League of Women Voters 2016 Election Guide

★2016 voter guide★ Covering Hamilton County, OHIO

Who am I voting for?

What ballot issues am I voting for?

Where do I vote?

Great Parks of Hamilton County, Children Services, Cincinnati School Levy and other local issues Start on page 17

Find polling location at Hamilton County Board of Elections Page 15

President......................... Page 2-3 US Senator......................... Page 4 US Representative........... Page 4-5

Ohio State Judges .......Page 6-7, 9-10 Ohio Senator...........................Page 7 Ohio Representative .............Page 8-9

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Plan now how to cast your ballot League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area Education Fund

1. Early Voting 2. In Person 3. By Mail – make plans now Page 15

103 Williams Howard Taft Rd,Cincinnati, OH,45219 www.info@lwvcincinnati.org Expanded Voter information including additional questions and information from the candidates, as well as a customized ballot and polling place locator, can be found on our website: www.lwvcincinnati.org

Sponsors: The Murray & Agnes Seasongood Good Government Foundation Community Shares of Greater Cincinnati

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Hamilton County Offices Start on.................................Page 10

how do I vote?

Why should I vote?

When do I vote?

Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2016 Polls open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m.

Democracy is NOT a spectator sport

PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

ABOUT THIS GUIDE This guide for voters was prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area (LWVCA) to provide a forum for candidates and information on the ballot issues.

The candidate materials in this guide were assembled in the following manner: All qualified presidential candidates were invited to provide biographical information and responses to five specific questions. Candidates qualified if they met the following criteria: (1) The candidate must have made a public announcement of her/his intention to run for her/his Party’s nomination for President; (2) The candidate must meet the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act’s minimum contribution threshold requirements for qualifying for matching funds, based on the most recent data publicly available on the FEC website; and, (3) The candidate must qualify for the ballot in enough states to win a majority of electoral votes. Responses were limited to 400 characters and were truncated thereafter. If a candidate did not respond by the date of publication, “Candidate has not responded.” is printed. The LWVCA has printed that material as it was received from LWVUS. The information for the judicial candidates is provided by JudicialVotesCount. org, a partnership of the League of Women Voters, Ohio Supreme Court, the Bliss Institute of Applied Politics at the University of Akron, Ohio State Bar Association, Ohio Newspaper Association, and Ohio Association of Broadcasters. The LWVCA has printed that material as it was received from this source.

The information for the US Senate is provided by League of Women Voters of Ohio (LWVO). Candidates were informed of the word limit requirements.

There was no other criterion provided to these candidates for guidance on their responses. The LWVCA has printed the candidate information as it was received from LWVO. The information for the US Representatives, Ohio State Senator and Representative and Hamilton County candidates is solicited and compiled by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area (LWVCA). LWVCA uses this criteria: The questions selected by LWVCA were advertised to the candidates who were informed that each response would be printed as received and that all candidates would be solely responsible for the content of their replies. Because of the nonpartisan nature of the guide, candidates were informed any reference to other candidates is prohibited. Because of space limitations, candidates were informed of the word limit requirements and were advised that any reply over the word limit would be cut off at the correct number. If a candidate did not respond by the September 21 deadline and provided information for the primary election, the primary information as it applies to the format for this print guide has been included. The summaries and background for the Hamilton County ballot issues 44, 52 and 53 were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area volunteers.

If a candidate responded with information for some fields (i.e. Occupation, Answer 2) but not others, then those fields (Occupation, Answer 2) have been removed for space.

In making this information available to the public, the League of Women Voters neither endorses nor rejects the views of any candidate or political party. The League does not and cannot assume responsibility for any candidate’s reply, or for his or her motive in making it.The information in this guide is current as of September 21, 2016. LWVCA’s online voter guide at VOTE411.org includes additional candidate information not included in this guide as well as any updates candidates may have made to their profile information after our publication deadline as stated above. The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any candidate or political party.

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VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES FOUR YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: The President is the head of state of the United States of America and is the Chief Executive Officer and the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers of the President are described in the Constitution and federal law. Subject to Senate approval, the President appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United Nations, Supreme Court Justices and federal judges. The President, along with the Cabinet and its agencies, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation to the United States Congress. SALARY: $400,000 per year

families first, and fight so that everyone pays their fair share. Every American deserves a good job, a successful career, and a productive life. Together, these efforts will work to make that a reality. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 2: The U.S. needs to exercise leadership and shape global events rather than be shaped by them. So many of our interests—our security, our economy, and our fight against climate change—require cooperation with our friends and allies, and with countries we may agree with on some things, and disagree with on others. As President, I’ll ensure our country remains a source of leadership around the world. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

HOW ELECTED: Every four years, political parties nominate candidates to run for President of the United States in a general election that is held on the first Tuesday, after the first Monday in November. Although all parties use conventions to nominate their candidates, in most states the Democratic and Republican parties also run state-wide primary elections or caucuses. The results of the primary influence how the delegates to their respective party’s convention will cast ballots for candidates for President. The degree to which the result of the primary influences the votes of delegates at conventions varies from state to state.

QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1. What will you do to support a vibrant economy across the U.S.?

2. What actions would you support the U.S. undertake to protect its interests abroad?

3. What kinds of policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all Americans?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 20, 2017

Hillary Clinton

Democrat VICE PRESIDENT: TIM KAINE OCCUPATION: Former U.S. Secretary of State PERSONAL STATEMENT: I’m running for President to make a difference in the lives of all Americans.

I’ll build an economy that works for everyone, continue my fight for children and families, and work to keep our country safe. And I’ll unite Americans to take on all the challenges we face—because we’re stronger together.

TOP THREE GOALS: 1. Grow and strengthen our economy. 2. Curb the outsized influence of big money in American politics. 3. Ensure we have the partnerships to keep our country safe.

WEBSITE: http://www. hillaryclinton.com ANSWER 1: My first priority will be to grow and strengthen our economy. I will invest in goodpaying jobs, expand access to higher education, encourage companies to follow policies that put

ANSWER 3: Too many Americans still face discrimination and mistreatment. I will fight to break down barriers and build ladders of opportunity. We will reform our criminal justice system, protect transgender individuals, defend voting rights, fight environmental injustice, fight for comprehensive immigration reform, end the epidemic of gun violence, and ensure the citizens of Puerto Rico are treated equally. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

Richard Duncan Photo Not Provided

Nonparty VICE PRESIDENT: RICKY JOHNSON Candidate has not responded.

Gary Johnson

(Libertarian – party will not appear on the ballot) VICE PRESIDENT: WILLIAM WELD OCCUPATION: Former Two-Term Governor of New Mexico PERSONAL STATEMENT: I am Governor Gary Johnson and along with my running mate Governor William Weld we are honored to accept the invitation of the League of Women Voters to participate in their efforts to inform the voting American public of all options available to them during this Presidential election year.

TOP THREE GOALS: Provide Congress a balanced budget within the first 100 days of office; Reduce (and in some cases eliminate) our military footprint abroad; Liberalize trade and economic activity.

WEBSITE: http://www.johnsonweld.com ANSWER 1: Submit to Congress a balanced budget to provide a template to stop unsustainable growth of the national debt, debt that weighs on employers, entrepreneurs and the economy. Support a simpler, fairer tax code that won’t penalize productivity or investment. Fight to provide certainty in spending, taxes, and regulation so employers, entrepreneurs and investors make decisions that put people to work. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 2: Above all, we must maintain a national

PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

Gary Johnson, Cont’d defense that is second to none. Government’s first responsibility is to protect us from threats abroad.

If attacked, we respond. Our greatest assets are economy and culture. Blue jeans and computers did more to win the Cold War than stockpiled warheads. I will pursue vigorous diplomacy based on our economic might, not idle threats and military interventions. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 3: I would do everything in the Presidency’s power to end the militarization of the police. I would end the failed drug war, which unfairly targets communities of color. I would use the powers of the Federal Government to protect the civil liberties of all Americans, aggressively enforcing 14th Amendment protections. I would continue the work to help all Americans to achieve equality of opportunity. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

Jill Stein

Green VICE PRESIDENT: AJAMU BARAKA OCCUPATION: Physician PERSONAL STATEMENT: After a career in clinical medicine, I am now practicing political medicine, running for President to help heal our ailing nation.

Your vote for me sends a clear signal that you want a new, principled politics that puts people, planet and peace over profit.

TOP THREE GOALS: 1. Green job-creation to fight climate change. 2. A fair economy that eliminates unemployment 3. Justice, true democracy, and respect for all human beings.

WEBSITE: http://jill2016.com ANSWER 1 • Eliminate unemployment by creating a job for every American who needs work.

• Repeal NAFTA and other trade agreements that export our jobs overseas and create immigration surges.

• Create 20 million green jobs to stimulate the economy improving our health by cleaning up our land, air, and water.

• Protect consumers and small businesses from big banks and Wall Street predators. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 2: Forge a new foreign policy based solidly on diplomacy, international law, respect for human rights, and consistent nonviolent support for democratic movements around the world. End the misguided policies of militarism that have produced terrorist organizations, refugee crises, failed states, and a bloated military that we can no longer afford. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 3: My plan to end unemployment will transform the economic life of low income communities that are now struggling with unemployment rates two or three times the national average.

Coupled with my commitment to quality public schools and community empowerment, we can not just lessen racial disparity, but bring it to an end. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

Donald Trump

Republican VICE-PRESIDENT MICHAEL R. PENCE OCCUPATION: Businessman

VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES Cherunda Fox/Roger Kushner (Write-in) Tom Hoefling/Steve Schulin (Write-in) Bruce E. Jaynes/Roger W. Stewart (Write-in) Chris Keniston/Deacon Taylor (Write-in) Barry Kirschner/Rick Menefield (Write-in) Laurence Kotlikoff/Edward Leamer (Write-in) Joseph Maldonado/Douglas Terranova (Write-in)

PERSONAL STATEMENT: The government of the US should be focused on serving the people of this great nation, not special interests. The government now rules rather than governs. The American people want their government back and together we will make America great again.

Michael Andrew Maturen/Juan Antonio Munoz (Write-in)

TOP THREE GOALS: Secure our nation by restoring our leadership in the world; restore economic growth thru tax, trade, immigration, & energy reform; restore Constitutional limits on government.

Mike Smith/Daniel White (Write-in)

WEBSITE: http://www.donaldjtrump.com/ ANSWER 1: I have proposed tax, trade, energy and immigration reforms that will bring trillions of dollars and millions of jobs back to the United States.

Through immigration reform, we will restore wage growth and reduce the related fiscal burdens on state and local governments. These reforms will help lift wages and will create opportunities for millions of Americans to get back in the workforce. © 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

ANSWER 2: We are the leader of the free world whether we like it or not - and we must ensure we seek partners willing to make sure our national interests are defended. We only gain this respect from both adversaries and allies by having a strong military, being clear about defeating radical Islam, & stopping rogue nations from attacking/threatening our citizens, economic interests, resources and allies.© 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund ANSWER 3: The best way to ensure social & racial justice is to return Constitutional limits on government & appoint Supreme Court Justices who will defend the Constitution, not rewrite it. The President must provide leadership & make sure the government works for the people. We must ensure low income & minority children learn to read at grade level & not trap them in failing schools based on zip code.© 2016 by the League of Women Voters Education Fund

Additional information on presidential candidates is available at www.VOTE411.org

INFORMATION ON VOTING FOR WRITE-IN CANDIDATES

Ben Hartnell/Dave Marshall (Write-in)

Evan McMullin/Nathan Johnson (Write-in) Monica Moorehead/Lamont Lilly (Write-in) Joe Schriner/Joe Moreaux (Write-in) Josiah R. Stroh/Paul Callahan (Write-In) Douglas W. Thomson/Thomas A. Ducro, Jr. (Write-In)

When voting in person, a list of certified write-in candidates is available at each polling location.

If voter wishes to view the write-in candidates on the list, voter must ask a Precinct Election Official (PEO) to view the list. To vote for a write-in candidate, completely darken the box to the left of the blank line and write in the candidate’s name as it appears on the write-in list. PEO can instruct voter on how to proceed with voting for a write-in candidate if requested. PEO will not allow the writein list to leave the precinct table.

When voting absentee, voter may access the certified write-in list of candidates on the Hamilton County Board of Elections at votehamiltoncounty. org: click on the elections tab, click on November 2016 Election, click on official Candidates and Issues- List November 2016 for a pdf document which lists all candidates. Voter may also call the board of elections at 632-7000. If you get the automated menu press 3 for the administrative offices or the person who answers can access the list of certified write-ins for the voter.

BACKGROUND AND INFORMATION FOR PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES The League of Women Voters Education Fund (LWVEF) sponsored three presidential debates in 1976 as well as one vice presidential debate. The League continued to sponsor the presidential and vice presidential debates every four years through the 1984 elections. Following that election cycle, the Democratic and Republican national parties came together in a decision to move sponsorship of the debates to the parties.

Between 1985 and 1987 the League challenged this move and sparked widespread public debate on the matter. The LWVEF argued that a change in sponsorship putting control of the debate format in the hands of the two dominant parties would deprive voters of one of the few chances available to see the candidates outside of their controlled campaign environment.

In 1987 the parties announced the creation of the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD). The Commission chose LWVEF to sponsor the last presidential debate of 1988, but placed so many rules and restrictions on the format of the debate that the LWVEF chose not to participate. The League President at the time stated that the League had “no intention of becoming an accessory to the hoodwinking of the American public.”

The nonprofit Commission on Presidential Debates has sponsored all presidential debates since 1988.

Schedule for 2016 debates sponsored by CPD: First presidential debate: Monday, September 26, 2016 Hofstra University, Long Island, NY

Second presidential debate: Sunday, October 9, 2016 Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO

Vice presidential debate: Tuesday, October 4, 2016 Longwood University, Farmville, VA

Third presidential debate: Wednesday, October 19, 2016 University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV

The following candidates have qualified for the Ohio State ballot according to the Secretary of State of Ohio but did not meet the LWVEF criteria.

Certified Write-in Candidates James Jerome Bell/Scheem Milton Hempstead (Write-in) Michael Bickelmeyer/Robert Young (Write-in) Darrell L. Castle/Scott N. Bradley (Write-in)

“Electing the President: A Guide to the Election Process” is an LWVUS publication which offers general information on debates and preparing for, watching and evaluating the candidates’ performances. The guide is available as a pdf at the LWV.org website http://lwv.org/content/electingpresident-everything-you-need-know www. lwvcincinnati.org |

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UNITED STATES SENATOR 6-YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: Represents the people of Ohio and the U.S. in dealing with matters of national and international importance. The general welfare should be a prime concern. SALARY: $174,000 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: Explain why you do or do not support the Environmental Protection Agency’s efforts to enforce strong clean air and clean water standards.

2: What kinds of gun safety regulations, if any, should be passed into law by Congress? What will you do in Congress to promote your position?

3: Explain your position on the Senate’s obligation to hold hearings on a President’s U.S. Supreme Court nominee.

FULL TERM Commencing January 3, 2017

Tom Connors Photo Not Provided

Nonparty Candidate has not responded.

Joseph DeMare

The gun safety regulations proposed today are mostly of a very common sense variety and should be supported. These include limiting gun access for people with a history of mental illness, banning high capacity assault weapons, closing background check loopholes, and banning people on the terrorist watch list from gun ownership.

ANSWER 3: One thing that the past several decades have taught us is that the Republican Party often cheats. They cheated in 2000, giving the Presidency to Bush even though Al Gore won the election. They have cheated in drawing up election districts, eliminating the idea of a competitive election in most districts, ensuring that they take control of most congressional districts and most state governments. They cheated in the 2004 election here in Ohio, making sure there weren’t enough voting machines in the heavily Democratic areas of the state, ensuring Bush won a second term. They have no problem ignoring their responsibilities to the people if it means they can “win” an election or gain more political power. Failing to hold hearings on the Supreme Court nominee is just another example.

The Senate Republicans swore an oath to uphold the constitution. It very clearly spells out their responsibilities in the nominating process. By refusing to do their jobs, they are breaking their oaths.

Rob Portman

Green

OCCUPATION: Machinist

Photo Not Provided

safeguard these resources for future generations.

ANSWER 2: Like many Americans, I have been deeply troubled and saddened by the escalation of violence in our country – we must do more to keep weapons out of the hands of those who would do harm. We should be implementing commonsense and effective ideas to reduce gun violence, like ensuring background checks are conducted on all gun sales and closing the loophole allowing those on the terror watch list to buy guns. I believe these proposals are consistent with our Second Amendment rights and are the most effective ways to keep weapons out of the hands of criminals, terrorists and those with legitimate mental illnesses.

Unfortunately, Senator Portman voted against both of these proposals that would help keep Ohioans safer. I also support passage of the Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act so that gun manufacturers and dealers can no longer hide behind a legal shield that gives them protections from liability enjoyed by virtually no other industry.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: NOT a professional politician, Machinist, Teacher, ASL Interpreter, Writer, Environmentalist, Green

US 1st Congressional District

Republican Candidate has not responded.

Warren County

WEBSITE: http://www.joedemareforagreenfuture.org ANSWER 1: I support strong EPA enforcement because a healthy ecosystem is literally the source of all wealth in any society. One of the reasons China’s economy is faltering is that people are literally dropping dead in the streets from pollution.

Historically, most human societies have grown, destroyed their local ecosystems, then collapsed.

We have enough of an understanding of ecology to avoid this fate, but only if we make our human laws MORE strict than the laws of nature. We know putting phosphorous into Lake Erie will cause algal blooms. So, the EPA must enforce laws limiting phosphorous. I propose 100 foot vegetative buffers between farm fields where fertilizers are spread and drainage ditches or streams. Trees and plants will stop 80% of the runoff and stop algae blooms. This is just one of many new laws needed.

“Wealth” is meaningless if you can’t drink the water, breathe the air, or touch the soil. Laws, not just EPA rules, are essential tools for our survival.

ANSWER 2: We Greens believe in Non-Violence.

We reject the idea that guns can protect us from a repressive government. We need to do that nonviolently through the ballot box, not violently using an ammunition box. However, I do not want to take anyone’s guns away. They have a right to own them.

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Scott Rupert Photo Not Provided

Nonparty Candidate has not responded.

Ted Strickland Democrat

occupation: Former Governor of Ohio, former Congressman, and former Psychologist EDUCATION: BA, Asbury College 1963, Ph.D in counseling psychology 1980.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Training and Experience I served as U.S. Representative for 12 years.

I served as Ohio’s governor from 2007 to 2011.

WEBSITE: http://tedstrickland.com ANSWER 1: I support efforts to enforce clean air and water standards because I believe climate change is a real and pressing problem, and that we must take action to address this challenge. We need to position Ohio to take advantage of all the benefits a clean energy economy can bring: more jobs, cheaper electricity, and better public health.

Additionally, since Ohio’s natural resources are such an important part of what makes our state a great place to live, work and start a family, and since these resources closely linked to our economic growth, I believe we have a responsibility to

Certified write-in CANDIDATES

James Stahl (Write-in) Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE TO CONGRESS

EDUCATION: BA English, MS English Education

ANSWER 3: Senator Portman and the Republican leadership are facing a simple choice: they can uphold the Constitution and do their jobs, or as Senator Portman has so frequently done, they can choose to put the interests of the Washington power brokers over the interests of the American people. This is bigger than politics or parties: it’s about the institutions of our democracy. We cannot allow a seat on the Supreme Court of the United States to stand vacant for the sake of these kinds of crass political calculations. I call on Senator Portman to show the leadership that Ohioans expect from their United States Senator and demand that the president’s nominee receive a fair hearing and a vote.

Hamilton County

This district includes part of Hamilton County and all of Warren County. The total number of registered voters in 1st Congressional District is 419,439. The breakdown is as follows: # of Registered voters in Hamilton County: 348,577 of which 208,081 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues--only ballot in a primary election)

2 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To represent the people of Ohio, their district, and the United States in dealing with matters of national and international importance. The general welfare should be a prime concern. SALARY: $174,000 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: Explain why you do or do not think the US Congress should address the influence of money in politics, especially in light of the US Supreme Court decision in Citizens United.

3: Explain why you do or do not believe that the federal government should ensure that every American has health coverage. How will you work to promote your position?

1ST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

Of those affiliated with a party: 61,075 Democratic, 307 Green, 62 Libertarian, and 79,052 Republican

Steve Chabot

# of Registered voters in Warren County: 149,914 of which 78,779 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

OCCUPATION: U.S. Congressman, First District, Ohio

Of those affiliated with a party: 13,952 Democratic, 66 Green, 56 Libertarian, and 57,061 Republican A note concerning population for congressional districts: The Census Bureau provides states with data within one year of Census Day (last Census Day April 1, 2010). There is a federal requirement that congressional districts have “about the same population” and have “equal population as nearly as practicable.” The figures used by the state legislature when they redrew the lines after the last census were District 1 – 721,708 and District 2 – 723,706 *See note US Congressional District 2

Republican

EDUCATION: Graduated from LaSalle High School and the College of William and Mary. Earned law degree from NKU’s Salmon P. Chase College of Law. POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Conservative WEBSITE: http://stevechabot.com ANSWER 1: It’s been my privilege to represent this district for nearly 20 years. I’ve always worked for my constituents, fighting against wasteful spending and excessive regulations. And I will continue to

UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE TO CONGRESS

Steve Chabot, Cont’d strive for an economy that works for all Americans.

ANSWER 2: The Supreme Court has repeatedly held that money spent on campaigns is protected as speech under the First Amendment. So when Congress passes legislation to limit campaign spending, the Court often finds those limitations unconstitutional. That is what happened in Citizens United, and the result has been increased spending. Given the Court’s rulings, the only way we can effectively limit campaign spending is through a constitutional amendment, which doesn’t appear likely to happen anytime soon.

ANSWER 3: We need to make quality, affordable health care available to more Americans. To achieve that goal, we should allow small businesses to pool their resources and negotiate together with health insurers, and allow insurance companies to sell their products across state lines to improve competition and drive prices down. To help individuals pay for better care, all Americans should be able to fully deduct the costs of their health care premiums from their taxes - just like employers are able to do.

Michele Young

ANSWER 3: I am the author of articles and coauthor of a book for the American Bar Association on the the ACA and the laws. I offer a rare scholarly approach. The ACA was a first step in the right direction. But, we need to continue to make sure that our medical system remains the best in the world, our doctors’ voice are heard, health insurance and drug prescriptions are affordable for all, and mental health is on parity with physical. A team of renowned doctors are guiding me in proposing reforms.

Sholom D. Keller Photo Not Provided

(Write-In)

OCCUPATION: Mathematician/ analytical consultant/disabled veteran

EDUCATION: Studied mathematics and German at the University of Cincinnati.

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Of, by, and for the people; with liberty and justice for all. Diplomacy and peace are better for the economy than bellicosity and war. It is a disgrace that there is such widespread poverty in a nation as wealthy as ours.

It is our responsibility to ensure that we leave a habitable planet for our children to inherit.

Democrat

WEBSITE: http://shalomforcongress.com

OCCUPATION: Attorney, Mother of five, Civic Leader, and Author

ANSWER 1: I am honest to a fault, of aboveaverage intelligence, widely-read and well-informed in many matters relating to policy and governance, and possessing of a well-honed moral compass.

EDUCATION: B.A. McGill University, J.D. Georgetown University Law Center POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: America is the greatest experiment on earth and it is our patriotic duty to preserve democracy and the American Dream for all regardless of race, religion, color, or whom they choose to love. I am appalled by the corruption and nasty partisanship of a gridlocked Congress.

I entered this race to take Congress back for the people. I believe in solving problems by working across the aisle to find common ground. I believe in social justice and progress. I am a fiscal conservative. I am a patriot.

WEBSITE: http://micheleyoung.org ANSWER 1: I came on a Greyhound and built a family and a prosperous life. I am a lawyer, author, former professor, soccer coach, and mom of five.

I have dedicated myself to bringing our leaders together for public safety, interfaith and justice initiatives.

ANSWER 2: Our present campaign finance system undermines democracy by favoring entrenched special interests. The ultra-rich without connections to our district and without our values can anonymously pour millions into any Congressional contest. Our founding fathers would be appalled.

Our Congressperson must be held accountable by the constituents he or she is fortunate to serve. I will fight non-stop to reform our campaign finance system so our elected representatives are accountable to the people.

ANSWER 2: I believe that we need to get private money out of public elections. For this reason our campaign is rejecting all financial contributions. I oppose the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United. We want to introduce an amendment to the Constitution, to the effect that corporations are not people and money is not speech.

ANSWER 3: Every economically-advanced nation guarantees healthcare for all its citizens as a fundamental right. This is an area in which the United States is sadly lagging. When healthcare is a for-profit industry, people’s lives are held hostage to corporate profits. As a disabled veteran, I have single-payer socialized medicine made available to me by my government, and I believe that every American deserves the same. I did not serve in order to be placed on a pedestal above my fellow citizens.

US 2nd Congressional District This district includes part of Hamilton, Ross, and Scioto Counties and all of Adams, Brown, Clermont, Highland and Pike Counties.The total number of registered voters in US Congressional District 2 is 496,177. The breakdown is as follows: # of Registered voters in Hamilton County: 218,032 of which 114,853 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary)

Hamilton

Pike

Clermont Brown Adams

Scioto

Of those affiliated with a party: 2,982 Democratic, 3 Green, 1 Libertarian, and 9,633 Republican

# of Registered voters in Ross County: 24,881 of which 14,248 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

# of Registered voters in Clermont County: 139,606 of which 77,111 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

Of those affiliated with a party: 4,043 Democratic, 18 Green, 8 Libertarian, and 6,564 Republican

Of those affiliated with a party: 12,678 Democratic, 25 Green, 46 Libertarian, and 49,746 Republican

# of Registered voters in Scioto County: 23,833 of which 14,218 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

# of Registered voters in Highland County: 27,243 of which 17,070 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

Of those affiliated with a party: 4,189 Democratic and 5,426 Republican

Of those affiliated with a party: 2,080 Democratic, 7 Green, and 8,086 Republican

# of Registered voters in Adams County: 16,750 of which 9,363 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues- only ballot in a primary election)

# of Registered voters in Pike County: 17,870 of which 11,056 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

Of those affiliated with a party: 1,722 Democratic, 4 Libertarian, and 5,661 Republican

Of those affiliated with a party: 2,733 Democratic party, 3 Green, 3 Libertarian , and 4,075 Republican

# of Registered voters in Brown County in US Congressional District 2: 27,962 of which 15,343 are non-affiliated with a party (which means they do not vote in a party primary or vote an issues-only ballot in a primary election)

* Statistics for voter registration was compiled by using the information on the websites of the various County Boards of Elections and was accurate as of August 2016.

2ND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

payer value while promoting freedom with opportunity for all, responsibility to all, and cooperation among all.

WEBSITE: http://write-in-Everhard.com

William R. Smith Photo Not Provided

Democrat Candidate has not responded.

Brad Wenstrup Photo Not Provided

Republican Candidate has not responded.

Janet Everhard (Write-in) (No Party)

(Write-In) Candidate has not responded.

OCCUPATION: Retired physician, founder USA Works!, founder TriState Kayakers, volunteer Team River Runner

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

Ross Highland

Of those affiliated with a party: 43,043 Democratic, 192 Green, 46 Libertarian, and 59,898 Republican

Kiumars G. Kiani Photo Not Provided

Hamilton

EDUCATION: OB/GYN Residency University of Cincinnati, MD Loyola-Stritch School of Medicine, Pre-Med UCSD Revelle College, BFA Arizona State University, Shawnee Mission East HS POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: A frugal Progressive--tax-

ANSWER 1: As a physician I learned to: 1. Listen 2.Take a pulse 3.Synthesize many complaints into a chief concern 4.Find a cure 5.Form an action plan 6.Implement it It seems to me that this is exactly what a good representative to Congress does!

ANSWER 2: Citizens United vs. the Federal Election Commission Supreme Court decision birthed an era of major political influence by the wealthy.

Though focused on the constitutionality of election communications--a film maker wishing to air “Hillary, the Movie” prior to an election--it became a symbol of “free speech” to conservatives and “political influence by the wealthy” for progressives. Result?

Billionaire-funded Super PACs promote conservative candidates. Citizens United should be overturned.

ANSWER 3: Equal opportunity for health care is a right, not a privilege. Senator Bernie Sanders laid out a plan for a single-payer “Medicare for All” system. Although I’m not in total agreement with it - the employer: employee premium payment ratio is too high - its certainly on the right track.

In addition, the VA system and Medicaid should be dissolved and incorporated into the universal system. I will support a single payer” Medicare for All” system in Congress. www. lwvcincinnati.org |

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How To Find Out About Judicial Candidates Voters often don’t have much information about judicial candidates.

Because most citizens do not routinely interact with judges in their communities, they tend to know very little about how judges conduct themselves in the course of doing their jobs. In addition, state rules do not allow judicial candidates to discuss their views on controversial issues — because judges must be impartial on the bench. It is important for voters to understand the role of the courts and the qualities important to consider when evaluating judicial candidates.

To learn about candidates for judge in your area consider reading candidates’ campaign literature, visiting campaign websites, and talking with people who know the candidates including practicing attorneys. The League of Women Voters of Ohio again this year joins the Ohio State Bar Association, the Bliss Institute for Applied Politics at the University of Akron, the Ohio Newspaper Association and Ohio Broadcasters Association in a statewide, nonpartisan, online judicial voter’s guide at www. judicialvotescount.org.

In order to make a decision, when voting on judicial candidates, consider the answers to the following questions: To what extent has the candidate practiced in the area(s) of law the court handles?

What work or other experience has the candidate had that will particularly qualify him or her to perform the duties of a judge on this court?

What do you know about the candidate’s legal philosophy? Political philosophy?

Consider the candidate’s integrity, judicial temperament, and level of commitment to public service and the administration of justice.

Also, consider who is paying for any advertising about any particular judicial election. For our democracy to function, judges must carry out their tasks impartially and independently. Judges’ decisions should not follow public opinion or promote special interests or even reflect their personal beliefs.

Judges’ decisions should be based on facts and law. This judicial impartiality protects fair trials and upholds the rule of law.

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www. lwvcincinnati.org

CHIEF JUSTICE – OHIO SUPREME COURT 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: Presides over all cases involving questions arising under the Ohio Constitution or statutes; hears appeals from Courts of Appeals decisions. The Supreme Court’s decisions are final except in cases involving the U.S. Constitution, statutes, or treaties. SALARY: $166,350 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years).

2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat?

FULL TERM Commencing January 21, 2017

Maureen O’Connor

OCCUPATION: Chief Justice EDUCATION: JD. Cleveland Marshall College of Law AFFILIATIONS: Catholic

ANSWER 1: Chief Justice 2011-present; Associate Justice 2003-2011; Common Pleas Judge 19931995; Probate Court Magistrate 1985-1993 ANSWER 2: As an attorney in private practice and as prosecuting attorney for Summit County I represented clients in state court hearings and trials, in appellate courts and in Federal court.

That experience, along with my experience as a magistrate and common pleas judge, stood me in good stead when I was elected to the bench as a justice on the Ohio Supreme Court. I understand the difficult role of an attorney and have witnessed the good that attorneys and the courts have accomplished for clients. Experience both before and on the bench has allowed me to fully understand and respect the role of an attorney and a judge.

ANSWER 3: I have had the privilege and honor of being chief justice since 1/1/2011. As chief justice I have handled the court’s docket, provided “hands on” administration of the branch and actively championed reforms. Under my administration, various task forces have issued reports and recommendations to the justices on the subject of the death penalty, court funding, and access to justice. The position of chief justice demands

administrative experience and I have the administrative experience from my role as common pleas court administrative judge, prosecuting attorney and director of the department of public safety. I enjoy the administrative duties and have shown skill in doing the same. I fortunately have no opponent as I seek re-election to the position of chief justice. I believe this is partially due to my successes in championing the judicial branch and in working successfully with both the executive and legislative branches on behalf of the courts and the judiciary. I have projects and goals that I plan on completing during the next six year term.

The most recent focus is a task force to examine the grand jury system and seek ways to elevate public confidence in the grand jury. I also am involved on the national level with the National Center for State Courts as a member of the board and co-chair of the Task Force on Fines, Fees and Bail. I have been elected by the chief justices of the country to the position of first vice-president of the Conference of Chief Justices and will become president in July of 2017. I have always used my law degree in the role of public servant and appreciate the opportunity to continue to do so as chief justice.

JUSTICE – OHIO SUPREME COURT 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: Hears all cases involving questions arising under the Ohio Constitution or statutes; hears appeals from Courts of Appeals decisions. The Supreme Court’s decisions are final except in cases involving the U.S. Constitution, statutes, or treaties. SALARY: $121,350 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years) 2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat?

FULL TERM Commencing January 1, 2017

Pat Fischer

OCCUPATION: Judge, Ohio First District Court of Appeals EDUCATION: Undergraduate and J.D. from Harvard University, graduated cum laude AFFILIATIONS: Member of St. Xavier Catholic Church. Member of the Hamilton County Mental Health Board, Cincinnati Children’s Museum Board, Visions Community Services Inc., Hamilton County ADAS Board and Pleasant Ridge Community Council.

WEBSITE: FischerForOhio.com ANSWER 1: Judge of First District Court of Appeals. 2010-present ANSWER 2: I believe that my hard work, integrity

and respect for the office qualifies me to serve on the Ohio Supreme Court. I learned the value of hard work from my parents and took that with me to Harvard. During my time there I also had at least one job (janitor ), if not two (library worker) or three (as an intramural ref) jobs at a time, while helping to pay my way through an expensive college as my parents did not have the money to afford my school. Despite needing to earn those funds, I still received an award at graduation for supposedly being the all around person in the class. The other thing I value more than anything else is integrity. The voters and citizens of Ohio have the right to expect that your judges have the utmost integrity, respect for the law and highest ethical standards. I believe that I have all three and because of that have consistently been cited by me peers including serving as President of the Ohio State Bar Association. I’ve has always had a deep and abiding interest in ethics and professionalism matters, and served two terms on the Ohio Supreme Court’s Commission on Professionalism, including serving as Vice Chair. I also chaired the Cincinnati Bar Association’s Ethics and Professional Responsibility, and its Professionalism committees.

ANSWER 3: I have seen so much of the legal system and have so benefitted from that system. I believe that I can be a fair and reasoned jurist for all. I believe I have the ability and desire to make the judicial and legal system better than it is today.

I can use all the abilities and gifts I have been given to make it work. Not only have I tried many cases in Ohio, I tried cases as far south as Texas, as far west as LA, and had oral arguments in the 2nd (NYC) and 10th circuits (Denver), and a win in the U.S. Supreme Court. My longest trial to jury verdict was about 16 weeks and I have broad experience that I can bring to the court deep insight and thoughtfulness.

I am also a good listener, I grew up in a somewhat large family: 6 kids, 2 parents, and a grandmother, all 9 people at the table together for dinner. More importantly I was the second youngest and the older siblings and adults did not really care what I thought.

And with one parent a strong Democrat and one a strong Republican, I learned to listen and to discern which arguments seemed best or strong. That ability helped me greatly, both as a lawyer and especially as a judge. All parties want to be heard by the court even if they lose the case. It is an ability essential to judicial quality. For much the same reason I grew up with an open mind and the ability to ask insightful questions, and generally without putting off the party answering the question. I think that helps me to get to the real issues in a case. By getting to the point sooner and more exactly, the parties get their opinions sooner as well as in a better reasoned decision.

John P. O’Donnell Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

FULL TERM Commencing JANUARY 2, 2017

Pat DeWine Photo Not Provided

OCCUPATION: Judge serving on the First District Court of Appeals EDUCATION: J.D. The University of Michigan Law School

AFFILIATIONS: N/A WEBSITE: www.patdewine.com ANSWER 1: 1994 – Graduated University of Michi-

JUSTICE – OHIO SUPREME COURT

Pat DeWine, Cont’d gan Law School (top 10% of class). 1995 – 1996 – Clerk, the Honorable David A. Nelson, United States Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. 1996 – 2009 – Of counsel, Keating, Muething & Klekamp.

2009 – 2012 – Judge, Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas. 2013 – Present – Judge, Ohio First District Court of Appeals ANSWER 2: I have always had a deep respect for the rule of law and the impact a sound legal system can play in citizens’ daily lives. My federal clerkship immediately after law school gave me a deeper appreciation for the federalist structure of our country; my work at a leading private law firm allowed me to gain an appreciation for the many legal issues businesses and individuals regularly face; and my tenure as a city council member and county commissioner provided me the opportunity to work in an adjacent branch of government and gain firsthand knowledge about how the government and legal system work best together to improve the lives of our citizens. Combined with my judicial roles, these experiences make me very well suited for a seat on Ohio’s high court.

ANSWER 3: I have a strong commitment to public service and great respect for the significant role our legal system plays in the daily lives of Ohioans. A legal system that is restrained, that respects the other branches of government, and that ensures a fair interpretation and application of the law allows for a more stable and prosperous economy, the greatest protection of Ohio families, and makes Ohio a better place to live and work. This philosophy has guided my judicial career, and I aspire to be on the Ohio Supreme Court because I believe I can lend my voice and this philosophy to strengthen Ohio’s legal environment and improve the lives of our citizens

Cynthia Rice

OCCUPATION: Judge EDUCATION: J.D. University of Akron, B.S. Purdue University AFFILIATIONS: Ohio State Extension Advisory Board, Ohio Judicial Conference Executive Committee, 2011 – present Criminal Law and Procedure Committee co-chair, 2011 – present Appellate Procedure Committee, 2013 – present Ohio Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on Court Security, 2013 – present Bar Association Memberships: Ohio, Ashtabula County, Geauga County, Lake County, Portage County, Trumbull County.

WEBSITE: riceforjustice.com ANSWER 1: Judge, Eleventh District Court of Appeals, 2003 – Present Presiding/Administrative Judge – 2007 and 2016 ANSWER 2: For twelve years before becoming a judge, I gained extensive legal and courtroom experience as a federal and criminal prosecutor.

My non-judicial legal practice has been invaluable during my last thirteen years as an appellate judge.

As the Assistant United States Attorney assigned to Youngstown, I oversaw the daily operations of the U.S. Attorney’s office. I worked with federal and local law enforcement from the investigative stage of the case through trial. While prosecuting felons, I received extensive courtroom experience including bench and jury trials. I taught in-service training for local police officers on topics like Fourth Amendment search and seizure, Report Writing, and Ethics and Professionalism. As a member of the General Crimes Division, I prosecuted major felonies, including firearm and drug law violations, cyber stalking and interstate stalking, and bank robberies. I worked with local community leaders in the development of the first Weed and Seed program in Youngstown. Weed and Seed is a federally-sponsored multiagency approach to law enforcement, which aims at preventing and controlling, or “weeding out,” violent criminals, drug traffickers, and gangs in high-crime urban areas and at rebuilding, or “seeding,” these areas with human services and educational programs. As the First Assistant Criminal Prosecutor in the Trumbull County Prosecutor’s Office, I was responsible for overseeing all felony criminal prosecutions. I was trial counsel on major criminal cases, including capital murder, murder, rape and all high profile felony cases. I supervised the criminal staff of ten attorneys and support staff. While serving as First Assistant Prosecutor, I was appointed Chief Counsel for the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force, Vertical Prosecution Unit. I was responsible for setting up this unit, which was designed to provide multi-jurisdictional prosecution of major drug law violations and in-house counsel for the task force. I coordinated prosecution of felons among the Mahoning and Trumbull County Prosecutor’s Offices and the United States Attorney’s Office. I had ultimate responsibility for the prosecution of all major drug cases prosecuted by the task force from indictment to verdict. I worked with the United States Attorney’s office on the local prosecution of drug offenders arrested following a citywide federal drug investigation. I was appointed Special Assistant United States Attorney from 1997 to 1999, to prosecute two high-level, repeat drug traffickers in United States v. Moxley and United States v. Walker.

OHIO STATE SENATOR ANSWER 3: The role of Associate Justice goes beyond the courtroom. In addition to hearing cases of significant importance to the citizens of Ohio, Justices are leaders of the entire judiciary in the state. I would welcome the responsibility that accompanies this leadership role. In the past, many justices have developed projects that can positively impact the judicial process. I would like to utilize my experiences as a drug prosecutor to address the increasing problem with drug and heroin addiction. As Co-Chair of the Criminal Law and Procedure Committee, I have seen recent legislation designed to react to the significant rise in drug deaths. I believe we need to do more than react to the growing drug problem.

Twenty-five years ago, I established and directed the Trumbull County Pharmaceutical Diversion Unit targeting violations of drug laws regulating the ethical distribution of drugs by pharmacists, doctors, and other professionals. I was appointed Mahoning County Special Prosecutor to prosecute the Mahoning County Coroner on drug trafficking charges. We knew in the early 1990’s, one third of drugs used illegally were prescription drugs. The Pharmaceutical Diversion Unit was designed to address this problem We are now seeing the consequences of flagrant opioid use and the inevitable move to heroin. I would like to spearhead a project to specifically address this aspect of the heroin epidemic. As a Justice on the Ohio Supreme Court, I would be able to contribute my experiences to help identify better ways to direct our resources to reduce this public health crisis. I also believe my legal experience can be an asset to the court. The majority of my legal practice prior to taking the bench was as a state and federal prosecutor. Presently, none of the current justices have an extensive background in criminal law and procedure. During my service on the appellate bench, I have been able to contribute insight into nuances of criminal procedure that have assisted our court in delivering sound, well-reasoned opinions. Having practiced as an Assistant United States Attorney, I am more familiar with differences between state and federal criminal law. This enables me to better determine how U.S. Supreme Court decisions that address federal cases affect Ohio’s criminal justice

Why should you vote? Voting Connects Us The simple act of voting gives us a connection to our community and the decisions that affect all of us. In 1835 Alexis de Tocqueville wrote Democracy in America giving three good reasons to vote that are still valid today.

He called voting a “ritual observance” that fosters patriotism. This is true patriotism -- -- informed, thoughtful voting on issues and for candidates that will represent us best.

Research your candidates, learn about the issues, demand true and civil debate and then cast YOUR vote in confidence.

Second, Tocqueville reminds us that voting combats an apathy that destroys the political process. The people that tell you your vote doesn’t matter are depending on you to believe them and then stop caring about what you can do. Keeping voters away from the ballot box is a common strategy in many locations. If you give up, if you don’t vote, you’re giving more power to these people.

Finally, Tocqueville tells us that voting is about stirring the interests of the populace for their locale. To be effective citizens of our country we must first be active citizens in our community. By becoming involved in elections, we become interested and involved in our local government, which has long-lasting and direct impact on state and national politics.

4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To represent the people of the district and the state of Ohio in dealing with matters not allocated to the federal government. BASE SALARY: $67,545 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: What changes, if any, should be made to Ohio’s voting laws?

3: What is your position on extending the fair districting rules passed by voters in 2015 for the state legislature to the U.S. Congressional districts?

8TH DISTRICT Mary Rose Lierman Photo Not Provided

Democrat Candidate has not responded.

Lou Terhar Republican

OCCUPATION: former Business Executive and current Adjunct Professor of Strategy at Xavier University and Mt Saint Joseph University (MBA programs) EDUCATION: BS - US Naval Academy; MBA Syracuse University; MLA - Harvard University POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I am a fiscally responsible, experienced, Veteran who supports the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

ANSWER 1: I believe my educational background, military & business experience and 5 years in the Ohio House allow me to make fiscally sound and socially responsible decisions to support my constituents. I will tell the truth and remain faithful to principle.

ANSWER 2: I believe that the current laws make voting in Ohio one of the most accessible States in the Union. Depending on the latest court ruling we still have between 20 and 25 days where a person can vote in person in each election. States like New York have 1 day. While ease of voting is important, integrity of elections are also important.

I would support a voter ID law and make ID’s available at no cost to the citizen.

ANSWER 3: I supported the Issue in 2015 to change the re-districting process and voted for the measure in the House. I believe that we should see how this measure works at the State level before extending it to the Congressional Districts.

The States are supposed to be “laboratories of Democracy’. Let’s give this experiment the time at the State level to ensure its efficacy.

www. lwvcincinnati.org |

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OHIO STATE REPRESENTATIVE 2 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To represent the people of the district and the state of Ohio in dealing with matters not allocated to the federal government. BASE SALARY: $60,584 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: What changes, if any, should be made to Ohio’s voting laws?

3: What is your position on extending the fair districting rules passed by voters in 2015 for the state legislature to the U.S. Congressional districts?

27TH HOUSE DISTRICT Tom Brinkman, Jr. Republican

EDUCATION: BA History and Political Science from The George Washington University POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Less government, lower taxes WEBSITE: http://www.GoBrinkman.com

Joe Otis Photo Not Provided

Democrat Candidate has not responded.

28TH HOUSE DISTRICT Jonathan Dever Republican

OCCUPATION: Attorney and founder Dever Law Firm EDUCATION: Bachelors Degree, University of Cincinnati; Masters Degree - Industrial Labor Relations, Indiana University of Pennsylvania; Juris Doctorate, Capital University POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: See where Jonathan Dever stands on the issues at www.JonathanDever. com/Issues WEBSITE: http://www.jonathandever.com

Jessica Miranda Democrat

OCCUPATION: Self-employed Insurance Broker and Tax Preparer.

Multi-Unit Franchise Business Owner EDUCATION: Graduate of Talawanda High School, Licensed Property & Casualty Insurance Broker, Certified ITIN Acceptance Agent for the IRS.

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www. lwvcincinnati.org

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: A public servant should serve ALL constituents equally and fairly. We have the opportunity this year to take back a seat that is so polarized. Political parties aside, the people of the 28th District deserve a practical & logical Representative who represents fairness and common sense policies for the betterment of our communities. The people of our District also deserve a Representative who understands Education, educational funding issues and opportunities.

Leadership & Experience Matter.

WEBSITE: http://www.jessicaforohio.com ANSWER 1: Public servants represent their constituents well when they understand the issues to improve their community. As a wife, mother, school board president and entrepreneur I have the experience and passion to improve education, safety, and create jobs.

ANSWER 2: I believe that Ohio’s voting laws should be inclusive rather than exclusive. Any attempts to restrict voter access by eliminating early voting, requiring specific types of identification, and purging voter rolls should be struck down. I support a constitutional Voter Bill of Rights. I oppose current efforts to restrict early voting and eliminate the Golden Week of voting. The right to vote is a Constitutional one and should be exercised by more people, not less.

ANSWER 3: Ohio’s federal Congressional districts are ridiculously gerrymandered. One only need look at a state district map. When Ohio lacks even a single competitive Congressional race when the state is considered a political toss up is laughable.

Any redrawing of Congressional districts needs to be bipartisan, authority to administer its recommendations and nonpolitical. That may sound idealistic but it’s a necessity to restore political balance.

29TH HOUSE DISTRICT Louis W. Blessing III Photo Not Provided

Republican Candidate has not responded.

30TH HOUSE DISTRICT Mark A. Childers Democrat

OCCUPATION: Government/Economics Teacher EDUCATION: Miami University BS, Xavier University M Ed POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: The role of government is to provide safety and basic services first and foremost. Additionally, government should create and enforce policies that allow everyone to compete on a level playing field.

WEBSITE: http://www.childersforohio.com

31ST HOUSE DISTRICT

ANSWER 1: I have raised a family, worked, volunteered and owned small businesses in the district during the last 30 years. I have a clear understanding of the issues that affect the lives of the people who live on the west side of Cincinnati.

ANSWER 2: Access to the ballot is one of the great rights that people have in the US. Voting should be easy and accessible for all who are qualified. Ohio has done a pretty good job of assuring this. I am in favor of the extended days for voting, but would add in-person voting hours during the weekend for the entire early voting period. I support the current list of acceptable ID options for in-person voting and would oppose any change that limits those options.

ANSWER 3: I am in favor of a non partisan process for creating fair Congressional districts that will result in competitive races in which candidates have to appeal to a cross section of voters.

Bill Seitz Republican

OCCUPATION: State Senator/Attorney at Dinsmore & Shohl EDUCATION: J.D., University of Cincinnati College of Law B.A., University of Cincinnati POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Conservative Republican ANSWER 1: Ohio House of Representatives, 20012007 Ohio Senate 2007-2016 38 years practicing lawyer, currently at Dinsmore & Shohl Named in Best Lawyers in America Recognized in statewide poll as Ohio’s most knowledgeable and savviest state legislator ANSWER 2: Assuming that the courts ultimately reject the spurious challenges to the laws we have already passed, the only change we now need is to restrict judges from issuing orders extending election day polling hours. This is a legislative function and judges have no business substituting their opinion on the length of the election day vote for the legislature’s generous decision to allow voting from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

ANSWER 3: It would be foolish to extend to Congressional districts the “fair districting rules” passed for the state legislature in 2015, because we have zero experience with how those 2015 reforms will work in practice. They may prove beneficial, but they may prove to be a disaster. Until we know, why in the world would we compound what may turn out to be a mistake by applying such reforms to the current Congressional redistricting system which has been upheld as constitutional?

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

Brigid Kelly Democrat

OCCUPATION: Communications Director, UFCW Local 700 EDUCATION: Xavier University, BS, Marketing/Entrepreneurial Studies; University of Cincinnati, MA, Human Resources POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Putting families first and politics last WEBSITE: http://www.brigidkelly.com ANSWER 1: For over a decade, I’ve worked in diverse coalitions and fought next to hardworking men and women to support good legislation and fight bad proposals. I will be accessible and responsive to the concerns of people in the district.

ANSWER 2: Elected officials should be passing legislation that makes voting more accessible, not less. I’m in favor of online voter registration (and automatic voter registration); expanding voting hours during early vote; increasing the number of early vote locations in large counties; and permitting people to register and early vote during the same time period.

ANSWER 3: Creating fair districts is, and should be, bipartisan. Gerrymandered districts are confusing to voters and tend to promote governing from extremist wings of political parties. I am in favor of applying similar rules to state legislative and US Congressional Districts to create more competitive districts and keep neighborhoods together, whenever possible.

Mary Yeager Photo Not Provided

Republican

OCCUPATION: Accountant/Auditor/Bookkeeper/Tax Preparer/ Advisor - Professional Certifications include: CPA - Certified Public Accountant, CFE - Certified Fraud Examiner, CIA - Certified Internal Auditor EDUCATION: University of Akron, Summa Cum Laude, B.S. Accounting Minor in Management POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: All “voices” are important no matter the party affiliation or independent.

Solutions are best developed when people feel that someone will listen. I first try to get a thorough understanding of a problem in order to avoid giving a knee-jerk response. I prefer to focus on investing in fixing a problem instead of coming up with short-term solution(s) - i.e. putting a band-aid on it. Some combination though will most likely be needed to address most issues that will come up at the state level.

WEBSITE: http://www.voteyeager.com

OHIO STATE REPRESENTATIVE

Mary Yeager, Cont’d ANSWER 1: “first generation candidate”; 14 yrs in a profession that emphasizes independence, objectivity, & ethical behavior w/experience helping: individuals, small business, non-profits, local governments, etc.; part-time job = more time for the district ANSWER 2: Before making recommendations for changes, I want to continue speaking with people to find out more specifically what, in the current legislation, may be preventing individuals from voting in order to come up with solutions that work.

I hear about general references to issues with the current laws, but few specifics. While there has been instances of voter fraud, there does not appear to be a widespread problem with it. Any changes would need to maintain the integrity of the election results.

ANSWER 3: I absolutely support extending fair districting rules to U.S. Congressional districts.

However, the new redistricting rules are just that - new. Generally, a little time needs to pass in to order to see how the new rules actually affect Ohioans. There could be unintended/unforeseen consequences that may surface, which we would want to avoid and fix before extending it to Congressional districts. Gerrymandering is over 200 years old. A little longer would not be an undue burden to get it right.

32ND HOUSE DISTRICT Catherine Ingram Democrat

OCCUPATION: Realtor, Comey & Shepherd Realtors; Adjunct graduate instructor, Thomas More College EDUCATION: Woodward H.S. undergrad Knoxville College, Knoxville, TN B.S. University of Cincinnati MBA UC College of Business POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: That our Nation was established as a democracy to create opportunities for individuals and families to pursue a good life.

That those opportunities would be for all Americans regardless of race or other physical characteristics or religious beliefs. That justice would be fair for/ to all Americans without prejudice or deliberate discrimination. That God created us all.

WEBSITE: http://www.ingramforthepeople.com ANSWER 1: Forty plus years of professional and civic and public engagement experience.

Leadership demonstrated as the former Exec director of MBE Mentoring Cincy Chamber; President, OSBA ; NSBA Black Caucus exec team; Educator,postsecondary, k-12; MBA ANSWER 2: That every legally registered citizen should not be impeded from being able to vote.

As times have changed dramatically, since voting

by and for only white men began, ways to allow all persons to be able to register for and carry out the act of voting in any election to which they have the right, is the obligation of each state. The laws should incentivize voting and give every opportunity to participate to those who have that right.

ANSWER 3: It’s a start. Unfortunately having to wait for the 2020 census count delays necessary corrections. I do believe, as in any planned strategy, that “pre-work” should begin immediately taking into consideration specific development and growth in various areas of our regions. What needs to be avoided is unintended consequences which always seem to deter true progress. Sending that same message for change to Congress regarding Congressional districts is even more important than those in the State.

32ND HOUSE DISTRICT Matthew H. Wahlert Republican

OCCUPATION: I am my sixteenth year as a high school AP US Government and AP US History teacher and my fourth year as a Visiting Professor of Political Science at a local university.

EDUCATION: PhD Political Science - Miami University, MA Comparative Politics - Wright State, MA Education - Northern KY University,BA History University of Cincinnati, and a graduate of St. Xavier High School.

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I believe that state and federal government exist in order to protect the people and promote laws and policies that offer equality of opportunity for all. The end goal of government is not equality of result. It is the forces of the market and competition that will lead to a “race to the top.” Meanwhile, government should assure equal opportunity and empower its citizens to seize the future and not enable them to become beholden to the state.

WEBSITE: http://www.electwahlert.com ANSWER 1: I have spent nearly 20,000 hours as a classroom teacher in government, history, and political science classes at both the high school and university levels. I hold a PhD in Political Science, MA in Comparative Politics, and MA in Education.

ANSWER 2: Not only should we protect voter rights, we should continue the process of early voting.

ANSWER 3: I support the decision of the voters.

33RD HOUSE DISTRICT David Miller Republican

OCCUPATION: Chief of Staff for Cincinnati City Councilmember

EDUCATION: Howard Payne University - Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Strict constructionist of constitution. Limited government. Defense of free market principles. Strong families lead to strong communities.

WEBSITE: http://www.electdavidmiller.com ANSWER 1: Experience in private business in finance and accounting. Recognize the way excessive government regulation burdens businesses and kills jobs. Firm understanding of public policy and how the legislative process works at the local and state level.

ANSWER 2: Photo ID Requirement - Daily we engage in activities that require a photo ID and we do so willingly. None are likely as important as voting for those who represent us at all levels of government. One person, one vote principle should be safeguarded with the highest priority in order to protect the integrity of our elections. Photo IDs should be provided by local governments for free in cases of financial hardship. Absentee voting for military personnel should be fixed so every vote is counted.

ANSWER 3: Support

Alicia Reece Democrat

OCCUPATION: State Representative Tourism Marketer EDUCATION: Withrow High School International Studies Academy Bachelor in Communications Grambling State University - Spanish Minor POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Fighter for the People in the 33rd District and the state of Ohio so that everyone has a chance at the American dream.

WEBSITE: http://www.aliciareece.com ANSWER 1: State Representative Pres. Ohio Legislative Black Caucus Former State Asst Director - State of OH Tourism Div, Dept. of Development Former Interim Director - State of OH Film Office Former Cincinnati Vice Mayor & City Council Marketing Consultant ANSWER 2: After speaking at the March on Washington 50th Anniversary I called for a Voters Bill of Rights Constitutional amendment which now has over 100,000 signature in an effort to put it on the ballot and it was adopted into the DNC platform.

It’s time for our voting rights to be on the ballot and placed in the OH constitution to stop the gamesmanship on voting rights ANSWER 3: I have supported legislation for fair districts and I supported the ballot initiative and will support legislation for fair congressional districts

JUDGE - OHIO COURT OF APPEALS FIRST DISTRICT 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: The Court of Appeals is essentially a Court of Review. It hears appeals from the Common Pleas, County, and Municipal Courts. SALARY: $145,500 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years).

2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat? full TERM COMMENCING FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Beth A. Myers OCCUPATION: Judge, Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas EDUCATION: A.B. Miami University (Phi Beta Kappa), J.D. University of Cincinnati College of Law (Law Review, Order of the Coif) AFFILIATIONS: Board of Visitors of the University of Cincinnati College of Law; former member of Miami University Pre-Law Advisory Board; Co-Convenor of Beyond Civility: Communication for Effective Governance; Leadership Cincinnati Class XXIII; past President of the University of Cincinnati Alumni Association; former Board member of Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired; former Board member of a local hospital; former member of the Greater Cincinnati Hospital Commission ANSWER 1: I have served as a Judge on the Court of Common Pleas since June of 2003. I served as Presiding Judge in 2013. In addition to handling felony criminal and civil cases, I am also appointed by the Supreme Court of Ohio as a Commercial Docket Judge to handle business related disputes.

I have been a Commercial Docket Judge since the end of 2008. I handle a wide variety of cases and preside over criminal and civil trials.

ANSWER 2: In addition to serving as a Judge for over 12 years, I was a lawyer in private practice for over 21 years. I was a trial lawyer and handled a wide variety of civil cases. This experience gives me a broad background to serves as a judge on the Court of Appeals.

ANSWER 3: With over 12 years of judicial experience and my total of over 33 years of legal experience, I will bring this knowledge and experience to the Court of Appeals.

UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING FEBRUARY 9, 2019

Peter Stautberg Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

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JUDGE - OHIO COURT OF APPEALS FIRST DISTRICT

Marilyn Zayas-Davis OCCUPATION: Attorney EDUCATION: J.D. University of Cincinnati AFFILIATIONS: Have spent up to 25% of time working with law enforcement and public officials primarily advancing victim advocacy. Served on numerous community Boards WEBSITE: http://zayasdavisforjudge.com ANSWER 1: None ANSWER 2: My skills and experience have prepared me well for the Judiciary. I have dedicated myself to the practice of law for nearly 20 years. I have represented cases in the State and Federal system, including: The Ohio Court of Appeals; Federal District Court; and, Sixth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals. I have served as an Attorney in diverse forums. I currently represent employers and individuals in providing solutions to their Federal Immigration needs. My prior experience includes working as an Intellectual Property and Labor & Employment Attorney for Holland & Hart; the largest law firm in Colorado. I have also been employed as a: Custody, Delinquency and Criminal Defense Attorney at the Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office; Labor and Employment Law Summer Associate for G.E. Aviation; and, Judicial Extern for Judge Ann Marie Tracey. My non-judicial experience also includes working over six years as a Technology Manager at The Procter & Gamble, Co. I have taught the future attorneys of America; serving as an Adjunct Professor for the past two years at the Law School of the University of Cincinnati. My law practice is built on my reputation for providing honest and zealous representation, and being the go to person for intricate cases. My diverse legal experience allows me to understand and listen to both sides of an issue. Knowing and understanding the law, and my ability to understand complex legal issues, allows me to properly apply the law to the facts in each case. I have been a dedicated public servant, spending up to 25% of my time working with law enforcement and public officials primarily advancing victim advocacy. I current serve as a Board member of Beech Acres Parenting Center and a Committee Co-Chair for City of Cincinnati Mayoral Immigrant Friendly Taskforce.

Some of the past Boards I have served on include Catholic Charities of Southwest Ohio and the Cincinnati Ballet. I am also often engaged as a speaker on legal topics and have served as such for the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnati FBI, and the City of Cincinnati Prosecutor’s Office.

ANSWER 3: The people of Hamilton County deserve an independent voice in the Court of Appeals who is selected by the people. I will commit myself to apply the law objectively to each case at hand.

I am dedicated to the Hamilton County community, and will continue to work, during my personal time, to advance our community.

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COUNTY COMMISSIONER 4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To exercise financial control of County 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 operate various departments. SALARY: $96,000 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: The County’s agreement with Cincinnati concerning the Metropolitan Sewer District is due to expire in 2018. What changes would you propose and how would you handle negotiation of a new agreement?

3: Duke Energy is proposing a high pressure gas pipe through Hamilton County. Citizens have expressed concerns about personal safety and property values. What role should the county play in this and similar situations?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Andrew S. Pappas Republican

OCCUPATION: Founded and operate Cleaner Concepts 1 &2, one in Anderson Township and one in Hyde Park.

EDUCATION: BA Finance Texas A&M University POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Constitutional Conservative with strong leanings toward small ibertarian.

WEBSITE: http://vote4pappas.com ANSWER 1: I believe it is time for small business to be represented on the Board of Commissioners, seeing as small business is the largest employer by far in the county. I also think that 16 years is long enough for one to serve in one position. Term limits.

ANSWER 2: There must be one owner and operator of MSD, otherwise, you get the finger point of one to another. One entity must be in charge and stop the finger pointing. It is not the responsibility of MSD to prop up the city pension, and if that is the sticking point, then the employees of MSD could decide if they want to stay with the city pension or go with the county.

ANSWER 3: I believe this issue is now settled and I am glad that Duke decided not to proceed.

Todd Portune Democrat

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I believe in public service and that we all have an obligation to serve our country. As the son of public school teacher parents who sacrificed on behalf of our Nation in WWII I grew up committed to public service. The

best place to serve the public is at the local level where solutions are found by people from all political stripes working together. Local government is where government works best; is the most accountable and transparent; and is where all of the creative solutions are found.

OCCUPATION: I am a fulltime Hamilton County Commissioner and I operate my own smail business as an attorney, doing business under the name of the Law Office of Todd Portune, LLC. In addition I am a fulltime father to three wonderful children.

EDUCATION: National Merit Scholar at Colerain High School in 1976. A.B. in Government from Oberlin College in 1980; and Juris Doctor [J.D.] from the University of Cincinnati College of Law, with Honors, in 1983.

WEBSITE: http://www.reelecttoddportune.com ANSWER 1: Most Experience on the County Commission and served as President;ChairCounty Transportation District;Chair-Recycling Committee;Vice Chair-Emergency Management;Past President of OKI;Served on City Council;Small Business owner and Father of Three ANSWER 2: The City and County are engaged in negotiations under a federal Court Order restricting us from discussing anything under consideration on how to resolve the conflict under penalty of Contempt of Court. All I can do is to refer you to my published Five Point plan to Clean up the mess at MSD: - Preserve the City Pension Settlement Charter a New MSD with an Independent Advisory Board - Zero Tolerance Policy on Oder Issues Lower Sewer Rates - Use Green Infrastructure in Consent Decree Mandated Work

our communities safe, protect the quality of life for residents and families, support an environment for job creation and economic growth...and then government should get out of the way to allow success.

ANSWER 1: I am raising my three children in Hamilton County and I have a vested interest in our future. I am a former Colerain Township Trustee, a practicing attorney, I owned my own business for a decade and I am the newest Hamilton County Commissioner.

ANSWER 2: The County’s current course of action is to mediate the post-2018 sewer district agreement in federal court with the City of Cincinnati leadership. While the owner-operator structure at MSD is broken and does not currently serve in the best interest of all County ratepayers, I am leading the County’s discussions with the City to develop a more fair, equitable sewer district that will protect ratepayers for decades to come.

ANSWER 3: The County has a large role to play in helping local communities organize and express concerns about large-scale development projects that will impact quality of life. We have the responsibility to act as a convener, as well as raise the public discussion about projects and provide resources to support or oppose important projects. I have lead the Board of Commissioners’ opposition to the Duke Energy pipeline, including a legal intervention to oppose the project when Duke applies to the state.

Denise Driehaus Democrat

OCCUPATION: State Representative, OH-31

ANSWER 3: Using the bully pulpit with Duke to forge a better result. Partner with local citizens in developing the proper framework under which strategies are developed. Engage county departments to assist in relevant areas:Engineer on roads and bridges; Prosecutor on legal; Planning and Development and HCDC on economics; JFS on human interest; TID on transit impacts, etc. Request OKI assistance on data collection. Seek help from other county boards and agencies to bring relevant resources to bear.

EDUCATION: B.A. in Political Science from Miami University (OH)

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 3, 2017

ANSWER 1: As a mother of two, former smallbusiness owner, and the first woman Ranking Member on the Ohio House Finance committee, I know how to make tough decisions. I have consistently reached across the aisle to work on practical solutions.

Dennis Joseph Deters Republican

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Commissioner, Attorney EDUCATION: University of Notre Dame, University of Cincinnati College of Law POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Local government is the closest to the people, and we have the biggest opportunity to help the residents we serve. As public servants, we have a responsibility to keep

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: We need collaborative leaders ready to face today’s tough decisions to make our communities vibrant and strong. The county government should be a partner with businesses, other levels of government, and non-profits to move our county forward.

WEBSITE: http://www.denisedriehaus.com

ANSWER 2: These rising sewer rates hurt families and businesses, and we must work to address them. We need to get past the “blame game” politics currently employed by the city and county, roll up our sleeves, and work together on a new contract. We should explore depoliticizing MSD management by creating an independent oversight board, with appointments from the county, cities,

COUNTY CLERK OF COURTS

COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Denise Driehaus, Cont’d villages, townships, and other important stakeholders. Expensive litigation will not lead to a solution.

We must work together.

ANSWER 3: The county should work to protect its citizens. Each of the proposed pipeline routes runs

through residential neighborhoods. Should it run through these areas, the pipeline would destroy green space, lower property values, and create an unnecessary risk. I have been impressed by the coalition of neighbors standing together on this issue.

I have asked Duke to consider a different route that will avoid densely populated neighborhoods.

COUNTY PROSECUTOR 4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To investigate and prosecute crimes committed within the county, to defend the county in court, and to give legal advice to county agencies and townships. SALARY: $91,877 with a private practice; $130,661 without a private practice QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: Although crime rates are down, the number of people incarcerated in Ohio continues to rise at huge public expense. What role would you play as prosecutor in reducing the prison population?

3: Do you support prosecuting youth accused of serious crimes as adults? Please explain how youth should be treated throughout the justice system.

Alan C. Triggs Democrat

OCCUPATION: Chief Corporate Counsel for CMI, Inc. Responsible for training prosecutors throughout the U.S. EDUCATION: Gradute of Walnut Hills High School Gradute of Memphis State University, with a degree in Finance and Accounting - Graduate of Akron University School of Law - Graduate of Concord Law School with LLM in Business Law POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Integrity, Transparency, accountability and focused. My overall command is to Seek Justice, Love Mercy, and to Walk Humbly.

WEBSITE: http://triggsforprosecutor.com

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Joseph T. Deters Republican

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Prosecuting Attorney EDUCATION: 1975 - St. Xavier High School 1979 - University of Cincinnati 1982 - University of Cincinnati College of Law POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I am a social and fiscal conservative, as such, I support the platform of the Republican Party.

ANSWER 1: I am the longest serving Prosecutor in Hamilton County’s history. That experience is invaluable to carry out the mission of removing violent criminals from our streets.

ANSWER 2: I have long been involved with court and community efforts to reduce the prison population. Our Hamilton County diversion program and specialty courts (drug and mental health courts) are just some examples of efforts I have supported to reduce the prison population.

ANSWER 3: I support prosecuting youth accused of serious violent crimes as adults. I believe youth should be treated as anyone else accused of a violent crime should be treated.

ANSWER 1: I have practiced law for 22 years. The majority of my legal experience has been in criminal justice. Having been a former assistant prosecutor and Magistrate Judge assures that I am qualified to be the next Hamilton County Prosecutor.

ANSWER 2: I would make sure that individuals are not sitting in jail for minor crimes and fines.

I will make sure that drug addicted individuals and individuals with mental health issues receive treatment in lieu of jail time. I will make sure that individuals receive a fair bond so that they are not sitting in jail awaiting trial. Lastly, I will make sure sentences are fair and the punishment fits the crime.

ANSWER 3: I only support prosecuting youth accused of the most serious crimes as adults. I believe each case should start with a complete psychological evaluation to determine if the child had the mental capacity to understand the crime committed. Also to determine if the child can be rehabilitated. Our youth make mistakes based on their current circumstances. We need to make sure that a mistake does not prevent them from being a productive adult. Youth also do not belong in the adult penal system.

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To enter judgments and collect court costs for appellate and common pleas courts, and also to issue and transfer automobile and water craft certificates of title. SALARY: $90,908 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: In what way(s) would you make the Clerk of Courts more accessible to people without lawyers?

3: If additional resources were available, what improvements would you implement in the office of the Clerk of Courts?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Aftab Pureval Democrat

OCCUPATION: In-House Counsel at Procter & Gamble EDUCATION: I have a B.A. from The Ohio State University where I served as student body president.

I also have a law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law. POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I’m optimistic about the role of government. I believe it can be a place where people come together and no one gets left behind. I believe that we are all connected to each other and what happens to one of us impacts us all. And I believe that government can be financially responsible and professional while never losing site of the people it serves. Finally, I think it’s critical that our government reflects the diversity of our community and that it is open and inclusive to all.

WEBSITE: http://www.VoteAftab.com ANSWER 1: As an attorney and a former prosecutor, I understand how our courts should run and how they can best serve our community by being modern and efficient. And as in-house counsel at P&G, I know how to help lead large organizations to best serve others.

ANSWER 2: I’ve recently proposed a Legal SelfHelp Clinic to solve this exact problem. The courts are so burdensome and bureaucratic that it forces people to hire lawyers, and many can’t afford them.

We’ll make justice more accessible by having a self-help center assist with common forms and common issues, and we’ll ensure more people can do the work themselves. I’ll also make public records available online, so lawyers aren’t necessary to do records requests.

ANSWER 3: First, I want to make more services available online, including public records searches and expungement, as part of an effort to modernize the courts and make them more efficient.

Second, we can use the courts to help address poverty in our community, by creating a housing court to deal with housing issues and by hiring people who complete job training programs. Court

fees are already the highest in the state, so we can do these things by reprioritizing resources so justice is available for all.

Tracy Winkler Republican

OCCUPATION: Clerk of Courts EDUCATION: Graduate of the University of Cincinnati POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I believe that the most effective government is closest to the people. We must ensure that freedom is for all us. I took a serious oath to preserve, protect and defend the constitution. We also have an obligation to take care of those who cannot care for themselves. I believe that an elected official works for the people and should possess a desire to serve and not be served. I strive to lead my life and this office with conservative fiscal and moral values and my faith in God as my guide.

WEBSITE: http://www.tracywinkler.com ANSWER 1: As Clerk, I have efficiently and effectively managed a $12,000,000 budget, a staff of over 220 people, improved technology, reduced costs, and increased revenues while providing safe accessibility to the courts.

ANSWER 2: Our personal customer service and frequently used website, with over 2 million hits per week, provides the necessary help for those navigating the courts. On May 2, 2016, I instituted e-filing for pro-se filers in Municipal Court. Please visit www.courtclerk.org to access frequently used forms (ex. expungement, small claims, eviction, etc.), court records and services offered within our county. No computer access? Come in and see how my friendly staff will help guide you to find your answers.

ANSWER 3: I’m constantly looking for ways to update technology while ensuring my terrific staff continues to take care of the public with exemplary service. If we had an unlimited budget, we would use some of these funds to give pay increases to a deserving staff. We’ve started the process for a responsive website, “Paper on Demand” and Film to Digital Image to name a few. Additional funds could accelerate these programs and enable us to create easy to use mobile apps that allow instant court access.

Why should you vote?

Voting is not the final step but a starting point for taking an active part in government. Hold your elected officials accountable by asking questions, attending meetings and speaking out about the issues important to you and your family. We don’t have to go to Washington, DC. We can be heard from here. And remember this-“One of the penalties of refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors” – Plato www. lwvcincinnati.org |

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COUNTY SHERIFF 4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To provide services to the courts, to oversee the county jail, and to act as chief law enforcement officer for the county. SALARY: $110,624 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: What can the Sheriff do to improve public trust in law enforcement?

3: Is the budget of the Sheriff’s Office adequate? What would be your priority, if the Office had additional funding?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Gary Lee Republican

OCCUPATION: Retired Police Captain, Licensed Counselor EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati, Masters of Arts in Counseling, Police Executive Leadership College, FBI National Academy, Senior Management Institute of Policing in Boston, Massachusetts POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Conservative, pro-life, pro Second Amendment, responsive but limited government, creating community partnerships to optimize effective policing.

WEBSITE: http://www.garylee2016.com ANSWER 1: After 33 years with the Cincinnati Police Dept., I am an experienced law-enforcement commander, administrator and criminal investigator, and well-versed in modern patrol tactics, officer training, and budgeting, with advanced training in addiction.

ANSWER 2: Public trust is the result of building legitimate, sustainable relationships between

Why should you vote?

Your Vote Can Be Powerful!

Lyndon Johnson once said that the vote is, “…the most powerful instrument known to man.” But to be powerful, it has to be used by the people…Elected officials may or may not listen to our concerns but they value our vote. Voting gives you the credibility to make your concerns a top priority for legislators. But if voting does not matter to you, then you certainly won’t matter to politicians.

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COUNTY RECORDER

law enforcement and the community it serves.

This is achieved through the implementation of community-oriented policing philosophies. A sheriff should be willing and able to mobilize all stakeholders to work toward long-term problem solving. That trust also comes from a pledge to hold prisoners in custody, releasing them only when the law allows, in a manner purposely designed to make public safety the priority.

ANSWER 3: The current administration has failed to develop a comprehensive plan for the department. With no clear vision for the future, or an understanding of current needs, the sheriff has been unable to either articulate or advocate for the needs of the department. If additional funds were available, they would be best utilized in incarceration alternatives--leaving actual jail space for the worst, most violent offenders, proper staffing levels, necessary equipment and training, and operational costs.

Jim Neil Democrat

OCCUPATION: Sheriff of Hamilton County, Ohio EDUCATION: Western Hills High School Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from University of Cincinnati Master’s Degree in General Studies and Research from University of Cincinnati Northwestern University, School of Police Staff and Command POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I am lifelong resident of a Hamilton County and law enforcement veteran of more than 30 years who believes in fiscal responsibility and good governance.

WEBSITE: http://www.KeepJimNeilSheriff.com ANSWER 1: I am a lifelong resident of Hamilton County, 30-year law-enforcement veteran in the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and second-generation law-enforcement officer. I am seeking my second term as Hamilton County Sheriff.

ANSWER 2: The sheriff provides community outreach programs to foster positive relationships with the public, raise money for the families publicsafety officer injured or killed in the line of duty, and provide mentoring opportunities for youngsters, such as “Game with a Cop”. During my first term in office, at the request of elected and/or appointed officials, my office expanded the sheriff’s lawenforcement responsibilities in Silverton, Arlington Heights, Lincoln Heights, and Elmwood Place.

ANSWER 3: .The budget for the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is not adequate. Two separate independent audits have shown this.In 2015, my office’s annual budget was $52 million -- – a $17 million reduction from 10 years ago. My No.1 priority would be more resources into combatting the heroin epidemic, including building a drug detox and treatment center at the jail. More than 10,000 heroin addicts come through the doors of the jail each year. I would expand enforcement activities in this area.

4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To record deeds, mortgages, plats, leases and powers of attorney, and proceedings of annexation and municipal incorporations; and to serve on the County Records Commission, which disposes of outdated county records. SALARY: $78,594 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: If elected, what will be your top 3 priorities?

3: In what way(s) would you make information held by the Recorder’s Office more easily available to the public?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Wayne Coates Democrat

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Recorder EDUCATION: Jefferson Community College, received GRI & CRS professional designations

ANSWER 3: We have placed over 19 million digital document images online so citizens would not have to come downtown, additionally we are placing digital images of subdivision and condominium plats online for surveyors and engineers.

We have been working with the Hamilton County Genealogical Society in back scanning historical documents from the late 1700’s to 1938 that have benefited historians and genealogist. My ultimate goal is to build a virtual library of all the Recorder’s office documents.

Norbert A. Nadel Republican

OCCUPATION: Attorney, former judge; former federal prosecutor EDUCATION: University of Cincinnati undergraduate, Chase College of Law, Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training.

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: We need public officials to be honest, hard-working, trustworthy and do the job taxpayers pay them to do.

WEBSITE: http://www.norbertnadel.com

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: As to the County Recorder’s office, we have over 1000 sections of the Ohio Revised Code that directs us to the processes of the office. There is not a Democratic way nor a Republican way, there is only the right way that one operates the office.

ANSWER 1: My experience as an attorney and judge uniquely qualifies me to safeguard the property and other records filed in the Recorder’s Office. I appreciate and respect the integrity of the records and the sensitivity of the information they include.

WEBSITE: http://www.RecorderCoates.com

ANSWER 2: 1) Making the Recorder’s Office more accessible; 2) Propose allowing filings to be made at any time; 3) I will review and propose erasing illegal, discriminatory covenants in Recorder filings.

ANSWER 1: I have served as the Hamilton County Recorder during one of the county’s worse economic times, and I have saved taxpayers millions of dollars by reducing my operational budget and implementing government efficiencies.

ANSWER 2: 1.To offer our customers a pleasant and helpful experience when visiting the Recorder’s office. 2. Continue to digitize our roll film and remove individual’s personal financial information from identity thief, and helping title examiners complete a forty-year digital search. 3. Continue to digitize our microfiche plats so engineers and surveyors can view them online and print them out at their offices.

ANSWER 3: As Recorder, I will propose expanding office hours and, in partnership with other office holders, allowing filings to be made at any time of day, every day of the year. I also propose making the Recorder’s Office web site more user-friendly.

It should be easier to navigate, more accessible and make the records and filing process more understandable.

Know Hamilton County For information on the organization of Hamilton County government and who provides what services see KNOW HAMILTON COUNTY. An online publication of the League of Women Voters.

http://www.lwvcincinnati.org/knowhamiltoncounty.html

COUNTY TREASURER 4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To collect taxes in the county and its subdivisions, including certain state taxes; to distribute tax monies to the state of governmental subdivision for which they were collected; to serve as a member of the County Budget Commission and the Board of Revision. SALARY: $80,807 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: If elected, what will be your top 3 priorities?

3: If additional resources were available, what priority improvements would you implement in the office of the Treasurer?

FULL TERM COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 4, 2017

Robert A. Goering Republican

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Treasurer EDUCATION: Chase College of Law, Highland Heights, KY Degree: J.D.-May 1986; Denison University, Granville, OH Degree: B.A.-May 1982-Cum Laude; Mariemont High School, CIncinnati, OH Diploma: 1978-Class Rank:Third POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I love our County and believe that we are very fortunate to live in the heart of America. As a life long resident of Hamilton County, I care about our resources and our government. I have continued to develop programs that do not cost taxpayer funds, that help with the collections, monthly payments, Land Banking of distressed properties and returning Unclaimed Funds to the citizens of our County.

WEBSITE: http://www.keepgoeringtreasurer.com ANSWER 1: I have continued to run an efficient and taxpayer friendly office. I have cut the burden on taxpayers with my lower budgets, and continue to lower the General Fund expenses. I continue to believe that Government can do more with less funding.

ANSWER 2: Our top priority is to continue to work with other governmental units to achieve an economy of scale. I have recently been working on a County-City Collaborative that will benefit our region. Shared services is another area that we need to continually focus. I incorporated the first Land Bank for Hamilton County which was done with the cooperation of the City of Cincinnati and the Port Authority. Our third priority is to continue with Taxpayer Services including various pay options.

ANSWER 3: I intend to continue programs that aide Taxpayers and do not increase the cost or size of government. I strongly believe that all governmental entities can be good stewards of Taxpayer money. That is why I continuously lower the burden on Taxpayers to fund the Hamilton County Treasurer’s Office. That is why I have instituted programs that are cost neutral or actually

COUNTY ENGINEER

garner funds through higher interest earnings. We should not make additional resources available to governments.

Seth T. Walsh Democrat

OCCUPATION: Executive Director of the College Hill Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation EDUCATION: B.A. in Political Science from Xavier University POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: I believe that it is the role of our government to work every day to improve the lives of the people in our community.

As a society, we are only as strong as our weakest member, meaning that we must constantly work to ensure that all corners of our community are growing and thriving. I believe that elected officials should always be accessible and approachable to the public, meaning they are constantly seeking the advice and opinion from the public as they go about their tenure in office.

WEBSITE: http://www.SethTWalsh.com ANSWER 1: I have served as the Executive Director of the College Hill CURC and Sedamsville CDC, where I have worked on development deals ranging from $110,000 to $34 million. The Treasurer’s office should be a bigger player in development in Hamilton County.

ANSWER 2: My three priorities as County Treasurer will be: (1) To spur development: The County Treasurer is provided a unique set of tools to spur development around our County, such as the Landbank. (2) To protect long term residents from being forced out of their homes by rising property taxes.

(3) To improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the office to ensure everyone pays their fair share of property taxes and no one takes on more of the burden.

ANSWER 3: The County Treasurer’s office has been sacrificed over the years during budget cuts, eliminating valuable members of the office that could otherwise focus on working with the community in the process of collecting taxes If more resources were available, we would focus our energy on being more proactive as an office to ensure that we are working with the community so that everyone pays their fair share and we do not have to unduly place the burden of taxes on those who are doing their civic duty.

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To plan and contract for the construction, maintenance and repair of bridges, roads and other public improvements, except buildings constructed under the authority of any board in and for the county.

SALARY: $88,556 with a private practice; $114,914 without a private practice QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: If elected, what will be your top 3 priorities?

3: What are Hamilton County’s most significant problems with aging infrastructure? What needs to be done to address them?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Theodore B. Hubbard Photo Not Provided

Republican

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Engineer - Civil Engineer

EDUCATION: University of Cincinnati B.S. C.E. (1979) and Bowling Green State University (1973 – 1975)

POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Limited revenues and rising construction costs of projects needed to address aging infrastructure continues to be a universal problem on the local, state and federal levels. Building partnerships and consensus with local jurisdictions, state organizations and the private sector are significant components in the effort to preserve the existing road and bridge transportation system, leverage local transportation dollars for major projects and maximize the delivery of capital improvement projects.

ANSWER 1: Ohio Law requires County Engineers to be registered in the State of Ohio as a Professional Engineer and Professional Surveyor. I am both a Registered Professional Engineer and Registered Professional Surveyor.

ANSWER 2: Preservation of the existing road and bridge system in the effort to maintain access, sustain the livability of the community and the preservation of jobs is of significant importance.

ANSWER 3: The primary problems faced with improving our older and aging infrastructure involve the lower revenues for road and bridge infrastructure from license plate fees and gas taxes.

COUNTY CORONER 4 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To determine the cause of death of persons dying in a violent or suspicious manner and to issue death certificates. SALARY: $78,594 with a private practice; $130,661 without a private practice QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: What are your qualifications for office?

2: What role does the Coroner play in law enforcement?

3: Does the county need a new crime lab? If so, how would you as Coroner make it happen?

If not, why?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Bret Bruder Republican

OCCUPATION: Physician EDUCATION: St Xavier HS Univ of Notre Dame Univ of Toledo College of Medicine Univ of Louisville Hospital Trauma Center POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: More citizen service and leadership is needed on all levels of government but especially in here in Cincinnati and Hamilton County. With the exponential growth and ravaging effects of our heroin epidemic and its tremendously negative socioeconomic on our community, with the enormous investment of tax payer dollars in a Hamilton County Crime Lab - the need for strong fiscally conservative leadership and vision has never been more critical.

WEBSITE: http://bretbruder2016.com ANSWER 1: 20 years of experience as a Trauma/ Emergency Medicine - (14 yrs serving Hamilton County residents) 10 years - Private Practice (more importantly- Small Business Owner)

Lakshmi Kode Sammarco Democrat

OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Coroner EDUCATION: High school: Cincinnati Country Day School College: University of Cincinnati, electrical engineering Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Doctor of Medicine Residency: Diagnostic Radiology Fellowship: UCLA, neurorad POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY: Learn from death investigations what we need to change to save lives.

Work with all parties to find the best solutions for our community.

WEBSITE: http://Sammarco4coroner.com ANSWER 1: I am a board certified neuroradiologist who is in clinical practice in Cincinnati, Ohio, and have held faculty positions at 3 prestigious medical centers. I have been running the Hamilton County coroner’s office and crime lab for the past 4 years.

ANSWER 2: The coroner is the highest ranking law enforcement person in the County. The coroner is in charge of all the investigations of unnatural www. lwvcincinnati.org |

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COUNTY CORONER

Lakshmi Kode Sammarco, Cont’d

deaths in the county and also manages and supervises the work done in the County Crime Lab. Also processed in the crime lab is non-death related forensic evidence. The coroner’s office processes evidence that is used to prosecute or exonerate suspects. In partnership with other law enforcement agencies, the coroner’s office is critical in keeping citizens safe ANSWER 3: The county desperately needs a new crime lab. We have reached the limit of space and electricity to accommodate the instruments and staff necessary. We are over 500 cases behind in firearms, 400 cases behind in DNA and almost 300 cases behind in toxicology. I have been actively searching for solutions including arranging for the donation of a large hospital property to the county. We have finally been approved for the construction of a new crime lab and are in the planning and design phase.

JUDGE, COMMON PLEAS COURT - GENERAL DIVISION 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To preside at trials of both civil and criminal cases; to supervise the jury commission, grand jury, and other departments of the court. SALARY: $121,350

Seminar, member of Miami Conservancy and member of Greater Cincinnati Hazardous Materials Control Committee

QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years).

2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat?

ANSWER 2: Trial attorney for the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office for over 9 years.

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 2, 2017

Jody Marie Luebbers Photo Not Provided

The League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area has extended election information available on www.vote411.org From here, you can see your own personal ballot, polling place location, tips on how to choose a candidate, links to news articles and additional candidate information including biographies, endorsements and more Q & A’s.

Visit VOTE411 today!

AFFILIATIONS: Member All Saints Church, YMCA former Board of Trustee Central Parkway branch, Ohio Common Please Judges Association Vice President, member of the Cincinnati Bar Association, ASTAR fellow, former Sunday School teacher, former Girl Scouts Troop Leader, Member of the Inns of Court, ANSWER 1: Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge since 2008 ANSWER 2: Assistant Prosecuting attorney Hamilton County almost 12 years Associate Fox & Fox Law Office about 6 years ANSWER 3: I love my job and feel privileged to be serving the people of Hamilton County and administering fair and equal justice to all who enter my courtroom. All anyone wants when they come to court is to have an opportunity to present their side of the case and get a fair shake. That is the service I provide and will continue to provide if re-elected.

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 3, 2017

Darlene Rogers Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

Robert P. Ruehlman Photo Not Provided

OCCUPATION: Judge of Hamilton County Common Pleas General Division since January 1987

EDUCATION: B.S University of Cincinnati in 1974 and J.D. University of Cincinnati 1977 AFFILIATIONS: Member Crossroads Church, helped found Literacy Center West, member of Greater Cincinnati Regional Fire and Arson Investigators

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ANSWER 3: I enjoy the job.

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 4, 2017

Tom Heekin OCCUPATION: Attorney EDUCATION: J.D. University of Cincinnati

OCCUPATION: Judge EDUCATION: J.D. Salmon P Chase Law School

Extended Information Available Online

ANSWER 1: 2016 is my 30th year on the bench.

ANSWER 1: In June of 2016, I was appointed to the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas, General Division, by Ohio Governor John Kasich.

My over twenty-eight years of experience as a former Hamilton County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and private sector litigation practitioner have allowed for a smooth and seamless transition to the bench.

ANSWER 2: I have been a practicing trial attorney in Hamilton County for 27 years. I began my career as an assistant prosecutor. I have prosecuted cases in Juvenile, Municipal, and Common Pleas courts. In 1993, I went into private practice. As a partner with my brother at the firm Heekin & Heekin, I have appeared before and litigated cases in front of every Common Pleas Judge in Hamilton County since 1991. I have tremendous courtroom experience. I served as the Chairperson of the Judicial Selection Committee for the Hamilton County Republican Party for approximately 5 years.

Between 1990 and 1999, I spearheaded the effort to bring a world class aquarium to the region. In 1999, with the help of 4 partners, we opened the Newport Aquarium.

ANSWER 3: I am running for Common Pleas because I want apply my considerable experience in the courtroom while continuing to challenge myself as a lawyer. Furthermore, I relish the opportunity to serve the community in the way I am most qualified.

Peter J. Stackpole OCCUPATION: Chief Counsel of Civil Litigation for the City of Cincinnati EDUCATION: J.D. University of Maryland, Ph.B Miami University AFFILIATIONS: Fifteen year member of St. Clare Parish in College Hill, Ohio; new member of Glendale Lyceum ANSWER 1: I have not yet served as a judge.

ANSWER 2: I have a strong background in service

and leadership. I served our country as an officer on active duty in the United States Coast Guard.

After three years of service, I decided to pursue law school. During my time at the University of Maryland School of Law, I was selected to become the Managing Editor of the Maryland Law Review.

After graduation, my wife and I moved back to this area so that she could complete her residency at Cincinnati Childrens’ Hospital. I was a law clerk to Judge Melba Marsh in the Court of Common Pleas.

I assisted Judge Marsh by maintaining her daily docket of civil cases, conducting scheduling conferences, and writing draft opinions. After a year of service with Judge Marsh, I worked at a private firm for four years. In 2004 I joined the City of Cincinnati as a senior assistant city solicitor. I have defended the City of Cincinnati, and primarily its police officers and firefighters, since that time in complicated civil rights cases. I have tried many cases to judges and juries in state and federal court. I have argued before many appellate courts, including the Ohio Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. I have filed petitions and briefs with the Supreme Court of the United States. I represented the City of Cincinnati during critical phases of the historic Collaborative Agreement process and assisted with reforming some police procedures. I have helped train the Cincinnati Police Department in developing a more complete understanding of the civil rights of citizens, particularly with respect to the First and Fourth Amendments.

ANSWER 3: My high school had a motto: “In today’s world, the loving, good person - even alone - can make a difference.” I am running to become a judge because I want to make a difference in people’s lives and I want to keep our communities safe. It should not matter if you are rich or poor, you should receive the same care, attention, and respect from the judge. It is said that justice delayed is justice denied. If elected, I will strive to issue timely decisions. Not only are lengthy delays frustrating to parties and attorneys who want to know what is happening with their case, but slow decisions make justice less meaningful when it finally arrives and significantly more expensive. More than that, a judge should explain how they reached their conclusion. When a judge issues an opinion without legal support or analysis, it harms the judicial process and tarnishes the reputation of the bench. If I am elected, I will strive always to write well written decisions supported by law and common sense.

Finally, I want to protect our communities. To me, that means two things. First, violent offenders should be sentenced appropriately, understanding the nature of the offense and its impact on victims and society. Second, protecting our communities means safeguarding the civil rights of citizens. With increasing and legitimate security concerns over gun violence and terrorism, it is extremely important for judges to be vigilant over the protections guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.

I am running for this position because I care about what happens, both to people who come before the court and to our communities as a whole. I will strive to bring honor to the office of judge and to the legal profession generally, and I promise to serve as capably as I can.

JUDGE, COMMON PLEAS COURT - GENERAL DIVISION FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 15, 2017

Alvertis Bishop OCCUPATION: Attorney EDUCATION: J.D. Salmon P. Chase College of Law; M.A. Univ. of Cincinnati; B.S. Univ. of Cincinnati AFFILIATIONS: Currently serving as Minister of Music, New Song Ministries (non-denominational); past board president of Avondale rEdevlopment Corp, Burnet Area Business Association, A. B. Miree Charter School. Also past board member Arthritis Foundation.

WEBSITE: http://www.voteforbishop.com ANSWER 1: Approximately 15 years unofficial referee, Hamilton County Juvenile Court Hamilton County Arbitration Panelist ANSWER 2: General Practice over 30 years.

Experience in all areas that come before the Court, including: Criminal Defense, literally at all levels from traffic violations and misdemeanors to major felonies up to and including homicide. Criminal Prosecution during service as Lincoln Heights Law Director. (General Counsel to City/Village of Lincoln Heights, Ohio) Advice to Legislative Authority (Lincoln Heights Council) including construction interpretation and enforcement of ordinances.

Service as counsel both plaintiff and defense in civil matters, including matters of equity. Also service as counsel in Probate, Juvenile, and Domestic Relations Courts, all of which are divisions of the Court of Common Pleas. Over 15 years and currently serving as statewide counsel to the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Ohio Free and Accepted Masons. Also, my upbringing and maturation in my family’s business gave me insight into the lives and thinking of persons from all walks of life. I have a strong work ethic. I worked as an auto mechanic 6 days per week while attending law school at night.

I am a life-long Cincinnatian and I am well tuned to Cincinnati’s community values. I am strongly committed to family. I also have a strong sense that persons should take a greater responsibility for themselves rather than finding fault in others and blaming others for hardship and shortcomings.

Adulthood brings responsibility with it.

ANSWER 3: I am running for the Court of Common Pleas because my diverse experience as an attorney qualifies me better for the position than someone whose entire legal experience has been confined to a single area of law. I am also running because my overall life experience enables me to see more in the person than a police report or civil complaint can reveal.

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

Megan Shanahan

Performing Arts; youth soccer coach

OCCUPATION: Judge

WEBSITE: www.mannforjudge.com

EDUCATION: J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College of Law, B.A. Kent State University AFFILIATIONS: St. Mary Church, Hope in Heels, Living Hope Home, Greater Cincinnati Right to Life WEBSITE: http://www.judgeshanahan.com ANSWER 1: Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge: 2015-Present Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge: 2011-2015 ANSWER 2: During the course of my eleven years as an assistant prosecutor, I tried more than 50 jury trials and innumerable bench trials and argued hundreds of legal motions. I have been involved in the active practice of law as a courtroom litigator my entire career. I earned the reputation of being firm but fair as a lawyer and have carried that on to the bench.

ANSWER 3: The bulk of my career as a practicing lawyer was spent in the Common Pleas Court. My expertise and interest led me to accept a seat on this court and I will work hard to retain my seat.

Since I have been a judge, I have developed a strong sense of fairness and respect for the law and learned the importance of sound judgment and even temperament. I support the current system by which we elect our local and state judges. The public has a right to decide who should be on the bench. If a judge wins the election by popular vote, she is accountable to the public who elected her, regardless of race, color, creed, or political affiliation.

UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING MARCH 31, 2019

Lisa Allen Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

Michael T. Mann OCCUPATION: Attorney and Partner in Mann & Mann, LLC EDUCATION: J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College of Law; B.A. from Indiana University AFFILIATIONS: Board trustee for Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Board trustee for OTR A.D.O.P.T., Inc.; chair of the Cincinnati Bar Association’s Unauthorized Practice of Law committee; member of Cincinnati Bar Association’s Admissions committee; pro bono attorney for the Volunteer Lawyer Project; mentoring attorney for the Supreme Court of Ohio’s new-lawyer mentoring program; past chair of Local School Decision Making Committee for the School for Creative and

ANSWER 1: I have not yet served as a judge.

ANSWER 2: I have enjoyed a very balanced legal practice. I have represented employees on issues such as discrimination, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, disabilities, wage theft and retaliation, and have advised employers on similar issues.

I have recovered damages on behalf of accident victims, and have represented insurance companies in personal injury and commercial claims. I have counseled for-profit and non-profit corporations. I am particularly proud of the work I have done with neighborhood Community Development Corporations, working to clean up blighted properties, and in turn reducing criminal activity in our communities. I have practiced in a variety of different courts, including the Supreme Court of Ohio, U.S. Federal District Court, several Ohio courts of appeal, common pleas courts in six different counties, and probate, juvenile and municipal courts throughout southern Ohio. I have also represented clients before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Civil Rights Commission, Ohio Unemployment Commission, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio Department of Education, Hamilton County Board of Revisions, and the Clermont County Board of Commissioners. This diversity of legal experience makes me particularly qualified to preside over the variety of cases that come before the Common Pleas court.

ANSWER 3: Judges serve an important civic role.

I am grateful to the people who give their time, money and skills to make Hamilton County a great place to live. The police and fire who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. The religious leaders who keep us spiritually sound. The laborers who build the structures and spaces that make up our beautiful county. The civic leaders who run the cities, townships and villages. The creatives, artists and musicians who share their talents with us. The entrepreneurs who take risks and create jobs. And the people who say hello on the street and stop to talk about the Bengals, the Reds or other local interests. I have the experience and skills necessary to serve our great community by being a judge. My judicial goals are to ensure that when people come to the courthouse they are treated with dignity and respect, that cases are managed efficiently and timely, and that justice is administered firmly but in a manner that is fair, equal and without prejudice.

Ohio registered voters have a choice on how to cast their ballot Vote by mail, by casting an absentee ballot You will need to fill out and send in an absentee ballot request form. Since this year is a Presidential election, the Secretary of State sent an absentee application to many registered voters.

If you didn’t receive yours, you can request one by calling your county Board of Elections and verifying that you are properly registered. When the absentee ballot application is received, the Board of Elections will mail you a ballot. Follow all instructions and provide required information on the absentee ballot envelope including proper postage. Absentee voting begins October 12. According to the Ohio Secretary of State’s website, noon Saturday, November 5, is the deadline that all absentee ballot requests must be received by boards of elections. The absentee ballots returned in person or via a method other than U.S. Mail, must be received by the boards of elections by close of polls on November 8. Absentee ballots returned by U.S. Mail must be postmarked no later than Nov. 7 and received by boards of elections by November 18 to be counted.

Vote early in-person - Registered voters may vote early beginning on October 12 for the November 8, 2016, election. Early voting days and hours are as follows: Weekdays: 8am-5pm Oct. 12-14 and 17-21 8am-6pm Oct. 24-28 8am-7pm Oct. 31-Nov. 4 8am-2pm Nov. 7 Weekends: Saturday Oct. 29 8am-4pm Sunday Oct. 30 1-5pm Saturday Nov. 5 8am-4pm Sunday Nov. 6 1-5 pm When you go vote, be sure to bring one of the many acceptable forms of voter ID. Vote at your polling place on Election Day Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2016.

Polls are open from 6:30 am until 7:30 pm.

By law, if you are in line at 7:30 pm, the polls must stay open to allow you to vote. Contact your county Board of Elections to find out your polling place and precinct. To assure your vote is counted, verify you are voting in the correct precinct! Not sure where to vote? Call your county Board of Elections or visit their website.

Locations for early voting: Hamilton County Board of Elections 824 Broadway Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-632-7000 www.votehamiltoncounty.org Warren County Board of Elections 406 Justice Dr. Lebanon, OH 45036 513-695-2682 www.warrencountyboe.us

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JUDGE, COMMON PLEAS COURT - DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To handle cases of divorce, dissolution of marriage, annulment, separation, and child custody matters.

SALARY: $121,350 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years).

2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat?

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 5, 2017

Jon H. Sieve Photo Not Provided

Candidate has not responded.

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 16, 2017

Susan Laker Tolbert OCCUPATION: Judge

EDUCATION: J.D. University of Cincinnati AFFILIATIONS: Ohio Judicial Conference ANSWER 1: Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestc Relations, January 1999 - present ANSWER 2: Prior to taking the bench in 1999, I had extensive trial and appellate experience.

ANSWER 3: I am running to retain the seat I have held for the past seventeen years. This court has been managed by me with efficiency, courtesy and with legal acumen. I handled a full docket of cases in addition to having extensive duties as administrative judge for the past nine years. I am well known in the legal community for conducting my cases efficiently, and with rendering my decisions within one day to one week. I have increased productivity and case management in the court despite an ever-decreasing court budget.

I have implemented numerous programs to protect children and the abused. I have developed procedures toassist litigants in the divorce process and to make the court more user-friendly. This I have done while raising three children to adulthood, supporting them in their sucesful careers and being supportive of my husband’s own career.

JUDGE, COMMON PLEAS COURT - JUVENILE DIVISION 6 YEAR TERM. RESPONSIBILITIES: To rule in cases involving persons under 18 years of age.

The Juvenile Court has authority in cases of delinquency, unruliness, juvenile traffic offenses, abuse, neglect, and dependency. The Juvenile Court may be part of the Court of Domestic Relations or the Probate Court. SALARY: $121,350 QUESTIONS Each candidate was asked: 1: List your judicial experience (courts and years).

2: What about your non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

3: Why are you running for this particular court seat?

The simple numbers show how you can take the power of the vote back. How important is a single vote?

If 100 people are eligible to vote and each person registers AND votes

then 51 votes decide the election.

If only 60 people of the 100 eligible to vote register AND ALL 60 vote

just 31 votes win the election.

If only 60 people register of the 100 eligible to vote, but only half (30) of them vote

then it takes just 16 votes to win the election.

Because many people did not vote, a small group of active voters

just 16 people — controlled the outcome for all 100 of the people.

When you choose NOT to vote, you give more clout to every vote that is recorded.

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Melissa Powers OCCUPATION: Hamilton County Municipal Court Judge EDUCATION: JD University of Cincinnati

FULL TERM COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2017

Darrell D. Payne OCCUPATION: Attorney in private practice EDUCATION: B.S. Social Work/ minor Criminal Justice (University of Dayton); M.S.S.W. Social Work (University of Louisville); and J.D. Law (Salmon P. Chase College of Law) AFFILIATIONS: Democratic Party

Why should you vote?

A single vote is impactful.

move from a life of crime to a life as a stable adult.

I believe I will bring a significant degree of empathy to the bench in that I have worked and served many of the lower socio-economic neighborhoods in my city and have a keen understanding of many of the problems that exists in various neighborhoods.

More importantly, I understand many of the areas of practice in juvenile court because I have worked in those areas (i.e, child protective service, jobs and family, juvenile court probation, etc.)

WEBSITE: http://vote4payne.com ANSWER 1: None ANSWER 2: I bring a unique socio-legal perspective to the position in that I have over 20+ years in the social work and legal field. Earlier in my career I have worked in Detention Centers, Group Homes, Welfare department, probation department, mental health agency, and hospital social work. I have also been employed as a juvenile court probation officer, juvenile court prosecutor, and public defender. I believe my well rounded background is what sets me apart from other candidates. I will bring to the bench a balanced perspective on crime and punishment which will not only address the concerns of victims, but also make realistic and appropriate disposition for juveniles with rehabilitation. What we decide to do with our troubled youths while they are still juveniles will determine if they become stable adults later or continue down the path of criminal behavior.

Being able to assess and evaluate recommendations of probation officers and social workers is critical in juvenile court, especially when dealing with delinquency, abuse, neglect and dependency cases.

ANSWER 3: I am running for the Juvenile Court Judge seat because I have a compassion for working with our youth, which is evident from my previous work experience and background. I have always had a passion for serving our youths. I have served on various boards in the city and have written a number of articles around juveniles issues in academia. I also believe a Juvenile Court Judge should be invested in the community in reaching and interacting with others who want to help children

AFFILIATIONS: Catholic WEBSITE: http://judgemelissapowers.com ANSWER 1: Preside over and effectively resolve approximately 700 misdemeanor criminal cases and 25 civil cases each month in Hamilton County Municipal Court. Manage courtroom staff and security. Foster an environment of professional, courteous service to the public. Set appropriate bonds for felony arrests to protect the safety of the community, review probable cause for search warrants, and perform civil marriage ceremonies.

Appointed by the Ohio Governor to Hamilton County Municipal Court in 2006 and elected in 2007 and 2013 to six-year terms. Elected by peers as Presiding Judge of Hamilton County Municipal Court from 2013-2015. Established the first Hamilton County Municipal Veterans Treatment Court, April 2012.

ANSWER 2: Currently serve on the board of the Operations Legal Help Ohio since 2015.Served as board member of Cincinnati Firefighters Association (2015), Tri-State Veterans Community Alliance (2015), and Cincinnati Works (2006) ANSWER 3: A proven progressive and successful career as a trial lawyer experienced in criminal, juvenile, domestic relations, and appellate courts.

Effective in exercising sound judgment and collaboration with others to balance needs of victims, offenders, law enforcement organizations, judicial systems, and the community. Key strengths include jury selection, presentation of facts and persuasive oral and written legal argument. Reputation for effectively resolving matters utilizing the appropriate course of action for the best outcome. Extensive public speaking and presentation skills. Life experience as a young single mother, completing a college and law degree, and establishing a professional career to support myself and my son. Raised by parents with strong moral values, compassion, empathy and instilling a desire to serve others.

If candidate responded with some information for fields, but not all, those fields have been removed for space.

BALLOT ISSUES

ISSUE 1

ISSUE 5

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

The full text of the charter amendment is posted in this polling place.

Shall the City of Norwood have the authority to aggregate the retail electric loads located in the City of Norwood, and for that purpose, enter into service agreements to facilitate for those loads the sale and purchase of electricity, such aggregation to occur automatically except where any person elects to opt out?

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

 YES  NO

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Addyston, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of MAINTAINING AND OPERATING SEWAGE DISPOSAL FACILITIES at a rate not exceeding fivetenths (0.5) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to five cents ($0.05) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

PROPOSED CHARTER REVISION CITY OF BLUE ASH

Shall the proposed charter amendments as reported by the Charter Review Commission of the City of Blue Ash, be adopted?  YES  NO

ISSUE 2

PARTICULAR PREMISES LOCAL OPTION JUDGMENT ENTRY GINGER’S BAR AND LOUNGE, INC. PRECINCT CINTI 22-A A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of beer and intoxicating liquor at 1701 Blue Rock Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45223, which was adjudged to be a nuisance to the public

by Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas on June 15, 2016 be permitted in this precinct?  YES  NO

ISSUE 3

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) CITY OF DEER PARK A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the City of Deer Park, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, RESURFACING AND REPAIR OF STREETS, ROADS AND BRIDGES at a rate not exceeding two (2) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to twenty cents ($0.20) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 4

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) CITY OF NORTH COLLEGE HILL A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the City of North College Hill, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, RESURFACING AND REPAIR OF STREETS, ROADS AND BRIDGES at a rate not exceeding four and eight tenths (4.8) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to fortyeight cents ($0.48) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

PROPOSED ELECTRIC AGGREGATION CITY OF NORWOOD

ISSUE 6

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) CITY OF NORWOOD A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

not exceeding one (1) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to ten cents ($0.10) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

ISSUE 10

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF ADDYSTON A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the City of Norwood, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding eight (8) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to eighty cents ($0.80) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2017, first due in calendar year 2018.

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Cleves, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding six (6) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to sixty cents ($0.60) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

ISSUE 7

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT CITY OF SPRINGDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the proposed amendment of Article II, Section C(4) and C(5); Article III, Section B(3), B(5), and G(3); and Article IX, Section C(8) of the Charter of Springdale be adopted (Full text of amendment posted at this polling location)?  YES  NO

ISSUE 8

PROPOSED CHARTER REVISION CITY OF WYOMING A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the proposed charter amendments as reported by the Charter Review Commission of the City of Wyoming, modifying Sections 3.04, 3.05, 3.07, 3.09, 4.06 and 8.02 be passed (Full text of amendment posted at this polling location)?  YES  NO

ISSUE 9

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF ADDYSTON A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Addyston, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of IMPROVING, MAINTAINING AND OPERATING THE WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM at a rate

ISSUE 11

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF CLEVES A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 12

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended to provide that the following two sentences shall be deleted from Article III, Elected Officers, Section 6, Vacating the Seat of Elected Officers.

“Furthermore, Council will declare the seat vacant of any elected officer who files nominating petitions during his term in office for any other elected position. The forfeiture of the seat and declaration of

IS THIS YOU? • I like to know what’s happening in my community, in my state and country.

• I want all elections to be conducted fairly.

• I want voters to have unbiased information about candidates and issues.

• I am interested in discussions of public policy.

• I like to have new ways to network with people.

If this sounds like you, then we welcome you to check out the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area. We’re a grassroots organization that includes women and men who value good government and fair elections. Join us! Contact us and let’s talk about your interests!

513-281-VOTE (8683) info@lwvcincinnati.org www.lwvcincinnati.org

Additional Cincinnati Area Election Information For additional information on Clermont County candidates, issues and elections please contact League of Women Voters of Clermont County at www.lwvclermont.com or P. O. Box 733, Milford, OH 45150.

For information on some Butler County candidates, issues and elections please contact League of Women Voters of Oxford at www.oxford.oh.lwvnet.org or P. O. Box 504, Oxford, OH 45056. www. lwvcincinnati.org |

17

BALLOT ISSUES

Issue 12, cont’d

ISSUE 17

ISSUE 21

vacancy shall occur at the meeting immediately following the certification of the nominating petition of such elected officer as a valid nominating petition for such other office?

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

 YES  NO

Shall Article V, Fiscal Matters, Section 6, Limitation of Issuance of Bonds Without Vote of the People of the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended to provide that the authority of Council to issue bonds without a vote of the electors shall never exceed Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000) outstanding at any one time?

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Golf Manor, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of STREETS AND ROADS at a rate not exceeding eight (8) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to eighty cents ($0.80) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for ten (10) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

ISSUE 13

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF GOLF MANOR

 YES  NO

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

Shall the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended to provide that where an election is necessary to be held to fill one or two vacancies on Village Council, such election shall occur at the next general municipal election?

ISSUE 18

ISSUE 22

 YES  NO

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the Village of Fairfax, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding ninety-six hundredths (0.96) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to nine and six-tenths cents ($0.096) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Greenhills, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding three and twenty-eight hundredths (3.28) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to thirty-two and eight-tenths cents ($0.328) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

ISSUE 14

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended in Article IV, Appointed Officers, Section 3, Village Solicitor, by changing the title of Village Solicitor to Village Law Director throughout?  YES  NO

ISSUE 15

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended to change the title of Administrative Assistant throughout Article IV, Appointed Officers, Section 4, Administrative Assistant, to Director of Administrative Services?  YES  NO

ISSUE 16

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT VILLAGE OF EVENDALE A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the Charter of the Village of Evendale be amended to provide for the deletion of current Section 2 of Article VII, Review of and Amendments to Charter, and replace it with language providing for the appointment of a Charter Review Committee at least once every ten years?  YES  NO

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) VILLAGE OF FAIRFAX

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF GREENHILLS

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 19

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF GLENDALE

ISSUE 23

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF LOCKLAND

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Glendale, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding ten (10) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to one dollar ($1.00) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for four (4) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 20

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF GOLF MANOR A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Golf Manor, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding two (2) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to twenty cents ($0.20) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Lockland, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of EQUIPMENT AND OPERATING EXPENSES FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT at a rate not exceeding four (4) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to forty cents ($0.40) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 24

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) VILLAGE OF LOCKLAND A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the Village of Lockland, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES, EQUIPMENT AND PERSONNEL FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT at a rate not exceeding four (4) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to forty cents ($0.40) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 25 18

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PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF MARIEMONT

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Mariemont, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PERMANENT IMPROVEMENTS at a rate not exceeding three (3) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to thirty cents ($0.30) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 26

PROPOSED ORDINANCE (By Petition) VILLAGE OF MARIEMONT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Ordinance to follow the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices in regards to STOP signs in Mariemont: In order to comply with Ohio Revised Code and ensure proper safety, consistency and objectivity in the placement of STOP signs throughout the Village of Mariemont, the installation of any new STOP signs shall require: I) a study be done by an independent professional traffic engineer. For purposes of this Section, the term “independent” means a qualified consultant that has not otherwise performed work as a W-2 employee or a 1099 consultant for the Village of Mariemont for a period of 12 months prior to the date of such study.

II) the study must establish that the proposed location for the STOP sign meets the criteria laid out in the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, or such other and further authority on such topic hereafter adopted by the Ohio Department of Transportation or its successor agency. Specifically, the location being studied must meet at least one of the Guidance criteria or two of the Options in Section 2B.04 or 2B.07 of the Ohio Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, along with any other pertinent requirements, or such other and further authority on such topic hereafter adopted by the Ohio Department of Transportation or its successor agency.

III) any ordinance to implement any STOP sign shall go through the required three readings at three separate Village Council meetings and shall not be passed as an emergency measure unless there has been a significant increase in the number of documented accidents at the proposed location.

Furthermore, the reason for having to pass the STOP sign ordinance as an emergency measure should be included in the ordinance as well.

SHALL THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE ADOPTED?  YES  NO

BALLOT ISSUES

ISSUE 27

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF NORTH BEND A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of North Bend, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding five (5) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to fifty cents ($0.50) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 28

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) VILLAGE OF TERRACE PARK A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Village of Terrace Park, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding five and fifty-eight hundredths (5.58) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to fifty-five and eight-tenths cents ($0.558) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 29

PROPOSED CHARTER REVISION VILLAGE OF WOODLAWN A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

The full text of the charter amendment is posted in this polling place.

Shall the proposed charter amendments, as recommended by the Village of Woodlawn Charter Review Commission, be adopted?  YES  NO

ISSUE 30

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) ANDERSON TOWNSHIP A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Anderson Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PROVIDING FIRE PROTECTION, POLICE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES at a rate not exceeding three and fifty-five hundredths (3.55) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to thirty-five and five-tenths cents ($0.355) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

What to Bring When You Vote You must present ONE of these forms of identification to vote: • A government photo ID (Ohio Driver’s license or State ID showing either your current or your former address, as long as the ID has not expired)

ISSUE 31

ISSUE 34

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall Anderson Township have the authority to aggregate the retail electric loads located in Anderson Township, and for that purpose, enter into service agreements to facilitate for those loads the sale and purchase of electricity, such aggregation to occur automatically except where any person elects to opt out?

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Green Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of GENERAL CONSTRUCTION, RECONSTRUCTION, RESURFACING AND REPAIR OF STREETS, ROADS AND BRIDGES at a rate not exceeding five-tenths (0.5) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to five cents ($0.05) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

PROPOSED ELECTRIC AGGREGATION ANDERSON TOWNSHIP

 YES  NO

• OR one of the following that shows your current address and your name:

ISSUE 32

• Military ID

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

• Copy of a current utility bill

An additional tax for the benefit of the Ridge Fire District, Columbia Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PROVIDING AND MAINTAINING FIRE APPARATUS, APPLIANCES, BUILDINGS OR SITES THEREFOR, OR SOURCES OF WATER SUPPLY AND MATERIALS THEREFOR, OR THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF LINES OF FIRE ALARM TELEGRAPH, OR THE PAYMENT OF PERMANENT, PART-TIME, OR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS OR FIREFIGHTING COMPANIES TO OPERATE THE SAME, INCLUDING THE PAYMENT OF THE FIREFIGHTERS EMPLOYER’S CONTRIBUTION REQUIRED UNDER SECTION 742.34 OF THE REVISED CODE, OR TO PURCHASE AMBULANCE EQUIPMENT, OR TO PROVIDE AMBULANCE, PARAMEDIC, OR OTHER EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES OPERATED BY A FIRE DEPARTMENT OR FIREFIGHTING COMPANY at a rate not exceeding three and four-tenths (3.4) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to thirty-four cents ($0.34) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.

• Bank statement • Paycheck • Government check • Government document showing your name and current address (Note: You cannot use the notice you received from the Board of Elections) If you are a registered voter but don’t have any acceptable form of ID you still have the right to cast a provisional ballot, which should be counted if: • You truthfully affirm in writing that you are an eligible and registered voter in the precinct you are voting AND you do one of the following: • Provide the last four digits of your Social Security number at the polling place • Provide either a valid form of ID or the last four digits of your Social Security number within 10 days of the election • If you don’t have any acceptable form of ID or a Social Security number, you affirm that fact in writing.

Above all, if you are sure you are at the correct polling precinct and voting a regular ballot is not an option for whatever reason, don’t leave the polls without voting a provisional ballot.

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP RIDGE FIRE DISTRICT

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 33

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) DELHI TOWNSHIP A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Delhi Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PARKS AND RECREATIONAL PURPOSES at a rate not exceeding fifty-four hundredths (0.54) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to five and four-tenths cents ($0.054) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) GREEN TOWNSHIP

 FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 35

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) GREEN TOWNSHIP A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Green Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of POLICE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES at a rate not exceeding five-tenths (0.5) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to five cents ($0.05) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 36

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) MIAMI TOWNSHIP A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Miami Township, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding forty-six hundredths (0.46) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to four and six-tenths cents ($0.046) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 37

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION ON SUNDAY SALE OF LIQUOR PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD C A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of beer, wine and mixed beverages and spirituous liquor be permitted for sale on Sunday between the hours of eleven a.m. and midnight by Two Sisters Taverns, Inc., dba Lu Lu’s Tap Room, an applicant for a D-6 liquor permit and a holder of a D-5 liquor permit who is engaged in the business of a neighborhood bar, tavern at 916 Hempstead Drive, Cincinnati (Springfield Township), Ohio 45231 in this precinct?  YES  NO www. lwvcincinnati.org |

19

BALLOT ISSUES

ISSUE 38

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION ON SALE OF BEER PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L

ISSUE 43

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of beer as defined in section 4305.08 of the Revised Code under permits which authorize sale for off-premises consumption only be permitted within this precinct, Springfield L?

Shall state liquor stores or liquor agency stores for the sale of spirituous liquor by the package, for the consumption off the premises where sold, be permitted in Springfield L?  YES  NO

 YES  NO

ISSUE 39

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION ON SALE OF BEER PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of beer as defined in section 4305.08 of the Revised Code under permits which authorize sale for on-premises consumption only, and under permits which authorize sale for both on-premises and off-premises consumption, be permitted in this precinct, Springfield L?  YES  NO

ISSUE 40

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of wine and mixed beverages by the package, under permits which authorize sale for off-premise consumption only, be permitted in Springfield L?  YES  NO

ISSUE 41

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of wine and mixed beverages, under permits which authorize sale for on-premise consumption only, and under permits which authorize sale for both on-premise and off-premise consumption, be permitted in Springfield L?  YES  NO

ISSUE 42

SPECIAL ELECTION BY PETITION LOCAL OPTION ELECTION PRECINCT SPRINGFIELD L A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall the sale of spirituous liquors by the glass be permitted in Springfield L?  YES  NO

20

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ISSUE 44

PROPOSED TAX LEVY CINCINNATI CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall a levy be imposed by the Cincinnati City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PROVIDING FOR THE EMERGENCY REQUIREMENTS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT in the sum of $48,000,000 and a levy of taxes to be made outside of the ten-mill limitation estimated by the county auditor to average seven and ninetythree hundredths (7.93) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to seventy-nine and three-tenths cents ($0.793) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017?  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY EXPLANATION: This proposed new property tax levy request is for 7.93 mills for a period of five years for Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS). It will cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $278 per year if it passes. The CPS Board of Education voted unanimously to put the levy on the ballot, and if approved by voters, it will be used for preschool expansion as well as strengthening neighborhood schools, expanding the availability of technology for students, and more thoroughly preparing students for careers or college.

Although the 5-year life of the levy would begin in 2016, the amount would appear on property bills in 2017 if approved. The county auditor has estimated that it will generate about $48 million per year.

WHAT THE LEVY WOULD DO: The purpose of this levy is twofold. First, although the levy has been put on the ballot by the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education, it represents a cooperative effort by Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) and Cincinnati Preschool Promise (CPP). If the levy is approved by voters, $15 million of the revenue will be used for preschool expansion in the district. Some of that amount will be used by CPS to expand their preschool program, particularly at the renovated Vine Street School. The remainder of that $15 million will be used by CPP to establish its program of community-operated preschools. Second, CPS will use the additional $33 million to improve programs in the district’s neighborhood schools, upgrade digital capacity to support students at all levels, implement new programs emphasizing preparation for careers or post-high school education and handle increasing educational expenses.

BACKGROUND: The last new operating levy for CPS was approved in 2008. Since that time, the

student population has been increasing while state funding has been predicated on significantly lower population estimates. Additionally, new methods of testing, new approaches to career or college preparation for students, additional staff requirements, and the need for increased attention to neighborhood schools increased the district’s expenses. A financial study by the Parthenon group found that CPS has managed its finances very well and suggested some areas for cuts. These were implemented, but the study did determine that without new funds, the district would face a serious deficit in the next 2-3 years. The only way to avoid that deficit without losing hard gained ground was to ask voters for new money.

Meanwhile, a contingent of educators and social service individuals was developing a plan to provide pre-school for every 3- and 4-year-old child in the area (CPP). Multiple studies were showing that this experience prepares youngsters for kindergarten and leads to further success in subsequent grades. The group determined that they needed especially to establish a way for children from very low income families to be given an opportunity (via subsidies) to attend a quality preschool, as this could be one approach to ending poverty in our area in the long run. The committee debated and researched several sources of income to put the program to work. Ultimately, the decision to submit a property tax levy to voters seemed to be the most feasible way to raise the funds.

When it became apparent that two entities charged with educating children were planning to put tax levies on the November ballot, the two worked together to see if some type of joint program and levy could be mapped out. Their efforts led to the ballot issue described above, which will go before voters in the Cincinnati School District. They determined that $15 million of the projected $48 million would go for preschool education, via CPS and via CPP’s community-based organization. The balance would help fund CPS’s other educational priorities.

CPS and CPP worked together to establish a detailed chart of governance for the Preschool Promise expansion portion of the levy. CPS’s Board, as a voted public body with direct responsibility to the taxpayers, will serve as the taxing and fiscal agent. A “Trusted Entity” will handle management of operations; CPS will call for proposals from local 501 (c)(3) organizations to be appointed Trusted Entity, and the organization selected will lead the preschool expansion program. Additionally, the Trusted Entity will establish a Preschool Expansion Organization and elect its Board of Trustees of 15 individuals who are representative of the community.

This levy represents a new approach as it wraps two types of education into one request for financing. Its appearance on the ballot is the culmination of many months of collaborative work by both CPS and the CPP. On August 2, CPS’s Board passed two resolutions pertaining to the levy. The first describes the financial details of the proposed levy, and the second describes in detail their arrangement with CPP and what the organization of the preschool program will be. This second resolution ensures that if the levy is approved by voters, the organization that CPS and CPP have crafted together will be put in place for future

financing and operation.

ARGUMENTS FOR THE LEVY: • CPS has not had new money since 2008 despite rising enrollment and state formula payment based on much lower enrollment numbers. Their expenses have risen (more staff needed, new curriculum emphasizing career and college readiness, new equipment to handle the requirements of the digital age), while their income remains static due to State regulations and cutbacks.

• Quality preschool will prepare young children for kindergarten and elementary school, thereby encouraging them to stay in school and continue their education (career preparation or college), after which they will be ready to enter the workforce. This levy is needed to establish the program that will begin this process.

• The Rand Corporation’s review of research on preschool led to the conclusion that high-quality, developmentally appropriate preschool programs improve kindergarten readiness, with sustained effects in later grades.

ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE LEVY: • The amount of this levy puts a large additional burden on taxpayers, even those whose homes are not valued at $100,000. For many, the Recession has not ended.

• There are other taxpayer-supported programs in the city that provide services to children who live in poverty. Perhaps the funding for the preschool program could come from these sources.

• The public is unsure of exactly what CPS will do with the levy money. The ballot language is vague, and the district has not communicated the specific plans they have in mind.

ISSUE 45

PROPOSED BOND ISSUE DEER PARK COMMUNITY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall bonds be issued by the Deer Park Community City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CONSTRUCTING IMPROVEMENTS AND ADDITIONS TO AMITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND OTHER IMPROVEMENTS, AND ALL NECESSARY APPURTENANCES, in the principal amount of twenty-five million dollars ($25,000,000) to be repaid annually over a maximum period of thirty-seven (37) years, and an annual levy of property taxes be made outside the ten-mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the repayment period of the bond issue five and forty-one hundredths (5.41) mills for each one dollar of tax valuation, which amounts to fifty-four and one-tenth cents ($0.541) for each one hundred dollars of tax valuation, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds?  FOR THE BOND ISSUE  AGAINST THE BOND ISSUE

ISSUE 46

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL)

BALLOT ISSUES

Issue 45, Cont’d MADEIRA CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the Madeira City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding six and nine-tenths (6.9) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to sixty-nine cents ($0.69) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 47

PROPOSED BOND ISSUE AND TAX LEVY NORWOOD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall bonds be issued by the Norwood City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of NEW CONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENTS, RENOVATIONS AND ADDITIONS TO SCHOOL FACILITIES, AND PROVIDING EQUIPMENT, FURNISHINGS AND SITE IMPROVEMENTS THEREFOR, in the principal amount of thirty-one million three hundred ten thousand dollars ($31,310,000) to be repaid annually over a maximum period of thirty-five (35) years, and an annual levy of property taxes be made outside the ten-mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the repayment period of the bond issue four and sixty-four hundredths (4.64) mills for each one dollar of tax valuation, which amounts to forty-six and four-tenths cents ($0.464) for each one hundred dollars of tax valuation, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds? and Shall an additional tax be levied for the benefit of the Norwood City School District for the purpose of providing funds for the acquisition, construction, enlargement, renovation and financing of permanent improvements at a rate not exceeding two and fifty-five hundredths (2.55) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to twentyfive and five-tenths cents ($0.255) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR BOND ISSUE AND LEVY  AGAINST BOND ISSUE AND LEVY

ISSUE 48

PROPOSED BOND ISSUE AND TAX LEVY ST. BERNARD-ELMWOOD PLACE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

ISSUE 50

PROPOSED BOND ISSUE WINTON WOODS CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall bonds be issued by the St.Bernard-Elmwood Place City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of paying the local share of school construction under the State of Ohio Classroom Facilities Assistance Program and the cost of other improvements to school facilities (known as locally funded initiatives), together with, as applicable, new construction, improvements, renovations and other additions to school facilities, as well as equipment, furnishings, site improvements and all necessary appurtenances therefor, including, without limitations, technology, safety and security improvements, capitalized interest, and a portion of the costs of a natatorium, in the principal amount of eight million eight hundred eighty thousand dollars ($8,880,000) to be repaid annually over a maximum period of thirty-seven (37) years, and an annual levy of property taxes be made outside the ten-mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the repayment period of the bond issue four and forty-nine hundredths (4.49) mills for each one dollar of tax valuation, which amounts to forty-four and nine-tenths cents ($0.449) for each one hundred dollars of tax valuation, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds? and Shall an additional levy of taxes be made for a period of twenty-three years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017, to benefit the St. Bernard-Elmwood Place City School District, the proceeds of which shall be used to pay the cost of maintaining the classroom facilities included in the project at the rate of one-half (0.5) mill for each one dollar of valuation?  FOR BOND ISSUE AND LEVY  AGAINST BOND ISSUE AND LEVY

ISSUE 49

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) SYCAMORE COMMUNITY CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of the Sycamore Community City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of CURRENT OPERATING EXPENSES at a rate not exceeding six and five-tenths (6.5) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to sixty-five cents ($0.65) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

Shall bonds be issued by the Winton Woods City School District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of paying the local share of school construction under the State of Ohio Classroom Facilities Assistance Program and the cost of other improvements to school facilities, together with, as applicable, new construction, improvements, renovations, and other additions to school facilities, as well as equipment, furnishings, site improvements, and all necessary appurtenances therefor, including, without limitation, technology, security systems, classrooms designed for special needs students, and capitalized interest, in the principal amount of sixty-one million five hundred thousand dollars ($61,500,000) to be repaid annually over a maximum period of thirty-seven (37) years, and an annual levy of property taxes be made outside the ten-mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the repayment period of the bond issue six and ninety-five hundredths (6.95) mills for each one dollar of tax valuation, which amounts to sixty-nine and five-tenths cents ($0.695) for each one hundred dollars of tax valuation, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds?  FOR BOND ISSUE

 AGAINST BOND ISSUE

ISSUE 51

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (ADDITIONAL) ANDERSON TOWNSHIP PARK DISTRICT A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

An additional tax for the benefit of Anderson Township Park District, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of PURCHASING, APPROPRIATING, OPERATING, MAINTAINING AND IMPROVING LANDS FOR PARKS AND RECREATIONAL PURPOSES, INCLUDING THE PAYMENT OF DEBT SERVICE ON BONDS ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 511.29 OF THE OHIO REVISED CODE at a rate not exceeding one and nine-tenths (1.9) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to nineteen cents ($0.19) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for ten (10) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

ISSUE 52

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (REPLACEMENT) GREAT PARKS OF HAMILTON COUNTY A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A replacement of a tax for the benefit of the Great Parks of Hamilton County, County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of ACQUISITION AND CONSERVATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND PARKLAND; OPERATION, IMPROVEMENTS, PROTECTION AND PROVIDING OF OUTDOOR RECREATION

Hamilton County Tax Levy Review Committee The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners proposes tax levies to support certain public services. The proposed levies go before the electorate for approval.

If approved, the levies appear on the tax bill for Hamilton County property owners.

The Commissioners appoint a citizen Tax Levy Review Committee (TLRC) to study levy requests and to advise the Commissioners whether a levy should appear on the ballot, the appropriate size and duration for each levy; and terms and conditions that should be inserted into contracts.

Prior to the placement of each levy on the ballot, the TLRC engages a consultant to review finances and programs funded by the levy and holds public hearings. At the completion of its review, the TLRC sends a written report of findings and recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners.

The Commissioners make the final decision regarding the levy that is placed before the voters.

If a levy is approved by voters, the TLRC is responsible for conducting a mid-term performance review to see that budget targets and contractual obligations are being met.

For more information including membership, levy procedures and TLRC reviews, see www.tinyurl. com/hamcot/rc.

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BALLOT ISSUES

Issue 52, Cont’d AND NATURE EDUCATION SERVICES IN CURRENT AND FUTURE GREAT PARKS OF HAMILTON COUNTY PARKS AND NATURE PRESERVES; AND FOR SUCH OTHER PARKS AND RECREATIONAL PURPOSES PERMITTED BY LAW at a rate not exceeding one (1) mill for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to ten cents ($0.10) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for ten (10) years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017. An existing levy of one (1) mill having one (1) year remaining, will be cancelled and replaced upon passage of this levy.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY EXPLANATION: Issue 52 is a proposed replacement property tax levy of one mill for 10 years for Great Parks of Hamilton County (GPHC). It will cost the owner of a $100,000 home $35 per year. The proposed levy would replace the current one mill levy which expires in December 2017 to provide for the acquisition and conservation of natural resources and parkland, outdoor recreation and nature education services by GPHC. The levy was placed on the ballot by GPHC for a term of 10 years. If the replacement levy passes, the existing levy, which has one year remaining, will be cancelled and replaced. The replacement rate will begin in 2016, showing up on property bills in 2017. The Hamilton County Auditor estimates that the levy will generate $18,348,376 per year.

WHAT THE LEVY WOULD DO: First approved in 1998, this GPHC 1 mill replacement levy (same purpose, same collection rate) will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $35 a year, an increase of about $9.45 per year over the current levy. Approximately 60% of the increase in cost to homeowners would be due to 14 years of increases in property values; the remaining 40% increase is due to changes in Ohio law which reduced exemptions and rollbacks on property tax assessments for new or replacement levies.

The tax levy represents about 55% of GPHC’s revenue for maintenance and operations at the 21 parks and nature preserves in Hamilton County.

The levy will allow for the continued provision of park and recreation activities, programs and services at the current level of service. A 10 year Capital Needs/Infrastructure Improvement Plan has been adopted listing projects for the protection and preservation of critical assets. Issue 52 will provide funding for approximately 60% of the significant projects.

BACKGROUND: Great Parks of Hamilton County (GPHC), formerly known as Hamilton County Park District, was founded in 1930 to protect natural resources for the enjoyment of current and future generations. GPHC operates 17 parks and four conservation areas covering 17,000 acres of land including parks such as Winton Woods, Sharon Woods, Miami Whitewater Parks, and FarbachWerner Nature Preserve. In addition to conserving unique habitats, GPHC offers nature education, camping, playgrounds, and recreational activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and golf. An estimated 74% of Hamilton County residents visit

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Definitions of Ballot Terms TAX LEVY: Taxes that are assessed to homeowners and businesses based on their property values. These monies are used to fund government functions as well as special programs or activities determined to be of significant benefit to the citizens.

Tax levies may be placed on the ballot for public vote by a government entity (County Commissioners, City Council, Township Trustees) or taxing authority (School Board, Vocational District, Park Board, Library Board) RENEWAL LEVY: A Renewal Levy is the CONTINUANCE OF AN EXISTING LEVY with the collection rate at the same dollar amount as when the levy was originally approved.

REPLACEMENT LEVY: A replacement levy is a NEW LEVY FOR THE SAME PURPOSE AS THE EXISTING LEVY but with a different collection rate than the levy it replaces. The collection rate uses the assessed value of the property at the time of the replacement.

COE: Current Operating Expenses CPT: Continued Period of Time MILL: The property tax is measured in mills; a mill is one tenth of a cent. This translates to $1 for each $1,000 taxable value of the property.

MARKET VALUE: The market value of property is determined by the County Auditor.

The valuation considers regional and neighborhood economic conditions, building improvements and land value. By state law, there is a full reassessment to each parcel every six years, followed by a computerized update three years later. The last full reappraisal in Hamilton County was in 2011.

ASSESSED VALUE: Assessed Value is 35% of the Market Value of a property. In Ohio, property taxes are determined by the Assessed Value.

TAX RATE (mills): The Full Tax Rate is the total millage for the year, most of which is approved by voters in the taxing district. The Effective Tax Rate is the annual total millage reduced by state mandated reductions such as the rollback and the homestead exemption. This is stated in mills, not dollars.

SPECIAL DISTRICT: State law authorizes the creation of a special district to serve a specific governmental purpose in response to a need not offered already within the boundaries of an existing governmental unit. A separate law authorizes each special district which is established by a resolution of the local government(s) which delineates its powers and responsibilities. A special district operates under an independent Board, separate from local Government, and has its own budget and means of financing.

GAS/ELECTRIC AGGREGATION: Aggregation is the process in which energy is sold to consumers who have joined together as a group to buy electric or natural gas. Local governments may aggregate the energy used by their residents and arrange for the purchase of electricity or natural gas as “governmental aggregators.” Ohio law gives local governments the option to choose either an opt-in or opt-out form of aggregation.

The “Opt-in” form requires that each consumer agrees to participate in the program before being included in the aggregation pool. It does not require voter approval at an election. The “Opt-out” form automatically includes each consumer in the aggregated pool unless the individual affirmatively decides not to participate. It requires approval by a majority of the voters at an election.

Hamilton County parks at least once each year.

GPHC is a separate governmental subdivision established under Ohio Revised Code. It is not under the jurisdiction of Hamilton County Commissioners. GPHC is governed by five Park Commissioners appointed by the Probate Court Judge and serving three year terms. In Hamilton County several townships and municipalities, including the City of Cincinnati, also have park boards or park departments which operate parks and recreation

within their jurisdictions. GPHC works in “Parknerships” with the City of Cincinnati in Fernbank Park and Otto Armleder Park as well as in selected areas with Anderson, Green, Delhi and Springfield Townships.

In 2015, park operations cost $35.7 million. The property tax levy provides 55% and the remaining 45% are through earned income (golf fees, concessions, motor vehicle permits) and other non-tax sources such as grants and partnerships. Currently

Motor Vehicle Permits (MVPs) cost $10 for the year or $3 for a daily pass. In the coming year, nonHamilton County residents will pay more: $14 for an annual MVP and $5.00 for a daily pass. GPHC has a higher ratio of earned income to tax income than other metropolitan park districts in Ohio.

The current 1 mill GPHC levy was passed in May 2002 for the unusually long period of 15 years to provide for planning, acquisition, and development.

During the course of the levy 3,000 additional acres of parkland have been added. The levy currently raises about $16.8 million a year, a decrease from the initial $18 million in 2003. Beginning in 2010, the Ohio tangible personal property tax was eliminated, and reductions in Ohio’s Local Government Fund and Public Utility tax resulted in a further reduction in tax revenues. In response GPHC made a number of adjustments in 2016 to increase earned income and decrease costs; over 35 full-time and part-time positions were eliminated. GPHC states that these adjustments will result in a financial plan that is sustainable with the proposed one mill levy.

At the request of the Park Commissioners the State Auditor conducted a performance Audit of GPHC to help the Park Board with decision-making and contribute to public accountability. The February 2016 report included noteworthy accomplishments of earned income structure, data collection, and financially successful golf operations. In 2015 GPHC formed a Citizen’s Task Force to review and make recommendations to the Board of Park Commissioners. The Task Force concluded that GPHC is well managed, provides an affordable value for Hamilton County citizens and contributes to enhancing the quality of life by making air and water cleaner and the citizen lives healthier. Reports, including the list of capital projects, can be viewed at: http://www.greatparks.org/administration/ documents GPHC total economic impact in 2015 equaled $91.9 million. Every dollar of property tax funding returns $4.22 dollars in increased economic activity through earned income, construction, employment, capital expenditures and spending by out-of-county visitors in the parks and at local businesses according to an April 2016 report by UC Economics Center.

ARGUMENTS FOR THE TAX LEVY: • GPHC needs funds to adequately maintain the county wide park system which adds economic and quality of life value to Hamilton County.

• Parks enhance public health through encouraging physical activity, reducing stress, and improving air and water quality.

• Parks preserve critical wildlife habitats and preserve woodlands, prairies and wetlands, and riverbanks that might otherwise be lost to housing and commercial development.

• The availability of quality parks in the county supports property values and increases the ability to attract business investments, homeownership and tourism.

• Park Commissioners have demonstrated care with taxpayer money through establishing a citizen review committee and voluntarily

BALLOT ISSUES

Issue 52, Cont’d requesting a performance audit.

ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE TAX LEVY: • The replacement levy will increase property taxes for county residents; other property taxes are also increasing.

• Citizens of the City of Cincinnati and other Hamilton County cities, villages and townships also pay for parks within their own jurisdictions.

• Some residents question the value of conservation versus recreational uses for public land.

• Parks in the outskirts of the county may not be accessible to low income inner-city residents who depend on public transit. Some park activities, such as golf, are more costly and may not be accessible to all.

• Although the tax levy is voted on by the public, the park board is not elected; therefore public spending is not overseen by a publicly elected organization.

ISSUE 53

PROPOSED TAX LEVY (RENEWAL) HAMILTON COUNTY A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the County of Hamilton, Ohio, for the purpose of SUPPLEMENTING THE GENERAL FUND TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN SERVICES AND THE CARE AND PLACEMENT OF CHILDREN at a rate not exceeding two and seventy-seven hundredths (2.77) mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to twenty-seven and seven-tenths cents ($0.277) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five (5)

years, commencing in 2016, first due in calendar year 2017.  FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY EXPLANATION: This proposed five-year levy is a renewal of the Children’s Services levy, a property tax levy of 2.77 mills passed in November 2011. The Children’s Services levy was approved for a flat millage amount. If approved, the owner of $100,000 home would pay about $50 a year, about the same as currently being paid. Millage has not increased since 1996. The Board of County Commissioners placed the levy on the ballot after a review by the Tax Levy Review Committee.

WHAT THE LEVY WILL DO: This proposed levy will provide approximately $40 million annually for Federal and State mandated services to children through Hamilton County Children’s Services, a division of Hamilton County Job and Family Services.

Children’s Services is the local organization legally responsible for taking reports of child abuse, neglect and dependency. A key service is operation of 241KIDS, Hamilton County’s 24-hour telephone line for reporting suspected abuse. Following investigation of these reports, the agency involves families in making decisions affecting their children with support of community partners and provides services to help support families including emergency housing and parenting training and referrals to other community partners for services such as mental health counseling or substance abuse treatment. Children who cannot be safe in their homes are placed in temporary care with relatives, foster parents or institutional settings. The agency may seek protective, temporary or permanent custody of children through Juvenile Court and promotes recruitment of foster and adoptive families. Children are prepared for adoption and arrangements are made for post-adoption services to families. Training in independent

living skills is provided for older teens.

In addition, the levy will also finance the County’s state mandated funding for the Bureau of Children with Medical Handicaps, a tax-supported health care program in the Ohio Department of Health. It serves children with special health care needs and their families. Eligibility for the program is based on percentage of Federal poverty guidelines. By law (ORC 3701.024), the state can draw 0.1 mills of a county’s real estate taxes to pay for treatment services provided to children residing in Hamilton County.

BACKGROUND: In 2015, one child of every twelve children in Hamilton County was helped

by Children’s Services. The 241-KIDS call line received 65,217 calls which is one call every eight minutes. Ohio law requires the county to provide services to children and families who are affected by abuse, neglect, or dependency. The Children’s Services Levy was first established in 1986 by a 1.42 mill levy with subsequent approvals by voters for consecutive five-year periods. If the funds needed to meet these obligations are not provided by the Children’s Services Levy, they must come from the County’s General Fund. The local funds generated by the Children’s Services Levy are matched with state and federal dollars.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families provides funding to State and local programs relating to children and families. Several years ago the federal agency identified costs they believed were allocated inappropriately. In response to the audit, the County cut costs and set aside part of the Children Services budget in anticipation of eventually paying a fine to the federal agency. This year a $22.5 million settlement was decided. The fine was lower than previously projected and retained funds of $78 million were returned to Hamilton County Job

League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area President: Nancy Dawley Voter Service Vice President: Meredith Atherley

TAX LEVY REVIEW COMMITTEE: The funding provided by the Children’s Services levy has been held level for many years. The Tax Levy Review Committee recommended a straight five-year levy renewal, but asked to perform the midterm evaluation in year two when it can better understand the impact of the heroin epidemic and state funding changes. The need for services is continuing to increase and there is concern that state funding will be decreased further.

ARGUMENTS FOR THE LEVY: • The levy provides needed funding to investigate child abuse and support families and children.

These services have been significantly reduced in the last several years with staff reductions and increased workloads that threaten the quality of services.

• The levy is a renewal with no increase. The levy funding is used to match federal and state dollars and pays for children’s services the County is mandated to provide. If the levy funding was not available, the services would need to be paid out of the County General Fund.

ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE LEVY: • The County needs to balance the need for services and the tax burden. Property owners cannot afford the levy cost of approximately $50 a year per $100,000 property.

• The County could use the surplus funds saved by the audit settlement to pay for some of the basic services and pass a smaller levy next year.

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League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area Voter Guide Credits

and Family Services. Previous services that were cut will possibly be restored and some services may be increased to deal with the increasingly complex needs of the families and children who are served.

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