“Your vote won’t matter” is a depressing phrase oft-uttered by cynical, apathetic and angst-ridden citizens— but the phrase does not apply to local elections.
In the September 10 primary, only 9,301 of Toledo’s 161,973 registered voters cast a ballot, resulting in a dismal 5.7 percent turnout, a sign of citywide voter apathy. Only a handful of votes separated candidates in the Toledo City Council primary races.
So read on, educate yourself, and make sure to show up on November 5, because, in Toledo, your vote means everything.
DISTRICT 1
SHAUN L. STRONG
Democrat.
Age: 30
First-time office seeker.
Experience: Former Assistant to Mayor D. Michael Collins
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Establishing block watches/neighborhood associations across the district. Working on solutions for affordable housing. Restoring communities and working with partner agencies to boost economic growth through an influx of small business development and workforce/skilled labor development.
Name three personal values and how they influence your work. Integrity: A good name is worth striving for and all one has. Own all of your mistakes and keep your word. Character: Who I am, what I stand for and what I strive to do is never compromised. Determination: Hard work truly pays off and success is only guaranteed to those who refuse to quit.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? I’m still unsure of this myself. However, my commitment is to guarding our natural resources and ensuring we protect them not only for ourselves but for future generations.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement? We have to continue to stress the importance of people letting their voices be heard. A community effort to focus more on local government than national issues would be a great start.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
I’ve had a few. Stepping in and taking my then-10-year-old sister to her first Father/Daughter Dance. Running for office, just to make a few
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Plenty! Life is full of mistakes and no one is perfect. I handle all mistakes the same way; own it, apologize, and then seek guidance on how to correct it and not repeat it.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to the council? I worked for the (mayoral) administration recently, therefore, I can understand things objectively from both sides, the administration and Council.
What kind of car do you drive?
I did drive a Ford Explorer XLT.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
Both! It’s a partnership and the citizens reap all the benefits. Who doesn’t enjoy the splendor of Promenade, a nice CityEgg breakfast scramble and the liveliness of summer concerts?
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
Absolutely not! There’s always room for improvement. We need more women, minorities and younger people. If we did a survey I could wager the average of local elected officials is at least 65.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
Not enough attention is given to the home. Our focus and priorities need to be re-evaluated as a whole.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
I am willing and my family would agree. I’m always the first to apologize, for myself and others, even if I haven’t done anything wrong. I’m truly that guy that says, “Why can’t we all just get along?” Lol
What was the last book you read?
This morning, it was my Bible. Daily Meditation is very important and I read that every day. For fun, it was Titus Andronicus, a new favorite.
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
My little sister (11) downloads games on my iPad for us to play together. I’m currently addicted to CookOff, Food Truck Challenger, and Wedding Planner. I also love binge watching Survivor, Big Brother and Love Island UK on Hulu. Lol
TYRONE RILEY
Age: 63 years old
Education: BA degree in Political Science and a JD. law degree. Experience: I served as a legislative aide in the Ohio General Assembly. I have been a lawyer for over 25 years.
The number of times you have run for office: I have run for elected office twice. I do not count the time Jack Ford asked me to run for state representative because he believed he had a conflict of interest, and he later discovered that the potential conflict did not exist. I have run for Toledo City Council on two separate occasions.
The number of times elected, and to what office: I have been elected to Toledo City Council twice.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? How to fund street repair for improved and unimproved streets; funding public safety (Police and Fire) and neighborhood development.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work. I have a pretty good work ethic. I believed in education and public service. I rarely miss council meetings. I have sponsored several items of legislation that drastically impact the preservation of our neighborhoods. I have held several events directed toward our youth.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? The most effective way to deal with the problems of Lark Erie is to regulate the amount of phosphorus, nutrients and waste being dumped into the lake. I had an opportunity to tour several farms in Ohio. I understand the regulations are tough, but it is the only way to protect the lake.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement? If we concentrate on the development of our neighborhood. Citizens will feel vested in their neighborhood and be more inclined to vote because they have something at stake.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. The manner in which we allocate funding for street repair. Diving a percentage of the funds allocated for road and street repair equally between districts may be equal but is it equitable.? WE must strive to achieve a balance between funding residential streets equally and funding the worst streets firsts.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. All policy matters before City Council are important and receive attentions
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life. Passing the Ohio Bar Exam.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Not becoming a Columbus lobbyist. I moved back to Toledo, Ohio and do not regret the move.
Since you’ve been on council, what was your proudest moment as a city council member?
Getting Bancroft Street paved between Parkside Boulevard and Auburn Street. The plan was to repair Bancroft Street and stop construction at Parkside Boulevard, which would have been unfair to the residents East of Parkside.
If re-elected, what unfinished business do you hope to accomplish?
The development of the Monroe Street – Detroit Avenue corridor and the development of Monroe Street from the Art Museum to Promedica/ Toledo Hospital; transforming abandoned industrial sites into productive use, possibly with the help of community development block grant funds, and complete the improvements at Smith Park and the development of Sylvania Avenue from Upton Avenue to Detroit Avenue.
What kind of car do you drive?
I drive a 2014 Cadillac.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
Both organizations benefitted significantly from this partnership: Promedica got a great riverfront location and the City received a nice entertainment venue.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
No. City offices are pretty much diverse but county government/ offices lack diversity.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
As a community, we failed to adequately inform the public on what issues and projects are at stake.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes, they would agree with my answer.
What was the last book you read?
Color of Laws.
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
I enjoy watching basketball.
DISTRICT 2
Abigail Sadowy
Republican.
Age: 46
First-time office seeker.
Experience: Owner Absoloot Abyaoke, Karaoke and Disc Jockey Service, 21 years. Paraprofessional for Toledo Public Schools,11 years. Police Officer, 5 years. Coast Guard Auxiliary, 5 years. Boy Scouts of America Cub Master, 13 years.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? The high cost of the water and sewage bills in Toledo. Our bills on average are nearly double that of the other major cities in Ohio. To redirect police to patrol neighborhoods and not tie them up on traffic duty. We need to make our intersections safer with countdown times at every city intersection.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work.
I am compassionate, honest, and persistent. I care about others in my life and in my neighborhood and will work hard to help them out. I am honest and direct because I believe goals cannot be achieved when people are vague and directionless. I am persistent and always work hard to reach a final goal or solution, no matter how big or small the job may be.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? I will work to secure federal research dollars for the City of Toledo to determine what is causing the algae outbreaks. There is federal money for that research and the several area universities could handle the study. Once we have some real answers, I will work to generate solutions to resolve the issue.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement? Encourage others to run for office and talk to people about the issues that surround their neighborhoods.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. Human Trafficking in Toledo is at an epidemic level and city leaders need a plan to combat the issue that goes beyond “community awareness.”
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention.
It is my opinion that any issue which continues to be an issue is simply not receiving its due justice and therefore there are no policy issues receiving “too much attention”
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
Becoming a mother is the proudest moment of my life and I am incredibly blessed to have had that experience seven times.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
When I was younger, I got into the habit of being late to work. After a few conversations with management I disciplined myself to be prepared and always early a habit I carry to this day.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to the council? I bring energy and a drive to be the voice of my district with me. I believe in clear and consistent communication and want to see our beautiful city prosper both economically and as an amazing place to raise families.
What kind of car do you drive?
I drive an American Made 3500 Chevy Passenger Van that fits 15 people, it’s basically a bus.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
ProMedica and the City are both benefiting equally as partners in growth downtown.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
Toledo is a very diverse community and I think our council reflects that fairly well.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
The dismal 5.79% turn out for primary is truly disappointing but on average what our city produces at a primary. We need to educate more on the importance of voting and our rights as citizens to have a voice in our day to day operations.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes. My family, like City Council, would have a diverse response.
What was the last book you read?
Robin Hood to my children and Team of Rivals for myself.
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
Watching and of course, singing Karaoke.
MATT CHERRY
Age: 39
Education: High School Diploma/ Union Apprenticeship 5 year
Experience, in his own words: 20 year Union Tradesman/ 6 years on Council
The number of times you have run for office: 4
The number of times elected, and to what office: 4 2 times as Central Committee and 2 times for City Council
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Implementation of regionalized water agreement. Public transit options. Improving city services, i.e., road repair/paving, leaf collection.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work? Dedication, I won’t stop until the job is done and done well. Inquisitive, I will ask the difficult questions to make sure that I am well informed before siding on a particular issue or proposing a solution. Honest, I will admit when I’ve made the wrong decision or have not chosen the correct course of action.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? To work with all surrounding municipalities and communities to come up with a plan that fits the needs of all citizens and ensures improving the health of Lake Erie.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement? I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to voice their opinions through exercising their right to vote. This simple act should be cultivated at a young age by demonstrating the importance elections have on our day to day lives.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. Parks and recreation. This is something that needs much more attention in the future.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. I personally think all issues need as much discussion and attention as possible.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
I have two equally proud moments, the days I welcomed my two sons into this world.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Trying to draft legislation without looking to my peers for advice first. There are many people that came before me that have much needed knowledge. They taught me early on to not shoot from the hip!
Since you’ve been on council, what was your proudest moment as a city council member?
Any moment that involves positive change within our community and knowing that I had a hand in making it possible is a proud moment for me.
If re-elected, what unfinished business do you hope to accomplish?
Continuing the work on the regionalized water plan to see it come to fruition and by successful by delivering access to safe and affordable drinking water to Northwest Ohio.
What kind of car do you drive?
Ford 150
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
The City, we are reaping the benefits of a wonderful collaboration between a Corporation and our community.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
No.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
That means that we have a lot of work to do in helping to educate voters on the impact that their voice has in every election cycle.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes. My wife would probably say that it takes me longer than most to admit that I was wrong but eventually I come around.
What was the last book you read?
Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
Going fishing with my oldest son, M.J.
DISTRICT 3
Theresa Gadus
Democrat.
Age: 40
First-time office seeker.
Experience: Educational Interpreter for Toledo Public Schools Waite High School for 10 years. Chairperson for One Voice for East Toledo. President of the Stonewall Democrats of Northwest Ohio, GSA Liaison/Professional Development Coordinator for GLSEN NW Ohio. EPIC Toledo planning committee member for Toledo’s T-Town Dash.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Clean vibrant neighborhoods, responsive and efficient city services and support for locally owned businesses.
Name three personal values and how they influence your work. Integrity- Doing the right thing should just be about doing the right thing, by being honest with my coworkers and employers, and always doing the best job I can. Empathy has influenced my career, organizations I belong to, how I spend my free time, and is the whole reason I am running for office— to help people. Work ethic- I take commitment very seriously, I persevere and find a way. I take pride in and recognize the importance of getting a job done. I will do everything I can to accomplish my goals.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? It requires a multifaceted approach involving effective and good faith collaboration between governments, the scientific community, agriculture and industry to implement policies to improve water quality.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement?
People need to believe that their vote matters. They need to see policies put in place that is relevant and important to them.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. To make green and renewable energy options affordable to the general public.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. I think policy issues are important by definition unless the issue has been resolved.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
The moment that fills me with pride every year is watching our students walk across that stage and graduate. Being able to share in their journey as they overcome their struggles and the challenges that they face to become young adults.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
During my senior year of college I worked two jobs which were overwhelming while trying to keep my grades up, I handled it by becoming really good at time management, scheduling, and prioritizing.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to the council?
Because I am a regular working-class Toledoan, I have first-hand awareness of the issues faced by people in my district. As an educator and community organizer, I see how our policies impact our children and our community.
What kind of car do you drive?
A Chevy Equinox.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
The City has benefited in multiple ways: increased opportunities for local businesses, increased entertainment options of all kinds, from family events to concerts, to sporting events, etc. and this increased activity has promoted people to move back to the city center which further increases patronage of local businesses.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
Not yet. 😉
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
We have some work to do to help people see that their voice matters.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Of course, and I welcome the opportunity for growth.
What was the last book you read?
Nonfiction: The Hidden Life of Trees and fiction: American Road Trip
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
I like to binge-watch gangster or sci-fi shows with real butter on my popcorn.
Glen Cook, Sr.
Republican.
Age: 77
Second-time office-seeker.
Experience: Lifelong resident of District 3; U.S. Army veteran; University of Toledo graduate; Taught math and science on the high school level and coached football; 40 years of business experience; over 50 years of community involvement with organizations like Block Watch, One East Toledo; East Toledo Club; Citizen Advisory Panel for the Toledo Refining Company; Married 48 years to Irma Hernandez Cook.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Crime, neighborhood revitalization, and the water issue, both in terms of quality and rates.
Name three of your personal values and how they influence your work. Family. Commitment. Spirituality. I take pride in my 48-year marriage and my role as a husband, father and grandfather. Commitment is why I chose to run after personally witnessing the tragic shooting of 16-year old Alexa Carey on March 11 directly in front of my home. No neighbor should have to witness that. My spirituality in how I help my neighbors and friends when they reach out.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? The most effective way to combat this issue to explore the root cause, not just in the Toledo area, but throughout the Great Lakes. Each community is different, but we all seem to be battling the same concerns.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. Infrastructure. We all complain of potholes and bad roads, but for decades we have not allocated money and resources to take care of our infrastructure. Now we have to make the tough decisions to take care of our infrastructure and roads.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. Red light cameras. This issue is being decided on the state and federal levels. If we do remove red light cameras, we lose an element that assists police with investigations in other crimes.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
People do not know that I ran marathons until I was in my 50s.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it?
I should have stayed in the U.S. Army instead of leaving after four years. I would have retired at 39 years of age.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to the council? If elected, when was the last time a Republican won a city council seat in East or Old South Toledo? Actually, we’ve seen criticism of council over the years that in some cases they lacked the ability to work together on issues. I have over 50 years of community service experience. I pride myself on my low-key approach and a history of working well across all party lines.
What kind of car do you drive?
2014 Ford Fusion
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, Promedica or the City?
Neither. The taxpayers and those who visit a revitalized downtown are the ones getting the better deal.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
Yes.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does this mean to you?
We are in the midst of a long-term problem with voter apathy and it appears that we cannot drive people to the polls by telling them it’s time to get out and vote — The issue goes much deeper and the solutions may start at home.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes. And they would say yes I have.
What was the last book you read?
“The Last Hurrah” by Edwin O’Connor
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
Attending city council meetings, (he said jokingly).
DISTRICT 4
Yvonne Harper
Democrat. Incumbent.
Age: 70
Previously ran for office three times, running for the fourth time for the District 4 seat.
Number of times elected: Elected twice. Toledo City Council, District 4, 2015 special and general elections.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Public Services, including housing. Locating more funds for street resurfacing. Diversity and racism.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work:
Transparency with constituents: I am diligent toward sharing City business with the constituency; mainly through social media. Addressing the negative impact of racism: I encourage open and honest communication within City Government and mechanisms that support this. Youth development in politics: Always open to exposing youth to the government through internships, speaking engagements, workshops and more.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? I support legislation that addresses the continued monitoring of Lake Erie, as well as enforcement of policies that increase the overall good health of the lake.
Name a policy issue that does not receive enough attention. Special Use Permits (SUP), property vs. occupant.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life
Giving birth to my two children.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it:
Made a copy of the State of Ohio map that was previously posted on Facebook that described the President with profanity, and I shared the post of which received national attention. When local media questioned me, I owned up to it and explained how it came about. I never ran from the situation.
If re-elected, what unfinished business do you hope to accomplish? Share my beliefs with other constituents that there is a need for Drug Rehab facilities, but they just don’t all need to be in District 4. Currently, we know that the overwhelming majority of drug rehab facilities reside in Council District 4. They need to be spread throughout the area; as we know the need exists in all areas of the city.
What kind of car do you drive?
2011 Dodge Durango bought brand new.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City? ProMedica.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
No.
The primary election turnout was 5.79%. What does that mean to you?
I need to do more work to emphasize to constituents the importance of voting in primary elections which, in turn, set the tone for our general elections.
Are you willing to admit when you have made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes, I made mistakes and I have since apologized. As far as my family, that would not be a surprise.
What was the last book you read?
Secret First Lady
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of
Going to the Hollywood Casino buffet for the “all you can eat crab legs.”
June Boyd
Democrat.
Age: A healthy 84 and proud
Education: Graduated from St. Ursula Academy (as the first African American) and Stautzenberger Business College
Experience: Former Toledo City Councilwoman, District 1; community activist and organizer.
Ran for office three times, elected once to Toledo City Council, District 1
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Crime, drug addiction, economic development and improving housing stock; rebuild and not tear down.
Name three personal values and how they influence your work. Great personality; love working with people and community organizing; the key to getting things done.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? Target the polluters, examine causes of algae and Asian Carp, support the city administration relative to clean and safe waters.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement?
More civic engagement. We must change the mindset of those voters who feel their vote does not count; as I have given speeches; I explain whether you have 10 cents or 10 million dollars when one casts a vote, it registers the same. The national scene today has been discouraging for some; however, one’s voice is not heard unless they vote. We could use social media for the younger voters; for civic engagement; town hall meetings should be held at local colleges.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. Neighborhoods, clean streets, too many boarded-up houses, high weeds, and not enough economic development in the central city.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention.
I do not believe any issue can get too much attention. It is always necessary to address the needs of constituents.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life. Spending Mother’s Day on May 14, 2000, at the Million Mom March at the Washington Mall with Toby Hoover and my good friend Morrel Fonfield and a busload of women from Toledo asking for stricter gun control.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Not clearly understanding or recognizing the horrible impact of drug abuse. It has ravished our community and has destroyed so many families. Too little, too late; I personally handle the issue by being committed and understanding those who are weak and need help.
What kind of car do you drive?
A 2010 Chevrolet Equinox.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
Both. The city benefits from the entire development.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
There is probably enough. However, there isn’t enough unity.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
Voter apathy is a problem.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes, I am willing to admit I made a mistake. My family would agree.
What was the last book you read?
I always read the Bible.
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
I love to dance, and I can!
DISTRICT 5
Sam Melden
Democrat.
Age: 35
Education: Currently finishing Masters at UT
Experience: Non-profit sector.
This is my second run for office, not yet elected.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Neighborhood development: Encourage small businesses, clean up and improve parks, and build on our strong block watches and encourage cultural activity, block by block. Water safety and quality: Lake Erie is the most important resource in our region. Infrastructure: A legitimate road and sidewalk repair plan that works for everyone.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work.
Authenticity: I strive to be the same person in every setting. Whether sitting with a CEO or front line employee, everyone has value and deserves my respect and attention. Servant Leadership: The role of any leader is to first and foremost serve those in their organization. Passion: I’m always drawn to people who are “all in” on what they are doing – I try to live this way too.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? I think we have to engage every member of our community to solve this problem because it affects everyone. We have to leverage the interests of the business community and non-profit organizations, policy creators and other civic leaders, farmers and environmentalists, tech entrepreneurs and academics. No single group can do it alone.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement? The truth is: “decisions are made by those who show up.” How to get someone to show up? First, we need to remove as many barriers as possible. No more purging voter roles, make Election Day a national holiday and automatically register all citizens at 18. But, that doesn’t cure apathy.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention.
That is easy: President Trump. You might say that isn’t a “local policy issue” but with the 24-7 coverage and polarizing preoccupation with the latest scandal and retweet, there isn’t enough bandwidth for the kitchen-table issues that really affect the actual lives of everyday Toledoans.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. We need to think big about transportation in our community, for all of our residents, and consider how we can meet the needs that will emerge over the next 10-20 years.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Anytime I’ve spoken too quickly or reacted to something without gathering all the facts first. I can be a pretty instinctive leader, so when that happens I need to go back, apologize to anyone I may have affected negatively, learn from that interaction, and adjust. Apologizing is crucial.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life. Every day I get to watch my daughters grow up. I have professional goals and accomplishments, and important issues in the community to which I am applying myself to every day, but nothing comes close to seeing your child practice kindness or learn something new.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to the council? I’m a parent of young children, including one with a disability. That perspective helps me keep young families in mind, and children of all abilities in mind, when we are discussing key issues. For instance: Sidewalks aren’t bad just because they look bad or people have to walk around them, they are bad because a kid learning how to ride a bike, or a child in a wheelchair has to use the street to get by!
What kind of car do you drive?
Chevy Volt.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
The City.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
No.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
It means we all have a lot of work to do to connect the issues of local government to the everyday lives of registered voters, and it is an enormous task.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
I think so, I guess you would have to ask them!
What was the last book you read?
The Uninhabitable Earth, by David Wallace-Wells
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
The NFL.
Tom Names
Republican.
Age: 67
Education: Graduate of Lafayette College, Easton, PA. BS, Mech. Engrg. Masters Classes in Nuclear Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY
Experience: Burns and Roe, Inc, Oradell, NJ, Mechanical Engineer 1974-1995; SFT, Toledo, Mechanical Engineer/Project Manager/Trustee1996-2002; Schmidt Associates, Mechanical Engineer/Project Manager 2003-2006; Burns and Roe, Inc., Principal Engineer/Engineering Manager 2007-2014
I have run for office, not yet elected.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Reliable potable water: A redundant, diverse, interconnected regional system is necessary to mitigate the effects of a single event. Robust active neighborhoods: with pre-K education, well-maintained homes, safe and healthy extracurricular options and skill training to support higher graduation rates and employment opportunities. Early intervention will supplant expensive remedial expenses for police, courts and jail. Roads: Divert budget to true road repair; not patching.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work?
Thorough: I have been the field problem supervisor for the commissioning of a nuclear power plant. I thoroughly research before rendering decisions, because of the gravity of making a mistake, especially concerning emergency core cooling systems.
Dependable: My career has ascended to becoming the Engineering Manager of our Bangkok office because employers trust me.
Service: I have been the lone company representative in remote locations because others did not want the assignment.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? Runoff nutrients from livestock farms (CAFOs) in the Maumee watershed are the principal cause of algae blooms that produce the deadly microcystin. Ag volunteer measures to curb pollution have proven ineffective. The [Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)] of these farms needs to be regulated. The government should assist farmers by subsidizing nutrient recapture technology as used elsewhere.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement?
The vehicle for civic engagement in the Toledo government is the city council. I encourage the yearly calendar to be published, advertised and maintained with specific topics that will be covered and corresponding dates and times. Downtown parking regulations and coughing up quarters during council meetings discourages participation. I would like to explore the possibility of remote interactive cameras as a possible solution.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention. There is a huge dichotomy between the rich and poor in Toledo. I believe in the American Dream and merit rewards, but also equal opportunity. City council needs to police itself to ensure city ordinances and tax dollar spending are not unduly influenced by self-serving, well-healed special interests.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. Downtown Development: A higher priority is the neighborhoods. Fix streets, address the abandoned properties and provide healthy lifestyle options like maintained parks, pools and extracurricular activities. This is the solution for low graduation rates, loitering, drug use, crime, and homelessness. These are the things that are dragging Toledo down and straining our remedial resources: fire and police departments, hospitals, drug rehabilitation facilities, prisons, soup kitchens and homeless shelters.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
Besides my own two children: While working in Yerevan, Armenia, I met and sponsored a green card lottery family to come to America. I met them at Kennedy Airport, like Columbus coming to America, and we moved to Toledo. The two children went through the Toledo school system, moved out and are employed, successful artists. Last October, my Mom and I flew to Guatemala for a destination wedding of the daughter.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
I was a busy student in high school, took AP classes and was an all-state soccer player my senior year, but did not consider college options enough. The guidance counselor suggested a military appointment, but I went to Lafayette. The soccer program was disappointing, but the engineering department turned out to be one of the top ten in the US. I satiated my soccer passion with clubs into my 40’s.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City? Hard to tell because Promedica keeps adding demands to the balance sheet like the teardown/remake of Levis Park and financial support for the Promedica Summer Concert Series.
What makes your perspective a fresh addition to council? I am a professional engineer that has made a 40-year career in solving problems and am technically grounded in the problems that challenge the renaissance of Toledo like roads and water treatment plants. I am experienced with contracts. I have prepared technical specifications for materials, equipment, and services that form the basis of contracts. As a Project Manager, I have negotiated contracts, recommended contract awards and overseen contract completions.
What kind of car do you drive?
I drive a 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
City Council is missing an engineering perspective.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
Every vote counts.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
My parents taught good character was standing up and being accountable for your actions and my engineering background taught confronting and redressing mistakes.
What was the last book you read?
Earlier this year I read two books concurrently in preparation for city council: “Tailspin: …” by Steven Brill and “Color-Blind: …” by Tim Wise.
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
Innovative cuisine at new restaurants.
DISTRICT 6
Chris Delaney
Democrat. Incumbent.
Age: 55
Education: BS Criminal Justice, University of Toledo, Masters, Organizational Leadership, Lourdes University
Experience: 30 years+ Toledo Police, 22 years in supervision.
Previously ran for office and elected to Toledo City Council District 6.
What are the top three issues City Council should address? Infrastructure, safe neighborhoods, and clean drinking water.
Name three of your personal values and how they have influenced your work?
Honesty, integrity, justice. I take pride in people knowing they will hear the truth from me whether they like it or not. I believe everyone should have a voice and be heard.
What is the most effective way to deal with the issues concerning Lake Erie? Right now we are working to eliminate any pollution we contribute to Lake Erie. Others need to do the same and we need to keep working on getting our State Representatives to take action.
What can we do to combat voter apathy and encourage more civic engagement?
By continuously improving on services we provide, we can better get the message that citizen voices are important and heard, even in the voting booths.
Name a policy issue that doesn’t receive enough attention.
Public transportation. We in Toledo are stakeholders and need to demand and advocate for improvements in public transportation so it is available to all and a much more convenient form of service is provided.
Name a policy issue that receives too much attention. Grass cutting. It is unfortunate that the taxpayers continue to be on the hook for unresponsive property owners.
Describe the proudest moment in your adult life.
Every day when I see my now-adult children growing and becoming more productive and more caring people.
Share a career mistake that you made, and how you handled it.
Passing on a chance to be a member of the Toledo Police SWAT team. I focused instead on Investigations and decided after that to stay and succeed in working there.
Since you’ve been on council, what has been your proudest moment as a city council member?
Working out the kinks and forming a regional water system.
If re-elected, what unfinished business do you hope to accomplish? Continued work on public transportation including high-speed rail service between Toledo and Detroit.
What kind of car do you drive?
2018 Chevrolet Traverse.
Who got the better end of the deal to develop the downtown riverfront, ProMedica or the City?
Ultimately, the city benefits with jobs and building occupancy.
Is there enough diversity in local politics?
I think there is diversity. Whether or not there is enough is up to the person asking.
The primary election turnout was 5.79 percent. What does that mean to you?
It means that not enough people really care about the future of Toledo. To not vote is to not care. Voting has been made so easy to do that there is really no excuse to not vote.
Are you willing to admit when you’ve made a mistake? What would your family say about that answer?
Yes, I readily admit any mistakes. Ask anyone.
What was the last book you read?
A Criminal Defense
Name a guilty-pleasure form of entertainment that you can’t get enough of.
Spending idle time with my family.
Ron Murphy
Despite repeated contact, no responses were received as of press time.
We Got Issues
A rundown of the significant issues on the November 5 ballot in Lucas County
For voters living in the Springfield Local school district; Springfield Local Schools, 5-year, 5.27 mill operating levy renewal. Springfield Local has warned that, like every school district, it will soon need new money to continue operations. That’s because of am arcane state law that prevents schools from collecting additional funds on an existing levy even as property values, and district costs, rise. This renewal asks for no new money, but its importance is emphasized in the ballot language which states, in big, bold letters, that it is intended for “avoiding an operating deficit of the school district.”
For voters living in the Washington Local school district; Washington Local Schools, continuing 3.9 mills additional operating levy and 37-year, 3.0 mills bond issue for construction. This combination levy is all new money. The operating money is a continuing levy, meaning it will never need to be voted on again. The construction money is matching money to receive a large windfall of state money to rebuild the district’s elementary school buildings. The state would pay eighty per cent of the construction costs, with property owners in the district picking up the other twenty per cent.
For all voters in Lucas County; Senior Services, .75 mill levy. .60 mills of this levy are renewal of existing millage, with an additional .15 mills of new money. The funds will be used to pay for facilities and programming at Senior Centers across the County, as well as other services for seniors.
To find out how much you pay in property tax levies, and to estimate how much a new levy will cost, enter your property address at the URL below, then click on “Tax Distribution By Fund & Levy” and “Levy Estimator.”
http://icare.co.lucas.oh.us/LucasCare/search/commonsearch.aspx?mode=address
Toledo Municipal Court Judgeships
6 year terms
Amy Berling
Unopposed
Berling has been on the bench at Toledo Municipal Court since first being elected in 1995. She has been elected to a total of 4 terms, now seeking her 5th term, and during that time she has drawn attention from grievances filed by other judges to complaints filed by former law clerks. Despite those past (some long past) claims, she continues to serve up justice on the Court and, as she is unopposed, will continue for another 6 years.
Joshua W. Lanzinger
(running against Puffenberger)
Elected to the Toledo Municipal Court bench in 2013, Lanzinger has spent the last 6 years without drama or notoriety, quietly serving the people of the Toledo community. He was selected as the Presiding and Administrative Judge by fellow judges of the court over the last several years. A lawyer for over 20 years, Lanzinger has a variety of experience both in public service as an Assistant Ohio Attorney General and in private practice, along with his last 6 years of experience on the bench. Lanzinger is following in the footsteps of his mother, Judy, the only judicial candidate in Ohio history to win election to each level of judicial office in the state, Toledo Municipal Court, Lucas County Common Pleas Court, the Sixth District Court of Appeals and the Ohio Supreme Court.
Thomas E. Puffenberger
(running against Lanzinger)
With 12 years of experience post law school that includes several years in private practice followed by stints in the Lucas County Public Defender’s Office, the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, as a staff attorney with the Sixth District Court of Appeals and, for the last several years, as an attorney with the City of Toledo Law Department, Puffenberger makes his first run for public office. seeking to follow in the footsteps of his father, Jack, who has been a longtime elected judge (Toledo Municipal Court in 1987 followed by Lucas County Probate Court in 1991 and now serving in his 5th term on that Court).
