VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN Nonpartisan Guide to Nov. 3, 2020 General Election For Franklin County Voters Including...

United States Presidential Candidates United States Congressional Candidates Statewide Candidates Franklin County Candidates Issue Pros/Cons

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS

Your source for informed voting, www.lwvcols.org 2 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 COVID-19 testing, treatment, and Ohio House of Representatives vaccines free; double funding for for five terms. During my tenure in The League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus prepared community health centers that are the Ohio House, I rose to become so often on the frontlines of care; the first female Democratic House this material. Candidates were informed of the following: and much more. Leader in Ohio’s history. Question1: I believe strongly we must continue to invest in our social • Each response would be printed exactly as received Considering all that our country has been through DONALD J. TRUMP, REP safety net programs to combat the and each candidate would be responsible for the in recent times, it is more important than ever that Candidate did not respond negative effects of the COVID-19 content of the replies. our citizens be informed about the candidates and pandemic. I voted to support the • All responses were given a character limit, and once issues before them. The mission of the League of The following candidates have HEROES Act which would among the response exceeded the character limit then the Women Voters is to encourage the informed and qualified for the Ohio state ballot other things temporarily halt remainder of the response was cut off. active participation of citizens in government and according to the Secretary of consumer debt collection, ban the to influence public policy through education and State of Ohio but did not meet the box on SBA loans and put more LWVEF criteria. money aside for SBA loans for small Information and answers from the candidates have advocacy. businesses, and provide mortgage not been evaluated in any way. The League of Women HOWIE HAWKINS, GRN and rent payment freezes. We must Voters, in presenting this material, neither endorses The publication editor is Elizabeth Grieser, with first stabilize our families and small nor rejects the views of any candidate quoted and assistance from Katherine Brandt, Ben Sullivan, Sally JO JORGENSEN, LIB businesses before our economy can does not and cannot assume responsibility for the Morgan, Bridget McDaniel, Al Rosenfield, and Jacob recover. We must also help our local contents of any candidate’s reply or motive. Markey. The LWVMC President is Barbara Hykes. BRIAN CARROLL, WRITE IN governments to remain stable and provide essential services. TOM HOEFILING, WRITE IN Question 2: My top priority if The information in this bulletin can also be found on the elected is to continue the work I DARIA HUNTER, WRITE IN have begun as chair of the Diversity League of Women Voters website and at www.Vote411.org. and Inclusion subcommittee of JADE SIMMONS, WRITE IN the Financial Services Committee For membership information in the League of Women Voters, in Congress. I have been able to please see our website at . KASEY WELLS, WRITE IN directly advocate for the inclusion www.lwvcols.org of women and people of color in PRESIDENT R19 BODIE, csuites, board rooms and leadership WRITE IN positions across the financial services sector, but there is still so tackle them all at once. Character much work to be done and I look and experience count. I’ll listen to Candidates for President Q: What aspects of our current forward to continuing that work PRESIDENT OF of the United States scientists, tell the truth, and make REPRESENTATIVE THE UNITED STATES immigration policy will your should I be re-elected in the fall. sure we’re never so unprepared administration address first? TO CONGRESS OF AMERICA for a pandemic again. I’ll expand A: My immigration policy is built 3RD DISTRICT MARK RICHARDSON, REP JOE BIDEN, DEM the Affordable Care Act, lowering around keeping families together. Candidate did not respond. Campaign Website: http://www. costs and making health care a It’s past time to reform our broken • All qualified presidential Questions for Representative to joebiden.com right for all. I’ll build our economy system, restoring family unification candidates were invited to provide Congress 3rd District Candidates: ANGELA DAVIS (WRITE-IN) Campaign Email: info@joebiden. back better, and make racial equity and diversity as its core pillars. Candidate did not respond biographical information and 1. In light of the significant budget comCampaign central to recovery. In these crises, As President, I’ll reverse Trump’s responses to specific questions. changes caused by COVID-19, what Q: What actions would you take to we have an enormous opportunity, assault on our values on Day One, NICHOLAS MOSS(WRITE-IN) Candidates were qualified if they government programs do you balance public health and economic if we come together. As President, ending his cruel border policies Email: [email protected] met the following criteria during the believe should remain fully funded recovery in the US, both in light of I’ll draw on the best of us, not the that rip children from their mothers’ Website: https://www. or have their budget increased? primary season: COVID-19 and for the long term? worst. I’ll work as hard for those arms. I’ll act immediately to protect mossforcongress.com Which programs should be cut or 1. The candidate must have made A: It’s a false choice to think we who don’t support me as for Dreamers and their families, Education: I have taken classes have their budget reduced? a public announcement of her/ have to choose between our those who do. That’s a president’s and invest real political capital at both a traditional college and 2. What is your top priority if his intention to run for President; public health and economy; job: to represent us all. To take in finally delivering legislative an online university in Computer elected? 2. The candidate must meet the they’re linked. On Day One, I’ll responsibility. To protect the nation. immigration reform, with a roadmap Science and Management. I also Presidential Election Campaign implement the COVID strategy To unite and to heal. to citizenship for the nearly 11 have knowledge in Real Estate, as Fund Act’s minimum contribution I’ve laid out since March –surging Q: How will you address racial million undocumented people who well as being an Ordained Minister. injustice in our country on day one Representative to Congress threshold requirements for testing and protective gear; already do so much to make our Occupation: Manufacturing distributing vaccines safely and of your administration? 3rd District qualifying for matching funds, communities strong. We have to Maintenance Technician free of politics; helping schools and A: America is at an inflection point. enforce our laws, but in a way that’s (Vote for no more than one) I feel that based on the most recent data Qualifications for Office: small businesses cover costs; and It’s past time to end our inequities humane, respects due process, I am qualified to hold an office in publicly available on the FEC getting state and local governments and deal with the denial of our honors our values, and sees the big the US House of Representatives website by the date of publication; resources to keep educators, cops, nation’s promise to too many picture. JOYCE BEATTY, DEM due to my previous experience 3. The candidate must qualify for and firefighters on the job. I’ll for too long. I’ll fight to end the Q: What will you do over the long 1421 Taylor Corners Cir, Blacklick, running my own business. I also the ballot in enough states to win a respect science and tell the truth, health inequities that COVID-19 term to ensure access to quality OH 43004 have leadership training through my majority of electoral votes. period. And I’ll build our economy amplifies; and give every child the healthcare for all? Email: beattyforcongress@gmail. employer on how to handle large back better, creating millions of same strong start in life by offering A: This pandemic makes clear: All com and small groups. Most importantly • Responses were limited to a good-paying jobs. I’ll revitalize universal Pre-K, tripling funding for Americans need access to quality, Website: Beattyforcongress.com though I relate to people and will specific number of characters and manufacturing, build a clean energy Title I schools, and making public affordable health insurance. That’s Occupation: Member of Congress use a common sense approach to were truncated thereafter. economy, and boost caregiving college debt-free for most families. why I’ll protect and build on the Education: BA, Central State running my congressional office. I easing the squeeze on working I’ll make racial equity central to Affordable Care Act. I helped to University; MS, Wright State also know how to operate within a our recovery, closing the racial University; ABD, University of • If a candidate did not respond by families, providing paid leave, and secure the final key votes to pass budget. getting caregivers the respect and wealth and income gaps, boosting that landmark law, protecting Cincinnati; Honorary Doctorate First and foremost I the date of publication, “Candidate Question 1: pay they deserve. home ownership, and investing in 100 million Americans who can Degrees: Capital Law School, Ohio would continue to fully fund the has not yet responded.” is printed. Q: What is the most important issue communities and entrepreneurs of no longer be turned away or Dominican University, & Central small business programs for the facing our country and how do you color –building a stronger, more denied coverage for pre-existing State University local businesses in not only my Additional information on plan to address it during your first inclusive middle class for the future. conditions, and bringing coverage Qualifications for Office: Prior district but in America. I would presidential candidates is available 100 days in office? And, I’ll work for real police reform to 20 million more. As President, I’ll to Congress I was Senior Vice make sure however that the money at www.VOTE411.org. A: Pandemic. Recession. Racial and invest in shifting our criminal build on that progress with a public President of Outreach and was put towards the businesses Copyright © 2020 by the League of injustice. Climate change. We’re justice focus from incarceration to option and lower health care and Engagement at The Ohio State that need it most and not ones who Women Voters Education Fund facing historic crises; we have to prevention. prescription drug costs. I’ll make all University and a member in the don’t need it. I would also work to LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 3 make sure that each American gets holding public office, Troy gained wonderful relationship with one of healthcare they can afford. I will Stewart family. priority, if elected? to keep the most money from their experience by operating both his my colleagues, Jason Crow, from fight to restore and expand the ACA Question 1: The State of Ohio 2. How would you address paychecks and not have it spent family-owned small business and Colorado. Together, he and I are so that everyone has the choice to has several options for safely systemic racism in government and on wish list items. I do feel that farm. the leading members of the House be covered under a public option, participating in our elections. In government programs? the programs to be cut from the Question 1: I encourage voters to Subcommittee on Innovation and including those with pre-existing addition to providing safe locations 3. How would you address the job spending budgets until the right take the necessary precautions Workforce Development. After conditions. I will work to make sure for voting on the designated and economic loss caused by the time would be the wish list items, to protect themselves from the many successes together, we joined that the Department of Health and election day, the local board of COVID-19 pandemic? better known as pork spending. We spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the bipartisan Civility and Respect Human Services can negotiate drug election provide a month of early need more programs to help build including wearing face masks and Caucus together—a “Noah’s Arc” prices, which will lower the price of in-person absentee voting at everyday Americans lives back to socially distancing when going caucus that requires members from Insulin and other prescription drugs. their offices, and mail-in absentee Representative to Congress pre-Covid levels. outside is necessary, and staying each side of the aisle join together. I will also fight to increase funding voting that can be mailed or hand 15th District Question 2: Bringing back the inside when possible. No one should The vast majority of bills I sponsor to rural hospitals, and ensure delivered (Vote for no more than one) American Voice!! I would work to have to choose between their health are bipartisan, and I enjoy positive that rural areas have broadband Question 2: The day we citizens and their right to vote. All Ohioans relationships with colleagues on infrastructure so that they can confused the difference between make sure that the government gets STEVE STIVERS, REP have the option to vote by absentee both sides of the aisle, as I believe utilize telehealth services. health insurance and health care out of everyday Americans lives Candidate did not respond and takes a minimal approach to ballot, and both the U.S. Postal we have much more in common Question 3: Climate Change is is the day our health care system Service and Ohio’s Secretary of than CNN or Fox would have you happening and we need to face began to unravel. Insurance is America. The government should JOEL NEWBY, DEM State have assured that our election believe. Just look at my record with the problem, not run in the other a third party payer, which is a be there to help the people when Email: [email protected] in 2020 will remain free and fair— Democratic Congressman Cindy direction. Our kids, our grandkids, problem. Reduce the role of the it’s needed, but in the background Website: http://www.joelnewby. regardless of how citizens cast their Axne, who I’ve worked with on and every generation after that third-party payer by removing the when not needed. My main com ballots. I stand behind free and fair many occasions to champion the deserve to be able to live a safe, deduction for all health insurance, priority is doing the work of my Education and Experience: Ohio elections and will do everything expansion of telehealth. I recently healthy life on this planet. The both the tax exemption that constituents, the people who elect University - BA Political Science in my power to ensure American launched a podcast series “Troy United States has the power to gives an advantage to employer me to office. I am there to serve & Sociology Ohio University - MA elections remains this way. Talks” that highlights my long incentivize a shift on a global sponsored insurance and the their needs and not the needs of a Political Science Question 2: We must repeal and record of bipartisan successes. scale. I fully support re-entering personal deduction. Increase the big corporation. Question 1: My top legislative replace Obamacare once and for all. the Paris Climate Accords and threshold above which the tax priority is to bring true hometown I have consistently voted to keep ALAINA SHEARER, DEM will do everything I can to reverse payer can deduct on personal representation to Washington Obamacare out of Ohio and am Email: alainashearer@alaina2020. the deregulations my opponent returns, but remove any cap for D.C. In order to do this, I have a REPRESENTATIVE committed to a healthcare system com has vehemently supported. I also deductions above the threshold. Let hometown message: Rebuilding TO CONGRESS that respects the freedom of every Website: http://www.alaina2020. support job creation to expand HSA accounts be used for expenses our Hometowns, Supporting our 12TH DISTRICT American, keeping healthcare com renewable energy revenues for the below the threshold. Continue to let Hometown Heroes, and Fighting decisions between patients and Occupation: Small Business Owner United States. We have a unique HSA contributions be tax free but for our Hometown Families. For doctors, while still protecting those Work Experience: Reporter and opportunity in central Ohio to remove the requirement for high Questions for Representatives to Rebuilding our Hometowns, with pre-existing conditions. Now News Anchor for 610 WTVN and be on the forefront of this shift deductible insurance plans. Pre- Congress 12th District Candidates: I will focus on rebuilding our as Washington radicals move even WCOL, Radio Personality for WNCI, to renewable energy resources, existing conditions should not be 1. Given our experience with infrastructure, including access to further towards a government Web Copywriter, Small Business while maintaining and growing our mandated. If they are mandated, it COVID-19, what precautions would affordable internet, and ending the you put in place to allow for safe, takeover, it will take committed Owner, Founder of Together Digital, workforce and creating living-wage, is not insurance. In a free, open and leadership to keep your healthcare National Women’s Organization union protected jobs. competitive market, some insurance drug epidemic. For Supporting our secure elections whereby voters are Hometown Heroes, I will focus on decisions in your own hands, not Question 1: No one should feel that Question 4: We all want progress. companies would offer coverage for not choosing between their health our veterans and first responders. and their right to vote, especially in the government’s. their life is in danger when they There is not one of us that is certain pre-existing conditions, and During the COVID-19 pandemic, go to vote, and nothing should not touched by the division in price the risk accordingly. No more jobless or homeless vets November. Include how you would I’m proud of my successful efforts keep someone from exercising Washington. For the past 4 years, Respecting private and better transition programs. fund any necessary precautions and Question 3: to help expand the services of their right to vote. At this point, I have built a national network property has been shown to be the For Fighting for our Hometown changes. telehealth nationwide, including there is not really adequate time to for women in digital and tech. I most effective and least costly way Families, I will focus on paid family 2. What solutions do you propose right here at home in Ohio. Seeing make sweeping changes. However, brought women from both sides to protect our natural resources. leave, affordable childcare, and to address challenges, especially the success our nation has had with there are several things that the of the political aisle together to Damaging pollution only persists helping our aging Americans to inequities, in the healthcare system? telemedicine in recent months, State Legislature or Secretary of combat the issues that we face when local, state and federal afford to age at home. This is how 3. Where do you stand on efforts I am continuing to push for the State could still do to make voting as women in the workplace. For governments look the other way we will bring back our hometowns. to protect our water, air and land? permanent, responsible expansion more accessible and less risky. We us, it was not political - that was or sanction the unhealthy activity. Question 2: We need to change Include how you would address of telehealth nationwide, as well should ensure that each county has the secret. When we take partisan When a business or individual how we police and how we climate change. as expanded access to broadband more than one secure ballot drop politics out of it and focus on the causes harm to the property of administrate justice. We also need 4. Describe what you will do to internet to support these services. box. Ballots need to have pre-paid people being affected, we can and another they are liable for the to protect voting rights while work across political differences to Question 3: I grew up working postage, and the deadline for will solve the pressing issues. I have consequences and it is the role expanding affordable housing. solve problems. on my family’s farm and am an ballots to be returned should be proven that I am able to do that, of government to act a fair and We need to tackle many different avid marathoner, cyclist, and evaluated in light of USPS delays. while my opponent is part of the unbiased arbiter in the dispute. systems, all at once. I propose

biker. Simply put, I love the great We also have an obligation to fix partisan problem. If elected, I would When an industry is surrounded by policing reforms like citizens Representative to Congress outdoors, and as a Christian, believe issues that affect voter suppression be representing a very diverse and neighbors, even many miles away, supervisory commissions, more 12th District we are called to be good stewards every year - we need to address moderate district. I will be obligated who are harmed by carelessness, consent decrees policies, and (Vote for no more than one) of our God-given Earth. Protecting voter roll purges, signature to work across the aisle by the those neighbors are empowered by abolish qualified immunity. We our great outdoors should not requirements, and the creation of Independents and Republicans who their rights as property owners to need to eliminate cash bail because TROY BALDERSON, REP come at the expense of imposing online ballot request forms, to name vote for me. I am an Ohioan, and seek compensation. you should be innocent until Email: info@baldersonforcongress. unnecessary restrictions, red tape, a few. Voting should be safe, secure, Ohioans know how to compromise Question 4: I will work with anyone proven guilty. We need to end the com and financial burdens on America’s and accessible. to get things done, but we never who is willing to discuss our war on drugs and treat addiction Website: http://www. businesses—particularly our small Question 2: Like millions of compromise on our values. I can problems and come to mutually as a disease. We must critically baldersonforcongress.com businesses with fewer resources Americans, I am overwhelmed by not wait to take more of Ohio to agreeable solutions. Inform look at affordable housing. When Occupation: Congressman for and capital. I’m committed to medical bills and health insurance Washington. consent is the only way to educate, the federal poverty line was first Ohio’s 12th Congressional District continuing working with my costs for our family. It shouldn’t collaborate and move forward. created, the greatest expense for Work Experience: Troy has served colleagues on both sides of the be this way. My opponent has JOHN STEWART, LIB a family was food. Now, more and as the Congressman for Ohio’s aisle to address solutions that voted 8 times to take away your Email: john.stewart@ more of our paychecks go towards 12th Congressional District since ensure a healthy environment for all healthcare. My father was a family electjohnstewart.com REPRESENTATIVE housing costs. Finally but most 2018. He previously served in both Ohioans and a productive business doctor in Delaware, and he never Website: http://www. TO CONGRESS important, we must pass a new the Ohio Senate, chairman of the environment. turned away anyone who couldn’t electjohnstewart.com voting rights bill! powerful Senate Committee on Question 4: Rather than explaining pay. He taught me that health Occupation: Retired 15TH DISTRICT Question 3: We must promote Energy and Natural Resources and what I would do, I’m happy to share care is fundamental - you can’t Work Experience: John Stewart small businesses and tackle student as a member of the Senate Finance my bipartisan work representing work, you can’t parent, you can’t spent a successful career in Questions for Representatives to debt. We need to legally define Committee, as well as the Ohio Ohio’s 12th Congressional District. contribute to society if you’re sick. the trucking industry that has Congress 15th District small businesses so the real small House of Representatives. Before First and foremost, I forged a Every American deserves good benefitted four generations of the 1. What is your top legislative businesses can take advantage of 4 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 small business programs. We saw Question 2: My top priorities are without proper resources. There Qualifications for Office: Serving as for product and service launches. Higher Education, and Career how the lack of a real definition rebuilding Ohio’s economy back are immediate and longer term the State Rep. for the past 4 years I also hired, trained and managed Tech programs, so the budget allowed large businesses to take stronger and keeping Ohioans steps the legislature can take to has been an honor and privilege. I sales representative companies to these programs should be advantage of the small business safe. Many of the constituent calls support Ohio’s recovery, while have been able to establish valuable nationally to meet marketing, sales increased (I support the passage of provisions in the COVID-19 bills. I’ve received since the start of the also strengthening our families relationships with community and profitability goals. For the last HB305). We increased funding for We need to provide for more small pandemic have been about more and our economy going forward. leaders, legislative members, and 10 years, my work in the non- transportation and infrastructure business loans with the possibility than just access to unemployment. The Ohio Senate Democrats have district stakeholders that will allow profit sector includes advocacy, repairs and replacements, which of total early forgiveness of the loan The individuals and families I serve already introduced several bills to me to be a better resource to the fundraising, and marketing to should be retained or increased. if the business employs a certain need additional help with the other accomplish these goals, such as constituents I serve. Prior to joining increase services for those in need. We need to increase funding for number of people in the community. supports that surround losing a job. paid leave and insurance coverage the Statehouse I was an Assistant Question 1: I believe it’s critical that social services, safe and secure We need to make it easier for small From ensuring stability to remain for telemedicine. I will proudly add Attorney General for nearly 10 the public health administration housing, renewable energy sources, businesses to deduct their local and in their homes, access to food, and my voice to these causes as senator. years. budget remain funded and be environmental protections, clean city taxes from their federal taxes. access to healthcare, COVID-19 Question 1: First, we must repeal considered for an increase, as we water and lead pipe replacements. Student debt will slow recovery has illuminated that health and the HB6. We cannot ask Ohioans to need adequate tools to meet the Local government funding should so we must start partial or full economy are inextricably linked. pay $7 more a month for electricity needs of the pandemic as well as be increased so police and fire The impact of the pandemic on all STATE future crises. Administratively, forgiveness. Finally, my “hometown REPRESENTATIVE that pollutes the environment (coal services will not suffer further message” includes a on focus of our lives and livelihoods will be bailout) and stymies economic I would implement actions for layoffs and furloughs. Budgets infrastructure. tremendous. I am looking forward CANDIDATES growth. I believe the investments accountability and transparency. could be reduced for earmarked to being re-elected and continuing that will pull us out of this recession I would also insure public health projects that have limited benefit to SHANE HOFFMAN (WRITE IN) to work multilaterally to find new 17th District are investments in family and administrative processes are the majority of Ohioans, that do not ways of meeting the emerging (Vote for no more than one) women—specifically, childcare, streamlined in order to respond support high priority programs, or needs of our communities as we education, and housing security. swiftly and efficiently during ever- that benefit only the very wealthy. navigate and come through the changing public health situations. TIMOTHY HASKE, REP This is the first recession in 50 Question 2: Two years ago my STATE SENATE pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic has taught CANDIDATES Candidate did not respond. years where more women have lost main priorities were to ensure more jobs than men. We must start us is that we need to be agile in equal access for all to quality CRYSTAL LETT, DEM our response to a health crisis and ADAM MILLER, DEM valuing childcare as a critical piece education and vocational training, Email: [email protected] we need the right people with the Questions for all State Senate and Email: [email protected] of our economic infrastructure, and to attract well-paying jobs Website: www.LettForOhio.com right skillset in the Ohio House State Representative Candidates: Website: www.millerforohio.com and make investments to support that offer advancement for hard- Education: I graduated from Hilliard for success. In order to decrease 1. In light of the significant budget Occupation: Attorney childcare workers, teachers, and working Ohioans. Today in this Davidson High School and earned expenditures, I would look at changes caused by COVID-19, what Education: Capital University families. Last year, HB6 gave a $1 time of extreme pressure from my Bachelor’s of Arts degree in existing contracts at the state level government programs do you School of Law (1994); US Army War billion dollar bailout to one Ohio a virus and the knowledge that Political Science from The Ohio to determine if pricing could be believe should remain fully funded College (2017); Master’s in Strategic company. Imagine the economic racism is a public health crisis, State University, cum laude. I reduced or timing of the project or have their budget increased? Studies; U.S. Army Command & kickstart if we invested $1 billion we have systemic structures that currently manage a psychological delayed. Which programs should be cut or General Staff College (2004); Ohio in childcare that worked for all have constrained and blocked practice. Question 2: My top priority is have their budget reduced? State University (B.A.) (1988) families. opportunities for too many. Our Occupation: Manager of a to be fully representative of the 2. What is your top priority if Qualifications for Office: Longtime Question 2: Since joining the communities are polarized and Psychological Practice district and be 100% accessible to elected? public advocate, proven legislative legislature, I have been a strong democracy is threatened. I shall Qualifications for Office: I’m a people. Given our current situation leader, successful practicing advocate for survivors of violence spend my energy helping to make hometown native of Hilliard and an I will work hard once in the Ohio attorney in public sector law, and reforms to our criminal justice changes in our communities to OSU graduate. I served as a Case House to implement policy that 16th District US Army Reserve Colonel, and system. I introduced and passed promote respect for others and Manager at North Central Mental will beat Covid19, send our children dedicated public servant. portions of the Regan Tokes Act to rebuild our republic. We need (Vote for no more than one) Health and assisted children who back to school and bringing back Question 1: We cannot allow a to change how those convicted of to define civil society and what suffered from mental illness. After our economy. I believe there are temporary pandemic to lead to violent offenses are sentenced. The citizenship asks of us, and work to STEPHANIE L. KUNZE, REP my son was born with a rare genetic workable solutions available that permanent cuts to vital services Reagan Tokes Act also provides build that world. My top priority Email: [email protected] disorder, I became an advocate for will help create opportunities for like the social safety net, healthcare more resources to parole officers is to work hard, to be honest with Website: stephaniekunze.com people with disabilities and worked our children learning safely and and education. In fact, the need and accountabilities for GPS everyone, to address our problems, Occupation: State Senator with Sen. Sherrod Brown to save recuperate jobs lost during the for helping the less fortunate has monitoring. In addition, I have and create a better future for all. Education: B.A., English, Indiana CHIP funding. I am a legislative pandemic. increased because of the pandemic. advocated for ending the statute University advocate with Save the Children Over the last few decades Ohio of limitations on rape, eliminating Qualifications for Office: Elected and for Paid Leave. MARY LIGHTBODY, DEM has cut taxes for the rich under the the cap on damages for survivors member of the Ohio Senate, 16th Question 1: We must prioritize Email: [email protected] 20th District promise of increasing prosperity. of sexual violence, and closing District (2017- present); Ohio House Ohioans’ basic needs. Healthcare, Website: https://marylightbody. (Vote for no more than one) That ideology has failed and we the marital exception loophole to of Representatives (2013-2016); education, job training, and the com have paid the price. We need a fair rape crimes. Continuing to work on Hilliard City Council (2010-2012) Local Government Fund will need Education: Ph.D., Science, CHRIS BAER, REP criminal justice reforms and policies Question 1: COVID-19 has shone a full and proper funding this budget tax system that allows our state to Mathematics, and Technology Email: [email protected] that will allow Ohioans access to light on many of the foundational cycle. Funding our public schools provide for the needs of all Ohioans. Education, The Ohio State Website: www.baerforohio.com justice will be my highest priority. cracks long-present in every aspect and investing in small business Question 2: The Opioid Crisis must University, 2004; Education: The Ohio State of our society. From Pre-K to growth will put Ohio back on track. be dealt with. For too long we’ve M,Ed. with Licensure, The Ohio University Bachelor Degree with college, lack of access to broadband We can find the money for these seen half measures and full press KAYLA ANNE PACKARD, REP State Universitym 1992; A.B., East majors in Finance, Economics and technology, healthcare to early programs by tightening wasteful tax releases. We need a real plan that Candidate did not respond. Asian Studies, Harvard/Radcliffe and Marketing; The Ohio State childcare, COVID-19 has exposed loopholes that have been proven to ends this self inflicted crisis that College, 1974 University College of Law; weaknesses in the systems where largely benefit the richest Ohioans. is ravaging our communities and Occupation: State Representative Continuing Legal Education with we need to fully invest and rebuild. Ohio’s massive LLC Loophole, for families. The crisis will continue 19th District Qualifications for Office: * Supreme Court of Ohio The pandemic has truly shown how example, costs taxpayers over $1 to grow if we do not take drastic (Vote for no more than one) serving first term, Ohio House of Occupation: Attorney at Law, interconnected we all are. As your billion each year, and has been measures to end it. Representatives, District 19 Farmer, Rancher Owner of several State Senator, I will continue to fight repeatedly shown to benefit MEREDITH FREEDHOFF, REP Committees: Higher Ed, Commerce small business for upstream investments in our the wealthy rather than small Email: [email protected] & Labor, Agriculture* 28 years Qualifications for Office: Franklin state budget that make our state businesses as originally intended. 18th District Website: meredithforohio.com teaching in K-12 and Higher County, Ohio resident entire life; stronger for children and families. I Question 2: My top priority will (vote for no more than one) Education: Capital University, education* 32 year resident in Plain Small Business Owner; Attorney am grateful for the rapid response be to help Ohio families and small BA Marketing 1988; Ashland Township* elected to leadership at Law; Chairman of Franklin the state took to ensure we are businesses recover from the KRISTIN BOGGS, DEM Theological Seminary, Masters of positions in science teacher County Board of Zoning Appeal; mitigating some of these budget ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. Email: [email protected] Divinity, 2022 professional associations* trained Franklin County Republican Party issues through budget reduction in This crisis has taught us that far too Website: www.BoggsforOhio.com Occupation: Candidate for Ohio as a parliamentarian* farmer and Committeeman for over 30 years; state agencies. Looking forward, many Ohioans cannot afford to miss Occupation: State Representative House District 19 environmentalist* parent, taxpayer, Endorsed by Franklin County we will also have the benefit of the even one paycheck, and too many Education: B.A., Kent State Qualifications for Office: In my 13 problem solver Republican Party; Endorsed by rainy day fund which will help limit schools have been forced to adapt University, 2001 J.D., Cleveland year business career, I successfully Question 1: Currently we underfund Right to Life drastic cuts to important programs. to ever-changing requirements Marshall College of Law, 2006 managed large budgets and teams education for birth to age 5, K-12, Question 1: Police Departments LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 5 should not be defunded; Public Office would establish and operate Dame BS; The Ohio State University picture of the Budget impact of are forced to work multiple jobs the opioid crisis. Because of smart Health Director should have limits a 24/7 hotline for community MD, PhD and MPH; Yale New Haven COVID-19. But clearly Budget items and are still not able to make ends budgeting, we were able to increase on authority; School system funding leaders, first responders, and Hospital - Internal Medicine and that protect the health and safety meet. I believe an honest day’s work spending on the drug crisis, should be high priority the public to access pertinent Pediatrics. of Ohioans should be a top priority. should earn a living wage. That’s schools, added $575 million for Question 2: Remove Mask Mandate; information about treatment and Occupation: Doctor, State We should also make sure our why I support unions for working wraparound services for students Open Small Businesses ; Remove care. The bill passed the House Representative public schools have the resources people, raising the minimum wage, in need of mental health care and curfew on bars and restaurants; unanimously in the spring of 2020, Qualifications for Office: I have they need to educate our children eliminating the benefits cliff, a other challenges. At the same time, Pursue public safety and gun rights but stalled in the Senate. been serving people in Ohio for in a safe manner. We should also greater focus on skilled trades, and we reduced taxes. We have the $ 15 years as a physician, focusing provide temporary assistance to paid family leave. Ohio needs to be to fix our roads and bridges. We on health and wellness. I am full those who need help with Housing, a place where young adults want are fortunate that because of our RICHARD BROWN, DEM 21st District professor and educator at the Ohio unemployment and food insecurity. to stay after completing college, budget priorities we were able to Email: [email protected] (Vote for no more than one) State University with experience In addition to the Budget, Ohio where people can afford to raise fund those programs and still save Website: richbrownforohio.com helping people solve complex also has $2.7 billion in the rainy day their family, and where businesses $2.7bn in our rainy-day fund. Many want to locate - this can only be Education: Graduated Summa MEHEK COOKE, REP problems. I am an active member fund as well as $800 million from states have not been that wise. Cum Laude with a B.A. with High Email: [email protected] of our community where I grew up the Federal Government on hand. achieved when workforce housing is affordable and jobs pay a living Honors in American History from Website: mehekcooke.com and live with my husband and two We should not hesitate to use these the University of Cincinnati in 1978. wage. Education: J.D., Indiana University, children. I was elected to the Ohio funds to help people who are in a 24th District Graduated with a Juris Doctorate Bloomington; Master’s Degree, House in 2018 and I am running for bad situation through no fault of (Vote for no more than one) from The Ohio State College of Law Indiana University – Purdue ; re-election. their own. LAURA LANESE, REP in 1981. Email: [email protected] Bachelor’s Degree, Ohio State Question 1: Even in tough times, Question 2: Basically two top PAT MANLEY, REP Attorney/State www.laneseforohio.com Occupation: University we must continue to invest in the priorities: 1) To eliminate systemic Website: Candidate did not respond. Representative Education: Master of Laws: Occupation: Attorney people of Ohio. Critical programs racism from our Criminal Justice Qualifications for Office: Georgetown University with Qualifications for Office: I have that impact health and public system so that all involved are ALLISON RUSSO, DEM Appointed on June 28, 2017 to Distinction, Int’l and National both the public and private education should not be cut. treated fairly. 2) To secure the Email: [email protected] serve remaining 1 1/2 years of term Security Law; Juris Doctor: The sector experience to serve as a In addition, support for small future by promoting a thriving Website: www.allisonrusso.com of my predecessor who resigned Ohio State University with Honors; state legislator. My experience in businesses and infrastructure green energy economy in Ohio. Education: The George Washington in April 2017. Won election to the Bachelor of Arts: Miami University, everything from working with the projects that create jobs and University, DrPH, Health Policy; 20th District seat in November 2018 Political Science US Attorney’s Office on counter- decrease unemployment will help University of Alabama at by 16 points, 58-42%. Elected to a Occupation: State Representative terrorism and criminal cases, Ohio recover. 23rd District Birmingham, MPH summa cum leadership position in the House Qualifications for Office: Two serving as legal counsel to our Question 2: My top priority is to (Vote for no more than one) laude, Epidemiology; Mississippi Democratic Caucus in 2019, serving Term State Rep.; Asst Majority former governor, assisting business fight for the health and wellness University for Women, BS cum as Assistant Minority Whip. My Whip.; Served: Vice Chair of re-start safely during a pandemic of all Ohioans. During my first NANCY DAY-ACHAUER, DEM laude, Microbiology legal career as a civil litigator and Criminal Justice, Civil Justice and to helping inner city kids makes me term, I sponsored bills to cut the Email: [email protected] Occupation: Consultant/State experience as a legislator give me Veterans Committees.; Former qualified to defend and protect our cost of life-saving medicines and Website: www.Nancy4Ohio.com Legislator the necessary background. council member.; Former Justice Dublin and Worthington. to investigate drug price fixing. I Education: Bachelor of Science Qualifications for Office: As the Question 1: Public schools Dept Attorney.; Veteran of Ohio Question 1: By requiring state voted for new funding to fight the Business Management, Master of current State Representative, I should remain fully funded, as Air Guard and US Army Reserve.; agencies to reduce government opioid crisis. I co-sponsored bills Divinity serve on five House committees, a should Ohio’s Unemployment COVID Economic Recovery spending by 20%, Governor Mike to expand addiction treatment, Clergy/Community joint committee, and co-chair the Compensation System, the Ohio Occupation: Task Force.; Domestic Violence DeWine has shown great leadership and I hosted events on vaping, Advocate bipartisan Legislative Children’s Bureau of Worker’s Compensation, Legislator of Year.; Humane Society by making the difficult decision teen mental health, and other Over Caucus. I’ve also spent more and drug treatment facilities Qualifications for Office: Legislator of Year.; Endorsed: OH to temporarily reduce state healthcare issues. I wrote legislation twenty years experience in than 20 years advising senior and caregiver programs. I favor Eviron’l Council, OH Chamber, NFIB, to expand telehealth services. I’ve eliminating the Promotional Play government spending during the business management, six years CPA, Farm Bureau, OSMA policymakers on affordable and COVID-19 crisis. Legislators need to also helped fight coronavirus, by experience as Westland Area accessible health care for seniors, tax deduction for casinos, as it is Question 1: The pandemic situtation voting for emergency aid, checking of questionable benefit and results do a cost-benefit analysis of each Commissioner, seven years is very fluid, and we don’t know families, and veterans. As a in on seniors in my district, and in substantial revenue loss to Ohio. line of the state budget, ensuring experience as community advocate yet the funding that the federal community volunteer, mother, treating patients hospitalized with The effective tax rate Ohio casinos that our basic needs are met and and grassroots organizer partnering government will be providing. First, and elected official, I am deeply coronavirus. I also know that health pay is significantly lower than many our tax dollars are being spent with local government and non- we need to look at our medical care committed to the people in this means more than just heathcare - it other states with casino gambling, wisely. profit organizations. needs. Currently our health care district. means investing in public education, including neighboring states like Question 2: As an immigrant, I Question 1: I anticipate the providers are in good shape, but Question 1: In the next budget, ensuring economic growth, and Pennsylvania, so eliminating the know how important it is to ensure reduced 2020 budget becoming that could change. I am in regular we must ensure sufficient funds protecting public safety, all of which Promotional Play deduction would everyone has equal opportunities the ceiling for 2021 spending. If contact with the hospitals in my are in place at the state and local I will continue to tackle next term. not harm casinos. I would review so they can live their own version of more budget cuts are necessary district to make sure that they levels to contain the virus, deliver the Business Income Deduction the American Dream. I will fight tax then state elected officials should have everything they need. Next, health and human services, and (BID) regularly to determine increases on families, continue to take a pay cut instead of expecting we need to look at housing and maintain important functions whether the deduction is having the work with small businesses to help 22nd District others to shoulder the entire food. Are people getting enough like education, the courts, clean desired effect of creating more Ohio them regain their footing amidst the (Uncontested Race) burden. We should use budget to eat and are they secure in their water, and public safety. Smartly jobs and increasing investment in pandemic, and reduce regulations reserves, unspent surpluses and housing. Finally, we need to look controlling this pandemic, using Ohio businesses, and, if not, make that hold us back. As a daughter of DAVID LELAND, DEM federal funds to offset budget at our economy. How are our small the budget stabilization fund, needed changes. a public school, teacher I know our Email: info@friendsofdavidleland. cuts that will otherwise result in a businesses doing? I served on the pushing for additional federal aid Question 2: I want to see HB 10, community is blessed with excellent com worsening recession and increased House Economic Recovery Task and Medicaid match funding, and which I sponsored, become law schools and teachers. I will work Website: www. hardship for struggling Ohioans. Force and am in continuous contact tapping unconventional resources in Ohio. This bill would create to ensure all students continue to friendsofdavidleland.com Programs that have surpluses and with our small businesses to make across state agencies will prevent the Office of Drug Policy within receive a quality education and Occupation: Attorney/State those that do not contribute to sure they’re able to reopen, stay draconian budget cuts and allow the Governor’s office, with a work with Governor DeWine to help Legislator the common good should have open, and help grow our economy. Ohio to emerge stronger and more Cabinet-level administrator, to schools reopen safely. Additionally, I Education: Columbus North High their budget reduced. We must Our first step has been to freeze resilient. establish and oversee a state-side, will fight any attempt to defund the School; The Ohio State University; also evaluate shifting funding in funding across the state. Question 2: My top priority will be coordinated comprehensive effort police. We can have accountability, Capital University Law School ways that can result in improved Question 2: Handling the many ensuring the health and well-being to fight the opioid epidemic. This transparency, and more training Qualifications for Office; Attorney, outcomes leading to cost savings. challenges of the pandemic from of Ohio’s children are protected in Office would coordinate drug- while still appropriately funding our Carpenter Lipps & Leland, Ranking For example, increased funding for the economic shutdown to getting our state budget and policies. This treatment and amelioration efforts police departments and the officers member Ohio House Criminal treatment courts results in savings our community access to medical means addressing school funding across state and local agencies, who work there. justice Committee, member Task to Corrections because fewer resources they need in a fiscally gaps that perpetuate income and act as a source of information on force on Conviction Integrity and people are incarcerated. practical way. This year, 2020, has racial inequities and that leave innovative programs communities BETH LISTON, DEM Post-conviction Review; Legislator Question 2: Jobs that can support created a legacy of challenges as our school districts struggling to are adopting around the state, Email: [email protected] of the Year, Ohio Public Transit a family. For many Ohioans, wages we head into our next budget cycle. pay for the safety measures and and inform of best practices in Website: www.bethliston.com Association. are failing to keep up with the For the past four years while I have technology resources necessary treatment and intervention. The Education: University of Notre Question 1: We don’t have a clear cost of living. Too often, people been in office, the priority has been to operate during COVID-19. It also 6 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 means more public investment in 1. In light of the significant budget our ability to provide timely and I’ve been a County Commissioner, critically essential for public health, early childhood learning and care changes caused by COVID-19, what accurate services. This includes Franklin County has risen as a safety, and welfare. so that our most vulnerable kids are 26th District government programs (that this continuing to fund the ongoing leader across the country for our Question 2: If elected, my top ready for kindergarten and their (Uncontested Race) office has influence on) do you multi-year project of replacing our innovative programs, management, priority is to provide for safe and parents can fully participate in the believe should remain fully funded aging case management system and budget, and we have won many efficient movement of people workforce. This also requires us to ERICA CRAWLEY, DEM or have their budget increased? with a more nimble and up-to-date budgeting and management awards and goods from place to place by ensure families, small businesses, Email: [email protected] Which programs should be cut or system, which I consider essential from our National Association designing, building, and maintaining and local governments are Website: www.crawleyforohio.com have their budget reduced? to continue our excellent services. of Counties. Because of my Franklin County’s roads, bridges, supported as they recover from Education: Juris Doctor, Capital 2. What is your top priority if Question 2: My office is in the midst leadership, and that of my fellow and infrastructure for multiple this economic crisis, so that Ohio’s University Law School, Master of elected? of two important initiatives that I Commissioners we have a sound modes of transportation by leading children can thrive in healthy homes Public Administration, Walden hope to see accomplished. The first budget and will not need to make an agency of action, innovation, and and communities. University, Bachelor of Arts in Franklin County Clerk is the multi-year replacement of the any significant cuts due to the collaboration. We are blessed at the Criminology, Cleveland State (Vote for no more than one) old case management system with COVID pandemic this year despite Franklin County Engineer’s Office University a new system. The second is the significant decreases in revenue. with an extremely strong team of 25th District Occupation: State Representative JARROD GOLDEN, REP application of the facilities master We pride ourselves on budgeting employees who share the same (Vote for no more than one) Qualifications for Office: U.S. Email: goldenforclerk.fc@gmail. plan and an upgrade and possibly for the future and for precisely this vision for the future and passion Navy Veteran, committed public/ com a move of my Domestic and sort of situation-- so that we won’t for public service to our residents, JIM BURGESS, REP community servant with a record Website: golden4clerk.org Juvenile division. I have also been have to make the difficult choice to citizens, constituents, those who Candidate did not respond. of accomplishments and awards Occupation: Sales and Customer advocating for an Auto Title office cut programs our residents rely on work in Franklin County but live such as the Navy & Marine Corps. Service in the Courthouse complex, as well at the time they’re needed most. elsewhere, and those just traveling DONTAVIUS JARRELLS, DEM Achievement Medal and National Question 1: In the Clerks office, as on-site childcare. Question 2: Over the last two years through Franklin County. Email: [email protected] Defense Service Medal. I have there are several projects and the Board of Commissioners has Website: jarrellsforohio.us worked with Head Start/Early services that cannot be reduced in taken an in depth look at the causes Education: Dontavius received a Head Start programs working with funding, due to the nature of the Franklin County and solutions to poverty in Franklin Franklin County Prosecutor Bachelor of Arts from Hiram College children and families. Additionally, needs of the courts and citizens. Commissioner, 1/2/21 County. Through that process (Vote for no more than one) in 2010 with a major in Political I have advocated on behalf of Among those are services that deal (Vote for no more than one) we developed the Rise Together Science and minor in Economics. children and families with the Court directly with court orders, warrants, Blueprint to Reduce Poverty and RON O’BRIEN, REP He earned the Martin Luther King Appointed Special Advocates for custody, and monies that may KEVIN BOYCE, DEM are currently setting up a nonprofit Email: [email protected] Service Award and President’s Children. be owed. Another would be title Email: [email protected] innovation center that will carry Website: www.ronobrien.com Award. Question 1: Education, social services that are administered by Website: kevinlboyce.com this work forward. While we may Occupation: Franklin County Occupation: Chief Communications services and support to small the Office. In regard to the reducing Occupation: Investment Banker be preparing to enter a new phase Prosecuting Attorney Officer, Franklin County Treasurer’s businesses should remain fully of expenditures of programs or Question 1: Through the strong and in our Rise Together work, there is Question 1: The Franklin County Office funded at the very minimum. The projects, I believe the use of Millions prudent management of Franklin still much to do to ensure that work commissioners have requested a Qualifications for Office: Dontavius Department of Rehabilitation and of dollars for, yet another new E-File County finances, we have been is successful. If re-elected, I will 2.5 percent budget cut for 2021. currently serves as the Chief of Corrections budget should be cut. System should be abandoned. Over able to maintain programs and renew my focus on our work there, Ninety-six percent of the county Communications at the Franklin If we considered reducing (initially) the past few years, a new E-File maintain a AAA Bond rating. It is particularly in the areas of racism prosecutor’s budget is personnel County Treasurer’s Office, where our overcrowded prison population System has been implemented critical to be responsible and avoid and affordable housing strategy. costs, so any budget reductions will he established and maintained by releasing most of the 15,000 and this system is reportedly full arbitrarily making cuts when we These two issues linger through all be accomplished through attrition. effecting and cooperative inmates that are low-level non of issues. I would rather use less do not have a full picture of the areas of poverty, and we must be Budget cuts should not be made in relationships with local and violent offenders, and connect them funding to work with our partners financial situation due to COVID. For strategic about the best ways to the successful Franklin County Drug municipal government officials, the with services in their community, in the Judiciary and their staffs to areas that need additional funding, improve affordable housing options Court, which provides help and community public interest groups, that alone initially could be several troubleshoot the existing system the county handles many safety and reduce the role racism plays treatment to the drug-addicted, and the media. He has previously millions of dollars as a cost-savings and fix it piece at time. net programs. It is important that throughout our community and instead of criminalizing addiction. worked as the Director of Programs to the state. Question 2: My top priority is we maintain or increase funding for when it comes to poverty We must also avoid cutting the for the Ohio Association for County Question 2: I have multiple to audit all court orders issued those programs that assist families budgets of our Diversion Unit, Behavioral Health Authorities. competing top priorities as there to the office and ensure each is in need. However, we need to which allows some non-violent first- Question 1: Government programs are many things that need to be executed to the highest standard of consider all areas that we fund and Franklin County Coroner time offenders to be diverted from that address food insecurity, addressed in the 26th District. professionalism. It is my prerogative the necessary services that Franklin (Uncontested Race) prosecution, and our specialized provide job training services, and However, choosing one, my priority to establish a culture of Integrity, County provides. Gun, Gang or Special Victims Units. housing must remain fully funded. would be to reduce the Black Professionalism, and Transparency Question 2: The greatest challenge ANAHI ORTIZ, DEM Question 2: My top priorities I believe that programs that bailing maternal and infant mortality rate in in the Clerk’s office. This includes that Central Ohio is facing is Candidate did not respond. are, and will continue to be, out corporations should be cut. Ohio. There is a significant problem executing judicial orders accurately managing our growth. Key issues prosecuting violent crimes that Question 2: One of the biggest in Ohio as it relates to pregnancy- and expediently. We must make this will be reducing poverty & racism, are fueled by guns, gangs, and issues facing HD 25 is affordable related to deaths in Ohio where office a true service to the Judiciary addressing public transportation Franklin County Engineer drugs, and continuing to battle housing. From the increasing 56% of those deaths were deemed and the Citizens of Franklin County. issues, workforce housing, and (Uncontested Race) the fatal drug overdose problem property taxes to over 6 people- to be preventable. Black women affordable housing. caused by fentanyl. Along with the a-day being evicted from their made up only 17% of the births, MARYELLEN O’SHAUGHNESSY, CORNELL R. ROBERTSON, REP U.S. Attorney, my office created a homes (before COVID-19), these however, they made up 34% of the DEM ANDREW C. LITTLER, REP Email: priority offender program to reduce are serious issues that require deaths- dying at a rate almost 2.5 Email: [email protected] Candidate did not respond. CornellRobertson4Engineer@gmail. homicides and shootings in Franklin legislative and policy changes. As times that of white women. Ohio Website: www.votemaryellen.com com Website: County, and we will continue this Representative, I will advocate for continues to have one of the worst Occupation: Franklin County Clerk Occupation: Franklin County program if re-elected. a Circuit Breaker Tax Credit, which infant mortality rates in the country of Court Franklin County Engineer will provide targeted tax breaks to as it relates to Black infants. In Ohio, Question 1: Our office is currently Commissioner, 1/3/21 Question 1: The two main sources GARY TYACK, DEM low-income and elderly taxpayers Black infants are still dying at 2.5 in budget discussions with the (Vote for no more than one) of revenue for the Franklin County Email: tyackforprosecutor@gmail. when property taxes exceed some to 3 times the rate of white infants. Franklin County fiscal office. At Engineer’s Office are motor vehicle com percentage of their incomes above Studies continue to show that the this point we expect to be lean on LUIS GIL, REP registration fees ($30M/year) and Website: www.tyackforprosecutor. which they are deemed too be biggest contributing factor for everything but essential services. Candidate did not respond. gas tax ($4M/year). I believe these com too costly. For these populations, these deaths is racism. Since roughly 90 percent of our revenue streams should remain Occupation: Retired Judge circuit breakers are more inclusive, budget goes to salaries and benefits JOHN O’GRADY, DEM fully funded so we can continue to Question 1: I firmly believe because they provide relief to for my 200 deputies, a large budget 1480 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH maintain Franklin County’s roadway additional funding is needed to all taxpayers for whom property COUNTY OFFICE reduction could possibly impact 43215 infrastructure that includes: 800 expand drug courts. Drug courts taxes are most burdensome, and CANDIDATES our document turnaround time. Email: [email protected] lane miles of roads, 359 bridges, are a critical diversion program more exclusive, because they limit We do not expect to face a staff Website: Johnogrady.us and 185 drainage culverts. Good designed to decriminalize addiction eligibility to taxpayers for whom reduction. We also will continue Occupation: Franklin County roadway infrastructure drives the and provide the opportunity for “ability to pay” is clearly an issue. Questions for all County Office to look for ways to apply new Commissioner economic engine of our region, treatment in lieu of incarceration. Candidates: technologies which can increase Question 1: In the 12 years that promotes good development, and is The same is true of diversion LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 7 programs for our youth. We have important. If we can make things and poor districts. I will work to find Website: www.michelleforohio.com Justice law in a clear and concise decision. seen a strong uptick in violence easier on the voter, then less calls ways to reduce the inequities that Occupation: Marketing Professional Education: Juris Doctor, University In addition, I seek to continue my amongst our young people this will come in. This will lead to my exist in Ohio Schools. Third, I will and Nonprofit Director of Cincinnati, College of Law 1991; work beyond the bench, including year, which we can say is at least office being able to focus on other continue to support Ohio’s Strategic Question 1: Our most pressing issue Bachelor Degree of Social Work, but not limited to, my Lean partially tied to the pandemic issues for the people of Franklin Plan for Ohio Schools, “Each Child, is how to best support our teachers University of Cincinnati, School of Forward initiative which advances and lack of employment, schools County. Our Future” which addresses and administrators as they work Social Work, 1984 substance abuse and mental health going virtual, and general societal the whole child. And finally, I will to provide the best educational Work Experience: Justice, Supreme treatment of justice-involved stress. Our young people have been CHERYL BROOKS SULLIVAN, DEM continue to advocate for services to experience possible for our Court of Ohio, 2012-Present; veterans, civic education about the traumatized by these situations. Email: Cheryl4Treasurer@gmail. address non-academic barriers such students while keeping everyone Administrative Judge/Judge, importance of our tripartite system By creating diversion programs com as mental health and social and healthy through the time of COVID. Butler County Common Pleas of government and the role of the specifically geared toward our Website: https://www. emotional learning. Our schools must have access to the Court, Domestic Relations Division, judicial branch in that government youth that would steer them to cheryl4treasurer.com/ Question 2: I’m qualified as I necessary technological resources 1999-2012; Attorney at Law, General and the availability of employment mental health resource, trauma Occupation: Franklin County currently serve on the State Board to teach, as well as basic necessities Practice, 1991-1998; Magistrate opportunities for women and counseling, tutoring assistance, Treasurer of Education and have been like cleaning supplies and PPE. In & Warrant Officer, Butler County minorities in the law, continuing to and more, we will have a stronger Question 1: For the Treasurer’s active on several committees and addition, time is of the essence to Area Courts, 1995-1998; Warrant & write and present legal education opportunity to end the school to office, there are no programs that currently chair the Continuous get Ohio on board with reviewing Compliance Officer, Butler County programs on important issues prison pipeline. we offer or have an influence over Improvement Committee. I have curriculum, hiring practices, and Juvenile Court, 1996-1997; Special like professionalism and cultural Question 2: Criminal justice reform that require funding or a budget. over 37 years in public education, more to look for bias and make Counsel, Ohio Attorney General consciousness, and my work to and combating public corruption As a result, there are no programs with 32 of those being at The Ohio adjustments to provide an equal Betty D. Montgomery, 1995-1998; expand the reach of problem are tied for my top priorities. that would need to be cut. All of State University in the College of experience for all of our students. Disciplinary Counsel, Fraternal solving courts by incorporating the programs that we have to assist Education and Human Ecology as Last, we must continue to work with Order of Police, Lodge 38, 1991- programs like Bridges Out of residents do not burden the county a Professor of School Psychology. legislators to advise new funding 1998; Director, Victim/Witness Poverty and growing holistic re- Franklin County Recorder budget, and as a result, cuts are I have partnered with districts in mechanisms for our public schools. Division, Butler County Court of entry programs. (Uncontested Race) not something that needs to be various capacities and understand The continued over reliance on Common Pleas, 1989-1991; Law addressed. the challenges and promises that property tax to fund schools must Clerk for the Honorable Matthew JOHN P. O’DONNELL J. Crehan, Judge, Butler County DANNY O’CONNOR, DEM Question 2: My top priority if re- teachers, administrators, students, end. Email: Candidate did not respond. elected is to continue assisting all and parents experience. I have Question 2: I am a small Court of Common Pleas, 1989-1991; judgejohnpodonnellforjustice@ of our taxpayers through rebuilding consulted with districts on how to business owner, communications Police Officer, Hamilton Police gmail.com and restabilizing. The Treasurer’s implement academic and behavioral professional, a life long learner, Department, 1985-1989 Website: odonnellforjustice.com Franklin County Sherriff office assists numerous individuals interventions as well as how to genuinely enjoy getting to know Bar Association Rating: Occupation: Judge, Cuyahoga (Uncontested Race) that are in need as a result of make system changes to reduce all types of people, and I am Question 1: Justice, Supreme County Court of Common Pleas, many factors, whether that be the achievement gap. I practiced always looking for ways to learn Court of Ohio, 2012-Present; General Division Administrative Judge/Judge, Butler Education: Cleveland St. Joseph DALLAS BALDWIN, DEM unemployment or debt. My office as a school psychologist in public and develop new relationships. County Court of Common Pleas High School, Miami (O.) University, Candidate did not respond. works to ensure that the taxes and schools (urban, suburban and rural) SBOE members should be forward fees paid by our residents are not for five years before becoming a thinking, nimble, and willing to Court, Domestic Relations Division, Cleveland Marshall College of Law a financial burden or barrier to professor. evaluate how policy decisions will 1999–2012 Work Experience: Legal work My non-judicial experience: Civil trial attorney growth. Our programs regarding affect Ohio’s schools. They should Question 2: Franklin County Treasurer experience informs my judicial 1993-2002 and 2005-2007; Judge, payment assistance help to allow all ALICE D. NICKS be on top of current education (Vote for no more than one) experience and I draw upon that 2002-2005 and 2007-present. of our residents to thrive. Email: friendsofalicenicks@gmail. trends to ensure that Ohio’s public experience everyday as a justice at Bar Association Ratings: All 2020: com Website: schools are on the forefront, not BRANDON CROSS, REP the Supreme Court of Ohio. I began Recommended, Ohio State Bar Occupation: lagging behind. SBOE members Email: cross4franklincotreasurer@ STATE BOARD my career in the justice system as a Association; Excellent, Cuyahoga Question 1: Education has become must pledge to always be learning gmail.com OF EDUCATION police officer in the City of Hamilton Metropolitan Bar Association; too focused on non-academic and adapting to best serve our Website: https://www. enforcing the law and keeping Excellent, Asian American Bar CANDIDATES issues and the joy of learning has communities. I feel I represent cross4treasurer.com/ the peace. I left law enforcement Association of Ohio; Excellent, been replaced with the drudgery all these values and would be an Occupation: Strategy Coordinator to attend law school and served Cuyahoga Criminal Defense Questions for all State Board of of test-taking. I intend to work with excellent addition to the board. I Question 1: While I have some as a law clerk in the Court of Lawyers Association; Good, Norman Education Candidates fellow board members, legislators, truly care about our schools and thoughts on where budget changes Common Pleas, General Division S. Minor Bar Association 1. What would be your top priority local school boards, administrators, ensuring we are providing the best may occur, due to the erratic year for Judge Matthew J. Crehan Question 1: I have been a judge for if elected to the State Board of teachers, and parents to help educational experience we can that we have had so far and the drafting memos and opinions for over 16 years. I have presided over Education? restore an academic focus and limit provide as a state. fact that my time in office will not motions to dismiss and motions for hundreds of jury trials, both criminal 2. Why are you particularly qualified testing. start until late in 2021. The prudent summary judgment. Serving as a and civil, and scores of bench trials. for this office? Question 2: I have served children course of action will be to wait solo practitioner, I practiced law in I have handled death penalty cases. from birth through college in until I am in office and evaluate the JUSTICE FOR THE OHIO a wide-array of areas including, but I was selected by the Chief Justice various rolls including teacher, current state of Franklin County SUPREME COURT not limited to, criminal, domestic of The Ohio Supreme Court to be owner/administrator of a childcare and the Treasurer’s Office. The one State Board of Education relations, probate, and juvenile one of only eight judges in Ohio to corporation, developmental thing that I can say regardless of 6th District in both the trial courts of Butler preside over a commercial docket disabilities board member, court the future state of our county, I will (Vote for no more than one) Questions for all Judicial County and the Twelfth District dedicated to the swift and just appointed special advocate for seek to maximum the return on our Candidates Court of Appeals. During that time resolution of business disputes. a juvenile court system, licensed portfolio. ANTOINETTE MIRANDA 1. List your judicial experience I also served as Special Counsel I have presided over a criminal clinical counselor, and college Question 2: My top priority will Email: [email protected] (court and years) for Attorney General, Betty D. mental health docket specializing in professor. Having recently retired, be to review the entire structure Website: www. 2. What about your non-judicial Montgomery and a part-time the issues arising in the adjudication now is the perfect time to invest of the Treasurer’s office from antionetteforeducation.com experience qualifies you to be a Magistrate in the Butler County and disposition of cases where a more deeply in the education of all top to bottom. I would like to Occupation: Department Chair and judge? Area Courts hearing civil cases. defendant has a serious mental use a process improvement Professor Ohio children. 3. Why are you running for this In 2019 the docket of the Ohio illness with a psychotic feature. methodology to see where we can Question 1: After having served particular seat? Supreme Court of Ohio included I have a reputation for political get more efficient and where we on the board for one term, I will the following case types: 48.8% independence, a necessity for any can eliminate waste. Part of that continue to be an advocate for State Board of Education criminal; 21.8% miscellaneous; good judge. process would involve hiring a all students in the State of Ohio. 9th District Justice, FTC 1-1-21 17.5% civil; 7% practice of law; 4.9% Question 2: I was a civil trial director of Information Technology My priorities--First, fighting for (Vote for no more than one) (Vote for no more than one) domestic relations, juvenile, and attorney who was in court (if not already in place by next year) equitable funding across districts probate. almost every working day for and revamping the website. While in the state of Ohio that is not RON HOOD SHARON L. KENNEDY Question 3: I am seeking re-election approximately 10 years. going door to door and speaking reliant on property taxes. Second, Candidate did not respond. Email: kennedy4justice2@gmail. to the Ohio Supreme Court to Question 3: The Ohio Supreme to the people of Franklin County. COVID-19 has laid bare the com continue my service to the people Court decides issues affecting One of the things I kept hearing inequities in school districts which MICHELLE NEWMAN Website: http://www. of Ohio – applying the law equally everyone on a wide variety of people say was how the website serve as barriers and further the Email: michelle@michelleforohio. kennedyforohio.com/ – in a fair and impartial manner subjects: constitutional law; was missing information they found achievement gap between wealthy com Occupation: Ohio Supreme Court providing a definitive statement of education; collective bargaining; 8 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 employer/employee rights; civil that hear oral arguments on cases rights; utility rates; criminal law; fully briefed and prepared for review. commerce; legislative districting • Manage team of staff attorneys and others. I want to bring to these and paralegal in review of records issues an independent perspective, and drafting and review of informed by practical experience decisions. LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS and the law, to decide these • Confer with other appellate cases for the common good of all judges on cases presented for oral Ohioans. argument and written decisions following oral arguments. of Metropolitan Columbus • Sit as visiting judge on the Ohio Justice, FTC 1-2-21 Supreme Court and in other courts (Vote for no more than one) of appeals. • Participate in state appellate judge training and information JENNIFER BRUNNER Email: judgejenniferbrunner@ exchange. gmail.com • Research and draft decisions on appeals. Website: http://www. jenniferbrunner.com • Serve on court Personnel Committee. Education: J.D. Capital University • Central Ohio Association for Law School, Order of the Curia; Nonpartisan Justice George E. Tyack Judicial B.S. Sociology-Gerontology, Miami Excellence Award for performance University, Cum Laude as appellate judge, May 2016. Occupation: Judge, Ohio Tenth • Judge, Franklin County Common District Court of Appeals Pleas Court, elected 2000, Work Experience: Court of Appeals reelected 2002 Voter Services Citizen Education Judge since 2014; 17 years private • Managed regular docket of law practice, during period of 1987 at least 500 civil cases and 125 through 2014 when not in elected criminal cases at any time pending. public service (founded what was • Eliminated docket backlog from initially home-based law firm in 991 cases to 713 cases in one year. 1988 with 3 small children at home); Advocacy • Conducted trials including three USAID Rule of Law Expert for 4 judge panel death penalty trial, engagements in Republic of Serbia criminal trials for aggravated on Judicial Reform and Government murder, rape, felonious assault, Accountability (anti-corruption) complicity to felonious assault, and 1 engagement in Socialist robbery, burglary, and theft, Republic of Sri Lanka, all during and civil trials including age e League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus encourages period of 2012-2015; International discrimination, premises liability Election Observer in Arab Republic (slip and fall), auto accident and informed and active participation in government, works to increase of Egypt for 3 engagements in medical malpractice. 2014-2015; Secretary of State • Implemented procedures for understanding of major public policy issues, and in
uences public of Ohio 2007-2011 (first female jurors to ask questions in trials; elected); Franklin County Common affirmed by Ohio Supreme Court policy through education and advocacy. Pleas Court Judge 2000-2005; with statewide procedures modeled Ohio Secretary of State’s office after those challenged and deputy director and legal counsel affirmed. 1983-1987; Ohio Senate legislative • Working within court and with aide and committee secretary community mental health and 1978-1981, Member of 5 state/ substance abuse service providers, Join the League of Women Voters local boards: Ohio Student Loan established and presided over Commission early 1990’s, Franklin the TIES (Treatment is Essential County Board of Elections 1997; to Success) Program, a felony Name Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission drug court specialized docket, 2011-2012; Ohio Counselor, providing for intensive probation Address Social Worker, Marriage & Family of persons whose substance abuse Therapist Board 2012-2014; Central or substance abuse co-occurring Ohio Transit Authority with mental illness has contributed Bar Ratings: 2002 Highly to their commission of nonviolent Recommended – 2014 Highly felonies; this specialized docket is Recommended still in operation today. Home Phone Email Question 1: Judge, Tenth District • Supervised 45 probationers in Court of Appeals, elected 2014, TIES program and supervised $ Individual $75 $ Household (2 at same address) $125 reelected without opposition 2016 activities of TIES Program $ Fixed Income $40 $ Student $15 • Serve as one of eight judges in coordinator, while maintaining $ Newsletter and Announcements Only $20 jurisdiction of 1.2 million people regular docket. reviewing cases filed as of right • Collaborated with TIES program from lower courts at county and service providers across disciplines, www.lwvcols.org $ Tax-Deductible Donation to the League of Women Voters municipal level (civil and felony including assisting with cross- and misdemeanor cases, probate, training for better cooperation; $ Total Enclosed family law and administrative advocate of collaboration for best law), state court of claims cases, planning, execution and results, Make check payable to LWVMC and mail to 6500 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH administrative law decisions and including acceptance by affected holding original jurisdiction in populations. 43229, or make secure credit card payment online at www.lwvcols.org. government-related cases. • Presided over cases involving • Participate in three-judge panels administrative appeals of state LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 9 agency decisions, including appeals includes serving as general counsel the give-and-take of views and an assistant attorney general, Question 2: My 31 years of practice the west side of Columbus. The of ballot issue challenges. for a computer firm and a trade the softening of others through and a state government lawyer. have prepared me to serve on the clinic is set up to allow scheduled • Served on following court association, serving as campaign reasoned and respectful discussion Those years in public service Tenth District Court of Appeals. hours for meeting with attorneys, committees: Court Personnel finance counsel for numerous and decision making. Currently, the are critical to my understanding In that time, I have acquired including myself, who offer pro Committee, Court Technology state and local labor unions, political balance of the state’s high of state laws, my adherence to the necessary experience and bono services to the Latino Committee, New Judges corporations, national and state court is a state of unbalance with constitutional limitations, and knowledge and have exemplified community in central Ohio. I have Committee, Grants Review associations, candidates, caucuses 5 Republicans and 2 Democrats. my commitment to careful and the necessary temperament to served as a board member to the Committee, Assigned Counsel for and political action committees A 4-3 balance would, in my view, efficient decision making on behalf serve on the Court. I am the only Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio, Indigent Defendants Committee. on state and federal election law, create some of the best decisions of all Ohioans. I also have legal candidate for this seat that brings Homeport, a non-profit, low income • Taught probation officers of the and representing neighborhood possible from the court. I hope to experience in the private sector, almost 12 years of experience of housing development organization, court and lawyers involved with groups and developers on zoning, help provide that balance with my having worked in a law firm and a working with a diverse, deliberative, the Epilepsy Foundation, and The the Ohio State Bar Foundation referendum and initiative election election. large manufacturing corporation. decision-making body. This is in Columbus Coalition Against Family curriculum on poverty and working issues. Past experience also That private experience helps me direct contrast to others who may Violence which works to remove with people in poverty to help them includes representing judges JUDI FRENCH understand the practical impact only have experience of making the scourge of family violence in succeed. and judicial candidates before Email: JusticeJudiFrench@gmail. of our decisions and appreciate autonomous decisions. Treating our community. While serving on • Adjunct professor for graduate the Supreme Court concerning com the impact of our judicial rules colleagues with collegiality, being Columbus City Council I was very law enforcement program for compliance with the Code of Website: http://JusticeJudiFrench. and procedures. Finally, as the courteous and respectful to those active in addressing the crisis of Tiffin University, a private Ohio Judicial Conduct. Hold experience com; http://FriendsofFrench.com daughter of a schoolteacher, I whom I served with, as well as homelessness in our community. I University, teaching law and ethics in drafting state legislation and Education: B.A. (Political Science); appreciate my Ohio roots and those who appeared before me, worked with the Community Shelter for law enforcement officers and administrative rules in areas of M.A. (History); J.D. (Law with education, and I am committed to being decisive, fair and treating Board on efforts to address the for undergraduate law enforcement election law, local option elections, honors), The Ohio State University using my voice as a Justice to be all with equality is how I held crisis. I actively visited homeless program, constitutional law for law campaign finance, and ethics laws. Occupation: Justice, Ohio Supreme a part of civic education in Ohio. myself during my three terms as encampments and sat with these enforcement Served as administrative partner of Court I speak frequently to students, member of the Columbus City fellow citizens to lend them an ear Question 2: My 17 years private law firm. Work Experience: Justice, Ohio educators, and civic organizations. Council, and its President, and and give them a voice, and to learn practice experience with people Question 3: I love the law, I love Supreme Court (2013-present); Since taking office, I have traveled throughout my career of 31 years. from them what they needed most from all walks of life has helped Ohio and I enjoy helping people. Judge, Tenth District Court of to all 88 counties (I am on my This is what I bring with me if and made it happen on a local me better understand how the law I am privileged, having traveled Appeals (2004-2012); Chief Legal fifth time around), and I have met elected to the Court. My practice level. I am proud of my efforts. In affects people, in a wide variety to every county in this state when Counsel to the Ohio Governor with individuals, organizations, has encompassed serving as a 2006, I was humbled to receive The of life situations. To be a lawyer is I served as Secretary of State, to (2002-2004); Assistant Attorney businesses, and local leaders, all public defender, as a staff attorney Community Shelter Board’s Hero a calling to serve society and to have worked with Ohio’s 88 county General/Chief Counsel to the in an effort to serve them better. If and supervising attorney to the Award. After leaving City Council uphold and protect the rule of law. boards of elections as we together Attorney General of Ohio (1997- reelected, I will continue that level Ohio EPA, as Chief Legal Officer to in 2011, I was honored again by The I have worked for clients ranging served Ohioans. I chose to run for 2002); Chief Legal Counsel, Ohio and method of service. Ohio’s largest solid waste authority, Community Shelter Board to receive from economically disadvantaged the Ohio Supreme Court for three Environmental Protection Agency Question 3: I first aspired to be a as corporate general counsel, as The Mel Scottenstein Leadership single mothers to one who was reasons: First, I want to be a part (1993-1997); Associate Counsel, justice because it offers interesting, a three-term elected official, and Award for serving the homeless and running for president (Jerry of a court that ensures that the Steelcase, Inc. (1993); Associate, challenging, and meaningful work as an attorney in private practice. working to eradicate homelessness Brown in 1992). My private law first decision interpreting the state Porter Wright Law Firm (1988- that serves the public interest. I Each of these opportunities has in our community. practice experience includes trial constitution’s new provisions for fair 1993). allowed me to obtain a level of Public service aspire to be reelected to the office Question 3: and appellate work for clients in districts for Congress and the Ohio 2020: “Highly experience and knowledge that experience complements the legal Bar Ratings: because I want to continue that common pleas courts in Franklin, General Assembly, when challenged Recommended” I can bring immediately to the experience necessary to serve as an work, both on and off the bench. Cuyahoga, Licking, Fairfield, Carroll, — and they will be — is fair and Question 1: – Justice, Ohio Supreme court especially in the areas of appellate judge. I will bring the legal As a justice, I am able not only to Mahoning and Hamilton Counties; in according to state constitutional Court 2013 – present energy and environmental law. The and community service experience bring attention to needs within appellate courts in the Tenth, Third, requirements. As Secretary of – Appointed January 2013; elected role and responsibility of a Court as a Judge to the Tenth District the legal profession, the judiciary, Eighth, Fifth, First, Second and State, my office sponsored a public November 2014. of Appeals judge is to apply the Court of Appeals. and the public as a whole, but also Sixth District Courts of Appeals; contest to draw districts to show – Serve on seven-member court law to the facts of the case being to advocate for change to meet the Ohio Supreme Court; United we could end gerrymandering. with statewide jurisdiction presented to reach a fair and just COLLEEN O’DONNELL those needs. In particular, during States District Courts (Northern We used a formula that served as over all legal matters, including decision. My knowledge, experience Email: CommitteeForJudge my next term, I intend to continue and Southern Districts of Ohio); a basis for developing the state discretionary and non-discretionary and demonstrated temperament [email protected] the court’s work to improve our Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals; and constitution’s formula for fair appeals, original actions, death- over my 31 plus years of practice Website: wwww. efficiency and that of all Ohio am admitted to practice before districts. We proved it could be penalty appeals, and disciplinary will allow me to do just that. Public CommitteeForJudgeODonnell.com courts. I also intend to continue the United States Supreme Court. done. Nothing is more basic to the matters. service is important to me. It is a Education: Miami University, B.A., my work with the Ohio Access to I have represented clients in health of Ohio’s democracy than fair – Serve as frequent presenter privilege to serve the community Case Western Reserve University Justice Foundation and local legal administrative proceedings before districts, and I want to participate in before high school, college, law and the people who have put School of Law, J.D. aid organizations to bring more numerous state and local boards, any review of that process occurring school, legal professional, and their trust in you. I have been Occupation: Judge, Franklin County attention, resources, and innovation served as a special prosecutor for after the 2020 census. I want to use general public audiences on matters privileged to serve my community Common Pleas Court to the needs of undeserved election fraud and as a hearing my experience to the benefit of the of access to justice, civic education, as an elected office holder and as Work Experience: Federal Law Ohioans. officer for the Ohio Department of court and the people of the State of law, and campaign policy. a community volunteer. Serving on Clerk; Assistant Attorney General; Natural Resources. In 2011, I drafted Ohio. Second, there are important – Appointed by United States the Tenth District Court of Appeals Private Practice; and seven years as a statewide referendum petition for issues such as when a police office Supreme Court Chief Justice would allow me to bring my 31 years a trial judge a coalition of voting rights activists, can make an individual get out of Roberts to serve on the Federal CANDIDATES FOR OHIO of legal experience and community Bar Association Ratings: labor organizations, state and local their car, under what circumstances Appellate Rules Committee. Judge, COURT OF APPEALS, involvement to the people I would Question 1: I have served on the political party organizations and criminal records can be expunged, Tenth District Court of Appeals 10TH DISTRICT serve. I have served as the Chair Franklin County Common Pleas faith-based and other nonprofit when someone’s home can be 2004 – 2012 of The Bishop’s Annual Appeal for Court, General Division since 2013. organizations who gathered more taken through foreclosure or when – Appointed October 2004; elected the 23 county Catholic Diocese of Question2: Judge Colleen O’Donnell than 400,000 petition signatures is it appropriate for legislative November 2004; re-elected Judge, FTC 2-09-21 Columbus, raising over six million was appointed to the Franklin to place voting rights referendum caps on damages (such as rape of November 2010. (Vote for no more than one) dollars annually. I actively visited County Common Pleas Court, on statewide ballot; in 2012-2013 I a child by a trusted pastor) to be – Served on eight-member court locations in the Diocese (speaking General Division in May, 2013, developed a multi-state and federal overcome. These issues are just a with jurisdiction over civil, criminal, MICHAEL C. MENTEL to those who raise the money in won her retention election to the executive agency government few that affect everyday people and administrative appeals; Email: their prospective parishes, visiting Common Pleas Court in November affairs practice focused on matters in Ohio, though many citizens authored 800 opinions. Website: www.michaelmental.com the centers and the individuals that 2014, and in 2016, ran unopposed before the FCC and state public often don’t realize how much they – Served as administrative judge Occupation: Partner, Taft Stettinius benefit from the donations), and for another full term in the Common utilities commissions relating to are affected by just the words of (2007 and 2008) and as presiding & Hollister LLP led the fundraising efforts for the Pleas Court. Since taking the bench, low income telephone government the state’s highest court. Third, I judge (2009) Education: J.D. Capital University appeal which helps the homeless, Judge O’Donnell has presided over programs. I started my own have found that when there is a Question 2: For more than two School of Law poor and disadvantaged in all manner of civil and criminal law firm from the corner of my political balance on an appellate decades, I have dedicated my Work Experience: Attorney since Franklin County and other counties cases, conducted numerous jury bedroom when our children were court, there is less a tendency to career to public service. Before 1988, concentrating in energy and within the Diocese. In addition, trials, and she works aggressively 7, 4 and 2, growing it to 32 people “group think.” Better decisions are becoming a judge, I had served as environmental law. I established a legal clinic at the to resolve cases on her docket. after ten years. Other experience likely to emerge when they involve chief legal counsel to the governor, Question 1: N/A Our Lady of Guadalupe Center on Previously, Judge O’Donnell served 10 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 as a law clerk to Judge Sara Lioi of Domestic Relations – Juvenile Court developed in 2014 in Collaborative Appeals where decisions should negotiations. County Probate Court, and the the United States District Court for (7 years and 2 months) Partnership with Franklin County be easily understood even by a lay I transferred to the Litigation Ohio Court of Claims, as well as the Northern District of Ohio. She Question 2: I owned/managed Child Support Enforcement Agency. person. I am the person to give an Section of the Civil Division of the numerous state agencies and also served in the Ohio Attorney a multi-line insurance company Compass connects Unemployed opportunity to be heard to every Columbus City Attorneys Office licensing boards. The Tenth District General’s Office as an Assistant for 16 years. I hired, trained and Child Support Obligors with litigant that appears before me. where I represented the City of Court of Appeals also has original Attorney General in the Consumer retained qualified staff. I negotiated Community Partners for Education, Columbus and its employees in jurisdiction over multiple types of Protection Section. Before joining contracts for space, telephones, Resume Building, Job Training and LISA L. SADLER complex litigation in both state and extraordinary writs. Because the the Court, Judge O’Donnell was computers, advertisement for my Job Placement which has saved the Email: federal court. My responsibilities Supreme Court of Ohio accepts in private practice with the law agency. As a Franklin County Public community hundreds of thousands Website: included conducting trials and only limited discretionary appeals firm of Carpenter Lipps & Leland Defender and in my own practice, of dollars when litigants are not Education: Juris Doctor from appellate work in both state and from appellate courts throughout LLP, where she concentrated Jamison Law Offices, I represented incarcerated. Capital University Law School; federal courts. I have argued the state, the Tenth District Court on litigation matters, including accused persons during criminal Question 3: The Court of Appeals Bachelor of Science and Social cases before the Tenth District of Appeals is the court of last resort products liability and criminal and juvenile delinquency is a court of last resort for most Welfare from The Ohio State Court of Appeals and The Ohio for the vast majority of cases it defense. She also accepted court investigative proceedings, such litigants. Fairness, access to justice, University (graduated cum laude) Supreme Court. I also conducted decides. Therefore, it is important appointments to represent indigent as, attended police line-ups and protection of the Constitutional Occupation: Judge, Tenth District arbitrations and served as counsel to have the utmost trust and defendants. Judge O’Donnell has monitored physical examinations, Rights of litigants is paramount. Court of Apeals for the License Section, Department confidence in appellate judges. I experience practicing regulatory DNA collection, (finger-nail scraping Issuing non-biased opinions is Work Experience: Judge since of Public Service. My final legal have served Franklin County as and administrative law before the and blood, urine), and DNA testing; critical when your decisions affect 1992 – elected Tenth District Court position before becoming Judge a Judge for over 27 years. This Public Utilities Commission of Ohio interviewed witnesses and gathered every court in the County. Franklin of Appeals Judge, Franklin County was serving as Deputy Chief experience includes 11 years of and before the state legislature. facts to prepare the client’s County has a diverse population Court of Common Pleas Judge Legal Counsel in the Office of judicial experience as a judge Judge O’Donnell is a graduate of defense; drafted motions to set and the court should reflect the and Franklin County Municipal the Governor. My responsibilities presiding over jury trials in both Miami University and Case Western bail hearings and arranged posting population that it serves not only in Court Judge. Served as Assistant included management duties over criminal and civil cases, and over Reserve University School of Law. of bond to allow the client to be race or ethnicity. The Court needs Columbus City Prosecutor and the Office of Chief Legal Counsel 16 years as appellate judge on the She is also a graduate of The Jo Ann conditionally released pending trial; to have judges that bring diverse Assistant Columbus City Attorney, which provided research and Tenth District Court of Appeals Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute. represented accused persons in all work and legal experiences to be and served as Deputy Chief Legal rendered opinions and guidance ruling on the complex cases Judge O’Donnell is a member of court appearances leading to trial more able to understand the legal Counsel to Governor George V. on issues in state government described above. During my tenure the Columbus Bar Association; the in felony, misdemeanor and traffic arguments before the Court. The Voinovich. as directed by Governor George as appellate judge, I have been Ohio Women’s Bar Association; cases and domestic cases; drafted Court of Appeals also handles Bar Association Rating: The V. Voinovich. I also coordinated appointed by the Chief Justice of Women Lawyers of Franklin County; motions for pretrial discovery and actions that require governmental Columbus Bar Association 2020 litigation matters involving the the Ohio Supreme Court to hear and the Ohio State Bar Association; and suppression; appeared at pretrial agencies to act or to refrain from Performance Poll rated my judicial Governors Office with the Ohio decide cases as a Visiting Judge the Thomas J. Moyer American Inn conferences with judges and acting, particularly in elections. performance as judge on the Tenth Attorney Generals Office. I remain on the Oho Supreme Court, as well of Court. She serves on the Boards prosecutors to find common ground Access to fair elections is before District Court of Appeals at an active and dedicated to improving as other appellate courts across of the Grandview Heights Public and negotiated deals; conducted this Court regularly. Access to overall rating of 4.28/5 (average the practice of law. I have served on the state. My extensive judicial Library Foundation, and of Miami voir dire in jury selection, made fair elections not only comprises appellate judge rating 3.97/5), numerous committees in both the experience, combined with serving University’s Pre-Law Advisory opening statements, examined the right to vote but the right of earning me the honor of tying for Columbus Bar Association as well as Administrative and Presiding Program. She and her family are witnesses, presented evidence to candidates to be on the ballot. the second highest rating on the as the Ohio State Bar Association. Judge of the Tenth District Court judges and juries, and made closing Access to the ballot gives the Court. I’ve received the Rating Some of my past service includes proud members of The Shamrock of Appeals, uniquely qualifies me arguments at the conclusion of voters the right to select their of “Highly Recommended” by serving as Co-Chair to both the Club! to continue to serve as appellate trial; conducted legal research to office holders. Franklin County is the Columbus Bar Association Ohio Judicial College Bench Bar Question 3: Judge O’Donnell judge. I have earned a reputation prepare for court appearances; and the seat of government and the Judicial Screening Committee each Retreat and to the OSBA Jury believes all litigants should be for being fair and impartial, for filed notice of appeal and drafted opinions issued can be persuasive time I have appeared before the Instruction Committee. I served treated fairly and respectfully, and following the Rule of Law, and for appellate briefs and presented oral to other appellate divisions across Committee -’93, ’96, ’00, ’02 & ’08. on the Commission on Rules of that they deserve timely resolution treating all who appear before me argument before the appellate the State of Ohio. Franklin County I earned the highest rating of Practice and Procedure and the of their cases. She is keenly aware with dignity and respect. I have court. I was a hearing officer for has unique population makeup and “Highly Recommended” from the Ohio Supreme Court Advisory that the vast majority of cases a proven record for efficiently the State of Ohio Unemployment as such will have unique questions 2020 Columbus Bar Association Committee on Case Management heard by the Tenth District Court deciding cases and I have earned Compensation Review Commission. of law. The Court has the obligation Judicial Screening Committee and and Appellate Time Line Guidelines. of Appeals will not garner further the respect of those who come i conducted administrative law to be a check and balance on the am the only candidate in this race to I am a long-time member of review, and thus understands before the Court, as demonstrated hearings for both Lower Authority power of the Legislative Branch. receive this rating. the Columbus Bar Association the importance of the decisions by the rating of “Highly & Higher Authority, including The judicial interpretation of the Question 1: • Judge, Tenth District Admission Committee and reached by this Court. Judge Recommended” from the Columbus hearings in complex areas of law law must be consistent and non- Court of Appeals, July 2003 – have mentored scores of young O’Donnell approaches every Bar Association Judicial Screening to determine why an individual discriminatory. I bring knowledge Present attorneys. The above depiction of case with an open mind, and is Committee – a rating I have earned was separated from employment; of the law, and particularly of trial • Judge, Franklin County Court of my non-judicial legal experience, guided by the facts and the law. In each time I have appeared before determined whether an individual is law, as I have had numerous jury Common Pleas, March 1996 – July including my service to professional serving on the Tenth District Court the Committee. I enjoy serving entitled to unemployment benefits; trials in various counties. I have 2003 legal organizations, showcases my of Appeals, she will continue to Franklin County as an appellate explained hearing procedure & used my strong interpersonal skills • Judge, Franklin County Municipal dedication to the legal profession adhere to the rule of law, respect judge and take pride in ensuring advises parties of their rights, to effectively oversee complex Court, May 1992 – March 1996 and to public service. My wide- the separation of powers, and serve equal justice to all litigants. If re- administers oath & oversees cases involving adversarial lawyers • Appointed by the Chief Justice of ranging non-judicial experience, our community with distinction and elected, I will continue to ensure the taking of testimony, secures and powerful emotions among the Ohio Supreme Court to serve combined with my extensive integrity. fair and efficient administration of stipulations, answers questions, all concerned parties in Domestic as a Visiting Judge on the Ohio experience as both a trial and justice for all. interprets policy and procedure, and Juvenile Court. I am impartial Supreme Court, as well as other appellate judge uniquely qualifies rules on motions and objections, and use the skill of being able to Ohio Courts of Appeals 2004 – me to continue to serve the citizens Judge, FTC 7-01-21 and determines admissibility of recognize my own prejudices so Present of Franklin County as an Appellate (vote for no more than 1) evidence; conducted legal research that I am not unduly swayed by Question 2: My legal career began Judge on the Tenth District Court CANDIDATES FOR in preparation for hearings (e.g., them. Any person that says they in the Franklin County Municipal of Appeals. FRANKLIN COUNTY TERRI JAMISON reviews all materials from the have no implicit bias has bias that is Court as an Assistant Columbus Question 3: I am proud to serve COURT OF COMMON Email: [email protected] Lower Authority proceedings & unchecked. My years of experience City Prosecutor where I prosecuted Franklin County as Judge on the PLEAS Website: www.VoteJudgeJamison. Director’s files & all additional as a small business owner have traffic and misdemeanor cases, Tenth District Court of Appeals com documents & exhibits, ensures assisted me in understanding the such as OVI and domestic violence. and am running for re-election. In Education: J.D. Capital University that parties & issues are correctly division of assets/liabilities and the As a prosecutor, I was assigned 2002, the voters of Franklin County Common Pleas Judge, Law School identified & notified), confers with tax ramifications. I have worked to various courtrooms and tried elected me to serve them as an General Division, FTC 1-1-21 Occupation: Judge parties regarding scheduling & within a corporate structure and both jury and court trials. I had the appellate judge, and I have served (Vote for no more than one) Work Experience: Judge since 2013 continuances, authorizes issuance understand how dissolution of responsibility of managing a trial in that capacity since 2003. The Bar Association Ratings: 2018 of subpoenas; and wrote decisions companies impacts the parties taxes docket and reviewing the evidence Tenth District Court of Appeals CARL AVENI Judicial Screening Committee of (e.g., reviews evidence, researches and personal lives. All decisions in each case I was assigned. I hears appeals from all divisions Email: [email protected] Columbus Bar Association – Rated legal issues, types or dictates in Domestic Juvenile Court are interviewed victims, police and of the Franklin County Court of Website: http://www.CarlAveni. Acceptable decisions). I oversee a special written. I bring strong research civilian witnesses, and engaged Common Pleas, the Franklin County com Question 1: Franklin County program called Compass which I and writing skills to the Court of in pre-trial preparation and case Municipal Court, the Franklin Education: J.D. Boston University LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 11 School of Law, 1996, cum laude, com Recommended” by the Columbus often bring in the parties and their I learn new concepts quickly, and in Central Ohio. I represented Editor, Boston University Law Review Education: J.D., University of Bar Association in 2014 election lawyers to try to work through I have fluency in both procedural thousands of clients in U.S. District Occupation: Attorney. Partner in Toledo College of Law Question 1: I have been a judge on their disagreements in a civilized, and evidentiary rules. I have a Court, Franklin County Court of the Litigation Department and Chair Occupation: Attorney the Franklin County Common Pleas peaceful manner. In criminal cases, tremendous respect for the law and Common Pleas, Franklin County of the Ethics Committee, Carlile Work Experience: Attorney Court for 5 years. I work very hard to put myself in its role in our society, for the courts Municipal Court and Franklin Patchen & Murphy, LLP Bar Association Ratings: Question 2: I studied criminal law the shoes of both the defendant and their place in our democracy, County Juvenile Court from initial Work Experience: Litigation and Question 1: No experience as a at The Ohio State University for 4 and the victim in aiding with plea and for the heavy burden of public appearances through jury trial to Trial lawyer for 24 years across judge. years prior to law school. Following negotiations and when sentencing. service. If elected Judge, I will use verdict and on appeal. I have also Ohio’s Courts of Common Pleas, Question 2: I have a wealth of legal my graduation from law school I I have a very hands on approach this expertise to be fair, impartial, been counsel for both plaintiffs Courts of Appeals, and the Ohio and leadership experience. I am practiced in the field of complex because we are not dealing with effective, and efficient in serving and defendants in various civil Supreme Court an Army Combat Veteran, having civil litigation for a small firm in San “cases,” we are dealing with people. the people of Franklin County, Ohio. matters including personal injury Bar Association Ratings: “Highly served in Korea and Operation Iraqi Diego. Given the size of the firm, I This court deals with felonies and Question 3: I am seeking judicial cases, contract disputes, collection Recommended”, Columbus Bar Freedom. I attained the rank of was almost immediately handling civil cases where a great deal of office because of my passion for matters, landlord/tenant issues, Asociation, Judicial Screening Sergeant, was awarded the Army my own cases from start to finish. money is in dispute, so the stakes public service and my love for the small claims matters and numerous Committee, 2020 Achievement Medal twice. Before This helped me to learn the world are high. I am running to keep my law itself. Since my very first day of environmental cases. Question 1: Until now, my 24 year I became an attorney, I worked of civil law very early on in my seat so that I can continue to ensure law school, I have been devoted to Question 3: I have worked for, legal career has been devoted with several law firms. I also have career. I was taking depositions, that the playing fields are level and the law as the practical philosophy worked with and lived with Franklin primarily to representing clients in experience working as an intern- representing clients in mediations that every person who walks into by which we achieve and maintain County voters for over 30 years. I litigation before Ohio’s Courts of prosecutor with the Wayne County and trying cases in my first year my courtroom knows that they will a progressive and civil society. began my family in Franklin County, Common Pleas, Courts of Appeals, Prosecutor in Detroit Michigan and of practice. Most of the lawyers be heard and treated fairly. Since 2009, I have been serving the I worked as a prosecuting attorney and the Supreme Court of Ohio. I as a law clerk. After law school, from other firms that were involved people of the City of Columbus as for this County, I dedicated my also have significant experience I served at the Ohio General in these cases were much more ANDY MILLER an Assistant City Attorney for the legal career assisting individuals litigating in the federal court Assembly as a Senior Legislative experienced than I was, so I had to Email: andymillerforjudge@gmail. Columbus City Attorney’s Office, and companies in Franklin County system, as well as before state Aide. Then I moved to the private learn quickly. I also was handling com and these past ten years have been and have served the citizens of administrative and regulatory sector where I represented cases that involved areas of the law Website: andymillerforjudge.com the most rewarding of my career Franklin County as both a Municipal agencies, and through private hundreds of Ohio’s municipalities that I had not necessarily studied in Education: J.D. from The Ohio State thus far. I have found an honor in Court and Common Pleas Court arbitration. as Legislative Advocate for the law school. Being a judge requires University, 2001; B.B.A. from Ohio public service, a pride in knowing Judge. I have assisted thousands Question 2: A large part of my Ohio Municipal League. During this that you be familiar and competent University, 1998 that my time and energy are being of individuals and companies practice has been representing first time, I began my private practice, to handle cases in many areas of Occupation: Attorney spent for the public good. My pride or organizations with their legal and second generation family run representing clients in complex the law that you may not have been Work Experience: Assistant City in public service has grown as matters and continue to do so every businesses in “bet-the-company” financial matters. I now work full exposed to during your time as a Attorney for the Columbus City strong as my passion for the law day as a Judge. My dedication and litigation. The kinds of disputes time as an attorney, representing lawyer. This requires a great deal Attorney’s Office since 2009; itself. Becoming a judge will allow hard work ethic have been noticed where everything is on the line, clients in a wide array of matters, of hard work and you cannot be Professor of Law at South Texas me to grow as both a lawyer and by my peers as I was voted as and a bad outcome might change including general litigation, afraid to ask questions. I had the College of Law in Houston, 2008- a public servant. If elected, I will Highly Recommended in 2011 and the trajectory of an entire family bankruptcy, bankruptcy litigation, same experience as a lawyer, so 09; Professor of Law at Loyola strive to do the greatest amount of 2014 and more recently in the 2020 for decades. I have sat with my and estate planning. when I became a judge, I knew how University New Orleans 2007-08; good I can for the largest number 0CBA performance poll rating of clients around the kitchen table the to handle it. As a judge in Franklin Litigation Attorney at Squire, Question 3: My experience makes of people. 4.13. I am seeking another term as night before trial, listening to their me particularly well-suited for County, you have to be able to Sanders & Dempsey (now Squire a Common Pleas Judge to continue fears and offering advice, support dealing with difficult parties in handle both civil and criminal cases. Patton Boggs) in Columbus, 2003- to provide the citizens of Franklin and counsel. Over the course of My experience and education 07; Judicial Clerk to the Honorable resolving disputes. In fact, I’ve Common Pleas Judge, County with my diverse real world, two decades, I have seen litigants, positioned me to be knowledgeable George H. King, District Judge built my reputation on this skill set. judicial and legal experience. I also witnesses, and their families on in both areas. Finally, as a lawyer on the U.S. District Court for the General Division, FTC 7-1-21 The parties before the courts, and believe that commitment to public some of the most difficult days handling complex cases that Central District of California, 2002- (Vote for no more than one) our community, need someone service is a noble endeavor. of their lives. I have seen the toll generally involved dozens of 03; Judicial Clerk to the Honorable who is both a great judge and a that our system takes on them, all lawyers, I had to navigate my way Reynaldo G. Garza, Senior Circuit MICHAEL J. CASSONE great leader. I have proven to excel regardless of outcome. My legal through a multitude of different Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals Candidate did not respond in both areas. After a number of Common Pleas Judge, experience has prepared me to personalities and skill levels. Judges for the Fifth Circuit, 2001-02 negative stories in the media, the serve our community, with the aim have to do the same thing when Bar Association Ratings: DAVID YOUNG General Division, FTC 7-2-21 community is looking for new of pairing legal scholarship with it comes to the parties and the Question 1: I have served various Email: judgeyoung2020@gmail. (Vote for no more than one) leaders to rebuild faith in the justice humility; bringing legal rigor and lawyers. I learned diplomacy as a judicial officers throughout my legal com system. I will take the lead on impartial dispassion, but also a lawyer and I use it every day as a career and education. In law school Website: davidyoungforjudge.com CHRIS BROWN communicating with the community healthy measure of compassion, judge. (2000), I was a student extern for Education: Miami University Email: reelectjudgebrown@gmail. and being a leader they can trust respect, and, where appropriate, Question 3: I am running to keep the Honorable Thomas J. Moyer, {Oxford, OH} BS Accounting/ com and believe in mercy. my seat on the Franklin County Chief Justice of the Ohio Supreme Finance Website: chrisbrownforohio.com Question 3: There is no greater Common Pleas Court because Court. From 2002 to 2003, I was Occupation: Franklin County Education: J.D., Capital University calling than public service in this court provides me with the a judicial clerk to the Honorable Common Pleas Court Judge Law School, 2005 support of a fair and free society. Common Pleas Judge, opportunity, almost every day, Reynaldo G. Garza, Senior Circuit Work Experience: Judge {2012- Occupation: Judge And there is no higher duty General Division, FTC 2-9-21 to have a positive impact on our Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals pres}; private practice {1986- Work Experience: Assistant than to ensure justice for the (Vote for no more than one) community. On this court, we for the Fifth Circuit. From 2003 to 2012}; Assistant Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney, 2005- disenfranchised as much as for have the ability to change lives, to 2004, I clerked for the Honorable Prosecuting Attorney {1991-1994} 2011; Managing Attorney, J. Scott the powerful. My legal career has JENIFER FRENCH save lives and to make the world George H. King, District Judge Bar Association Ratings: CBA Weisman Law Offices, 2012-2015 allowed me to help families on the Email: [email protected] a better place. There is enormous on the U.S. District Court for the 2012 and 2014 Judicial Screening Bar Association Ratings: 4/5, best and worst days of their lives. Website: judgejeniferfrench.com responsibility with this position, Central District of California. Committee “highly Recommend” Columbus Bar Association The simple fact is that the Court of Education: The Ohio State because there is enormous power. Question 2: My service to judicial Question 1: Franklin County Performance Poll, 2018. Common Pleas is where Americans University-BA Criminal Justice, It is vital to use that power to officers has shown me the Municipal Court Judge {2012-2015} Question 1: Franklin County Court intersect most directly with their Thomas Jefferson School of Law, JD make positive change and to help importance of fair, accurate, and Franklin County Common Pleas of Common Pleas, General Division, government, and they rightly cum laude people. I do this on a daily basis complete substantive decisions and Court Judge {2015-pres) For the 2015-Present. expect our judges to match the Occupation: Judge-Common Pleas and it is incredibly rewarding. I of case management itself. My year past 8 years, I have served as a Question 2: As both a prosecutor requisite impartiality, scholarship Court take the responsibility of this job in California taught me a life’s worth Judge on the Common Pleas Court and defense attorney, I have and trial skills with a sense of basic Work Experience: Wayne Thomas very seriously because I know my of lessons in case management, and bench and Municipal Court bench, a unique perspective, having decency. I believe I have something and Associates, complex civil decisions impact so many aspects I know just how efficiently a trial I have presided over thousands of represented both the State of Ohio to offer our community in service of litigation attorneyLane Alton, civil of the lives of the people who court can and should run. I have criminal and civil cases, including and individuals charged with felony those goals. litigator appear in my courtroom. I strive successfully litigated hundreds of jury and bench trials criminal offenses. Bar Association Ratings “Highly to work with the lawyers and the cases in my career, and I approach Question 2: Prior to being elected Question 3: I am running for re- JOSH BROWN Recommended” by the Columbus litigants to think outside of the box each one as both an advocate for Judge, I operated my own law firm election because I want to continue Email: [email protected] Bar Association Screening to find solutions, when we can, my client and an officer of the court. for 17 years principally representing representing the community Website: www.votebrownforjudge. Committee in 2020 election; “Highly to the issues in front of us. I will I know the law, and I know it well. charged with criminal offenses in which I grew up. Having the 12 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 experience of being a prosecutor, as it is in the best interest of the the rules of civil procedure and I decisions. I preside over my cases when appropriate to reduce the and employment rather than on defense attorney, and now judge, I individual and society as a whole. have conducted extensive pre-trial with honesty, integrity and civility, tension in the courtroom. I worked to a path of crime. The graduation am uniquely able to view the impact Having spent my entire adult life discovery, taken hundreds of and will continue to do so for the hard and efficiently in private ceremonies of our two recovery of cases on all parties to a case, in serving people in Franklin County depositions and drafted numerous citizens of Franklin County because practice which translated into the courts are the highlights of my both criminal and civil cases. and doing my best to provide motions in both state and federal I believe this is what the community same hard work on the bench. I year. We also started a raised-bed justice for all, I am now ready to courts. I understand the realities of deserves. As a judge, I understand had a breadth of experience from garden on the concrete courtyard MICHAEL CARLETON take the bench in Franklin County navigating through tough situations, that I am in a position to profoundly simple cases in small claims, to very at the Juvenile Intervention Center. Candidate did not respond. and serve an even larger sector of working with clients and being held affect many peoples’ lives and I take complicated cases in common pleas I plant alongside the youth detained the population and make the most accountable for resolving cases this responsibility seriously. I make and appellate courts. I learned that there, colorful flowers, herbs and positive impact that I can. in an appropriate manner. As a best efforts to positively impact when a judge treats clients fairly vegetables that truly brighten Common Pleas Judge, former civil litigator, I appreciate the individuals who appear before and with respect, even if the case the space and at the same time General Division, UTE 1-5-23 GINA R. RUSSO the alternative methods of dispute me as well as the communities they does not go their way, they respect provide the fixings for salsa when (Vote for no more than one) Email: [email protected] resolution and encourage their use belong to, while providing equal the outcome and the judicial ripened! Most of the youth have Website: http://www. among clients and other litigants. access to a fair and impartial court system. Litigants and attorneys never tasted a raw herb, dug a hole judgeginarusso.com My diverse background in both civil dislike arrogance in judges and SHERYL MUNSON to all. Equal access to a fair and in the soil, or watched a plant grow. Education: J.D., Wake Forest law and criminal prosecution best appreciate kindness, as we all Email: impartial court is the foundation of As families break apart, spouses, University School of Law positions me to take the bench should. Practicing in front of scores sherylmunsonforjudge2020@gmail. our legal system and it is the reason parents and children want a judge Occupation: Judge, Franklin County as a judge who presides over a of judges throughout Ohio taught com I am running to remain your Franklin with experience, knowledge and Court of Common Pleas-General combined docket of both civil and me a lot about judging, before I Website: www. County Judge. compassion. I believe the Columbus Division criminal cases. During my seventeen became one. I have mentored high sherylmunsonforjudge.com Bar Association’s annual rating of Work Experience: 2012-2019 years as a civil and criminal litigator, school and law school students. Education: J.D. from The Ohio State me which is based on the opinions Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, I have practiced in most areas of Maintaining a good reputation University, Moritz College of Law Common Pleas Judge, of attorneys that practice in my Franklin County, Ohio, 2002- the law and have the prior “real-life” among peers has always been Occupation: Attorney with the Domestic Relations/Juvenile court everyday, prove that I have 2012 Civil Litigator, Vorys, Sater, experience for which there is no paramount, both on the bench Franklin County Public Defender Division, FTC 1-2-21 those qualities. Thank you for Seymour and Pease, LLP substitute. My experience has been and prior. I did pro bono work with Office (Vote for no more than one) taking the time to read about the Bar Association Ratings: “Highly extensive and expansive and I have the “Lawyers for Justice” CBA Work Experience: Franklin County judicial candidates. No one wants Recommended,” Columbus Bar the background, education and sub-committee and continue to be Public Defender since 1994 to be in court. It is stressful and Association Judicial Screening experience to serve on the Franklin GEORGE W. LEACH active with the CBA, welcoming Bar Association Ratings: Candidate did not respond. expensive. But if you end up in Committee, 2020 County bench. new attorneys. I volunteered to Question 1: This is my first judicial court, you want an experienced, Question 1: I am currently a Judge Question 3: I am running to keep serve on numerous committees campaign. thoughtful individual handling your on the Franklin County Court of my seat on the court because I DANA PREISSE for the Supreme Court of Ohio Question 2: I have been a public [email protected] case. I respectfully ask for your vote Common Pleas-General Division believe that there is no reason to Email: including the Guardian ad Litem defender for twenty-six years; Website: November 3rd. (March 2019 to present). I preside wear a black robe other than to Task Force and the Continuity of fighting to ensure that all people, over a combined civil and criminal positively impact our community. Education: J.D. Capital University Operations Committee (Disaster regardless of their income or docket of approximately 600 cases. As your Judge, I am extremely Law School 1985; B.A. Journalism Planning ) and have served as a demographic background, have The Ohio State University 1982 Common Pleas Judge, Question 2: In addition to my passionate about the law and panelist, for continuing educational full, fair, and quality representation. Domestic Relations/Juvenile current position as Judge, I have I believe that the law requires, Occupation: Judge purposes for both attorneys and I have tried many cases and am significant experience as a lawyer and this great community Work Experience: 24 years as judges. Division, FTC 1-3-21 qualified to represent people in both criminal and civil law, deserves, equal access to a fair a Judge in Domestic Relations/ (Vote for no more than one) in death-penalty cases. I have which is exceedingly rare among and impartial court. My passion Juvenile Division. Eleven years in Question 3: I love my job and the experience in handling virtually judges. From 2012 to 2019, I for the law is evidenced by my private practice with a small law challenges it presents. And the STEPHANIE HANNA any criminal case that a judge worked relentlessly to protect the extensive criminal law and civil firm, prior. Represented people in legal community strongly supports Email: [email protected] might have to consider. I have citizens of Franklin County as an law background. With my diverse family court and also in general me in keeping it. That is why I Website: www.hannaforjudge.com strong research and writing skills. Assistant Prosecutor for Franklin background, I am acutely aware of division civil courts with experience am running to maintain my seat. Education: J.D. – University of I have a firm grasp of the Rules of County Prosecutor Ron O’Brien. I the important role judges play in in jury trials, appellate courts, As the senior judge on our court Toledo, College of Law; B.A. – Evidence. I have experience dealing quickly advanced from a juvenile the legal system. Since taking the administrative hearings throughout and after two decades and over Michigan State University with people from all walks of life prosecutor, to the grand jury unit, bench, I have established quality Ohio. 100,000 cases, I still love what I Occupation: Attorney including people who appear in and ultimately to the adult-felony court practices and procedures Bar Association Ratings: “Highly do. It is a privilege to serve on the Work Experience: I have been court and with court staff and trial team, where I tried numerous for the smooth administration of Recommended” by the Columbus domestic relations and juvenile an attorney for the past 12 years, personnel. I have been serving murder cases and other important, justice. I ensure that cases on my Bar Association, 2020 court bench where we get to help serving as a prosecutor, staff the people of Franklin County for high-level felony cases. I worked docket are addressed efficiently Question 1: 1997 through 2020, people who are often in difficult attorney, magistrate, and small my entire adult life. I believe, as extensively with law enforcement and that my decisions are issued Franklin County Court of Common situations, solve their issues. I also business owner. individuals, our purpose in this life is agencies to investigate crimes and timely. I approach each case with Pleas, Domestic Relations and want to continue projects that I Bar Association Ratings: to serve our communities and all of became proficient in analyzing compassion and empathy. I give Juvenile Division. spearheaded and oversee such as Question 1: I have served as an its members. crime scenes and conducting expert everyone in my courtroom an Question 2: As a practicing attorney Family Recovery Court and Juvenile Appointed Magistrate in the Question 3: I believe that all forensic examinations. In doing opportunity to be heard and I for over a decade, I was active Recovery Court. In 2002 we created Domestic Relations/Juvenile Court people coming before the Court– so, I became particularly skilled work with an open mind to treat in the Columbus Bar Association the first drug court in Franklin (2012-2013). defendants, victims, and civil in trial work and sharpened my everyone fairly and with respect. (CBA) Family Law Committee County, known now as Recovery Question 2: I have significant litigants–should be treated with knowledge of the rules of evidence I appreciate that people present and represented individuals of all Court. I have witnessed firsthand experience in domestic relations/ fairness and respect by a judge and other court rules. I worked different viewpoints, beliefs and walks of life, race, sexual identity the scourge illegal opioids, heroin juvenile court as well as other who understands the law and the tirelessly to prepare cases for trial positions. I understand my role and income levels. I had the good and fentanyl have inflicted on our positions that directly impact Rules of Evidence. This is the kind of and interacted with members of as judge to acknowledge each fortune of working with some very families. Our voluntary but intensive this role. I have served as a staff judge I will be. A fair and competent the community daily as victims, side and preside with diplomacy. experienced, highly reputable and program helps parents achieve attorney to a domestic relations/ judiciary is the key to a just society. witnesses and potential jurors. I listen to the facts and evidence talented trial attorneys who taught and maintain sobriety so that juvenile judge where I have drafted We are at a turning point within From 2002 to 2012, I worked as a presented and I apply the law me the correct way to try a case their children can be returned to hundreds of decisions and managed the criminal justice system where civil litigator for the law office of fairly, consistently and evenly to to a jury or judge. I had trials in their care. Parents learn parenting a busy docket. I have experience we realize that mass incarceration Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, all parties, no matter which side front of juries in several counties skills through classes, must do as a prosecutor, solo practitioner, is not the key to deterring or LLP. There, I handled a large of the argument they present. and presented a thousand cases at random drug tests and counseling, and business owner. I am also a preventing crime. We realize that variety of complex civil matters I strive to reach the right result administrative hearings throughout are assisted in finding affordable step-parent and know firsthand drug addiction and substance involving contracts, torts, product and ensure that justice is served. Ohio. Thus, I know what it means to housing (tremendously difficult in the complexities of parenting abuse is a social and personal liability, personal injury, workers’ I can, and do, make the tough be a good and fair judge, before I central Ohio) and are linked with arrangements and how this court sickness that cannot be cured by compensation, employment, and decisions that every judge must was ever elected, because frankly, other support systems. Juvenile has a major impact on family extreme punitive measures. I am construction litigation. I argued make and I am not persuaded by I came across some judges that Recovery Court started more decisions. All these experiences excited to be running for judge at cases before many trial and public opinion. I work thoughtfully were neither. I knew that having recently. We are assisting non- allow me to uniquely understand a point in history where the need appellate courts across the region, and deliberately, always with the the proper temperament was violent teens in the juvenile system, the needs of the parties that come for social justice and constructive, including the Sixth Circuit Court rule of law and the safety of the important and I have lived up to achieve permanent sobriety and before the Court. rehabilitative sentencing is clear of Appeals. I am well-versed in community at the forefront of my that standard, mixing in humor put them on the road to education Question 3: I believe in the families LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 13 and children of Franklin County Court General Division, Judicial and to learn. I have volunteered training as a mediator and have DIVISION, 2011 to Present (Sitting Additionally, citizens needing and I know I can make a difference. Staff Attorney, (2007-2011); Perez & at schools to share information assisted many families in settling by assignment of Presiding Judge help can now also turn to the Compassion. I have a high level of Morris, Defense Counsel, (2006- about the Franklin County Court their family differences after the on a case by case basis) JUDICIAL Franklin County Probate Court compassion and desire to do more 2007); Franklin County Common System and mentored youth on self- death of a loved one. AWARDS: DISTINGUISHED Legal Resource Center, a legal with this position other than process Pleas Court Domestic Relations & esteem and goal setting. I have also Question 3: My extensive legal SERVICE AWARD Awarded by the clinic staffed by a contract lawyer cases. I intend to use this position Juvenile, Teen Court Hearing Officer volunteered at churches and civic experience over 39 years in Probate Ohio Guardianship Association to help them with small estates. to truly impact our community (2005-2008); Adjunct Instructor organizations to support numerous law makes me uniquely qualified On September 19, 2019, the MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD outside of the courtroom walls — (2008-2014); Attorney General’s community events. For over 20 to deal with the issues that would Ohio Guardianship Association Awarded by the Ohio Association of we need to see our judges in the Office, Assistant Attorney General, years, I have volunteered with Fire come before me as the Probate honored Judge Montgomery Probate Judges Judge Montgomery community and we need to see (2004-2007) Fighters Against Drugs, serving as a Judge. Many of the more difficult by giving him the Distinguished received the Meritorious Service the community in the courtroom Bar Association Ratings: tutor and serving meals during the cases that come before the Probate Service Award. This award was Award from the Ohio Association learning about what goes on there. Question 1: I am currently the holiday season. judge involve family disputes when given to Judge Montgomery of Probate Judges in 2012, 2013, I also intend to use this position to Lead Magistrate, Franklin County Question 3: I am qualified to serve a loved one becomes incapacitated in recognition of his innovative 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and mentor, encourage, and motivate Common Pleas Court Domestic for the judicial position for which I or has died. My experience in guardianship programs he created 2019. This award was presented the people that come before me Relations & Juvenile Division am seeking election based on my representing thousands of clients in and implemented in Franklin to Judge Montgomery for his to leave stronger than they came. (2013-present). I have extensive experience, compassion, passion probate and estate planning cases County. The Ohio Guardianship leadership and commitment to Understanding that many juveniles litigation experience handling jury for families and overall commitment makes me well suited to resolve Association specifically mentioned the many worthy causes he has will come before me and their trials, bench trials and appellate to the mission of the Domestic these disputes. I have extensive Judge Montgomery’s pilot program devoted time and resources to interaction with the court can truly court cases with approximately half Relations and Juvenile Court. My experience in probate litigation in Franklin County where Judge with the Association, including make or break their future, I will civil and the other half criminal. I body of work demonstrates that I matters and in mediating difficulties Montgomery drafted the legislation establishing the State of Ohio’s first bring a high level of compassion to serve on a pilot specialty docket have the ability and qualifications to to a successful resolution. I would which created the First Public Probate Court Mental Health fund this role. Further, I will make sure to address human trafficking effectively fulfill the requirements be honored to be given the Guardian in the State of Ohio. This in Franklin County. CERTIFICATE that I and my staff are continuously within our community, chair court of the office and serve in excellence. opportunity to be the Probate program became so successful OF APPRECIATION (2nd Award) trained on our implicit biases so we committees and represent the Court I am active in court committees Judge to continue to serve the that the legislature took Judge Awarded by the Supreme Court of can identify them and learn ways at national conferences to advance and consistently go beyond the residents of Franklin County. Montgomery’s program and passed Ohio Judge Montgomery received to make sure they do not creep juvenile justice. My committee call of duty to serve as the Lead legislation making his Franklin this certificate most recently in into our decision-making. Work assignments assist the Court in Magistrate. I am knowledgeable ROBERT G. MONTGOMERY County pilot program a statewide December 2017 after previously Ethic. I will bring a very strong work progressive policy and planning, about the mission of Domestic Email: Info@JudgeMontgomery. initiative. This allowed all of Ohio’s receiving one in December of ethic to this position that will allow strategy work groups and ensuring Relations and Juvenile Court and com Probate Judges to implement 2014. The Supreme Court of Ohio parties to get timely decisions so that the Court is on the forefront in have consistently served families Website: https://probate. the same public guardianship appointed Judge Montgomery they can move forward with their trends. Serving as a judicial officer, in Franklin County in Domestic franklincountyohio.gov/ http:// program Judge Montgomery to serve on the Commission on lives. This Court is the busiest in the I have had numerous attorneys Relations and Juvenile Court for judgemontgomery.com started in Franklin County. The the Rules of Superintendence state and I am running for a seat compliment me for my patience, over a decade. If elected, I am able Education: J.D., Juris Doctor, Ohio Guardianship Association also for Ohio Courts. This key group that was created to help alleviate attentive ear, and overall positive to assume the role and fulfill the Capital University Law School: recognized Judge Montgomery for enacts rules regulating all of the high caseloads. My staff and judicial temperament. I routinely duties without any delays in justice. Graduated with distinction (Order another new program, the “Limited Ohio’s courts. Judge Montgomery I will answer our phones every ask attorneys for constructive of the Curia Honorary Society), Am. Guardianship for Mental Health Care served as a Commissioner from time we hear them ring, respond critiques and ask the families about Jur. Book Award for Highest Grade Purposes.” This new program has January 2012 through December to emails and voice mails, and do their experiences in my courtroom. Common Pleas Judge, in Corporation Law; B.A., Bachelor allowed parents to stay involved in 2017. PUBLIC OFFICIAL OF THE our very best to be timely and Question 2: Throughout my twenty of Arts, Bowling Green State their children’s mental health care YEAR AWARD Awarded by the work full days. Families depend years in the Franklin County Probate Division, FTC 2-9-21 University needs after they turn the age of 18. National Association of Social on the decisions that come out of legal community, my practice (Vote for no more than one) Occupation: Franklin County AWARD OF JUDICIAL EXCELLENCE Workers, Region 5 In 2016, the this court. Innovation. I will bring was concentrated in the areas of Probate Judge; Farmer Awarded by the Ohio Association National Association of Social a fresh perspective and new ideas Domestic Relations & Juvenile JEFF MACKEY Work Experience: Franklin County of Probate Judges On June 10, Workers, Region 5, selected Judge for how we can move cases along (DRJ) matters and litigation. I Email: [email protected] Probate Judge, 2011 to Present; 2019, the Ohio Association of Montgomery to receive the Public and give people the decisions they served as a legal intern in DRJ in Website: www.jeffmackeyforjudge. Farmer/Owner, Montgomery Probate Judges recognized Judge Elected Official of the Year Award. are looking for. Especially with the law school. I have worked part com Farms/White Oak Lodge, SE Ohio, Montgomery as an outstanding This was done in recognition of pandemic, courts are backlogged. time in the Diversion department Education: B.A. and J.D. from The 1999 – Present; Franklin County jurist by giving him its Award of Judge Montgomery’s innovative I have several ideas for ways we as a Teen Court Hearing Officer Ohio State University Recorder, 2000 to 2010; Attorney Judicial Excellence. This award ideas in creating the State of Ohio’s can move things along — Saturday while litigating full time during Occupation: Attorney at Law, Robert G. Montgomery was given to Judge Montgomery in first Public Guardian Program. Court, continuing to have remote the day. I started a law practice Work Experience: Attorney in Law Offices, 1997 – 2010; Assistant recognition of the many innovative CHARLETA TAVARES CHAMPION hearings in some cases, implement to represent children and and private practice since 1981. Practice Solicitor/Prosecutor, Office of the judicial programs he has created in AWARD Awarded by the National processes to make sure dissolution parents in Domestic Relations & concentrated on Probate and estate Solicitor & Prosecuting Attorney, the Franklin County Probate Court. Alliance on Mental Illness In and uncontested divorce paperwork Juvenile matters as guardian ad planning. Village of Hartford, Croton, Ohio It was awarded by a bipartisan 2016, the National Alliance on is completed ahead of time to litem and attorney. From 2003 to Bar Association Ratings: Highly 1997 – 1999; America One Title group of his peers serving as Mental Illness (NAMI) of Franklin ensure resolution at the time of the 2006, I was an Assistant Attorney Recommended by Columbus Bar Agency, Ltd., Founder & Vice judges in Ohio’s 88 counties. The County gave Judge Montgomery hearing; allowing attorneys and General in Workers’ Compensation Association Judicial Screening President Columbus, Ohio 1998 first program lauded was the the Charleta Tavares Champion clients to be present virtually when where I began litigating civil cases Committee August 2020 – 1999; Attorney at Law, Moran creation of the State’s first Pubic Award. This recognized the new possible. throughout Ohio. In 2006, I was Question 1: I am not currently & Montgomery, Ltd., Columbus, Guardianship Program where he Assisted Outpatient Treatment recruited by Perez & Morris to a Judge but have 39 years in Ohio, 1997 – 1999; President, CEO & drafted legislation creating the and Outpatient Commitment Court LASHEYL STROUD handle product liability, workers’ representing clients in many Majority Shareholder, Community Franklin County Guardianship developed by Judge Montgomery. Email: [email protected] compensation, immigration and different Courts in Ohio – Cable, Inc., 1991 – 1997. Service Board. This pilot program JUDICIAL LEADERSHIP: Elected Website: https://www. other civil matters, and later left particularly many Probate Courts. Bar Association Ratings: Ranked for Franklin County became a by peers in Ohio Association of lasheylstroudforjudge.com/ to accept a Staff Attorney position Question 2: I have practiced law 4.37 of 5.0 possible on Columbus statewide model for other probate Probate Judges to the following Education: J.D. from The Ohio State in the General Division of Franklin for 39 years. My practice has Bar Association 2020 Judicial courts in March 2019 after the positions: 2019: First Vice President University Moritz College of Law, County Common Pleas Court where been concentrated in probate Performance Poll, a rating of General Assembly adopted HB 595 of OAPJ; 2017: Second Vice 2003; B.A. from Kentucky State I served for four years. As Staff law and estate planning. I have “generally strong” is 4 and excellent at Judge Montgomery’s urging, President of OAPJ; 2015: Secretary/ University, 2000 Attorney, I handled civil pretrial represented thousands of clients in is 5. Judge Montgomery ranked with the Association’s support.The Historian of OAPJ; 2014: Chair/Host Occupation: Lead Juvenile conferences, drafted civil and Franklin County. I have particularly fifth highest in the overall rankings many other innovative programs Summer Conference of the Ohio Magistrate, Franklin County Court of criminal decisions, assisted with advised these clients in how to against his 31 judicial peers in the developed by Judge Montgomery Associations of Probate, Juvenile Common Pleas, Domestic Relations managing the docket, and gained avoid the Probate Court process County. Ranked “generally strong” include the State’s first program for and Domestic Relations Judges; and Juvenile Branch inside perspective of a judge’s role and how to keep elderly clients in by the Columbus Bar Association Limited Guardianship for Mental 2013 to Present: Probate Law and Work Experience: Lead Magistrate, in General Division. In 2011, I opened their homes (rather than nursing 2018 Judicial Performance Poll Health Purposes, the first full-time Procedure Committee of OAPJ; Franklin County Common Pleas a solo practice that handled civil homes or assisted living facilities). Results probate Mediation Program, plus 2012: At Large Officer/Executive Court, Domestic Relations & and criminal cases in the General I have extensive trial experience Question 1: FRANKLIN COUNTY the Assisted Outpatient Treatment Committee of OAPJ; Appointed a Juvenile Branch, (2013-present); Division and Domestic Relations including jury trials. I have years of PROBATE JUDGE, 2011 to Present and Outpatient Commitment Court, Commissioner by Supreme Court Stroud Law Offices (2011-2013; & Juvenile Branch. Community experience in running a business FRANKLIN COUNTY COMMON keeping mentally-ill citizens in of Ohio to the Commission on Franklin County Common Pleas service has allowed me to listen as a partner in a law firm. I have PLEAS COURT, GENERAL their homes to receive treatment. the Rules of Superintendence: 14 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 2012-2017- Commissioners are the request of the Presiding Judge Elected official in charge of the matters. As Probate Judge, I am investigation and prosecution of programs that I have started at the responsible for reviewing and of the General Division; 6) Serves Franklin County Metroparks; 17) the Clerk of my own Court and government employee misconduct. Court. These programs include the offering recommendations to the as the Clerk of the Probate Court; Has the power of appointment of supervise dozens of employees. America One Title Agency, state’s first public guardianship Supreme Court on all proposed 7) Issues and administers marriage vacancies to all school boards and My skill set as experienced public Ltd. Founder & Vice President program called the Guardianship superintendence rules and licenses (over 9,000 annually); 8) township trustee boards in the and private-sector administrator Columbus, Ohio 1998 – 1999, Services Board, the Limited amendments from the Court’s Jurisdiction in matters involving county if the boards cannot agree uniquely qualifies me to continue Successfully started, grew and Guardianship for Mental Health various advisory bodies and other probating wills, administering on a replacement; 18) Serves as a to serve as Probate Judge. My sold a land title insurance agency; Care Purposes, and the Outpatient organizations Supreme Court estates without wills, and presiding member of the Finance Committee legal experience includes the Licensed by Ohio Department Commitment Court. These are Pilot of Ohio Subcommittee on Adult over will contest actions and of the Columbus Foundation; 19) following positions: Attorney at of Insurance as an insurance Programs that I started in Franklin Guardianships. OVERVIEW OF estate disputes; 9) Jurisdiction Administers oaths and affirmations Law Robert G. Montgomery Law agent. Attorney at Law Moran & County and would like to ensure CURRENT DUTIES: 1) Largest over guardianship of incompetent to fiduciaries from other states; Offices Columbus, Ohio 1997 – 2010, Montgomery, Ltd. Columbus, Ohio their continued success. Finding single judge court in the state of adults and conservatorships; 10) 20) Appoints members to Franklin Practiced in the areas of integrated 1997 – 1999, Private law practice funding for these programs will Ohio, employs over 65 employees, Jurisdiction for all mental illness County Board of Developmental probate, estate and business focused on integrated estate be one of the biggest challenges including 14 magistrates, plus cases for 15 counties (2000+ Disabilities; 21) Appoints members planning; Counseled individual planning, business, corporate, that I have much experience and deputy clerks, licensed social annually); 11) Jurisdiction over of Franklin County Guardianship citizens and small business clients municipal & real estate law; Advised success with. As Probate Judge I workers, investigators, bailiffs and all adoptions, name changes Service Board; 22) Appoints on start- up issues. Assistant small businesses on numerous legal am called the “superior guardian” other staff; 2) Over 18,000 annual and birth certificate corrections; Board Member to the Columbus Solicitor/Prosecutor Office of the and start-up issues. for over 8,000 people. These cases filed/active annually; 3) 12) Jurisdiction in legal actions Foundation (7th largest charitable Solicitor & Prosecuting Attorney Question 3: As you can see from are society’s most vulnerable Serves as a Judge of the Probate involving the disposition of human community foundation in U.S.) Village of Hartford Croton, Ohio above in Question No. 1, the position people. Often, the least, last and Division of Common Pleas Court remains; 13) Jurisdiction over Question 2: My legal career prior to 1997 – 1999, Attended Village of Probate Judge of Franklin County lost of our community. I want to and may conduct jury trials; 4) eminent domain matters; 14) serving as Franklin County Probate Council meetings and provided is unique because it is as much continue the transformation from Serves as Administrative Judge of Jurisdiction over trust disputes Judge involved serving clients who legal advice & counsel; Prosecuted a social services administrator an attorney-based to a licensed the Probate Division of Common and matters involving powers of were individuals, families and small- traffic and misdemeanor crimes in and senior executive position as social worker based guardianship Pleas Court; 5) May be appointed attorney; 15) Appoints and swears- businesses who needed advice and the Municipal and Mayor’s Courts; a judicial office. I am running for system to ensure these vulnerable to preside over civil or criminal in all Humane Society Agents in counsel in the areas of probate, Appointed Special Assistant re-election so I can complete the people get the care and service cases in Common Pleas Court at Franklin County; 16) Metroparks: estate planning and business Prosecutor in county seat city for work of important new innovative they need and deserve. Working LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2020 15 with families in crisis following hundreds of disputes themselves, the ability to choose from multiple million on electricity in 2016.** board could only be reduced in an recommendations may promote the death or incapacity of a loved without the time, heartache and energy suppliers. It also provides amount to any overall city budget police policies that cannot, or are one to navigate the legal system is expense of going to court. I have local governments the ability to If passed, the City of Columbus reduction. too difficult, to be implemented, an honor and privilege. Providing created the first Legal Resource aggregate. In this issue, the City will develop a detailed plan for The charter amendment would and the inability to implement fair and just adjudication of their Center designed to help those of Columbus is proposing electric operation and management of create the independent Department recommendations could degrade disputes is a cornerstone of our families that cannot afford an aggregation, a process in which aggregation; include in the plan of the Inspector General for the the public view of the police. legal system. I pride myself on attorney. We have served over the city pools residences and small a commitment to 100 percent Division of Police. The CPRB would • The amount and overall source of my track record of using my 450 people in 2019. Continuing to businesses as a group buyer to renewable energy; and commit appoint the inspector general funding for the CPRB has not been many years of private-sector grow these programs and serve the increase purchase power. to encourage development of and govern the operation of the identified entrepreneurial experience to tackle people of Franklin County has been renewable-energy facilities in inspector general. complex societal problems. At the a tremendous honor and I would If the Issue passes, and the program Central Ohio. The CPRB would operate Franklin County Probate Court, I love to continue helping people as is adopted, residents will be notified independently of the Division Issue 24 – have assembled an outstanding their Probate Judge. that they will be automatically PROS of Police. It would have the ADAMH Levy – Franklin staff of public servants who enrolled in the program, unless they • Community choice aggregation authority to launch and carry County provide courteous, prompt and elect not to participate. will allow the city to use more green out investigations of alleged efficient service to the public for power sources than may be offered police misconduct, subpoena Issue 24 is a 5-year, 2.2 mill renewal their needs, including obtaining LOCAL ISSUES Electric aggregation is widespread otherwise, allowing Columbus to testimony and evidence during property tax levy with a .65 mill marriage licenses, birth certificate in Ohio. The City of Cleveland is move toward its short- and long- the investigations, and make increase that would - provide funds corrections and copies of important part of the largest governmental term goals for renewable energy. recommendations to the Division for the Franklin County Alcohol, public records. In the past nine Issue 1: public retail energy aggregation • The implementation of the plan is of Police. Drug Abuse and Mental Health years I have been in office, I created Electric Service Aggregation in Ohio and currently serves over slated to generate over $1 billion in (ADAMH) Board. If passed, the and implemented the Court’s Program – City of Columbus 235 communities. * In Franklin new investment, generate dozens of PROS levy would commence in 2021. first Mediation Program which County, Worthington aggregated in new jobs, and lead to increased tax The charter amendment: The proposed levy would cost a averages a 70% success rate. This Ohio deregulated gas and electric 2019. Cincinnati passed an electric revenues and land-lease payments • Will allow Columbus voters homeowner $89.93/$100,000 of Program has allowed families and utility service almost twenty years aggregation issue in 2011 and to the City. establish a framework for a civilian home property value per year. other litigants in conflict to resolve ago. Deregulation gives consumers reported that residents saved $1.5 • Aggregation could result in review board that has subpoena That is an increase of $22.75 per lower electric rates because of the powers, the authority to conduct year over the current levy. The bargaining power of the City’s many independent investigations, current levy, which is expiring, accounts. recommend disciplinary action and provides 71% of the $87 million that is fully staffed and funded. budget of the ADAMH Board. The CONS • Will provide the foundation for the Board’s mission is to improve the • The City of Columbus determined Civilian Review Board Workgroup’s well-being of our community by the winner of its selection process recommendations on the powers, reducing the incidence of mental before bringing the issue before form and function of Columbus’ health problems and eliminating the voters. civilian review board, and will help abuse of alcohol and other drugs • The free market should determine ensure those recommendations are in Franklin County. The number the area’s energy portfolio. implemented with the full support of people seeking services from • A subsidiary of AEP, which stands of Columbus residents. ADAMH has increased 72% since to financially gain from the passage • Will help establish the pillars for 2014. ADAMH funds 33 mental of Issue 1, is partially funding a successful civilian review board, health and wellness facilities in the City’s campaign for electric borrowing best practices from Franklin County. aggregation.*** around the country, while allowing the community to shape a Board PRO * https://www.nopec.org/ that reflects our shared values. • Passage of this levy will permit newsroom/post/city-of-cleveland- • This amendment will hold ADAMH to come closer to achieving electric-and-natural-gas- law enforcement accountable, the goals stated in its mission aggregation-programs/ and puts power in the hands of statement. ** https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/ civilians to investigate allegations • If passed, ADAMH will be able oes/energy/energy-aggregation- of police use of force and other to prevent a projected $14 million program/ misconduct so we can hold police deficit operating budget. ***https://www.thisweeknews. officers accountable and keep our • ADAMH has experienced a rising com/story/news/politics/ community safe. need for mental health services due county/2020/09/01/aep-money- to population growth and the opioid financing-columbus-green-power- CONS epidemic. ballot-issue/42368241/ • As proposed, the Columbus Charter Amendment does not CON provide any details regarding the • The renewal and increase of this Issue 2 – training, knowledge, and experience levy will burden Franklin County Civilian Review Board – requirements for the board homeowners and businesses at City of Columbus members or Inspector General, a time when the area economy is nor does it provide the cost to the in a recession, and government This charter amendment would taxpayers for these positions. programs may be reduced or create the Civilian Police Review • Some of the key elements of eliminated. Board (CPRB) consisting of a strong civilian review board – • Increase in taxes this year will be members who represent the diverse things Columbus residents care more than expected because of communities within the City of most about – will still need to be property tax reassessment Columbus. negotiated with the police union, • An alternative would be to fund Issue 2 would guarantee funding for Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), and alcohol, drug abuse, and mental the operation of the board. Once will likely face many challenges. health services with an increase in established, the budget for the • Citizen reviews and state funding.

For answers to more questions from the candidates, see our website at www.lwvcols.org 16 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF METROPOLITAN COLUMBUS | VOTER INFORMATION BULLETIN | FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2020 IMPORTANT INFORMA TION

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