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STATE OF OHIO JUDICIAL OF OHIO STATE ISSUES LOCAL STATE OF OHIO OFFICES OF OHIO STATE OFFICES COUNTY STARK ______FEDERAL OFFICES orderly, and we will have the opportunity to cast our vote in person . PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. Question 2: Describe what you have done to work across political differences to solve problems. Joe Biden, Democratic Party I used to think I was a Republican . Then I realized I didn’t agree Vice Presidential running mate: Kamala Harris with their Principles . I found the Libertarian Party best matches Campaign website: https://joebiden.com/ how I feel a free country should operate . A Libertarian can appeal to both Republican and Democratic voters . With a Libertarian Howie Hawkins, Green Party candidate, Republicans get fiscal responsibility and protection of Vice Presidential running mate: Angela Nicole Walker the second amendment . With a Libertarian candidate, Democrats Campaign website: https://howiehawkins.us/ get civil liberties like ending civil asset forfeiture, ending man- Jo Jorgensen, Libertarian Party datory minimum sentencing, ending no knock warrants, ending Vice Presidential running mate: Spike Cohen the war on drugs, and ending qualified immunity. Republican Campaign website: https://jo20.com/ and Democratic candidates have caused the current state of our country. They use specific issues to divide and conquer the mass Donald J. Trump, Republican Party population. Libertarians run for office to give voters an option to Vice Presidential running mate: Mike Pence vote out career politicians . Campaign website: https://www.donaldjtrump.com/ Question 3: What solutions do you propose to address challenges, especially inequities, in the healthcare system? Inequities in the healthcare system exist because of Government REPRESENTATIVES TO U.S. CONGRESS involvement . Government regulation is the cause of additional red tape and reporting requirements that drive up healthcare costs . Elect 1 per district We need Government removed from both the Healthcare and Salary: $ 174,000 Insurance industries . Term: 2 years I mention the insurance industry as we need to open insurance ______Shaded area of the state served by market across state lines to promote competition . Competition Ohio’s 7th Congressional District will lead to better pricing and coverage for the consumer . We also need to address Social Security by offering an Opt-out option . This way everyone can keep more of what they earn . Social Security funds have been misappropriated for far too long . It is time to give the people back control of their own retirement plans and allow them to invest in the private market .

Quentin Potter, Democrat Website: http://www .quentinpotterforcongress .com Facebook: http://QuentinPotterforCongress Twitter: @quentinforoh7th Age: 64 Education: The Ohio State University, B .S . Education Occupation: Retired Qualifications: Commissions Chair, Ohio Office of Budget and Management, Jul 2015 - Jan 2019; Vice President and Treasurer, Lorain County Community College, Jan 2011 - June 2014; Chief Financial Officer, Ohio Depart. of Administrative Services, March 2007 - Jan 2011 Question 1: Given our experience with Covid-19, what precautions would you put in place to allow for safe, secure elections when in-person voting is hazardous or difficult for a large number of people? Include how you would fund any necessary precautions and changes. For a detailed view of Congressional District maps, visit The spread of COVID-19 continues unabated in the absence of www.govtrack.us/congress/members/map consistent federal planning and policy . After months of Trump/Re- REPRESENTATIVE TO U.S. CONGRESS – publican wishful thinking and confusing messaging, the country 7th DISTRICT still lacks the robust testing and tracking program and coordinated resource distribution that would better manage the disease . Fed- Bob Gibbs, Republican eral funds targeted to assuring protective equipment in polling no response at time of publication locations for both workers and voters, secure early voting oppor- tunities (including in person and ballot drop boxes), and a fully Brandon Lape, Libertarian funded and efficient postal system would reassure voters that their Website: http://LapeforOhio .com votes will be counted . Such efforts are not only opposed by Trump Facebook: http://Facebook .com/LapeforOhio and enabling Republicans but actively undermined . We can Twitter: @LapeforOhio assure safe and secure elections consistent with local control but Age: 38 supported by federal funds . Education: Associate of Science - Information Technology Question 2: Describe what you have done to work across and Networking political differences to solve problems. Occupation: Computer Support Technician My entire career in state government involved working with Question 1: Given our experience with Covid-19, what members of both political parties . The best example is my role as precautions would you put in place to allow for safe, secure a Executive Director of the Ohio Administrative Study Council, a elections when in-person voting is hazardous or difficult for a year-long project to reform Ohio’s Medicaid program . I worked large number of people? Include how you would fund any with both legislative caucuses, Council members representing necessary precautions and changes. both parties as well as all interested constituencies to develop a I think people wearing masks, social distancing, and washing their plan for establishing and organizing a new Cabinet level agency . hands is plenty of safety . I like Ohio Secretary of State’s use of The plan, delivered on time, under budget, and with the unani- curb side voting for those that may need it . The primary election mous support of all members, became the basis for the creation of was a nightmare . You don’t shut down polling locations on the an independent Ohio Department of Medicaid in 2012 . 11th hour the day before an election . We will be safe, we will be Question 3: What solutions do you propose to address 2 challenges, especially inequities, in the healthcare system? ______The first step is to turn back Republican efforts to overturn the One of the reasons I am running for office is a response to the Affordable Care Act, including the protection of equitable cover- polarity of politics in America . I cherish my ability to vote and I age for those with preexisting conditions and continuing coverage study the issues and struggle with my decisions . I have voted for for adult children up to the age of 27 . Next, we must continue to both Republicans and Democrats and have always been proud work to contain cost and expand access; two specific examples to be a swing voter in a swing state . The last few elections I have are to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly and to noticed the swing voter has become a dying breed . Politicians create a public option – free from for-profit incentives – under the don’t speak to the middle anymore, all of their efforts are spent ACA . The disparities that exist in the health care system should be only riling up their base . This has led to an inability to work with recognized and addressed by assuring access to providers in the other side or even talk to the other side . I represent a different underserved areas (rural and urban) . Policies that support the way to do things; a revolution from the middle . social determinants of health (such as disparities in housing, Question 3: How would you address immigration policy? education, and access to healthy food and activity) must be The United States does not have an immigration issue, America pursued as well . has a drug war refugee crisis . If we end the War on Drugs, the Shaded area of the state served by civil wars in Central and South America will wind down and peo- Ohio’s 13th Congressional District ple won’t be forced to leave their homes . I would also eliminate entitlements which attract immigrants and dis-incentivize both immigrants and citizens from working . Once these two issues are addressed, I favor minimizing restrictions that allow foreign visi- tors to come to America as tourists or guest workers . Question 4: Where do you stand on efforts to protect our water, air and land? I did my post-doctoral research with the US EPA and consider myself to be an environmentalist . Environmental action has had many successes including the improvements in the Cuyahoga River over many years . I am also aware of the consequences of poor environmental stewardship . Question 5: What legislation, if any, would you suggest to address gun safety? A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free For a detailed view of Congressional District maps, visit State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be www.govtrack.us/congress/members/map infringed . REPRESENTATIVE TO U.S. CONGRESS – Question 6: What solutions do you propose to address 13th DISTRICT challenges in the healthcare system, women’s reproductive rights and maternal and child health? Michael Fricke, Libertarian I fully support women’s reproductive rights . I favor a free market Website: http://www .frickeforohio13 .com approach to health care solutions . One reason is the success of Facebook: @mikefricke2020 Lasik surgery . This is an elective surgery and no insurance covers Education: BS Chemistry, Ohio State 1997; BA Political Science, the procedure . Operating completely in a free market system, the Ohio State 1998; PhD Chemistry, University of Cincinnati 2004 price of Lasik has dropped while service has improved . Occupation: Senior Scientist Qualifications: Became a Buckeye, majored in chemistry and Christina M. Hagan, Republican political science, baseball umpire for 18 years, learned the piano, no response at time of publication loved and lost, joined the Chi Phi fraternity, worked a summer in Alaska, sold snow skis and skied 33 days in a year, became a wil- Tim Ryan, Democrat derness first responder, graduated Ohio State with a BS and a BA, Website: http://timryanforcongress .com/ 7000 mile road trip after graduation, grad school at the University Facebook: https://www .facebook .com/timryanforcongress of Cincinnati for six years, hiked the Inca Trail, PhD in arsenic, Twitter: https://twitter .com/timryan 8 trips to Europe to present my research, Oak Ridge Fellow for 4 Education: Tim Ryan has a law degree from the University Of years, toured with Phish, learned the bass, visiting scholar at the New Hampshire School Of Law (formerly the Franklin Pierce Law University of British Columbia, taught the blind, learned from the Center) . He studied abroad as part of the Dickinson School of blind, started a design firm, moved to the east coast then back to Law’s International Law Program . He received a BA in Political Ohio, invented the Frickey, got engaged in India, got married and Science from Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, had two boys, started woodworking, joined a band, 15 year ca- Ohio . reer in pharma, sold my side business, moved to Alabama, flipped Occupation: U .S . Representative a house, moved back to Ohio, went to Jordan to start a lab, ran Qualifications: U .S . Representative 18 years; Ohio’s first cannabis lab, got married to the love of my life, moved Ohio Senator 2 years next to a lake and got a flotilla of kayaks, went back into pharma and built two more labs, rehired twice by former bosses, became Question 1: Given our experience with Covid-19, what chair of the Akron American Chemical Society, did the analytical precautions would you put in place to allow for safe, secure development for the leading candidate for a COVID-19 therapy elections whereby voters are not choosing between their health and ran for US Congress as a Libertarian . and their right to vote, especially in November? Include how you would fund any necessary precautions and changes. Question 1: Given our experience with Covid-19, what The U .S . is facing a public health crisis, which has seriously precautions would you put in place to allow for safe, secure impacted families, workers, business owners, and our economy . elections whereby voters are not choosing between their health It is also straining a pillar of our democracy: our elections . With and their right to vote, especially in November? Include how public health officials urging Americans to stay at home and you would fund any necessary precautions and changes. practice social distancing, the prospect of long lines and crowded I recently celebrated my birthday and had to renew my auto polling places could be dangerous to voters and disastrous for our registration and get the eCheck . The technician asked me to wait democracy . We cannot force Americans to decide between mak- behind my vehicle and then climbed in my car and connected his ing their voice heard in November, and their own health and the machine under my dash . I thought to myself if the state can come health of their loved ones . into my vehicle during a pandemic, I can walk into a building and Millions of Americans already face significant barriers to voting, cast my ballot like citizen of that state . The option to request an obstacles that could be made worse in certain states in a con- absentee ballot is sufficient protection for voters in November. My tinuing public health crisis . Given the uncertainties of the pan- bigger concern is the ability to vote in person which I consider the demic and physical distancing measures necessary in November, minimal requirement of living in a democracy . we must ensure the upcoming election is free, fair, secure, and Question 2: Describe what you have done to work across political differences to solve problems and foster trust with the 3 voters you represent. ______on-time . I was proud to see that the House-passed HEROES Act waterways are protected . included many strong provisions to shore up these concerns, Question 5: What legislation, if any, would you suggest to including ensuring that voter registration application forms, address gun safety? absentee ballot application forms, and absentee ballots in federal We have seen that horrific acts of gun violence can happen elections are mailed to voters expeditiously with self-sealing anywhere, to anyone . Congress must act . envelopes and prepaid postage . I broke completely with the NRA after their non-response to the Many people, including President Trump, have successfully voted shooting at Sandy Hook and their opposition to universal back- by mail many times . To avoid long lines on election day, we must ground checks . I support Sandy Hook Promise, Americans for expand voting by mail, extend early voting opportunities, enable Responsible Solutions and Everytown for Gun Safety . curbside voting and remove other obstacles to the ballot box . Congress can keep Americans safe while honoring the 2nd Question 2: Describe what you have done to work across Amendment, which I support . I voted a background check for political differences to solve problems and foster trust with the every firearm sale, and to strengthen procedures federal firearms voters you represent. licensees or dealers must follow before selling or transferring a The only way we will be able to truly move our country forward firearm. is by setting aside our differences and finding common ground. Congress should increase funding so the records are sufficiently In 2019, I was named the second most bipartisan Member of updated to provide timely and accurate background checks . I Congress from Ohio and the 35th most bipartisan out of the 435 support a ban on high-capacity magazines and assault weapons . members of the House of Representatives . Bipartisanship is more Semi-automatic rifles and pistols with military-grade features have important now than ever as our nation combats this worldwide no place in the hands of civilians . At the same time, we must pandemic . I am proud of the strong relationships I have forged make it harder for these mass killing technologies, such as bump with my Republican colleagues and my long record of bipartisan stocks, to be obtained . work to bring federal dollars back to Ohio and provide our state We need to overturn a 1996 law that prevents the CDC from with the support and resources we need . conducting research on gun violence and give states more power Question 3: How would you address immigration policy? to enact gun safety laws . After so many school shootings, we must ensure the safety of our I support strong border security and smart investments in ad- children and teachers. I will fight tirelessly for safer schools. No vanced border technologies, but we should focus on comprehen- parent, child, friend, or teacher should be forced to worry about sive immigration reform: a long-term solution to fix our broken their safety or the safety of their loved ones while going about immigration system and secure our border . I introduced legisla- tion to create the independent Nonpartisan Commission com- their daily lives . prised of 9 immigration experts appointed by the top four leaders Question 6: What solutions do you propose to address challenges in Congress . The bill prohibits members from being current elect- in the healthcare system, women’s reproductive rights and ed officials or political appointees. It’s time for Congress to devel- maternal and child health? op an informed, long-term fix for our broken immigration system. - no response - We also need to create a pathway to citizenship for the undocu- mented immigrants who are here and abiding by our laws . This includes 1 .8 million DREAMers, young people who were brought Shaded area of the state served by to the United States as children . These young people voluntarily Ohio’s 16th Congressional District registered with the government, so they could legally drive, work, attend college, serve in our military, and pay taxes . This country is the only home they know and remember, yet they are forced to live in fear and uncertainty waiting to know whether their future is secure . I voted for the American Dream and Promise Act to provide a pathway to citizenship for DREAMers and recipients of the Tem- porary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) . The bill passed the House and is in the Senate . The U .S . should be able to ensure our national security while continuing to be the nation of immigrants, dreamers, and refugees that we have been in generations past . Question 4: Where do you stand on efforts to protect our water, air and land? Scientists agree that global climate change is real, but its impacts are being felt firsthand by Ohio’s farmers, sportsmen, and working families . Things will only get worse if we do not get serious about reducing carbon pollution . The consequences of inaction will be felt not by politicians in Washington, but by the communities they have let down . As a father, I understand we have a duty to our children and grand- children to do all we can to prevent the economic and environ- mental devastation that climate change threatens . By stepping up to the challenge of combating climate change we can also jump-start Ohio’s green energy economy . Each wind For a detailed view of Congressional District maps, visit turbine that spins in northwest Ohio has over 8,000 parts that www.govtrack.us/congress/members/map could be built by machinists in Youngstown and Akron . In Congress, I have supported investment in green energy, liquefied REPRESENTATIVE TO U.S. CONGRESS – natural gas, and fuel-efficient automotive technology, which create tens of thousands of Ohio jobs and reduces our depen- 16th DISTRICT dence on foreign oil . Aaron Paul Godfrey, Democrat Green infrastructure is way to address climate change in Ohio . Website: http://www .godfreyforcongress .com We must rebuild America’s infrastructure, invest in modernizing Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/GodfreyForCongress/ clean energy systems and green surface transportation to create Twitter: twitter .com/GodfreyForOH16 jobs and protect our environment for the future . Age: 34 Clean air and freshwater are not partisan issues . I have fought Education: MSc, Physics, Miami University (2010) attempts by big business to gut environmental safeguards that Question 1: Given our experience with Covid-19, what keep our air and water clean . I have worked with fellow Ohio precautions would you put in place to allow for safe, secure representatives of both parties to ensure that Lake Erie and Ohio’s elections whereby voters are not choosing between their health and their right to vote, especially in November? Include how you 4 would fund any necessary precautions and changes. ______The Federal government should be willing to fund safe and secure STATE OF OHIO OFFICES elections amidst the pandemic, possibly with a very minor tax increase on the top earners in this country . Repealing Trump’s tax cut for the wealthiest people in the nation would easily fund this STATE OF OHIO JUDICIAL (as well as many other social projects that would be a huge boon Candidate information in this guide for judicial races, both for the people) . statewide and county, has been provided by Judicial Votes Count, An election during a pandemic should encourage vote-by-mail a nonpartisan partnership committed to providing voters with above all else, facilitated with postage-paid ballot requests, paid everything needed to make informed choices about judicial postage for returning the ballot, and multiple ballot drop boxes candidates for both the primary and general elections . across every state to minimize the effort needed on the part of the Partners in this effort include the League of Women Voters of voter to cast their ballot . In-person voting should be done in Ohio, the Ohio State Bar Association, the Ray C . Bliss Institute of large, well-ventilated buildings where dividers separate voters Applied Politics at the University of Akron, the Ohio Newspaper from their poll workers . Voting booths would also need the space Association, and the Ohio Association of Broadcasters . necessary to be 6 feet apart from others at all time, with masks Source: http://blogs.uakron.edu/judicialvotescount/ required for all voters (and provided for free) and PPE provided for poll workers . JUSTICE OF THE Question 2: Describe what you have done to work across SUPREME COURT OF OHIO political differences to solve problems and foster trust with the voters you represent. term commencing 1-1-2021 Given I am not currently in a legislative office, this is a difficult Responsibilities: Hears all cases involving questions arising under question to answer . But I do have some experience trying to the Ohio Constitution or statutes; hears appeals from Courts of bridge gaps - in the 2018 election, I was elected to be on the Appeals decisions. The Supreme Court’s decisions are final except Cuyahoga County Democratic Party Central Committee, repre- in cases involving the U .S . Constitution, statutes, or treaties . senting Westlake’s ward 3-D . In that role, I have worked with the Elect 1 for this term Cuyahoga County Progressive Caucus and the CCDP to help try Salary: $178,280 to bridge the gap between the party leaders and the changes that Term: 6 years my fellow activists within the community would like to see in the ______county party structure . Sharon L. Kennedy Beyond that, I am seeking this office in order to effect positive no response at time of publication change for the people of the 16th District . Those efforts would see Judicial Votes Count for response at know no party lines. I will work with anyone, regardless of affili- https://blogs.uakron.edu/judicialvotescount/ ation, who has a serious and honest intent to solve the problems facing our district and our country, whether it’s government John O’Donnell corruption, the cost/access of healthcare, the climate crisis, or any Age: 55 of the many other issues affecting our district/country . Education: Cleveland St . Joseph High School, Miami (O .) Univer- Question 3: Where do you stand on gun safety measures? sity, Cleveland Marshall College of Law I think that better education paired with reasonable restrictions Occupation: Judge, Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, would do a great deal to reduce gun violence in this country General Division while avoiding the infringement of anyone’s rights . To me, Work Experience: Legal work experience: Civil trial attorney “reasonable restrictions” include: (1) universal background 1993-2002 and 2005-2007; Judge, 2002-2005 and 2007-present . checks, (2) magazine limits, and (3) assault weapon bans . Most (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) voters agree on these issues, but they are kept from being enacted I have been a judge for over 16 years . I have presided over hun- as policy due to the influence of special interest groups. dreds of jury trials, both criminal and civil, and scores of bench Education is more wide-ranging, however . Something like this trials . I have handled death penalty cases . I was selected by the would consist of making sure new gun owners are aware of typi- Chief Justice of The Ohio Supreme Court to be one of only eight cal safety and maintenance procedures while also educating them judges in Ohio to preside over a commercial docket dedicated to on the availability of mental health care services and how to prop- the swift and just resolution of business disputes . I have presided erly store guns safely so that kids do not find and use them. over a criminal mental health docket specializing in the issues Most specifically, I would vote for an assault weapon ban, closing arising in the adjudication and disposition of cases where a the boyfriend loophole, and permanently extending the Violence defendant has a serious mental illness with a psychotic feature . I Against Women Act . have a reputation for political independence, a necessity for any good judge . Question 4: What solutions do you propose to address challenges, especially inequities, in the healthcare system? (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you The best thing we can do to remove the challenges of accessing to be a judge? and affording healthcare in this country is to enact a universal I was a civil trial attorney who was in court almost every working healthcare plan such as Medicare-for-All . day for approximately 10 years . Absent that, we need a better safety net to cover those who (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? cannot afford healthcare . Creating a public option for Medicare The Ohio Supreme Court decides issues affecting everyone on a is a great step in that direction and automatically enrolling any- wide variety of subjects: constitutional law; education; collective one who loses their healthcare so that there is no gap in coverage bargaining; employer/employee rights; civil rights; utility rates; when someone loses their job through no fault of their own - for criminal law; commerce; legislative districting and others . I want example, due to a pandemic . to bring to these issues an independent perspective, informed by The Federal government should also provide financial support for practical experience and the law, to decide these cases for the rural hospitals under threat of closure . We need to make sure, as a common good of all Ohioans . nation, that everyone has a hospital within a reasonable distance . As a part of normal licensure exams, doctors should undergo racial & gender bias training to raise awareness of subconscious JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF OHIO discrimination - such as the documented bias against believing term commencing 1-2-2021 women and people of color when they self-diagnose or provide Responsibilities: Hears all cases involving questions arising under doctors with their symptoms . the Ohio Constitution or statutes; hears appeals from Courts of Appeals decisions. The Supreme Court’s decisions are final except Anthony Gonzalez, Republican in cases involving the U .S . Constitution, statutes, or treaties . Website: http://www .voteanthonygonzalez .com Elect 1 for this term no response at time of publication Salary: $178,280 Term: 6 years ______5 ______Jennifer Brunner • Collaborated with TIES program service providers across disci- Email: judgejenniferbrunner@gmail .com plines, including assisting with cross-training for better coopera- Website: http://www .jenniferbrunner .com tion; advocate of collaboration for best planning, execution and Social Media: results, including acceptance by affected populations . https://www .facebook .com/BrunnerCommittee/ • Presided over cases involving administrative appeals of state https://www .facebook .com/Justice-for-the-People-Judge-Jennifer- agency decisions, including appeals of ballot issue challenges . Brunner-for-Ohio-Supreme-Court-101751074823700/ • Served on following court committees: Court Personnel Com- https://twitter .com/JenniferBrunner mittee, Court Technology Committee, New Judges Committee, Age: 63 Grants Review Committee, Assigned Counsel for Indigent Defen- Education: J .D . Capital University Law School, Order of the Curia; dants Committee . B .S . Sociology-Gerontology, Miami University, Cum Laude • Taught probation officers of the court and lawyers involved with Occupation: Judge, Ohio Tenth District Court of Appeals the Ohio State Bar Foundation curriculum on poverty and work- Work Experience: Court of Appeals Judge since 2014; 17 years ing with people in poverty to help them succeed . private law practice, during period of 1987 through 2014 when • Adjunct professor for graduate law enforcement program for Tif- not in elected public service (founded what was initially home- fin University, a private Ohio University, teaching law and ethics based law firm in 1988 with 3 small children at home); USAID for law enforcement officers and for undergraduate law enforce- Rule of Law Expert for 4 engagements in Republic of Serbia on ment program, constitutional law for law enforcement Judicial Reform and Government Accountability (anti-corruption) (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you and 1 engagement in Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, all during to be a judge? period of 2012-2015; International Election Observer in Arab My 17 years private practice experience with people from all Republic of Egypt for 3 engagements in 2014-2015; Secretary of walks of life has helped me better understand how the law affects State of Ohio 2007-2011 (first female elected); Franklin County people, in a wide variety of life situations . To be a lawyer is a call- Common Pleas Court Judge 2000-2005; Ohio Secretary of State’s ing to serve society and to uphold and protect the rule of law . I office deputy director and legal counsel 1983-1987; Ohio Senate have worked for clients ranging from economically disadvantaged legislative aide and committee secretary 1978-1981, Member of single mothers to one who was running for president (Jerry Brown 5 state/local boards: Ohio Student Loan Commission early 1990’s, in 1992) . Franklin County Board of Elections 1997; Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission 2011-2012; Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, Mar- My private law practice experience includes trial and appellate riage & Family Therapist Board 2012-2014; Central Ohio Transit work for clients in common pleas courts in Franklin, Cuyahoga, Authority Licking, Fairfield, Carroll, Mahoning and Hamilton Counties; in appellate courts in the Tenth, Third, Eighth, Fifth, First, Second and (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) Sixth District Courts of Appeals; the Ohio Supreme Court; United Judge, Tenth District Court of Appeals, elected 2014, reelected States District Courts (Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio); without opposition 2016 Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals; and am admitted to practice before • Serve as one of eight judges in jurisdiction of 1.2 million people the United States Supreme Court . I have represented clients in ad- reviewing cases filed as of right from lower courts at county and ministrative proceedings before numerous state and local boards, municipal level (civil and felony and misdemeanor cases, probate, served as a special prosecutor for election fraud and as a hearing family law and administrative law), state court of claims cases, officer for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. administrative law decisions and holding original jurisdiction in government-related cases . In 2011, I drafted a statewide referendum petition for a coalition • Participate in three-judge panels that hear oral arguments on of voting rights activists, labor organizations, state and local politi- cases fully briefed and prepared for review . cal party organizations and faith-based and other nonprofit orga- • Manage team of staff attorneys and paralegal in review of re- nizations who gathered more than 400,000 petition signatures to cords and drafting and review of decisions . place voting rights referendum on statewide ballot; in 2012-2013 • Confer with other appellate judges on cases presented for oral I developed a multi-state and federal executive agency govern- argument and written decisions following oral arguments . ment affairs practice focused on matters before the FCC and state • Sit as visiting judge on the Ohio Supreme Court and in other public utilities commissions relating to low income telephone courts of appeals . government programs . • Participate in state appellate judge training and information I started my own law firm from the corner of my bedroom when exchange . our children were 7, 4 and 2, growing it to 32 people after ten • Research and draft decisions on appeals. years . Other experience includes serving as general counsel for • Serve on court Personnel Committee. a computer firm and a trade association, serving as campaign • Central Ohio Association for Justice George E. Tyack Judicial finance counsel for numerous state and local labor unions, cor- Excellence Award for performance as appellate judge, May 2016 . porations, national and state associations, candidates, caucuses • Judge, Franklin County Common Pleas Court, elected 2000, and political action committees on state and federal election law, reelected 2002 and representing neighborhood groups and developers on zoning, • Managed regular docket of at least 500 civil cases and 125 referendum and initiative election issues . Past experience also criminal cases at any time pending . includes representing judges and judicial candidates before the • Eliminated docket backlog from 991 cases to 713 cases in one Supreme Court concerning compliance with the Code of Judicial year . Conduct . Hold experience in drafting state legislation and admin- • Conducted trials including three judge panel death penalty istrative rules in areas of election law, local option elections, cam- trial, criminal trials for aggravated murder, rape, felonious assault, paign finance, and ethics laws. Served as administrative partner of complicity to felonious assault, robbery, burglary, and theft, and law firm. civil trials including age discrimination, premises liability (slip and fall), auto accident and medical malpractice . (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? • Implemented procedures for jurors to ask questions in trials; I love the law, I love Ohio and I enjoy helping people . I am privi- affirmed by Ohio Supreme Court with statewide procedures mod- leged, having traveled to every county in this state when I served eled after those challenged and affirmed. as Secretary of State, to have worked with Ohio’s 88 county • Working within court and with community mental health and boards of elections as we together served Ohioans . substance abuse service providers, established and presided over I chose to run for the Ohio Supreme Court for three reasons: First, the TIES (Treatment is Essential to Success) Program, a felony drug I want to be a part of a court that ensures that the first decision court specialized docket, providing for intensive probation of interpreting the state constitution’s new provisions for fair districts persons whose substance abuse or substance abuse co-occurring for Congress and the Ohio General Assembly, when challenged with mental illness has contributed to their commission of nonvio- — and they will be — is fair and according to state constitutional lent felonies; this specialized docket is still in operation today . requirements. As Secretary of State, my office sponsored a public • Supervised 45 probationers in TIES program and supervised contest to draw districts to show we could end gerrymandering . activities of TIES Program coordinator, while maintaining regular We used a formula that served as a basis for developing the state docket . constitution’s formula for fair districts . We proved it could be done . Nothing is more basic to the health of Ohio’s democracy 6 than fair districts, and I want to participate in any review of that ______process occurring after the 2020 census . I want to use my expe- nesses, and local leaders, all in an effort to serve them better . If rience to the benefit of the court and the people of the State of reelected, I will continue that level and method of service . Ohio . (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? Second, there are important issues such as when a police officer I first aspired to be a justice because it offers interesting, challeng- can make an individual get out of their car, under what circum- ing, and meaningful work that serves the public interest . I aspire stances criminal records can be expunged, when someone’s home to be reelected to the office because I want to continue that work, can be taken through foreclosure or when is it appropriate for both on and off the bench . As a justice, I am able not only to legislative caps on damages (such as rape of a child by a trusted bring attention to needs within the legal profession, the judicia- pastor) to be overcome . These issues are just a few that affect ev- ry, and the public as a whole, but also to advocate for change to eryday people in Ohio, though many citizens often don’t realize meet those needs . how much they are affected by just the words of the state’s highest In particular, during my next term, I intend to continue the court’s court . work to improve our efficiency and that of all Ohio courts. I also Third, I have found that when there is a political balance on an intend to continue my work with the Ohio Access to Justice Foun- appellate court, there is less a tendency to “group think ”. Better dation and local legal aid organizations to bring more attention, decisions are likely to emerge when they involve the give-and- resources, and innovation to the needs of underserved Ohioans . take of views and the softening of others through reasoned and respectful discussion and decision making . Currently, the political COURT OF APPEALS, 5th DISTRICT balance of the state’s high court is a state of unbalance with 5 term commencing 2-09-21 Republicans and 2 Democrats . A 4-3 balance would, in my view, create some of the best decisions possible from the court . I hope Responsibilities: The Court of Appeals is essentially a Court of to help provide that balance with my election . Review . It hears appeals from the Common Pleas, County, and Municipal Courts. Decisions are final except in cases involving Judi French Constitutional questions, cases of felony, cases in which it has Email: JusticeJudiFrench@gmail .com original jurisdiction, and cases of public or great general interest . Website: http://JusticeJudiFrench .com; http://FriendsofFrench .com Counties served by the Fifth District: Ashland, Coshocton, Social Media: http://Facebook .com/JusticeJudiFrench Delaware, Fairfield, Guernsey, Holmes, Knox, Licking, Morgan, Age: 58 Morrow, Muskingum, Perry, Richland, Stark, and Tuscarawas Education: B .A . (Political Science); M .A . (History); J .D . (Law with Elect 1 honors), The Ohio State University Salary: $166,167 Occupation: Justice, Ohio Supreme Court Term: 6 years Work Experience: Justice, Ohio Supreme Court (2013-present); ______Judge, Tenth District Court of Appeals (2004-2012); Chief Legal Jeff Furr Counsel to the Ohio Governor (2002-2004); Assistant Attorney Email: jeffmfurr@aol .com General/Chief Counsel to the Attorney General of Ohio (1997- Age: 59 2002); Chief Legal Counsel, Ohio Environmental Protection Occupation: Attorney Agency (1993-1997); Associate Counsel, Steelcase, Inc . (1993); Education: J .D . from Capital Law School, LLM from Capital Law Associate, Porter Wright Law Firm (1988-1993) . School, MBA from Capital and BS from the College of Engineering from OSU (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) Work Experience: Intellectual Property Attorney – Justice, Ohio Supreme Court 2013 – present – Appointed January 2013; elected November 2014 . (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) – Serve on seven-member court with statewide jurisdiction over None all legal matters, including discretionary and non-discretionary (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you appeals, original actions, death-penalty appeals, and disciplinary to be a judge? matters . I have been running a legal practice for over 20 years . I have a – Serve as frequent presenter before high school, college, law good background and education to be a circuit court judge . I have school, legal professional, and general public audiences on the legal experience helping people with their legal issues and to matters of access to justice, civic education, law, and campaign understand the law . I know that it is a judge’s job to interpret the policy . law and not to make it . I have represented clients before Feder- – Appointed by United States Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts al District courts and the Trademark Trial and Appeals Board . I to serve on the Federal Appellate Rules Committee . Judge, Tenth have argued before the US Court of Appeals for Federal Circuit in District Court of Appeals 2004 – 2012 Washington D .C . All of this experience is well suited for the Court – Appointed October 2004; elected November 2004; re-elected of Appeals . November 2010 . (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? – Served on eight-member court with jurisdiction over civil, crimi- I want to serve my community and state . I will make sure that I nal, and administrative appeals; authored 800 opinions . will interpret the law fairly, with justice and the American way in – Served as administrative judge (2007 and 2008) and as presiding mind . When I served on Johnstown City Council I always tried to judge (2009) make decisions for the public that I could sleep with . If elected I (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you will make sure to do the same as a Judge . I believe that this court to be a judge? seat matches my experience and skill set well as well as matching For more than two decades, I have dedicated my career to pub- my desire to give back . lic service . Before becoming a judge, I had served as chief legal counsel to the governor, an assistant attorney general, and a state William B. Hoffman government lawyer . Those years in public service are critical to Age: 68 my understanding of state laws, my adherence to constitutional Occupation: Judge – Ohio Fifth District Court of Appeals limitations, and my commitment to careful and efficient decision Education: J D. . University of Akron Law School; making on behalf of all Ohioans . B .A . College of Wooster I also have legal experience in the private sector, having worked Work Experience: Judge-Ohio Fifth District Court of Appeals in a law firm and a large manufacturing corporation. That private 1991-present, Judge Canton Municipal Court 1988-1990, experience helps me understand the practical impact of our deci- Prosecutor Canton Law Dept . 1977-1987, law practice sions and appreciate the impact of our judicial rules and proce- (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) dures . Judge-Ohio Fifth District Court of Appeals: 1991-present Finally, as the daughter of a schoolteacher, I appreciate my Ohio Judge-Canton Municipal Court: 1988-1990 (sat by special roots and education, and I am committed to using my voice as a assignment on the Ohio Supreme Court on several occasions) Justice to be a part of civic education in Ohio . I speak frequent- (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you ly to students, educators, and civic organizations . Since taking to be a judge? office, I have traveled to all 88 counties (I am on my fifth time around), and I have met with individuals, organizations, busi- 7 ______Prior to taking the bench, I served as a prosecuting attorney in the they work to make a better future for the families of the state of Canton Law Department for 11 years . I also maintained a private Ohio . law practice for 11 years . I was a legal intern in the Stark County Question 3: How would you improve the Ohio public school Prosecutor’s Office, Juvenile Division, while in law school. funding system? (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? The state of Ohio needs to do everything we can to provide all As an appellate court judge, I have timely and efficiently written children with the resources that are needed to have the ability to thousands of opinions and participated in over 10,000 decisions thrive, grow and compete in an ever changing world . Strengthen- for the Ohio Fifth District Court of Appeals . I have consistently ing our early childhood education programs, will provide a received high evaluations of my judicial performance from my valuable return on this investment . local lawyers’ bar association . I presently serve as the presiding As a graduate of the Ohio public school system, I saw firsthand judge of my court . I have been privileged to sit by special assign- how hard and how committed the teachers and administrators ment on the Ohio Supreme Court on several occasions . work . The Ohio school system funding needs to be a top priority If re-elected, I intend to continue to ensure all cases coming be- as we build a better and stronger foundation for the future fore me are timely and impartially decided for the approximately generations of the great state of Ohio . 1 .4 million people living within the court’s 15 county district . Question 4: Where do you stand on efforts to protect our water, air and land? STATE HOUSE DISTRICTS We are all stewards of this great state . We owe it to those who Responsibilities: To represent the people of the district and fought to stop the poisoning of our waterways, improve the air we the State of Ohio in dealing with matters not allocated breathe and to protect the land we live on . We are obligated to to the federal government . continue what they started and to ensure that we leave the Elect 1 environment of our great state better than we found it for the Base Salary: $67,493 many generations to come . Term: 2 years I have been fighting to protect our Ohio waterways, land and air STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 38th DISTRICT quality my entire adult life . We need to make sure that we don’t let short sighted thinking stop the hard earned progress we have Shaded area of Stark County served by the 38th State House District achieved . We owe this to our children, grandchildren and future generations to come . Question 5: What legislation, if any, would you suggest to address gun safety? The people of our great state have spoken on this issue . Ohio families overwhelmingly support common sense background checks for gun safety . The Quinnipiac University poll found 90% of Ohioans said they support universal background checks . It also found that 87% of Ohio gun owners said they also support background checks . We need to elect representatives that have the leadership and will to make background checks for gun safety a reality for the families of Ohio . Question 6: What solutions do you propose to address challenges in the healthcare system, women’s reproductive rights and For a detailed view of Ohio General Assembly maps, visit maternal and child health? www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislators/district-maps Politicians continue to place roadblocks between patient and Joe Campbell, Democrat doctor . There is a history of passing legislation that is dangerous Website: http://www .campbell4ohio com. for women while placing unnecessary medical restrictions on Facebook: campbell 4 ohio basic health services . These attacks on the women of Ohio are a Twitter: @campbell4ohio serious threat to the most essential rights protected by the Education: Proud graduate of Ohio Public Schools; Studied Constitution . Anthropology I support Planned Parenthood and many other organizations that Occupation: owner/partner Buckeye Xchange; Partner/owner support women and families . I will work to protect policies that Great Grins Photo Booth Rental respect women’s autonomy and rights to comprehensive Qualifications: Local business owner 47 years, Long time com- healthcare . munity Leader, Co founder P .E N. S. . project, Battered Woman’s Ohio’s infant mortality epidemic is a public health crisis . Our state Project, SWM merchants project must continue to provide a robust safety net through healthcare, economic assistance, and social programs . This will strengthen Question 1: In what ways would you change our election system our community and protect our most treasured asset, our people . to be prepared for crises that impair the right to vote? I am an advocate for Medicaid expansion and providing the right 1 . Have multiple County Board of Elections Ballot drop boxes in to quality, affordable healthcare to every Ohioan . every county 2 . Longer and multiple places to vote early Question 7: Do you support the repeal and/or replacement of 3 . Increase the days and hours open for early voting House Bill 6? Would you support legislation requiring disclosure 4 . An online system to order a mail in ballot of all donors to groups seeking to influence elections and the end 5 . Restore voting precincts that were closed of so-called ‘dark money’ donations? 6 . Voting polls open longer HB6 must be repealed! HB6 is stained with the corruption of 7 . Mail in ballots treated as first class mail elected officials and corporate greed. Bill Roemer is among the 8 . 2nd Tuesday of November National vote day many Republicans to benefit from this sea of dirty money. We 9 . The above changes would be a good start towards protecting owe it to the citizens of Ohio to repeal HB6 and clean up this everyone’s right to vote terrible scandal . For far too long we have laid the burden and cost on the backs of Ohio families . Question 2: Under what circumstances is it appropriate for the I fully support and will demand we pass legislation requiring state to restrain or check local government? disclosure of all donors to groups seeking to influence elections The safety and well being of the state of Ohio and all of its resi- and the end of so-called ‘dark money’ donations . Ohio families dents, from the young to the old and all points in between, should deserve better! An honest government is not too much to expect . always be our number one priority . The Ohio State Representa- tives should be working closely with local governments to make Bill Roemer, Republican sure they can fulfill this commitment. Website: http://www .billroemer .com The legislative branch at the state level should do all we can to Facebook: Bill Roemer help local governments be capable, responsive and proactive, as Twitter: @roemerbill no response at time of publication 8 ______STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 48th DISTRICT Question 2: What proposed law enforcement reforms would you support with regards to mental health, racism, or substance Shaded area of Stark County served by the 48th State House District abuse? HB 706 to provide training on de-escalation techniques, implicit bias, procedural justice, and mental health annually to peace officers and to make an appropriation. I would also imple- ment a contracted police / Social Worker for each department . STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 50th DISTRICT Shaded area of Stark County served by the 50th State House District

For a detailed view of Ohio General Assembly maps, visit www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislators/district-maps

Scott Oelslager, Republican Age: 66 Education: BA Mount Union (1975); JD Capitol University Law School (2002) Occupation: State Representative Qualifications: Former State Senator, current State Representative For a detailed view of Ohio General Assembly maps, visit www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislators/district-maps Question 1: From your viewpoint, what are the pros and cons of Gov. Mike DeWine’s STRONG Ohio gun violence package? Brian K. Simeone, Democrat There are a number of gun bills in the Legislature . The General no response at time of publication Assembly is attempting to find a consensus. Question 2: What is your position regarding the EdChoice school Reggie Stoltzfus, Republican voucher program? no response at time of publication The House has passed a comprehensive measure dealing with this issue . The House Bill reduces the number of buildings . We are STARK COUNTY OFFICES working with the Senate to find a compromise with their version. Candidate information in this guide for judicial races, both STATE REPRESENTATIVE, 49th DISTRICT statewide and county, has been provided by Judicial Votes Count, Shaded area of Stark County served by the a nonpartisan partnership committed to providing voters with 49th State House District everything needed to make informed choices about judicial candidates for both the primary and general elections . Partners in this effort include the League of Women Voters of Ohio, the Ohio State Bar Association, the Ray C . Bliss Institute of Applied Politics at the University of Akron, the Ohio Newspaper Association, and the Ohio Association of Broadcasters . Source: http://blogs.uakron.edu/judicialvotescount/

JUDGE OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, GENERAL DIVISION term commencing 1-1-21 Responsibilities: To preside at trials of both civil and criminal cases; to supervise the jury commission, grand jury, and other departments of the court . Elect 1 For a detailed view of Ohio General Assembly maps, visit Salary: $152,811 www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislators/district-maps Term: 6 years ______James Haavisto, Republican Kristin G. Farmer no response at time of publication Email: judgekgfarmer@starkcountyohio .gov Age: 43 Thomas E. West, Democrat Occupation: Judge-Stark County Court of Common Pleas-General Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/ThomasWest49 Division Twitter: @RepThomasWest Education: J .D . Case Western University School of Law (2001) Age: 55 Work Experience: Judge of Stark County Court of Common Pleas Education: MSW, BSW at The University of Akron . since 2013, Magistrate with the Court from 2003-2013 4 years Business Adm Mount Union College . Occupation: Real Estate Investor; New Business Owner : Fame (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) Wholesale & Distribution; Business Owner: Fame Wholesale & 2003-2007: Staff Attorney and Magistrate for Hon . Sara Lioi (Stark Distribution LLC County Court of Common Pleas-General Division) 2007-2013: Qualifications: State Rep . 49th District (4 years), Canton City Staff Attorney and Magistrate for Hon . V . Lee Sinclair (Stark Coun- Councilman (13 yrs), Social Worker (25 years in Stark County) . ty Court of Common Pleas-General Division) 2013-Current: Judge of the Stark County Court of Common Pleas (General Division) Question 1: In what ways would you change our election system in order to be prepared for crises that impair the right to vote? (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you We need to have an automatic trigger for vote by mail and/or to be a judge? deploy the use of our local government employees to serve in the Prior to working with the Court, I was an Assistant Prosecutor event that poll workers are not at capacity to fulfill the polling locations . 9 ______with the Alliance Law Director’s Office (2001-2003). During my 1989-1995 Assistant Attorney General State of Ohio; 1988-1990 time as an Assistant Prosecutor, I conducted multiple hearings, Legal Counsel Lake Township; 1985-1987 Prosecutor City of including Court and Jury Trials, on behalf of the State of Ohio/City Alliance Law Department; 1982-1985 Attorney Miller, Morris, of Alliance. That experience gave me first-hand knowledge of the Ferguson & Freeman Firm struggles faced by attorneys during litigation and ways in which (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) the Court can intervene and assist to make sure that each case 2007 – 2020 Judge, Stark County Court of Common Pleas, and each litigant gets to have their “day in Court ”. My experiences General Division; 1994 – 2007 Magistrate, Canton Municipal as a Staff Attorney and Magistrate were under the supervision of Court two very wise and seasoned Judges . From each of them, I have learned how to be fair, impartial, and efficient in running a Court (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you docket . to be a judge? 25 years experience in private civil litigation practicing (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? family law, personal injury and probate . Also served as an For the past 7 years, it has been my honor to serve the citizens of Assistant Attorney General for the State of Ohio and as a Stark County in a Judicial capacity . I have had the opportunity, Prosecutor for the City of Alliance . especially while presiding over the Court’s Drug Court program, to help people change their lives around . Additionally, I have (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? had the opportunity to help victims of crimes bring closure to the I have truly appreciated the last 13 years that I have served as a worst chapters in their lives . All of this has truly been rewarding . I Common Pleas Judge, especially my work with Honor Court (a am running to retain my seat on the bench to continue this veterans treatment court helping military veterans reclaim their positive work and to make sure that all litigants are treated fairly honor, dignity and lives) and the H .O .P .E . Program (Helping and respectfully . Offenders Psychologically and Emotionally–a collaboration of community partners assisting individuals in the criminal justice JUDGE OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, system with mental illness) . I desire to continue this important GENERAL DIVISION work on behalf of the citizens of Stark County to ensure the fair term commencing 1-4-21 administration of justice and to protect our community . Responsibilities: To preside at trials of both civil and criminal cases; to supervise the jury commission, grand jury, JUDGE OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, and other departments of the court . PROBATE DIVISION Elect 1 Responsibilities: To handle cases of divorce, dissolution of Salary: $152,811 marriage, annulment, separation, and child custody matters . Term: 6 years ______Elect 1 Frank Forchione Salary: $152,811 Email: judgeforchione@starkcountyohio .gov Term: 6 years Age: 59 ______Education: JD University of Akron, Angela Alexander BA from Kent State in Economics Email: Alexander4judge@gmail .com Work Experience: Canton City Prosecutor, Private Practice Website: http://aalexanderforjudge .org/ Social Media: (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) http://Facebook .com/AngelaAlexanderforStarkCountyProbateCourt I am completing my second full six year term on the Stark County https://www .mobile .twitter .com/aalexander4jdg bench . Age: 45 (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you Education: J D. from the University of Akron, Bachelor of Arts from to be a judge? the University of Akron I practiced for over 20 years . I was the Canton City Prosecutor Work Experience: I have been an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for over 14 years . I also had a private practice in Personal Injury, from 2005 to the present date . I was a Public Defender from 1999 Medical Malpractice and Domestic Relations . until 2005 . I maintained a private practice in the areas of Civil, Family, Juvenile, Probate Law from 2001 until 2005 . (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? I would like to continue my work on the Opioid epidemic . We (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) need to save lives . Approximately six years ago I formed the Stop I have spent my career handling cases before Judges in all areas Heroin From Killing Committee to combat the Opioid problem. of law . Since that time we have offered free symposiums, run radio ads, (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you hosted high school billboard contests and developed a Power to be a judge? Point presentation to get our message to the public . I have been honored to practice before many Judges in the areas of Criminal, Civil, Probate and Family Law . I have argued before the Supreme Court of Ohio, handled thousands of cases and had JUDGE OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS, over one hundred trials . As an Assistant Stark County Prosecutor, GENERAL DIVISION I gained valuable insight into some of the greatest struggles in our term commencing 2-9-21 community . I believe a Judge must follow the law and be compas- sionate . I spent my career working with families in crisis and have Responsibilities: To preside at trials of both civil and criminal developed the temperament to be a Judge . I believe in having an cases; to supervise the jury commission, grand jury, and other efficient administration and maximizing taxpayer dollars. departments of the court . Elect 1 Prior to becoming a Prosecutor I was a Public Defender and Salary: $152,811 maintained a private practice which included Probate Law . Since Term: 6 years the majority of my career was spent interacting with our commu- ______nity, I believe I have unique insight . I also understand that a court Taryn Heath must be user friendly, efficient and consistent. Judges are first Email: teamjudgeheath@gmail .com public servants and should model their behavior as such . Age: 63 (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? Occupation: Judge Stark County Probate Court touches everyone in our community . Education: JD from the University of Akron; I grew up in Stark County and we are raising our boys in Stark BA from Miami University County . I believe our community deserves a Judge who is in touch Work Experience: 2007-Present Judge Stark County Court of with the issues facing typical citizens in this county . Common Pleas, General Division; 1994-2007 Magistrate Canton Municipal Court; 1985-2007 Solo Practice Attorney; I am running for Judge because I have a passion for helping families in crisis and I have the skills necessary to hit the ground 10 running as Probate Court Judge . I understand the patience and ______dedication it takes to assist those suffering with mental illness . I for the development and implementation of resources to address have over 20 years experience working with mental health the needs of the disabled and/or elderly population . Since 2011, providers and families in need . The court should use evidence SMART has presented an annual program on elder/disabled abuse based approaches to providing care for those in need . to raise awareness in the community of this growing issue . There I believe we can do better at the court and it begins with strength- are over 200 attendees at the program every year . Additionally, for the past two years, SMART has also sponsored a “Coordinated ening the relationships with the agencies that serve Stark Community Response” seminar for law enforcement and agencies County residents . I want to make Stark County an adoption friend- that serve the elderly and disabled . ly county. I want families to choose Stark County for the efficient case management system and fairness during the adoption pro- Since 2005, volunteers for the Probate Court Angel program have cess . Our seniors deserve to be treated with dignity and protected been trained to visit the Court’s wards and their guardians . Court from abuse and neglect . I have a record of protecting seniors from Angels confirm the well-being of wards and provide support and abuse and exploitation . I have profound respect for the rules of information to their guardians . A study of the program and its the court and the rules in the State of Ohio . I understand that value to the community was completed by Miami University of Judicial power should be wielded carefully and with humility . As Ohio . Since 2006, Guardian Support Services’ (GSS) volunteer a Judge, I would be accessible to the community and the court guardians have served numerous wards in facilities with love and staff . Support staff are an essential part of the Probate Court . The kindness . Since the Probate Court assisted in its establishment, staff in my office will be well trained, efficient, and courteous. My guardianship standards and training have been adopted statewide . management experience will serve me well as a Judge and I will GSS volunteers exceed the standards . Outpatient commitment of make sure the staff are given the tools they need to make Probate individuals with mental health issues has been successful in Court a great place to work and more user friendly . assisting individuals with adjusting to living in the community with supports and medication compliance . Dixie Park In closing, the Probate Court touches the lives of everyone in Stark Email: judgedixiepark@gmail .com County through adoptions, marriage licenses, trusts and estates . It Website: https://www .judgedixiepark .com/ is truly a privilege to serve our community . Social Media: https://www .facebook .com/JudgeDixiePark/; https://www .instagram com/judgedixiepark/. CLERK OF COURT OF COMMON PLEAS Age: 56 Responsibilities: To enter judgments and collect court costs for Occupation: Judge, Probate Division, Stark County Court of appellate and common pleas courts, and also to issue and Common Pleas transfer automobile and water craft certificates of title. Education: J .D . University of Akron School of Law, B .S . Integrated Elect 1 Life Sciences Kent State University Salary: $94,995 Work Experience: Judge of the Stark County Probate Court, Jan- Term: 4 years uary 2004 to present; Assistant Law Director, City of Alliance, Question: What managerial experience and skills do you bring to July, 2003 to December 31, 2004; Private practice, June, 2002 to this office to ensure a diverse work force? January, 2004; Acting Judge in Alliance Municipal Court, April, ______2001 to December, 2002; Magistrate for Judge Lee Sinclair, Stark Louis P. Giavasis, Democrat County Court of Common Pleas, January, 1997 to June, 2002; Law Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/starkcountyclerk Clerk for Judge Harry E. Klide, January, 1991 to December, 1991; Age: 55 and June 1994 to December, 1996 Education: Canton McKinley, the Supreme Court of Ohio Judicial College, Financial Mgmt., CPIM Certified, Public Management. (1) List your judicial experience (courts and years) Occupation: Stark County Clerk of Common Pleas Courts Judge of the Stark County Probate Court, January 2004 to present; Qualifications: 39 years combined experience in direct Public Acting Judge in Alliance Municipal Court, April, 2001 to Management . Clerk of Courts 2015-present, Chief Deputy Clerk December, 2002; Magistrate, Stark County Court of Common of Courts 2007-2015, Plain Township Trustee 1992-2015 . Direct Pleas, January, 1997 to June, 2002 experience managing operations between 70 to 140 employees (2) What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you with budget experience from $5 million to $25 million . to be a judge? Answer: Over the past 30 years, I have learned that maintaining I have worked most of my career within the court system . The a diverse workforce is a team effort . It starts from the top down . value of my non-judicial legal experience was that it provided Together, we have implemented policies in our office that offer me insight and empathy into the dimensions of the attorney-cli- every individual the opportunity to attain their professional goals, ent relationship and the experience of being on the other side of encourage collaboration while being flexible and fair to enable the bench. Much time is devoted to preparing court filings and individuals to contribute to their full potential and feel valued for court appearances. The court file itself does not reflect all of and supported . Diversity and Inclusion is a key strategic priority, the work, client support and effort expended on the case . Con- it happens through leadership, commitment, accountability, and sequently, I make an effort to spend time with counsel to discuss total workforce engagement . any potential issues before proceeding with a hearing . If the mat- ter is contested, this is an opportunity for the parties to resolve the Lynn Miller Todaro, Republican case . This practice optimizes and facilitates the hearing process . no response at time of publication (3) Why are you running for this particular court seat? It has been my privilege to serve the residents of Stark County in COUNTY CORONER the Probate Court for sixteen years . While much has been accom- Responsibilities: To determine the cause of death of persons dying plished with generous volunteers in our community, there is still in a violent or suspicious manner and to issue death certificates. work to be done to raise awareness of alternatives to guardian- Elect 1 ship, prevention of abuse of the elderly and disabled and mental Salary: $143,099 health treatment options . Term: 4 years Question: How should the Coroner’s office deal with the Stark County Probate Court started one of the first pilot programs pressure of the expected increase in deaths due to COVID-19 in Ohio for eldercaring coordination in 2017 . Eldercaring coordi- and the rise of substance abuse? nation is a dispute resolution process during which an eldercaring ______coordinator assists elders, legally authorized decision-makers, Anthony P. Bertin, Democrat and others who participate by court order or invitation to resolve Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/anthony .bertin .798 disputes with high conflict levels in a manner that respects the Age: 72 elder’s need for autonomy and safety . This process is a way to Education: Saint Louis University (undergraduate); Midwestern avoid guardianship while insuring the safety of the elder . University, Chicago (Medical School); Internship and Residency The Stark County Multidisciplinary Advocacy/Protective Resourc- (Urology) Detroit Osteopathic Hospital; Henry Ford Hospital es Team (SMART) began with the Probate Court’s invitation to various agencies and government offices that serve the elderly 11 and disabled in order to create an ongoing dialogue and forum ______System; Rank of Major - United States Air Force departments have been very frugal with your tax dollars, Occupation: 30+ years Private Practice Urological Surgery - especially throughout these trying times . The many boards, on Canton/Massillon, Ohio which I sit, contribute largely to the County’s savings . Qualifications: Previous Deputy Coroner for Dr . James Pritchard, and Chief Deputy Coroner for Dr . P . S . Murthy; Current Stark County Coroner since 2017 COUNTY COMMISSIONER, Answer: We have streamlined the office to make it operate more term commencing 1-3-2021 efficiently. I am currently working with the Stark County Commis- Richard Regula, Republican sioners on a larger morgue facility . We have outgrown our current Age: 63 facility . I am also recruiting an additional Forensic Pathologist Education: Fairless High School, 1975; from New York . B .G S. . Ohio University 1979 Occupation: Stark County Commissioner; Ronald R. Rusnak, Republican Owner, R . Straus LLC Age: 58 Qualifications: Former Village Councilman Navarre, Bethlehem Education: Youngstown State University, BS 1983; Medical Township Trustee, 3 term Stark County Commissioner, Business College of Ohio, Toledo, MD 1987; Akron General Medical owner Center Emergency Medicine residency 1990 Answer: We live within our means and have been fiscally Occupation: Emergency Physician, Chief Medical Informatics responsible for the past 8 years . Officer Aultman Qualifications: Board certified Physician with active Ohio license. If elected will complete 32 hours continuing medical education COUNTY ENGINEER for newly elected coroners . Responsibilities: To oversee the construction, maintenance, and Answer: I’m active with opioid, Covid – 19, and other health repair of all bridges in the county, and of county roads and other system meetings . Our current coroner recently went full time public improvements except buildings in the county . and hired a forensic pathologist to handle the opioid crisis before Elect 1 Covid – 19 came . My plan is to appoint our current coroner as Salary: $122,699 Deputy Coroner; so, he can assist performing external autopsies Term: 4 years as he was appointed by Dr Pritchard in the 1980’s . That will equip our Coroner office with the personnel needed while I perform Question: In light of the expected reduced budget due to administrative responsibilities . reduced county tax revenue, what changes could be made by the County Engineer’s department? ______COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Keith A. Bennett, Democrat Responsibilities: To exercise financial control of County no response at time of publication expenditures; to authorize public works; to purchase land and buildings; to let contracts; to plan and administer welfare . The Board of County Commissioners also appoints other officials to COUNTY PROSECUTOR operate various departments . Responsibilities: To investigate and prosecute crimes committed Elect 1 per term within the county, to defend the county in court, and to give Salary: $95,202 legal advice to county agencies and townships . Term: 4 years Elect 1 Question: How should the Commissioners balance the needs Salary: $145,603 of all departments during this time of diminished county Term: 4 years tax revenue? Question 1: In light of the protests addressing current law enforcement practices and racism that have swept the nation, COUNTY COMMISSIONER, what reforms would you support? term commencing 1-2-2021 Question 2: What role can the County Prosecutor play to assure Katherine Baylock, Democrat minorities are not unfairly targeted? Age: 66 ______Education: WALSH University BA-Communication and Associate John D. Ferrero, Democrat Sociology. Kent State - Associate Arts Website: http://keepferrero .com Occupation: CEO and Co-Founder of We Are Troubled On Every Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/john .ferrero .7 Side Out Reach Programs, WATOES – A Non-profit organization Age: 64 founded in 1982 and Amended on September 4, 1992 Education: Central Catholic HS, University of Dayton (B .S .), Qualifications: Ability to work in a professional team setting to Ohio Northern College of Law (J .D .) accomplish the overall structure and function of any task set Occupation: Prosecuting Attorney, Stark County Ohio before me . Qualifications: Served 17 years as Stark County Prosecuting Answer: “Administrative staff are paid to think and strategically Attorney . Prior to that was Massillon City Law Director/Prosecutor over come oppositions ”. Commissioners should come into an Answer 1: I support the recently enacted City of Canton Police agreement of ALL needs then the needed line staff within depart- Department’s use of force policies that now comply with the ments . Consider their job performance and ones approaching of reforms endorsed by the national “8 Can’t Wait” project . I will retirement, then downsize accordingly and apply for Business also work with the other police agencies in Stark County that they pandemic grants . will follow the City of Canton’s lead in this very important issue facing our nation . Bill Smith, Republican Answer 2: I will continue to monitor arrests through the Facebook: http://www .facebook com/BillSmithCommissioner. body-cam video, police car videos and complaints from the Age: 63 public . If there is an issue of someone being unfairly targeted, it Education: East Canton High School Graduate – 1974 needs to be addressed immediately . Occupation: Self Employed: Smith’s Waco Market; The government agency of each police department must Smith’s Property Management promptly investigate complaints and take any action that will Qualifications: 45 years business experience, 15 years Township resolve the problem . Trustee, 4 years Stark County Commissioner Kyle L. Stone, Republican Answer: With proper management of spending of the County Website: http://www .kylestone4stark .org funds over the last four years, the commissioners have established Facebook: http://www .facebook com/kstoneforstarkcounty. a reserve that will be used to continue providing the essential Age: 37 services which our residents have come to expect, without reduc- Education: Canton McKinley HS; BA Law & Liberal Arts, U of tion . The commissioners, working hand in hand with all County Findlay; Masters in Ministry, Temple Baptist Seminary; Masters of Public Administration, U of Akron; JD, U of Akron School of Law . 12 ______Occupation: Trial lawyer Question: Based on community concern, what adjustments Qualifications: I have spent my career dedicated to our commu- to current officer training should the Sheriff’s Department nity . My work for the City of Canton combined with my diverse implement? legal practice, including a great deal of trial work, make me well ______suited to represent Stark County and work to improve our criminal George T. Maier, Democrat justice system from a leadership role . Age: 60 Answer 1: We must end over-indicting for the sake of plea Education: Attended Ohio University and the Law Enforcement bargaining, and only allow charges that can be proven in a court Administrative Officer’s Course at the University of Louisville, of law to be considered for indictment . I also support an increased Kentucky focus on crime prevention – not just the anecdotal “tough on Occupation: Currently Stark County Sheriff crime” approach, and advocate for alternative punishment, Qualifications: I meet and exceed the minimum qualifications diversion, and job-skills training over throwing citizens away like under the Ohio Revised Code for Sheriff . I believe my career trash and expecting them to come out of prison as productive experience and education make me uniquely qualified to be Stark members of society . County Sheriff . Answer 2: The County Prosecutor can, and must, play a leader- Answer: Currently all officers with the Sheriff’s Office receive ship role in assuring minorities are not unfairly targeted . When crisis intervention training . Additionally, we have also scheduled elected, I will increase transparency in the process and create a training this fall on de-escalation techniques, implicit bias, and yearly roll-up of all cases that come through the Prosecutor’s proper response to resistance . While we have utilized this type of office. Our database will include sex, race, age, attorney, plea training in the past, the training will assist to re-train our staff on negotiations, and how long the case was pending . This will keep these critical issues . We will continue to train our staff on the my office honest, and keep the public informed, to ensure importance of maintaining legitimacy and trust with the minorities are not unfairly targeted . community we serve .

COUNTY RECORDER COUNTY TREASURER Responsibilities: To record deeds, mortgages, plats, liens, Responsibilities: To collect taxes in the county and its and other written instruments . subdivisions, disburse expenditures, and invest the county’s funds . Elect 1 Elect 1 Salary: $80,714 Salary: $84,440 Term: 4 years Term: 4 years Question: How might the Recorder’s Office promote the full Question: What strategies should be implemented to manage scope of the department’s services to the community? investment returns on county funds? ______Rick Campbell, Democrat Craig S. Covey, Democrat Facebook: http://www .facebook com/StarkCountyRickCampbell/. Website: http://www .coveys-corner .blogspot com. Age: 52 Facebook: http://www .facebook .com/craig covey. .7 Education: B .S ., Technical Education, University of Akron A .A .S ., Twitter: @craigcovey Legal Assisting, University of Akron; State of Ohio Police Age: 63 Academy; Recorder’s Continuing Education (8 credit hrs . per year) Education: The Ohio State University B .A . obtained since 2001 Political Science/Communications Occupation: Stark County Recorder Occupation: County Commissioner, Mayor, City Councilman, Qualifications: As Recorder, I have fully computerized the office, State Health Educator, CEO, Community Liaison, ret . microfilmed and imaged our property records, restored, imaged, Qualifications: 40 years community service incl 13 years elect- and backed up our Veterans ID law, and preserved and protected ed offices, managed budgets ranging $1 million to $30 million+, our historic documents . human resources management, statewide program development, Answer: The Stark County Recorder’s Office systems and opera- charitable fundraising over $5 million . Investment management tions have become a model for the State. As Recorder, my office training . maintains a Website, mobile app, Facebook, newsletter and works Answer: Effective strategies for county funds result in added re- with the press corps to get our services out to the community . sources for taxpayers, saving money and providing services . With Service has been my driving goal as the Recorder either by imple- $750 million in revenue, a $70 million general fund, and a $125 menting 24/7 operations, E-Recording or driving our mobile office million investment portfolio, we leverage these resources in a out to cities, townships, and villages in our community to issue balanced way by blending investment grade bonds, equities, and Ohio Veterans’ Identification cards. banking with expert professionals to safely achieve high return rates . With a looming recession, action is critical . I’ve led such Jamie Walters, Republican efforts successfully for cities, pension funds, and charities . Age: 48 Education: Master of Public Administration, Kent State. Master of Alexander A. Zumbar, Republican Arts, University of Akron . Bachelor of Arts, BGSU . Age: 50 Occupation: Real Estate Business Owner; Adjunct Professor of Education: Mount Union College, B .A . – Accounting; government, Stark State College Certified Public Finance Administrator Qualifications: Community leader, Real Estate business owner, Occupation: Stark County Treasurer Masters in Public Administration, 12 years in local elected office. Qualifications: I have a B.A. in Accounting and am a Certified Answer: The County Recorder’s office doesn’t get much attention, Public Finance Administrator . Since 2010, I have been serving but in 2020 it must . It’s responsible for our real estate records, for as County Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer. Other offices our homes and businesses . Under the current Recorder, a 20+ served: North Canton Director of Finance; Alliance City Auditor year politician, the office has fallen behind in critical technolo- & Councilman . gies . As a real estate business owner & professional, with exten- Answer: As Treasurer and Chief Investment Officer, I use United sive local government experience, I will protect our Real Estate American Capital Corporation as investment advisor . All mon- records for our families, businesses, community and schools . I ask ies are safely invested according to Ohio Revised Code and the for your vote . Thank you . County Investment Policy . The investment policy guidelines, priorities and procedures are based upon ORC and the principles COUNTY SHERIFF of prudent financial management. Investments are prioritized by the following: Safety, Liquidity & Yield . Monthly meetings are held Responsibilities: To provide services to the courts, to with the County Commissioners and County Auditor . Quarterly oversee the county jail, and to act as chief law meetings are held with the Investment Advisory Committee . enforcement officer for the county. Elect 1 Salary: $119,161 Term: 4 years 13 ______LOCAL ISSUES ISSUE 6 – CITY OF LOUISVILLE Repurpose of 1/4% of the municipal income tax. ISSUES – MUNICIPAL Louisville City Council is asking voters to approve a change in ISSUE 5 – CITY OF LOUISVILLE City ordinances to provide additional flexibility related to Charter Amendment set forth in Ordinance No. 20-31. expenditures of income taxes . Here’s some background: in 1987 Louisville voters approved an increase in City income taxes from The City Council of Louisville is asking voters to approve 17 1 5%. to 2% . In 1993 voters approved an earmark of ¼ percent, changes to the city’s Charter . Extensive changes to the Charter specifically directing the funds to be set aside for water and sewer have not been made since 1999 . A yes vote for Issue 5 will related expenses . approve all proposed changes; a no vote on Issue 5 will mean the Louisville City Charter remains the same . Approval of Issue 6 would change the wording of that earmark from “shall” to “may,” which would provide City Council with the The recommendations stem from a Charter Review Commission ability to redirect income tax funds previously earmarked for of seven city residents appointed by City Council . The Review water and sewer projects, to other city expenses . It would also Commission’s recommendations were approved by Council in have the advantage of allowing the city to apply for grants for July for a vote by city residents November 3 . Detailed information future sewer and water projects, something it cannot do now about the proposed revisions are on the city’s website, because of the earmark to accounts called “enterprise funds ”. Louisvilleohio .com, and have been published in two editions of The City currently has one outstanding bond, which will be paid the The Louisville Herald weekly newspaper . During early voting off in December 2021 . (Oct . 6-Nov . 2) a copy of the revisions will be available at the Stark County Board of Elections, 3525 Regent Ave . NE, Canton . Passage of Issue 6 would not change the amount of income taxes Copies of the proposed revisions will also be placed in each of residents pay. It would give City Council greater flexibility in use Louisville’s two polling locations on Election Day Nov . 3 . of the taxes that are generated . For more details on Louisville City finances, you may go to louisvillecity.com/finances. The changes proposed by the Charter Review Commission are designed to do the following: ISSUE 9 – CITY OF CANTON 6-A – LOCAL OPTION • Improve city government efficiency and effectiveness Request for sale of beer, wine and mixed beverages for Aldi Inc • Reflect generally accepted, current city government practices Ohio, doing business as Aldi 65, at 2725 Maret St NE, Canton • Align the Louisville City Charter with current state law OH 44705. • Provide for periodic review and updating of the Charter every five years ISSUE 10 – CITY OF CANTON CITY 6-A – LOCAL OPTION Proposed Charter revisions address the following issues: Request for Sunday sale of beer, wine and mixed beverages, from Choosing by City Council of a Vice Mayor instead of an 10AM till midnight, for Aldi Inc Ohio, doing business as Aldi 65, Assistant Mayor; removing reference to a Board of Control since at 2725 Maret St NE, Canton OH 44705. City Council serves that function; clarifies the procedure for filling City Council vacancies by interim appointment and election; ISSUES – TOWNSHIP appointment of the City Clerk by the City Council; time of Council’s annual organizational meeting and purposes for which ISSUE 12 – NIMISHILLEN TOWNSHIP Executive Sessions may be called; clarifies when unexcused Renewal, 2.0 mills, road levy, 5 years. absences by a Council member could force resignation; clarifies purposes of ordinances, resolutions and motions; allows proposed ISSUE 17 – PLAIN TOWNSHIP POLICE DISTRICT ordinances to be published on the City website, in addition to or Replacement, 4.25 mills, police levy, 5 years. instead of, in the city newspaper, after the proposed ordinance has its first reading; proposes that “substantial” amendments to Four years ago Plain Township residents approved a 4 .25 mil a proposed ordinance require publication prior to final approval property tax levy to increase Sheriff Department patrols of the by Council; clarifies the basis for and effective date of Emergency Township. Staffing increased from 14 deputies to 24 deputies, Legislation, and reflects changes to Ohio law regarding who are exclusively assigned to Plain Township . The township expenditures for public improvements and current expenditures . also has its own detective, patrol services commander, and two sergeants . Additional proposed Amendments address the following: within approved budgeted amounts, allows the City Manager to purchase The township trustees are asking voters to replace the 4 .25-mil items or sign contracts up to $25,000 in value without further levy for five years so that the amount collected will be based on Council approval; allows appointment by the City Manager of current property valuations and new construction in the township . an Assistant City Manager and clarifies current practices for their The replacement levy would generate $3,559,523, compared with duties; updates Law Department language with current practices, the current levy that brings in $3,070,341 per year, but would not specifying which staff shall be in the classified service; removes begin until the current levy expires . The current levy is the only from the Charter a detailed list of the duties of the Director of funding source for the Police Department; no additional funds Finance, instead specifying the duties are those “in the City from the township’s General Fund are used for police department Administrative Code, or as may otherwise be required under Ohio expenses . Law”; eliminates Article 7 related to hiring of fire department The replacement levy will cost the owner of a $100,000 home personnel since Ohio labor laws now require such matters to about $148 .75 per year or roughly $12 .40 per month . In 2016, be bargained between the parties involved; makes terminology the cost to an owner of a $100,000 home was approximately changes to Article 10, sections 6&7 . $134 per year or $11 per month . Two new sections to the Charter are proposed . Article 10 Section Trustees cite increasing costs as the reason they are asking for a 14 specifies that Amendments to the Charter will require a 2/3 replacement levy . Merely renewing the levy wouldn’t provide any approval by City Council prior to allowing a vote of city residents . additional income . The township owns all of the police vehicles It also includes a citizen-initiative process by which a petition and equipment used by deputies . The replacement levy would of 10 percent of city voters can petition Council for a Charter allow the township to update equipment and maintain current Amendment to be placed on a ballot. The new section specifies staffing levels. Without a replacement levy, the department would the timing of the election after an Amendment is proposed . face a shortfall in two years . A new Section 15 for Article 10 specifies review of the City Passage of Issue 17 would allow for purchase of all new body Charter every 5 years, beginning in 2025, by a 5-member cameras and vehicle cameras to replace outdated technology . The Commission appointed by the City Manager and approved by City cost of the in-car cameras is approximately $300,000 . The Council . Charter Commission members shall serve without updated body cameras will cost approximately $60,000 . The compensation and their meetings shall be open to the public . replacement levy will also allow the township to continue a cost-sharing agreement with Plain Local Schools to share the sal- ary of one School Resources Officer. The levy would also fund the replacement of 3 patrol vehicles per year . Three cruisers per year, 14 including radar and other equipment is approximately $143,000 . ______The vehicles replaced consistently have over 170,000 miles . million annual budget . About 70% of the school district’s funding Replacement of in-car computers and hot spots are also planned . comes from state funds, with 30% from local property taxes like Issue 32 . In 2016, the Plain Township Sheriff’s deputies handled 10,883 calls for service and nearly 1,500 traffic stops. In 2019, the As a result of decreases in Ohio tax collections, the state has cut numbers grew to 18,809 calls for service and nearly 3,800 traffic funding to all school districts; Massillon City Schools saw a cut of stops . $2 .6 million . However, a federal grant of $1 .5 million helped alleviate some additional costs brought about by the pandemic . ISSUE 25 – JACKSON TOWNSHIP 13 – LOCAL OPTION The federal funding has been used to add teachers to help with Request for Sunday sale of wine and mixed beverages, from on-line learning, to buy Chrome books for students, and for 10AM till midnight, for Tamarkin Company, doing business as personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies for the Whipple GetGo 3381, at 6215 Whipple Ave NW, North Canton district. Feeding of district children increased significantly during OH 44720. the summer of 2020, and is continuing into this school year, with the district incurring some additional costs as a result . ISSUE 26 – PLAIN TOWNSHIP 7 – LOCAL OPTION Request for sale of wine and mixed beverages and spirituous ISSUE 33 – LOUISVILLE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT liquor for El Torito LLC, doing business as Las Penas Mexican Additional, 6.7 mills, emergency requirements, 5 years. Restaurant, at 3300 Whipple Ave NW, Canton OH 44718. The Louisville City Board of Education is hoping “third time’s a . charm,” when it comes to asking city residents to pass a 6 .7-mill ISSUE 27 – PLAIN TOWNSHIP 7 – LOCAL OPTION emergency property tax levy to fund city schools . The new funds Request for Sunday sale of wine and mixed beverages and generated would close an operating deficit caused by steady spirituous liquor, from 10AM till midnight, for El Torito LLC, decreases in funding from the State of Ohio and would generate doing business as Las Penas Mexican Restaurant, at $2,815,000 per year . 3300 Whipple Ave NW, Canton OH 44718. Since 2009, state funding to Louisville schools has decreased from ISSUE – SCHOOL & OTHER DISTRICT $15 2. million per year to about $14 .4 million per year . When the Covid pandemic started in March 2020, the state cut an addition- ISSUE 28 – MASSILLON PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT al $488,000 from Louisville City Schools, and has continued the Renewal, 2.9 mills, current operating expenses, 5 years. decrease into the 2020-21 school year . The district did get two infusions of federal CARES Act cash for pandemic-related expens- Voters in the Massillon City School District and the voters in the es not already budgeted; $322,00 came directly from the federal villages of Navarre and Brewster are being asked to renew for five government, and $138,000 allocated from the State of Ohio . years the current 2 .9-mill property tax that provides funds for the Massillon Public Library, its bookmobile, and its two branches . As a result, the School Board eliminated busing for high school The owner of a $100,000 home will pay slightly more than $79 students and for younger students who live within two miles of per year, which is less than the past five years. their school, cut staffing of teachers and support staff by 27, and doubled pay-to-participate fees for sports and clubs . The District First passed in 2015, the renewal levy will generate had already reduced energy expenditures by $55,000 per year, approximately $1,318,350 each year, which will represent slightly and had joined purchasing co-ops for health insurance, liability more than half of the library system’s total budget . The library’s insurance, buses, porta-johns, and utilities . According to data remaining budget comes primarily from the state’s Public Library from the Ohio Dept . of Education, when compared with the other Fund (PLF) . Of the PLF given to Stark County each year, approx- 606 school districts in the state, Louisville is in the lowest 5% imately 11% supports the Massillon Public Library, with the rest when it comes to per-pupil expenditures . supporting the other six library systems in the county . Because of cuts to the PLF since 2009, Ohio’s public libraries are currently The current General Fund budget remains at about $27 million, funded by the state at the same level as they were in 1997, a which is supported by 8 other levies dating back to 1968 . A third decrease of 26% . The Massillon Public Library’s budget is of the budget comes from those levies, with state funding expected to be $2,740,000 in 2021, very close to 2017 levels . represented by 60% of the budget . Passage of Issue 33 for a Additional fiscal year 2021 decreases may be ahead as the state family living in a house valued at $100,000 would mean an deals with the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on state sales increase in taxes of nearly $20 per month, or $240 per year . and income tax collections . Passage would allow the school district to reinstate busing, reduce After passage of the 2 .9-mil levy in 2015, the Massillon Public class sizes, reduce pay-to-participate fees, maintain safety and Library was able to expand hours and services, adding Sunday security personnel, maintain guidance and mental health services, hours at the main branch and Saturday hours at the Askren Branch reinstate Math Lab, reinstate an ArtsinStark partnership; enhance in Navarre . Asbestos remediation was completed for bookmobile STEM, arts programs, and gifted programming; reinstate field trips offices, and the Outreach Department was expanded. Programs in December 2020, and explore providing additional electives were increased for all ages, overdue fines for children were eliminated, a technology trainer and technology classes were expanded . In addition, Wi-Fi hotspots that can be checked out, WHAT WILL ONE MILL COST ME ? and a circulating “cake-pan library” were established . Stark County Auditor’s web page offers an online tool to help you in estimating your real estate taxes. With it, you can estimate how tax Re-opening of the three branches and the Bookmobile during the levies and bond issues (proposed or recently passed) will impact your pandemic involved expenses like purchase of Personal Protec- specific property. tive Equipment (PPE) and cleaning supplies, glass and plexiglass dividers, signage, upgrades to HVAC units to increase air filtration Find it at: https://taxestimator.starkcountyohio.gov/main.aspx and LED lighting . Curbside service at the Main and Askren Branch were instituted, as well as lobby pickup at the Belloni Branch . WHICH DISTRICT RACES A canopy was added to the Bookmobile so patrons would be WILL BE ON MY BALLOT ? shaded as they wait their turn to enter the bus . A vacant custodial TWO WAYS TO KNOW: position was filled to clean restrooms more than once a day, and a technology trainer facilitated transition to virtual programming . 1. Go to https://stark-voterview.boe.ohio.gov/VoterView/ An increase in outreach staffing is anticipated, with increased RegistrantSearch.do requests for homebound delivery . Enter name & birth date Results show all your registration info and ballot districts ISSUE 32 – MASSILLON CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Renewal, 4.4 mills, emergency requirements, 5 years. 2. Go to VOTE411.com Enter address The Massillon City Board of Education is asking district voters to View races and candidate info for your ballot renew a 4.4-mill property tax levy for five years. This levy was first approved in 2005, and is one of three that supports district operations . It provides $2 million each year for the district’s $50 15 ______TRACK MY BALLOT JOIN THE LEAGUE

® STARK COUNTY VOTERS: Once you have The League of Women Voters , a nonpartisan political • requested an absentee ballot to vote by mail or organization, encourages informed and active participation • voted early in person (also a form of absentee voting) or in government, works to increase understanding of • voted on Election Day at the polls, major public policy issues, and influences public policy you will be able to confirm your ballot’s status at: through education and advocacy. https://stark.oh-vote.org/VoterView/Home The League never endorses, supports, or opposes candidates or political parties. Membership in the League is open to men and women of any age, regardless of political affiliation. With 100 HOW CAN I PREVIEW MY BALLOT ? years of experience and over 700 local and state affiliates, the League is one of America’s most trusted grassroots organizations. For more information visit our website at

http://cantonlwv.org

Launched by the League of Women Voters Education Fund in October of 2006, VOTE411.org® is an online “one-stop-shop” for election related information.

Enter your address in VOTE411 and the system will reveal the appropriate districts and races for your location. Additional candidate information and responses not available at the time of this publication may be available on VOTE411.

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

For each race, candidates are listed alphabetically by surname. Candidates’ responses to our questionnaires are printed herein in their own words as submitted to LWVCA. A printable pdf version of this guide is available for download from our website: http://cantonlwv.org

LWV-Canton Area serves the cities of Canton, Louisville, Massillon, North Canton, and the townships of Jackson, Nimishillen, Perry, and Plain. In many election years, however, our Voters Guide covers races that serve the interests of all Stark County citizens.

THANK YOU, DONORS! THANK YOU, MEMBERS & FRIENDS! The 2020 Voters Guide is funded by generous, The 2020 Voters Guide is made possible by members, friends, tax-deductible donations to the LWVCA Education Fund over the and area organizations who produce and distribute it: past year . We thank these individuals who support this annual project with their contributions: Co-chairs: Carol Schonhoft & Mimi Bogard Zandra Bloom Rosalie Gregg Zandy Bloom Connie Rubin Mimi Bogard Sandra Hutchinson Cynthia Burnell Ginny Soldatis Maryellen Cameron Sandra Lutz Carol Canavan Sara Strattan Carol Canavan Sue Mali Christine Clevenger Cathy Toth Christine Clevenger Susan Platt Tisha Farley Fran Wells Karen Dhyanchand Enterprise Holding Foundation Kay Feagles Melissa Zucker Amy Dreussi Various anonymous gifts Kay Flood Stark County District Library: Rosalie Gregg All Branches The LWVCA Education Fund is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax-deductible donations are welcome at any time of the Rebecca Kuzma Louisville Public Library year by mail to: Sandra Lutz Massillon Public Library LWVCA Education Fund Sue Mali North Canton Public Library c/o Melissa Zucker, Treasurer 2479 Carrington St NW Nancy Masterson Rodman Public Library North Canton OH 44720 Myra McCoy Area colleges and high schools Ron McDonald Stark Community Foundation Susan Platt Neighborhood Leadership THANK YOU, COMMUNITY! Council We thank the Stark County District Library, especially Donna Plunkett North Branch, for their generous offer of meeting space throughout the year . Contact LWVCA to join our distribution network of future Voters Guides: We thank the staff at the Stark County Board of Elections [email protected] for their good work and information that make this guide possible . 16