Vote2015
Meet the Candidates on Oct. 26

The Tecumseh Education Association is hosting a Meet the Candidates Night on Monday, October 26 starting at 6:00 p.m. at Tecumseh High School. Candidates for the various elected offices have been invited to attend and share their positions, along with answering audience questions. We want to invite the community to come out and meet the candidates.

CITY OF NEW CARLISLE

For Member of Council

(Vote for not more than 4)

 

TOWNSHIP OF BETHEL

For Township Trustee

(Vote for not more than 1)

 

TECUMSEH LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

For Member of Board of Education

(Vote for not more than 2)

 

Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Clark County Park District

 

Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) Clark County

 


CITY OF NEW CARLISLE

For Member of Council

(Vote for not more than 4)

Residents of the City of New Carlisle will find six candidates on the November ballot all hoping to secure one of the three open seats on city council. Three incumbents are being challenged by one former council member and two new comers to the ballot. Incumbents Mike Lowery, Bill McIntire and Ethan Reynolds are being challenged by Darryl Bauer, William Lindsey and Bob Alexander.

Answers to the questions posed by the New Carlisle News have not been edited except where indicated and appear as submitted by each candidate.

Bob Alexander

 is a Tecumseh High School graduate. He holds an Associate of Arts Degree in Psychology from Clark State. He served in the Air National Guard as a jet engine technician and is retired. He notes numerous opportunites for leadership roles while at the guard base. He is the General Manager of the New Carlisle Knights.

Mr. Alexander is running for city council because he believes he can make a difference “in the way the City of New Carlisle does business”.

What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

The greatest challenge I see for the City of New Carlisle is to get the public “TRUST” back. The people of New Carlisle have to have a “Buy in” on the City’s decisions that affect the lives of its citizens either directly or in-directly. People want to be in-formed on how the decision process works. This is going to be a tough challenge. As a council member serving the public’s interest that would be my number one priority.

Please explain some of the cost saving ideas and new programs that you would propose if elected.

If I am elected I would propose we look at all of the expenditures the City currently spends to determine if the expenditure is necessary to operate the City. I would introduce methods that are effective in negotiating betters terms. I would propose the City give small business more financial opportunities to build and stay in business. Too many small business come and go in New Carlisle. Why does this happen? Also I would propose we solicit more voter registration by door to door registration. The voice of the people do count and we need 100% voter turn- out on Election Day.

The City Pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of tax payer’s dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

Based on the information in your question and no other information available at this time. I cannot conclude that closing the pool or keeping it open is a good use of tax payer’s dollars. More management information on the day to day operation of the pool is needed in order to make an informed decision. Even if the City determines thru rational and logical thinking, and comes up with a new idea or management team to operate the City Pool at a profit or breaking even, it may be too late to implement those changes because of the City’s current budget situation.

How would you improve communications with residents if you are elected?

First I would increase voter registration. Second I would have an open door to listen to questions or concerns brought to me by citizens of New Carlisle. I would listen intently and ask questions to clarify their concerns and ideas and win myself a hearing by listening. Never lie or speculate. If I don’t know the answer I can find out. This is the best way to improve communication with residents. That’s the best honest answer I can give and be respected for it.

The City has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of City Council in trying to address this problem?

The City Councils role in addressing drug problems is to co-operate with local and federal law enforcement agencies to determine the best course of action for prevention and to continue to employee law in-forcement officers.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

The City Five Department had internal concerns, which in my opinion, were clarified during the recent meeting at the Smith Park Cabin. I’m not qualified to choose the leadership at the fire house simply because I’m not a fireman or an Emergency Medical Technician. I believe the Fire House personal will chose their leadership wisely by determining who is the best qualified to lead. That leadership will be respected by the fire department personal.

Do you believe that the City should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

The City has purchased buildings in the past including the Madison School Building which was purchased for housing the governing body but didn’t happen. The citizens of New Carlisle are tired of bad financial decisions like the Madison School Building. My answer is No on a building, however there are several empty houses in New Carlisle. One of those could be bought at a reasonable price to house our governing body.

Darryl Bauer

graduated from Tecumseh High School and holds a BA in Communications from the University of Dayton. He has worked for 35 years in radio, television and the print media covering news stories. He has served his church, the city youth football, baseball and softball programs and the New Carlisle Lions Club. Mr. Bauer also spent 18 years serving on the New Carlisle City Council including the position of Mayor for 4 years.

Mr. Bauer is running for a seat on city council because “our city needs better leadership”. Bauer notes that the citizens “deserve better service” and he believes his experience and skills would help accomplish this.

 What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

Returning the city to financial stability.

 Please explain some of the cost saving ideas and new programs that you would propose if elected.

I would start with a complete analysis of all city operations, to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness. We should then be open to new and creative ways to serve the public, including exploring the feasibility of privatizing some functions and working cooperatively with other entities.

 The city pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of taxpayer dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

I am not opposed to the pool. After much research, I pushed for the city’s purchase of the pool in the 1980’s and I would hope it could continue to operate. But it must be considered a lower priority than the basic services such as law enforcement, emergency response, streets and other infrastructure, which must be provided all year long and serve a greater number of people.

How would you improve communication with residents if you are elected?

In today’s world, there are numerous ways to communicate and city leaders should be utilizing all of them, from the traditional methods to the newer ones. With my experience and skills in this field, I could be an integral part of improving communications between citizens and those who are elected to serve them.

 The city has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of city council in trying to address this problem?

Our city is not alone in this situation. We need to start solving this problem by maximizing the number of

Deputies and ensuring that we give them as many resources as possible. Additionally, we all need to work with other officials and with experts in this field to address the causes of the drug problem and ways to prevent drug use.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

The first step would be to determine the extent and validity of those concerns. If those concerns are found to be legitimate, it would be necessary to have the proper Chief and Command Officers in place to properly lead the department. While that is primarily the role of the City Manager, Council should ensure that is accomplished and should adequately support the Fire Department.

Do you believe that the city should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

New Carlisle needs a suitable appropriate city building, first and foremost to properly serve the citizens of New Carlisle, something which has not been the case in recent years. If that can be obtained in a manner.

William Lindsey

is a graduate of Vandalia Butler High School. He is a retired firefighter from the Vandalia department. He has served as a union representative dealing with negotiations. He is currently employed as the business manager for a local martial arts school.

Mr. Lindsey is running for a seat on city council because believes that members should only serve two terms in office. He notes that he feels it is time for a change on the council. He stated that “you need someone on council who knows they are working for the citizens”.

What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

Conserve current finances; bring back needed deputies; lure new businesses; encourage community pride. And all these would increase the city’s finances, which would allow the city to do more, like street repair, maintenance, etc.

Please explain some of the cost saving ideas and new programs that you would propose if elected.

The most cost saving thing I can do as a Councilman, is too cut any program that isn’t supporting itself. Getting bids on all things we purchase, or at lease look for a better price. As far as new programs, I think the city ought to have a budget over site committee. Meaning three citizens & two council members on a committee.

The city pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of taxpayer dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

There are more important things the city could spend that $81,600 on the budgeted amount for 2015 would have almost paid for a deputy. I don’t believe having a pool that loses consistently $40,000 or less is a good use of taxpayer’s dollars. The pool should only remain open if it shows a profit.

How would you improve communication with residents if you are elected?

When I’m elected to city Council I would make myself available to all residents. I would encourage all citizens to attend city Council meetings. I would request to have city Council meetings published in the local paper or a link on the city website as soon as the Council clerk has them available. I would like to see them on the website within a week of the Council meeting.

The city has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of city council in trying to address this problem?

There is nothing city Council can do regarding the drug problem in New Carlisle. The only way to combat this drug problem that we have is to hire more deputies.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

I think in any fire department you need a strong, trained and educated chief to run and manage the department. You need strong leadership to keep morale up and with that people will volunteer and step up to the job.

Do you believe that the city should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

The city should look into acquiring a permanent building to house city offices.

Mike Lowrey

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School. He has served two years on the city’s Human Rights Board and two years on the Planning Board. He is currently a member of the city council. Mr. Lowrey has also served on the Heritage of Flight Festival committee for 10 years.

Mr. Lowrey is seeking re-election to continue his pursuit of making New Carlisle a “better place” for the citizens and businesses. He believes he can continue to be a “key player” in keeping the momentum going in the city.

What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

 One of the biggest challenges is getting information to our citizens. With so many media outlets today I believe it’s time for our city to take the necessary steps to connect on as many levels of media as possible.

Please explain some of your cost saving ideas and new programs that were implemented during your current term in office. Please comment on additional ideas you would propose if re-elected.

The New Carlisle News reserved the right to edit candidate responses to fit within the available space. Mr. Lowery’s response was edited to meet the requirement.

One of the first things that I am directly responsible for that I felt needed to be put in place was an ordinance of regulations and guidelines on the sale of drug paraphernalia. I brought my concerns of large pipes and bowls and other related drug paraphernalia being sold in stores and gas stations around the city to council and administration. The city attorney was asked to look in to what could be done to prevent or restrict the sales of these items. Ordinance 14-19 AN ORDINANCE ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 880 TO THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF NEW CARLISLE REGARDING THE DISPLAY OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA was approved. Prior to the pool opening for the 2015 season a meeting was held with myself city staff and citizens. Ideas were implemented to save payroll funds and reduce costs. I volunteered at the pool this summer to help reduce costs. I think the amount of tax dollars saved this season really speaks for itself.

The city pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of taxpayer dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

 As I stated in the last question the New Carlisle Pool cut its loss of $40,000 in 2014 to under $10,000 in 2015. I will simply say that almost every pool in the area loses money, even the Huber Heights water park lost over $90,000 in 2014 but if we continue to keep cutting operation cost as we did this year, I see no problem to keep the pool open.

How would you improve communication with residents if you are elected?

 I have taken a step to improve communication with the citizens by creating a Facebook page and YouTube channel called “What’s going on? “. This is a channel that was started over a year ago to give citizens the latest news on key topics. We post videos and information on anything and everything related to the city of New Carlisle whether it’s a new business opening or information that was discussed at the council meetings.

The city has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of city council in trying to address this problem?

We as a city work well with the Clark County Sheriff’s Department and we all know the battle against drugs in our town is extremely tough. Continuing to share information between city council and the sheriff’s department is going to keep us moving forward with this fight. I think the one of the best tools we have as a city and it citizens is to keep an open eye and stay aware of our surroundings.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

 I think that the fire department needs a leader that sees everyone one on the same playing field. We need a chief that is open to receiving new ideas and constructive criticism. No one person can make our department great, it has to be done as a team effort without losing sight of what the big picture is.

Do you believe that the city should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

 I do believe the city needs its own city building, we are wasting money year after year on a building that we will never own and it’s too small for our needs. With that being said, we can’t go and make the mistake of trying to bite off more than we can chew like the city did years ago with the Madison street school. If and when a building or space presents its self as a possibility we need to proceed with extreme caution, and look at every single angle as far as cost.

Bill McIntire

holds an MA in History and an MA in Political Science from Wright State University. He is serving as president of the New Carlisle Historical Society and has taught history and government courses at a community college for the past 5 years.

Mr. McIntire is running for re-election because he has a number of “goals to accomplish”. This would include electronic bill paying for residents and body cameras for the law enforcement officers. He would also like to see New Carlisle participate in the Sister City program.

What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

There are two main challenges, one is unique to our situation and the other is something every community across the country is dealing with. The unique situation deals with growing business despite being a bedroom community without a major interstate. The second issue that unfortunately is commonplace everywhere is that of the heroin and prescription drug abuse. Council and the community have worked on both issue and I want to see that continue.

Please explain some of your cost saving ideas and new programs that were implemented during your current term in office. Please comment on additional ideas you would propose if re-elected.

I will start by saying that not one person on Council is solely responsible for any savings or expenditures, we all work as a team. We started the Community Garage Sale. We cut over $100k from the budget, saved $38k in pool costs, and combined several staff positions. The greatest credit is due to the voters. They passed a street fund and to fund the Sheriff positions. The real reason for our financial stability is due to the residents who made it happen.

The city pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of taxpayer dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

When the budget troubles came to light we focused on ways to make the pool run more efficiently. Our pool manager came up with a series of cost saving initiatives and Councilman Mike Lowrey spent the summer fundraising for it. As a result, at the end of the season the pool was only 3k in debt (about 50 cents per resident). That is a huge savings and a great example of fiscal responsibility.

How would you improve communication with residents if you are elected?

We have upcoming legislation available at the City Building for residents and we are putting the Council meetings on YouTube. I think both of these are great. Certainly increased use of social media will help out. We can also look at newsletters and the like, but we need to be mindful of costs associated with communications.

The city has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of city council in trying to address this problem?

Early in 2014 I started a working group on drug abuse. In it, I have attended lectures and met with a number of partners, including the Crime Watch, Sheriff’s Department, non-profits, churches, the County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. I have learned a lot about combating heroin and prescription drug abuse. This isn’t a problem that can be solved by legislation alone. We need to continue a community effort to fight dangerous addiction.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

Two major cornerstones of quality leadership include the ability to make an organization with different and sometimes conflicting personalities run efficiently, as well as the initiative to not just give orders but also be the first to set an example. If elected, I will continue my focus on ensuring the Fire Department runs the best it can. I will not make a decision that puts lives residents at risk because of favoritism or perceived political benefit. I can guarantee that.

Do you believe that the city should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

This has been a great interest of mine personally. I agree we need to purchase a building , however we need to look at our financial situation to ensue if it’s a good investment and to have a less monthly rent that we currently have now.

Ethan Reynolds

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School and Wright State University. He has served as a Continuant Liaison for State Representative Ron Hood for five years.

Mr. Reynolds is running for re-election to continue his work in putting “a great emphasis on constituent services”. He is a lifelong resident of the city and holds the rank of Eagle Scout. He believes that he knows what is need to help businesses and employees to prosper.

What do you see as the greatest challenge to the City of New Carlisle?

One of the greatest challenges to City Council is the fiscal deficit of over $1.8 million dollars we have here in New Carlisle. This debt is bringing the city to its knees and I have voted no on all new projects that would further put this city into debt. For example, a month after the residents passed a new income tax for police, City Council spent $100,000 dollars on a new backhoe when they could have repaired the one we had for just $16,000. The most important issue of all has not even been touched upon so far in this election, and that is the deficit of trust we have in New Carlisle. Nobody trusts council anymore. I will take on both of these deficits if re-elected.

Please explain some of your cost saving ideas and new programs that were implemented during your current term in office. Please comment on additional ideas you would propose if re-elected.

One cost saving idea I had was a joint deputy with Bethel Township. Both the City and the Township could have afforded½ of a deputy, which in this time of fiscal crisis could have saved the city around $40,000 dollars. Neither the Council nor the former City Manager would allow this to happen, and didn’t even consider the cost savings. Another cost savings plan was to have the city join with other county entities, like the Engineers Office, while bidding on asphalt and other construction materials to bring down the price for the city.

The city pool has been operating at a loss for a number of years and has significant repair needs moving forward. The budget line for 2015 was $81,600. Do you believe that the pool is a good use of taxpayer dollars considering the budget situation faced by the city?

I think we need to look for other options for funding the poop. I think a private/public co-op is needed where the City can provide the water for the pool and sell it off to a private owner so that the pool can stay open and the city will not be losing the money. With the pool being on the chopping block this last year we have seen a $36,000 dollar loss decrease to around $4 thousand and counting. We are waiting for the final projections. The Columbus Dispatch had an article about hundreds of pools closing because of budget needs, but some communities put a pool levy on the ballot to see if the pool would stay open - if the people voted for it the pool would remain open. I asked that we do that back in December of 2014.

How would you improve communication with residents if you are elected?

I will continue to walk the streets of New Carlisle meeting with our citizens and listening to them and the issues they face, I will continue my business walk through to every job creator in town,and will still host my monthly coffees

The city has a documented drug problem. What do you see as the role of city council in trying to address this problem?

I think it is a critical issue this city, this state, and this nation faces. We must continue to work with the sheriff’s office in regards to this matter. Also, I will advocate for a local drug court like Hocking County has, to steer people who have had addictions away from addiction in the future.

The New Carlisle Fire Department had a number of internal concerns this year. With the departure of Chief Phillips, what type of leadership do you see as being necessary for the sustainability of the department?

We need an open and fair hiring process where the position is advertised and Council and the City Manager conduct interviews with multiple candidates. We need to get a feel of who is applying and make sure they are a good fit for our city. I questioned whether it was right to hire a handpicked, next-in-line candidate at the time we were being instructed to vote on our previous chief. (Which I did not follow suit.) When it became obvious there was a problem in the fire department I asked for a citizen committee to look into allegations of low morale and leadership concerns. They found information showing this to be true, however it was rejected on advice of our law director which lead to a paid investigation costing over $10,000, and nothing was found. Finally the citizen committee had proved many of the issue to be true causing the Chief’s resignation. Morale has improved since his departure and unrest has stopped, thanks to our interim chief.

Do you believe that the city should be looking at purchasing a building to house city government offices rather than paying an estimated $1,800 per month in rent?

The simple answer is yes, we need to find a location to house the city government but we have to make it a logical choice. We do not need another Madison St. School on our hands. After putting hundreds of thousands of dollars into the building it is sitting there rotting away.


TOWNSHIP OF BETHEL

For Township Trustee

(Vote for not more than 1)

Three candidates are looking for your vote in November to fill the one seat on the Bethel Township Board of Trustees. David Phares is the incumbent who is being challenged by Douglas Frank and Nancy Marine.

Answers to the questions posed by the New Carlisle News have not been edited and appear as submitted by each candidate.

Douglas Frank

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School / JVS. He also completed the Police Academy. He has also completed a number of seminars on topics relevant to township leadership. Frank is a retired Superintendent of the Clark County Engineers office. He has spent 41 years as the Chief of the Donnelsville Police Department. He has also been the Supervisor of the Road Department.

Mr. Frank is seeking election to the Board of Trustees because he feels “it is time for a change”. He believes his experience qualifies him for the position.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Bethel Township Board of Trustees?

The greatest challenge will be getting the township EMS and Fire Department more paid personnel and adequate equipment and training. Also the township needs to have more deputies. The overall health and safety of Bethel Township is my first concern.

2. Please explain some of the cost saving ideas that you would propose if elected.

To increase the fiscal strength of the township, we need to fully utilize grants and other funding sources. There also needs to be a focus on realigning the road department to enhance the efficiency of road, park, and cemetery maintenance. I would also like to see town hall meetings to get residents’ opinions.

3. With the upturn in the economy including here in Clark County, do you feel it is time for the township to encourage new business and residential growth? How would you propose to market the township to potential buyers or builders?

Before the township looks at new residential growth, the empty houses need to be filled. The businesses also have empty buildings that need to be filled. The township has to enhance their partnership with businesses, realtors, banks, and vacant property owners.

4. There are a number of vacant lots in the township that must be mowed taking away resources from other township projects. Do you have a plan or program idea on how to change this situation to a positive for the township?

I work now with banks on foreclosed property and have great success. If the bank or property owner does not comply, there is a law that the township can uphold and have the property cleaned up and access the property taxes. Also the township does have a nuisance resolution.

5. How do you propose to address the aging Fire and EMS apparatus in the township? What changes do you feel your departments need to make to increase the numbers in membership for the departments?

There have been advances in technology that requires different equipment in order to optimize pre-hospital care for residents of all ages and an equipment replacement schedule needs to be considered for Fire and EMS, rather than being reactive to outdated and broken equipment and supplies. A review of the current EMS “soft billing” process needs to be completed and we need to work together on a Fire and EMS employment drive.

6. Concerns have been raised in the community regarding the maintenance and improvements of roads in the township. What would you propose to improve the seasonal upkeep of the roadways and the permanent improvements of the roads?

A reorganization of the road department. There are only 2 full-time and 3 part-time personnel for: keeping up with all the roadwork, mowing, drainage issues, maintaining road signs, snow plowing, maintenance of the equipment, etc. It is not working! There was a one mill levy that went to roads, but it expired. There is also grant funding for road repair that need to be applied for.

Nancy Marine

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School. She attended Widener University and Georgia State University. She is currently enrolled at Western Governor’s University majoring in accounting. She holds no college degrees at this time. Ms. Marine returned to Bethel Township after a ten year absence and would bring experience in finance and accounting to the board.

Ms. Marine is seeking election because she believes “the trustees have become stagnant in the resolution of problems”. She believes that she is “an imaginative problem solver” and that the finances are “foremost” in her mind as she seeks to bring new ideas for problem solving to the board.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Bethel Township Board of Trustees?

Being a small township, the ability to finance projects inside the township is a real challenge. It’s become more and more difficult to take care of the people and the township due to less and less money being in the coffers. I feel there needs to be more stepping outside the norm to locate, and subsequently utilize, outside sources of money, most likely in the form of grants.

2. Please explain some of the cost saving ideas that you would propose if elected.

In any administration, including those that are extremely fiscally responsible, there’s always room for reductions in spending. Most likely, one of the first things I’d do, if elected, is discuss with the Fiscal Officer areas where she might suggest reductions. She’s the one who’s most intimate with the finances of the township and her opinions and views should be sought. In addition to that, as I’d mentioned previously, there are a vast number of grants available to townships and municipalities from both the state and federal level, as well as national, private organizations.

3. With the upturn in the economy including here in Clark County, do you feel it is time for the township to encourage new business and residential growth? How would you propose to market the township to potential buyers or builders?

The people here are caring and loyal, not just to each other but to the businesses in the area. I would help any business considering moving into the township to understand that for the people of the township, it’s not just about doing business with a company, it’s about creating a long, trusted relationship, as one would with a friend. In addition, word of mouth with regard to who does the best work, who has the best prices, who treats their customers well, is far better than any targeted marketing campaign a company could do. The residents here remember who treats them well, who doesn’t and they’re not afraid to express their thoughts on that. Choosing to live in Bethel Township isn’t just a house inside a fence, it’s a lifestyle choice that brings with it close friends and neighbors to be gained. We are a family.

4. There are a number of vacant lots in the township that must be mowed taking away resources from other township projects. Do you have a plan or program idea on how to change this situation to a positive for the township.

I’ve actually thought about this a great deal since returning home. An idea I’ve floated around in my head and, if elected, would attempt to discuss in greater detail with the appropriate person(s) is a way to make the homeowners more responsible for the abandoned homes and vacant lots, even if the owner is a bank due to foreclosure. Were I to be living in a home I’ve allowed to fall to ruin I’d be made responsible for returning that home to a more acceptable level of habitability or suffer the consequences of not doing so. Why are the foreclosed homes permitted to fall apart because a bank or landlord can’t be bothered to care for their property? The process currently in place takes too long and allows these homes and lots to remain in ruin.

5. How do you propose to address the aging Fire and EMS apparatus in the township? What changes do you feel your departments need to make to increase the numbers in membership for the departments.

Wow, this is a tough one. We are fortunate to have an amazing fire chief in the form of Jacob King and I know he’s pursuing ways to increase not just the man or woman power needed but also new equipment. As it is now, the men and women who are volunteering for the fire department deserve our respect and admiration for the dedication they’ve shown our community. Our fire department is such a valuable asset to our community and solving this problem isn’t something that can happen quickly.

6. Concerns have been raised in the community regarding the maintenance and improvements of roads in the township. What would you propose to improve the seasonal upkeep of the roadways and the permanent improvements of the roads?

Again, this is a tricky question. I do realize our roads need help, but I’ve been gone so long I’m not sure what has and hasn’t been done, nor have I had the opportunity to look into the problem at this point. As much as this will sound like a dodge, I’d really have to look more fully into the situation before coming up with a solution that might work. I wish I had a better answer for that, but I’d rather say, “I don’t know, but I’d like the opportunity to find the answer for you” than to say whatever it is the people would like to hear and have to break a promise.

David Phares

is seeking re-election to the board of trustees. He is a Tecumseh High School Graduate. He is a business owner and has experience in heavy equipment repair and maintenance. He has also spent his life working in agriculture. He has spent 16 years on the Bethel Township Board of Trustees holds a seat on the Clark County Combined Health District Advisory Committee.

Mr. Phares would like to “continue to serve” the residents of Bethel Township. He believes that during his time as trustee the continued loss of government funds has not kept the township from having a balanced budget while maintaining services.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Bethel Township Board of Trustees?

To continue to provide services where cost are increasing and government funding is diminishing.

2. Please explain some of your cost saving ideas that were implemented during your current term in office. Please comment on additional ideas you would propose if re-elected.

Bethel township currently participates in the state cooperative bid program. We bid with the state for road salt, fire equipment and other needs. Large road maintenance repairs and supplies are bid through the clark county engineer. Equipment is shared with other government agencies to keep down cost

3. With the upturn in the economy including here in Clark County, do you feel it is time for the township to encourage new business and residential growth? How would you propose to market the township to potential buyers or builders?

Editors Note: The candidate die not respond to this question.

4. There are a number of vacant lots in the township that must be mowed taking away resources from other township projects. Do you have a plan or program idea on how to change this situation to a positive for the township?

Vacant lots in the township are mowed because they are deemed a nuisance. The mowing is then done by a contractor. The township then accesses the owner on his property taxes, this fee also includes administration costs as well as advertising. The township is thereby following the rules of the ohio revised code.

5. How do you propose to address the aging Fire and EMS apparatus in the township? What changes do you feel your departments need to make to increase the numbers in membership for the departments?

 The township has kept good maintenance of its equipment. Repairs are made as needed to keep the department ready at all times. Over the years I have been trustee we have replaced several medics and purchased fire trucks. The department is currently looking to replace a medic unit. We have updated the marx radios and replaced numerous sets of turnout gear. Currently I feel bethel township is well staffed. The department responds to approximately two thousand runs a year.

6. Concerns have been raised in the community regarding the maintenance and improvements of roads in the township. What would you propose to improve the seasonal upkeep of the roadways and the permanent improvements of the roads?

 Bethel township has nearly sixty miles of road to maintain. This is with a road maintenance budget of only $250,000 a year. The cost to blacktop one mile of road is in excess of $70,000. Excessive cost create the need to chip seal, dura patch and blacktop small areas to help preserve the roadways. Grants such as Community Development Block Grants are always sought after for help, and should continue to be.


TECUMSEH LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

For Member of Board of Education

(Vote for not more than 2)

Kevin Becker

is a graduate of Bethel High School and has completed the USAF Aerospace Ground Equipment Technical School. He also has a number of additional certifications and courses in management and economics. He has been in Operations Management for the past 15 years.

Mr. Becker is running for school board because he feels he has “a lot to offer” from his past and current management and budgeting experiences. His goal is to “instill a level of transparency” that he believes has been lacking in the past.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Tecumseh Local School District?

Regaining the publics trust in the board for oversight of the district. Reigning in ever increasing expenses to remain in the funds allotted.

2. Please explain some of the ideas that you would propose if elected.

 First would be to implement Josh Mandel’s online check book. Second would be to review the current purchase order system and make sure it was followed to the letter, no exceptions.

3. Tecumseh Local has been unsuccessful in passing tax levies after several attempts. Do you see the recent activities of the past superintendent as a problem for the district moving forward in requesting additional funds?

Yes I do, but also I don’t feel that there is a need to increase our residents property taxes in the foreseeable future. During the last attempt, the 11th, it was shown that the state was increasing funding to the district and it was known by the administration in June 2013, but not made public. 2 attempts were made after the information was presented but busing was still cut and extra curriculums were threatened. Our residents deserve better than have their children held hostage for more funding when funding was already being made available by the state.

4. What do you see as the greatest challenge to educators in the classroom today?

Teachers trying to implement common core initiatives when they have insufficient resources.

5. Do you see the additional funds from the casinos in Ohio as a positive impact on the district’s bottom line?

Casino funding has not lived up to any expectations as were presented when it was voted upon. Where dollars were expected pennies were delivered.

6. Where do you stand on Common Core?

I strongly oppose Common Core. Not only is the curriculum hard to understand by the students and parents, the teaching staff has had difficulty relaying the information to those affected. Common Core has taken away local control, and the parents control, of the education of our children and delegated it to Washington. That is a legal right that was taken, for a program that other states have fully opted out of. These tests have done little to advance our students and have effectively lowered all students scores across the board.

Gary Cochran

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School. He completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Administration at the General Motors Institute. He is also a certified Project Management Professional. He has served on the Tecumseh Local Board of Education for 19 years.

Mr. Cochran is seeking re-election because he strongly believes that a “free public education is the foundation this country is based on”. He stated that by serving on the board he is able to participate in providing educational benefits to current and future generations.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Tecumseh Local School District?

Our greatest challenge is twofold. First we need to restore the faith our community has shown the district in the past. Second, working with the community, the school and school administration we need to determine and set a financial course to allow our district to continue to grow and produce the outstanding results we have in the past.

2. Please explain some of your ideas which were implemented during your time in office.

None of these were individual accomplishments as we work as a team but the first addition of all-day/every-day Kindergarten and then the restoration of the program after it had to be cut. We also established the funding, design and construction of six new buildings in the district.

3. Tecumseh Local has been unsuccessful in passing tax levies after several attempts. Do you see the recent activities of the past superintendent as a problem for the district moving forward in requesting additional funds?

I do believe that initially it will cause some issues but I also believe that we can overcome those issues to provide what is needed for our kids. They are the foundation of our future.

4. What do you see as the greatest challenge to educators in the classroom today?

Kids today have so many distractions that they find more fun than learning. Teachers have to find a way to get past those distractions so that kids want learn. This can be very difficult to do but is essential to learning.

5. Do you see the additional funds from the casinos in Ohio as a positive impact on the district’s bottom line?

Only minimally because the monies that are funneled to schools from the casinos sound like an enormous amount but once divided between all the recipients, it is not much but every little bit helps so there is some positive impact.

6. Where do you stand on Common Core?

Common Core is not necessarily the enemy but we need to learn to use it as an aid or road map on the basics that are needed. There is too much mandated on exactly what must be taught and exactly how it is taught. That is too much control. We need guidance, not controlled.

Brett Collins

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School and has a BS in Electrical Engineering Tech from the University of Dayton. Mr. Collins is currently employed in higher education at the university. He has lived in the Tecumseh Local district since 1978. He has experience in retail management, IT purchasing and sales.

Mr. Collins is seeking election to the board because he “believes it is time for the school board to help change” the community perception of how the district is operating. He also wishes to help restore trust in the district.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Tecumseh Local School District?

The greatest challenge I see with the district is the community’s perception of the district. What I mean by this is a large number of people I’ve talked with in the community see a lack of transparency in how decisions are made and a lack of communication from the district’s decision makers with the community. While I know not all information can be shared a large portion of it needs to be opened up to the community or at least easier to obtain. By doing this and creating better avenues of communication with the community we could generate the needed support to build a great district

2. Please explain some of the ideas that you would propose if elected.

I believe one of the first things I would like to do is engage the community through town hall type meetings to find out the positive things the district is doing and the things it needs to improve upon. By getting community input on their concerns and their goals it will help us move the district in the right direction. I would try to find ways to provide more transparency about the current state of the district and both the short and long term goals. By this I mean we could possibly provide a quarterly “State of the district” message to go out to the community, provide more complete board minutes and quarterly fiscal reviews just to name a few. I would like to make sure policies and procedures are reviewed and that accountability standards are set. I believe our primary goal should be to engage our community.

3. Tecumseh Local has been unsuccessful in passing tax levies after several attempts. Do you see the recent activities of the past superintendent as a problem for the district moving forward in requesting additional funds?

I’m sure for some this will be but I hope for most that they will see for what is was an individual that took advantage of their position within the school district. I know the district has since reviewed what happened and has made appropriate changes to make sure things like this cannot happen again. I would hope the community recognizes that the district has dealt with this issue and the students in the district which these funds would most benefit were not the ones responsible for this issue.

4. What do you see as the greatest challenge to educators in the classroom today?

I believe from speaking with teachers their greatest issue is the restrictions they feel placed upon them by standardized testing and how it limits what and how they can teach in their classrooms. One teacher said it this way “It is hard to teach anything except the standardized tests”.

5. Do you see the additional funds from the casinos in Ohio as a positive impact on the district’s bottom line?

I believe currently any additional funds to a district bottom line is positive but I also believe that with the minimal amount received from this funding source it is not creating much of an impact

6. Where do you stand on Common Core?

Where I believe that setting standards and goals for achievement is necessary I also believe that sometimes the implementation of these types of programs are where issues appear and Common Core would be a good example of this. In my opinion Common Core’s basic concepts that students will be prepared for higher education or careers and that all students will held to high standards of expectations are good conceptual ideas. The problem comes in the implementation of these standards and goals. Teachers find their in-class time tied to standardized test and teaching their classes accordingly. This leaves them very little opportunity to go beyond the basics of teaching a test and limits them from using their unique skills and knowledge of their students to expand their program. Common Core is also a good example of a program that can be very costly for a district to implement. Due to the changes in standards or how these standards are to be taught it creates a need to purchase new teaching materials specifically designed to support these requirements and these products are often very expensive.

Peter Scarff

is a graduate of Tecumseh High School and holds a BBA from Ohio University in Finance. He Is a business owner in Bethel Township and has held a seat on the Tecumseh Board of Education since 2008.

Mr. Scarff is running for re-election because he feels that he still has a lot to contribute to the school district. He would like to “help return this district to financial stability” and continue to work with board members.

1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Tecumseh Local School District?

Tecumseh Schools must gain the confidence back from the residents of the district. Their trust has been betrayed and without that trust, we will struggle to stay strong financially. Gaining that trust will take time, communication and results. I would like to be a part of helping to gaining back that trust.

2. Please explain some of your ideas which were implemented during your time in office.

I wanted to return to all day/every day kindergarten and we were finally able to do that from a financial standpoint. I was part of hiring new administrators in our schools the last several years. We have leadership in place that has experience teaching in our district and cares deeply about our students. I was also part of the challenge of hiring a superintendent while going through the muddy waters created from our previous superintendents illegal activities. We made a decision that we all feel is the best for our district long term.

3. Tecumseh Local has been unsuccessful in passing tax levies after several attempts. Do you see the recent activities of the past superintendent as a problem for the district moving forward in requesting additional funds?

I see it as a great problem. As a board and district, we are moving forward from this situation and choose not to dwell in the past. We do, however, have a tremendous scar that remains and cannot be ignored. That scar can only disappear as the residents of the district understand that the school board is operating with the best interests of the students in mind.

4. What do you see as the greatest challenge to educators in the classroom today?

Educators are struggling to do their job, which is to educate kids. Washington DC and Columbus, Ohio have instituted so many classroom requirements, including testing, that Educators now must spend a majority of their classroom time devoted to teaching kids to pass a test, rather than using their learned skills to prepare students for their future.

5. Do you see the additional funds from the casinos in Ohio as a positive impact on the district’s bottom line?

However little money we receive from casino operations will have a positive impact on the bottom line. I do not think it will ever amount to much, given our total budget.

6. Where do you stand on Common Core?

I am not a fan.

Corinne Scott

holds a Bachelors of Chemical Engineering from the University of Dayton. She has also completed coursework at Ashland University on her MBA. During her career, she has facilitated problem solving and continuous improvement activities. She also has experience in meeting budgetary goals.

Ms Scott is seeking election to the school board because she wants “to have a direct and positive impact on the success” of the Tecumseh Local district. She would like each student to graduate with “the tools to enable them to achieve” their goals.

 1. What do you see as the greatest challenge to the Tecumseh Local School District?

 Simply stated, the greatest challenge to our district, aside from obvious funding issue, is to elevate our students’ achievement levels.

2. Please explain some of the ideas that you would propose if elected.

 Proactively share more information with the community. Board meeting minutes rarely reflect discussions that occur during meetings.

Interact more directly with the community to hear concerns since few people attend Board meetings. Establish a peer review process of key administrative positions, specifically the Superintendent and Treasurer, to include constructive feedback of strengths and weaknesses.

3. Tecumseh Local has been unsuccessful in passing tax levies after several attempts. Do you see the recent activities of the past superintendent as a problem for the district moving forward in requesting additional funds?

The recent activities may be seen as a problem for requesting additional funds by some people in the community. I truly believe that most people have and want to put those events behind us and are ready to move on. Those who are outspoken with skepticism and distrust will always be around; however, as long as the district states the facts and shares all information with the community, an informed community will show strong support.

4. What do you see as the greatest challenge to educators in the classroom today?

Over the past several months as I have been talking to various educators, a common theme has become evident that defines the greatest challenge in the classroom today – too much focus by state and national entities on students’ test scores and not enough support to allow educators to teach students in the manner in which they feel is most productive for the students.

5. Do you see the additional funds from the casinos in Ohio as a positive impact on the district’s bottom line?

Any additional funds which do not burden the tax payers in our district certainly have a positive impact on our district’s bottom line. I only wish we could receive more funds from the casinos as well as the state lottery and have to rely less on local resources. However, the receipt of these funds do not alleviate us of the obligation we have to provide a quality education to the students within our district.

6. Where do you stand on Common Core?

On paper, the goal of Common Core makes sense. I think there should be standards against which we can measure success of our students and identify those areas of needed improvement. Unfortunately, the planning and development of Common Core involved no input from our local educators and the execution requires us to spend our limited resources on basically what can only be defined as unfunded federal and state mandates.


Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Clark County Park District

 A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

 A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Clark County Park District for the purpose of parks and recreation purposes at a rate not exceeding 0.6 mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to $0.06 for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for 10 years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

 Parks Seeking Levy Support

 

Clark County voters will be looking at a .06 mill tax levy on the November ballot this year that will provide funds to the Clark County Park Districts for the next 10 years. This renewal will replace the five year levy that provides support until 2016 for both the Clark County and National Trails Parks and Recreation districts that cover 2,100 acres of parks and green space along with nearly 30 miles of multi-use trails.

The levy does not provide support for the NTPRD operations of Splash Zone, the New Reid Park golf courses or the Chiller Ice Arena stated NTPRD Director Leann Castillo.

Clark County Park District Interim Executive Director Carol Kennard explained that the reason the two park districts are asking voters for a 10 year renewal this time is to assure continued financial support for the park and recreation areas long term.

Clark County Park District is responsible for maintaining George Rogers Clark Park, The Davidson Interpretive Center, Battle of Peckuwe Historic site next to the Center, Estel Wenrick Wetlands Preserve and the Leadingham Prairie Preserve. The district also maintains a portion of the Little Miami Scenic Trail and Prairie Grass Recreation Trail that run through Clark County excluding the City of Springfield section.

Ms. Kennard also noted that the Park District also will be maintaining the former mobile home park located along Dayton Road in Mad River Township. The employees have been cleaning up the former home sites while the Park District Board continues to consider the final master plan for the land use.

National Trails Parks and Recreation District covers a significantly larger number of parks and facilities. NTPRD is responsible for Snyder Park, Old Reid Park, Buck Creek Nature Park, Rebert Pike Nature Park, Skate Park, Carleton Davidson Stadium, Davey Moore Athletic Complex, Eagle City Soccer Complex, Veterans Amphitheater, Wiggley Field Dog Park in Old Reid Park and Central Bark in Snyder Park.

NTPRD offers a number of programs each year and also sponsors outdoor activities around the county. This early fall outlying communities such as New Carlisle and Enon enjoyed Family Movie Night as part of the many events planned by NTPRD staff. Programs include fitness, arts and crafts, cooking and exploring for children and adults.

“Levy funds that National Trails Parks and Recreation District receives cover 75% of our parks and green space maintenance operations” stated Castillo. She went on to say that there have been “nearly $1 million dollars worth of improvements in our parks” that were made possible by community and local businesses investing in the park system. Castillo expressed her gratitude for all of the donors who “believe in our community”. An example of two of these donated areas are the new Spray Ground in Snyder Park funded by Friends of Snyder Park and the generous donation by Dr. Dana King and his wife Judy for the new Central Bark Dog Park where county residents can bring their furry friends to enjoy some free play on the eastern end of Snyder Park.

Kennard stated “ there will be no increase in taxes” if voters agree to renew the levy. “ We would like to have the funding to operate and provide outdoor opportunities” said Kennard.

You can learn more about the levy by visiting the Preserve Our Parks Facebook page or www.preserveparks.com.


Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) Clark County

 A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

 An additional tax for the benefit of Clark County for the purpose of the maintenance and operation of a free public museum of art, science, or history, by the Clark County Historical Society Inc., doing business as The Heritage Center of Clark County, or any successor, at a rate not exceeding 0.3 mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to $0.03 for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for 5 years, commencing in 2015, first due in calendar year 2016.

Heritage Center Levy

 

The Clark County Historical Society is asking voters to approve a 0.3 mill levy this November.  The ballot request was approved by the Clark County Commissioners earlier this year after turning down a larger request.  

This 5 year levy would generate an estimated $680,000 per year for the Historical Society that would be used for operating and maintenance expenses.  The Society has a museum in the Heritage Center located in downtown Springfield at 117 S. Fountain Avenue and also maintains a library and archieves in the building.  

According to information available, the Historical Society has been using their endowment to help with costs as the economy went into a slowdown in recent years.  The concern is that the endowment has been decreasing and the need for monies to perform maintenance and operating funds is now needed form the taxpayers.  

When CEO of the Historical Society Roger Sherrock first approached commissioners, his request was for a 0.5 mill levy which was not supported by the Clark County Commissioners.  They encouraged Sherrock to lower the amount in hopes of finding voter support.

The Historical Society hopes to be able to upgrade some of the HVAC systems and fire systems within their building and possibly add additional programing if the levy is approved.

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