY OF AKRON WARD 4 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 4 Council |
|
|
Jim K Jeffries |
Democrat |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Ward 4 Council |
|
 |
Travis Johns |
Republican |
Occupation:
Account Manager - CASNET |
Age:
27 |
|
Address:
1565 Idlewood Ave
Website:
https://www.facebook.com/Ward4Johns
|
|
Education:
Claymont High School - 2006;
Kent
State University - 2010 B.B.A.
Managerial Marketing |
Training and Experience:
5+ Years Account Management
Experience
*
Including fundraising efforts of
NonProfit Organizations such as the
Faith and Freedom Coalition. |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
One of the most critical issues in
Ward 4 is the road conditions. City
Council has spent a lot of
time/money investing in downtown,
but Akron is more than downtown. We
all drive our cars, walk our dogs,
or ride out bikes down these
neighborhood streets. We deserve
better. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I was elected Class President every
year in high school and it gave me
practical knowledge at a young age
working with dynamic groups to
achieve a common goal. I've carried
that experience with me and worked
hands-on with The Faith & Freedom
Coalition, an organization focused
on voter outreach. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I want to be on the forefront of a
fresh outlook for our community. In
lieu of going to council with
political alliances/agendas, my
platform will be based on the ideas
or concerns of my constituents. I
pledge to support smart investments
that benefit the City and Ward 4. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 4 Council |
|
 |
Eufrancia G Lash |
Democrat |
Occupation:
I serve as the
Director of Supportive Services for
Alpha Phi Alpha Homes, Inc. and as
the Director of Music for New Hope
Baptist Church |
Age:
41 |
|
Address:
303 Grace Ave
Website:
LashForAkron.com |
|
Education:
Bachelor of Arts from the University
of Akron in Business and
Organizational Communication with an
emphasis in Public Relations. Other
Career related education
in Automotive
exceeded word limit |
|
Training and Experience:
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
I believe the most critical issue in
Ward 4 is the lack of leadership. We
need a leader who will bring people
from across the Ward together to
find common sense solutions to the
issues we are all dealing with both
now and those to come. Proposals
that are unrealistic
exceeded word limit |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I am a life long resident of Ward 4.
I have seen some highs and lows here
in the Ward. I have been here
through the growing pains of the
Ward. I have a vested interest in
the Wards success. As a community,
we must decide on a different course
exceeded word limit |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I believe in my heart that when one
enters the political arena they must
do so with the 3 Cs. Cooperation,
Collaboration, and Compromise. I
believe that everyone around the
table must see the big picture. The
work we are doing will determine the
future of our city and affect
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|
City Of Akron Ward 4 Council |
|
 |
Russel Neal |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Self-employed |
Age:
|
|
Address:
476 Moreley Ave
Website:
www.vote4russneal.com
|
|
Education:
Graduate of Buchtel High school and
Ohio University BA Management and
Marketing |
|
Training and Experience:
Business owner, community organizer
and (3) terms on Akron City Council.
On council I chair Technology and
Park & Recreation committees, serve
on Housing, Planning, Public
Service, Safety and Health and
Social Service committees. |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Foreclosed and abandoned
properties. This has a direct
impact on the equity and value of
homes in the Ward and taxes the
city's services. I have worked with
the city & faith community to
successfully rehab housing for
families. I have a proposal before
the administration to expand the
program. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
Three terms on council and my
ability to engage members of the
community in the process of
addressing challenges that face the
ward and our city are what equip me
to serve the residents of the ward
4. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
One
definition for civility is culture.
So, when asked about returning
civility to city council I pause
because the long standing culture on
city council has not been healthy.
One can be civil and still ignore
the needs of a community. I will
continue to respect my colleagues on
council. |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 5 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 5 Council |
|
|
Ken Jones |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Probation Officer at Summit County
Juvenile Court |
Age:
43 |
|
Address:
767 Garfield St. Akron 44310
Website:
|
|
Education:
Akron North H.S. - Graduate;
Attended Fairmont State University
and University of Akron |
|
Training and Experience:
Former Ward 5 Councilman (5+yrs) |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
The most critical issue in Ward 5 is
crime. I will work with Community
Oriented Police Service, block clubs
and neighborhood leaders to
supervise and patrol our own
neighborhoods thus holding unruly
neighbors accountable. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
I learned early in my life that I
was placed here to help people and
fix things. This thought process has
made me community service oriented
and commented to serving everyone I
cross paths with and in my city of
Akron. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I served on City Council and was
able to work with my colleagues to
get things done for the Akron and
Ward 5. I had several landmark
legislation and resolutions while on
council and I will do it again if
the residents of Ward 5 will allow
me. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 5 Council |
|
|
Gene Littlefield |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters'
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 5 Council |
|
 |
Tara Mosley-Samples |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Ward 5 Akron City Councilwoman |
Age:
44 |
|
Address:
243 Elizabeth Pkwy
Website:
www.tarasamples.com
|
|
Education:
Attended Akron Public Schools.
Attended The University of Akron
majored in Political Science Public
Policy management. Attended The
Academy of Court Reporting for
paralegal studies. |
|
Training and Experience:
Worked in the legal field for over
18 years as in various roles; as
legal office manager, administrative
assistant, paralegal and bailiff. |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Vacant homes. With the influx of
abandoned homes in the ward it has
decreased the value of the existing
homes in the neighborhood as well as
the quality of life. The hope is to
rehab homes that are salvageable
instead of razing them for families
in need of housing. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
My life experiences have educated,
enriched and encouraged me to become
and live the best I can, no matter
how cruel, hard or dear or great its
course has been. As a young woman,
I found myself raising a child when
I was yet one myself. I was not a
exceeded word limit |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
Communication and inclusion is what
it will take to restore civility.
There is no reason why we can not
all work together for the common
good of the community. I look
forward to the pastors being
involved and assisting council in
moving forward in a positive
direction. |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 6 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 6 Council |
|
 |
Danny Gable |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Summit County Juvenile Court |
Age:
74 |
|
Address:
328 Hilbish Avel
Website:
|
|
Education:
South High School; University of
Akron |
|
Training and Experience: Summit
county Sheriff Academy; County of
Summit County Prosecutor Office;
Director of Ellet Youth Football;
Member of Ellet Amateur Associations
|
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Akron has multiply urgent issues,
the most important issue is the
sewer project. I will work towards
finding relief for the senior
citizens and low income families.
|
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
Working over 20 years with the
Summit County Sheriff Office and
serving with the Prosecutors Office.
I have the experience of dealing
with the variety of situations.
|
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I will be diplomatic with dealing
with the public as well as the
personnel, and committees that I am
associating with. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 6 Council |
|
 |
Bob Hoch |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Akron City Council Ward 6 |
Age:
65 |
|
Address:
482 Amberwood Dr
Website:
|
|
Education:
Betty Jane;
Hyre;
Ellet High; Akron University;
Associate Sales and Merchandising ;
Associate Marketing Management |
|
Training and Experience:
Acme Store Director;
U.S. Navy Shipboard Firefighter 6
years active duty and reserves;
Committees - Public Utilities
Chairman, Service, Safety, Budget
and Finance, Economic Development,
Rules, Board of Control. |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Condition of most streets throughout
the ward. It can be solved by
appropriating more money in the
Capital Budget to go towards them
but it will also come at a cost in
that some other projects will have
to be put on hold. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
My experience at Acme is invaluable.
I always equate the residents in
Ward 6 as my customers and bottom
line in retail is to satisfy
customers. I need to satisfy my
constituents so they are comfortable
having me represent them - their
interests and concerns. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
We had civility when we had trust in
each other. The trust eroded when
two Mayors resigned abruptly for
different reasons and Council
leadership allowed new and obscure
definitions of Council Rules. We
need to redefine the rules of
procedure so there is meaning that
doesn't allow interpretation. |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 7 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 7 Council |
|
|
Gerald C. Garman |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voter's
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 7 Council |
|
 |
Donnie Kammer |
Democrat |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 8 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 8 Council |
|
 |
Marilyn L Keith |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Ward 8 City Councilwoman |
Age:
62 |
|
Address:
585 Winslow Ave
Website:
|
Education:
BS Degree Elementary Education;
Reading endorsement
Master's Equivalency Elementary
Education plus 24 hours - University
of Akron and Kent State University |
Training and Experience:
National League of Cities
Conference's,
Western Reserve Land Conservancy
Conference's and the Municipal
Government in Ohio Conference |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Akron's infrastructure is the most
pressing and expensive issue. As we
move forward with the unfunded CSO
project,we also need to address the
other infrastructure concerns like
our roads which took a back seat
when trying to balance the budget
during the "Great Recession ". |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
As a public servant for over 30
years in the field of education I
acquired a keen awareness for
accountability and communication. I
had the opportunity to cofound a
school sponsored by the Akron Public
Schools and was accountable for the
hiring of experienced teachers and a
budget. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I will continue to govern myself as
I have all along. I put principals
before personalities when making any
decisions and treat others as I wish
to be treated. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 8 Council |
|
|
Michael T Martin |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 9 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 9 Council |
|
|
John Cooper |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Ward 9 Council |
|
 |
Mike Freeman |
Democrat |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website: |
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
|
City Of Akron Ward 9 Council |
|
 |
Nolan T. James, Jr |
Democrat |
|
Occupation:
I am an attorney licensed to
practice law in the states of Ohio
and Florida. I also serve as the
Director of Admissions for the
University of Akron School of Law |
Age:
29 |
|
Address:
711 Indian Trl, Akron 44314
Website:
https://www.facebook.com/James4Akron
|
Education:
High School Diploma - Saint Ignatius
High School, Cleveland OH;
Bachelors of Science (International
Business) - Spring Hill College,
Mobile, AL
exceeded word limit |
|
Training and Experience:
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Heroine and methamphetamine
manufacturing, distribution and
abuse is the critical issue. My plan
is to work with the users to help
ensure they get the help they need.
In addition, I will continue to work
with our safety officers to crack
down on those who are selling and
manufacturing narcotics. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
My legal training and law practice
has taught me how to plan for and
how to solve complex issues. In
addition, my clients and colleagues
are from diverse backgrounds. My
ward is incredibly diverse and
different individuals have different
concerns. I am ready to solve my
ward’s complex issues. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
My constituents will expect me to
develop positive working
relationships with other
councilpersons and the city
administration. I have managed
diverse personalities throughout my
career and civic endeavors. I am
able to bring people together to
work and achieve a common goal. I
will foster an atmosphere of
collaboration and
exceeded word limit |
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CITY OF AKRON WARD 10 COUNCIL
VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 1 – TERM COMMENCES
1-1-2016
|
City Of Akron Ward 10 Council |
|
|
Wayne Darlington |
Republican |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE'S RESPONSE:
Due
to the local League of Women Voters'
reckless disregard for accuracy in
the 2014 Voters Guide, I must
respectfully decline to participate
in your voters guide this year. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 10 Council |
|
 |
Eric D Garrett |
Democrat |
Occupation:
Self employed, small business owner
in ward #10. (Ten employees) |
Age:
44 |
|
Address:
1070 Hazel St
Website:
EricGarrett.com
|
|
Education:
Studied Computer Information Systems
at the National American University
in Independence, Missouri, Criminal
Justice at the University of
Massachusetts Loyal, and Early
Childhood Education at The
University of Akron and The
University of Cincinnati. In
addition, his background includes
serving
exceeded word limit |
|
Training and Experience:
exceeded word limit |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Employment opportunity. We can
develop a robust and sustainable
economy within Ward 10 by investing
in new small businesses and
attracting existing ones to the
area. Also by establishing co-ops
that are owned and controlled by
members of our community that
provide meaningful jobs and
re-establish our shrinking middle
class. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
25 years of experience working in
the federal public sector and owning
a small business has taught me a
lot. I share the same hopes and
concerns of the people in Ward 10
because I am one of them, and I
truly believe I can help provide the
best solutions. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I will come to work every day ready
to tackle the problems that the
people of this great city face. I
will uphold the integrity of the
office and collectively work with
the other members to chart the best
course of action needed to move
Akron forward. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 10 Council |
|
 |
Jack L Hefner |
Democrat |
Occupation:
28 years Maxion Wheels
President USW 2
Ward
10 Councilman |
Age:
61 |
|
Address:
1680 Pilgrim St
Website:
|
|
Education:
Graduated 1972 Akron East High |
|
Training and Experience:
Trained in conflict resolution,
collective bargaining, disciplinary
procedures. I have arbitrated more
than 20 cases and have won 15. This
has helped me deal with people's
problems in Ward 10. Member Metro
Board of Trustees |
Question 1:
Describe the most critical issue in
your ward and how could it be
solved?
Housing. Vacant homes not being
maintained. Absentee landlords not
keeping properties up to par. People
moving in and out of rental
properties create blighted and
unstable neighborhoods. This creates
unstable schools as well. Working to
keep people in their homes would
help stabilize our neighborhoods. |
|
Question 2:
How have your life experiences
prepared you to represent your
constituents?
As a long time labor leader, I have
found solutions to every kind of
problem you can imagine. I have
worked with numerous parties to
reach agreements that satisfied all
parties. It was very similar moving
into the ward addressing peoples
issues. You have to listen, then
react. |
|
Question 3: What
will you do to return civility to
City Council in order to best serve
your electorate?
I'm willing to work with all members
of council to address the issues we
face. I will work with the new Mayor
whoever that may be. People expect
us to lead and work together.
However all council members must be
willing to work together for Akron
to move forward. |
|
City Of Akron Ward 10 Council |
|
 |
Zack Milkovich |
Democrat |
Occupation:
|
Age:
|
|
Address:
Website:
|
|
CANDIDATE DID NOT RESPOND TO
THE QUESTIONS |
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