Chronicle-Telegram Election 2020 Guide

TUESDAY, OCT. 13, 2020

2020 GUIDE NOV. 3 IS ELECTION DAY

2

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

ELECTION 2020 CONTE N TS

CANDIDATES n U.S. House of Representatives 4th District: Shannon Freshour (D), Jim Jordan (R), Steve Perkins (L) — PAGE 3 n U.S. House of Representatives 7th District: Bob Gibbs (R), Quentin Potter (D), Brandon Lape (L) —PAGE 4 n U.S. House of Representatives 9th District: Marcy Kaptur (D), McKenzie Levindofske (I), Rob Weber (R) —PAGE 4 n Ohio House of Representatives 55th District: Gayle Manning (R), Dale Stein (I), Zach Stepp (D) — PAGE 5 n Ohio House of Representatives 56th District: Bradley Lacko (R), Joe Miller (D) — PAGE 6 n Ohio House of Representatives 57th District: Dara Adkison (D), Dick Stein (R) — PAGE 7 n Lorain County commissioner: Michelle Hung (R), Lori Kokoski (D) — PAGE 8 n Lorain County commissioner: David J. Moore (R), Sharon Sweda (D) — PAGE 8 n Lorain County prosecutor: Robert Gargasz (R), J.D. Tomlinson (D) — PAGE 9 n Lorain County recorder: Mike Doran (R), Judy Nedwick (D) — PAGE 9 n U.S. presidential election: Joe Biden/Kamala Harris (D), Donald Trump/Mike Pence (R) — PAGE 10

ISSUES n ISSUE 4: Proposed ordinance to lengthen Amherst City Council terms from two years to four years — PAGE 12 n ISSUE 5: Proposed ordinance to lengthen Amherst City Council president term from two years to four years— PAGE 12 n ISSUE 6: Five-year 0.5 percent income tax renewal levy for the city of Elyria — PAGE 13 n ISSUE 7: Proposal to allow Kipton natural gas consumers to form a buying group— PAGE 14 n ISSUE 8: Local liquor option to allow Meijer’s grocery store to sell wine and mixed alcoholic beverages on Sundays— PAGE 15 n ISSUE 9: Local liquor option to allow Meijer’s gas station to sell wine and mixed alcoholic beverages on Sundays— PAGE 15 n ISSUE 10: Carlisle Township five-year, 2.25-mill renewal levy for fire and EMS— PAGE 15 n ISSUE 13: A 0.3-mill, five-year renewal levy to pay for utilities and operations for the Spirit of ‘76 Museum in Wellington— PAGE 16 n ISSUE 11: Pittsfield Township proposal allowing trustees to negotiate for aggregate prices on electricity— PAGE 16 n ISSUE 12: Pittsfield Township proposal allowing trustees to negotiate for aggregate prices for natural gas— PAGE 16 n ISSUE 14: A 1.50-mill, five-year renewal levy for Avon Lake Schools — PAGE 17 n ISSUE 15: A 0.5-mill, five-year renewal levy for the Erie County General Health District — PAGE 18 n ISSUE 16: A substitute 5.98-mill, 10-year levy for Firelands Schools — PAGE 18 n ISSUE 17: A 23.85-mill, five-year renewal levy for Lorain Schools operating costs— PAGE 19 n ISSUE 18: A 0.66-mill, 10-year permanent improvement levy for Lorain County Joint Vocational School building repairs — PAGE 20 n ISSUE 21: A 3.77-mill, five-year renewal levy to pay for day-to-day operating expenses of the Oberlin Schools— PAGE 20 n ISSUE 22: A 2-mill, five-year renewal levy to pay for Oberlin Schools building repairs and upgrades, and equipment purchases— PAGE 20 n ISSUE 23: An 8.95-mill, five-year renewal levy for Vermilion Schools operating costs— PAGE 22 n ISSUE 24: A 1.8-mill, five-year renewal levy for Lorain County Children Services — PAGE 22 n ISSUE 25: Whether a charter commission shall be formed (Part 1) and the selection of 15 charter commission members (Part 2)— PAGE 23

n ELECTION GUIDE — PAGE 24

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

3

3 vie for 4th Congressional District seat Incumbent Republican Rep. Jim Jordan, who has Freshour: The COVID-19 pandemic is the most served in Congress since 2007, is facing challenges pressing concern and also highlights and exacfrom Democrat Shannon Freshour and Libertarian erbates the three most pressing issues prior to it: Steve Perkins. health care affordability and access, public education, and lack of good, high-paying jobs and workers What makes you the best candidate with adequate training for in demand positions. I for the position? will fight to protect and expand the ACA. A key comFreshour: I have spent my life fighting for those in ponent of helping both public education and the need and will bring that work ethic to this position. economy is bringing high speed broadband internet Because of my upbringing and work experience, I access to all areas of the district and working with have the understanding of how to be of service to unions and manufacturers to establish apprenticethose needing a champion and also how the laws legislators enact actually impact those they govern. I ship programs. will establish a robust constituent services program and work every day to support our district.

Jordan: It is a great honor to represent the families and taxpayers of our district in Congress, and I’m running to continue fighting for the time-honored values we share which include limited government, free markets, individual liberty, hard work, and personal responsibility. In my committee roles I have fought against big, intrusive government as well as big business when they don’t have the best interests of the American people at heart. I have also led by example in working toward smaller, more efficient government, cutting our own office budget and returning nearly $3 million of unspent money back to the treasury.

Perkins: While Democrats and Republican argue over who has the right to tell you what to do, no one is asking the question as to whether they had that right in the first place. I’m not running to tell people what to do, I’m running to protect the people from an ever-growing government.

What is the biggest challenge facing the 4th District and how would you address it?

10:14 AM

100%

chroniclet.com

Activate Full-Digital Access Free with your subscription

‘Gardening saved my life’: Lorain man seeks to impact the community with his vegetables August 3, 2020 | The Chronicle-Telegram LORAIN — Growing vegetables Activate Now! was Jim Goforth’s ticket to a better quality of life.

In fact, the Lorain resident and gardener behind Gateway Pharms said growing vegetables helped him grow from Go to has chroniclet.com/subscribe

Not a subscriber? to choose a subscription that fits your needs.

Jordan: I think the biggest challenges are COVID19, threats against law enforcement, and out of control federal spending. I’m concerned about COVID-19’s impact on public health and our economy and want to give local leaders a stronger say in shaping the COVID response policies that impact their communities. I will continue to stand with our local law enforcement who face unprecedented new threats while trying to protect our communities. In my oversight role, I will continue to work to identify and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse in federal programs to protect people’s hard-earned tax dollars.

Perkins: The government, in this case largely the executive, destroyed the markets of the Ohio 4th farmers, and then tried to make it right through subsidies financed by the national debt. Government broke their legs, gave them a set of crutches, and now brags about how good they’re walking.

Farmers deserve free markets, not Chinese meat imports. Tariffs are taxes that Americans pay when they purchase those products, and it is all because of the president’s fascination with China. — Dylan Reynolds

ACTIVATE FULL digital Access Full-Digital Access is included with every print subscription NEWS ALERTS VIDEOS E-EDITION BREAKING NEWS

Activate now at

chroniclet.com/activate

Not a subscriber?

Get 3 months for 99¢ chroniclet.com/subscribe

Shannon Freshour, 46

Freshour

Party: Democrat Education: Trinity College, Washington, D.C., bachelor’s in political science and art history, 1997; Johns-Hopkins University, master’s in American government, 2002 Family: Single, no children Job history: 20-plus years civil litigation paralegal Website: www.Shannon4Ohio.com

Jim Jordan, 56 Party: Republican Education: Graham High School, 1982; bachelor of science in economics, University of Wisconsin; master’s in education, The Ohio State University; juris doctorate, Capital University Law School Family: Wife, Polly; four adult children; and three grandchildren Jordan Job history: Jeff Jordan State Champ Wrestling Camp, instructor (1996-2006); assistant wrestling coach, OSU (1986-1994); state representative (1995-2000); state senator (2001-2006); and U.S. representative (2007-present) Website: www.jimjordanforcongress.com

Steve Perkins, 44

Perkins

Party: Libertarian Education: Bachelor of science in technology education, Bowling Green State University Family: Divorced, one son age 11 Job history: Self-employed for the last 15 years as an automotive technical trainer, former Ohio public school teacher Website: www.Perkins4Ohio.com

Ăˆw¨0 ĿĕƊš ĆşĹœĹ Ć° ǛĿĿŴ

Lorain County Board of Elections

4

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

The Chronicle-Telegram

3 face off in 7th Congressional District Incumbent Republican Bob Gibbs, who has served in Congress since 2011, is facing challenges from Democrat Quentin Potter and Libertarian Brandon Lape.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Gibbs: I support a pro-growth, pro-worker agenda that lifts up all Americans, makes American businesses competitive in the global marketplace, and reduces the regulatory hurdles that stifle American innovation. I’ve supported commonsense efforts to defeat COVID-19, provide real relief for those hurt by the virus, and get Americans back to work. I have always been a staunch defender of our law enforcement community and will stop any and every attempt to defund police.

Lape: I am the only viable option to “drain the swamp” and vote out a career politician. I am more conservative on spending. I am more committed to restoring our Second Amendment rights. I will work to

repeal the Gun Control Act of 1968, the National Firearms Act (1934) and the Federal Firearms Act. Government needs to get out of service industries and remove regulations on the private market. This will drive down costs and allow us to purchase better retirement and health care plans. I fix things for a living and a hobby. Vote Brandon Lape and I’ll work to fix our government.

Potter: I will bring 30 years of experience of public service in finance and administration and a record of concrete accomplishments.

I understand what it takes to work within constitutional and other legal limits, and will make time to meet with and understand various constituent concerns and then to advance a pragmatic agenda. We need a return to decency and competence, along with a renewed commitment to the American vision of life in a welcoming, diverse country striving to achieve opportunity and justice for all.

See 7TH, 6

Bob Gibbs, 66 Party: Republican Education: Associates Degree, Ohio State Agricultural Technical Institute, 1974 Family: Jody, wife of 34 years.

Three adult children: Andrew, Amy, Adam Job history: Owner, Hidden Gibbs Hollow Farms since 1976; owner, Gibbs Enterprises, LLC; congressman, 2011-present; state senator, 2009-2011; state representative, 2003-2009 Website: www.bobgibbsforcongress.com

Brandon Lape, 38 Party: Libertarian Education: Associate of Science in Computer Services and Networking Technology Family: Spouse, Lisa Lape (Mizer); children, Simon, 13 and Miranda, 11 Job history: Five and a half Lape years retail sales at Verizon Wireless, four years Computer Services support and application administration in health care at Knox Community Hospital, six

years and counting Computer Services support and Networking in Manufacturing at Ariel Corp.

Website: LapeforOhio.com

Quentin Potter, 64 Party: Democrat Education: The Ohio State University, B.S. in education Family: Spouse, Cynthia Burnell Job history: Commissions chair, Office of Budget and Management, July Potter 2015-January 2019; vice president and treasurer, Lorain County Community College, January 2011-May 2014; chief financial officer, Ohio Department of Administrative Services, February 2007-January 2011; executive director, Medicaid Administrative Study Council, October 2005-February 2007; deputy director and CFO, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, October 2001-August 2005; budget analyst, senior budget and management analyst, acting deputy director, Ohio Budget and Management, January 1989-October 2001; budget officer, Ohio Department of Development, March 1988-January 1989 Website: www.quentinpotterforcongress.com

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

3 compete in 9th Congressional District Marcy Kaptur, 74 Party: Democrat Education: Bachelor’s in history from University of Wisconsin, 1968; master’s in urban planning at University of Michigan, 1974; MIT, doctoral studies, 1981 Kaptur Family: Single Job history: An urban and regional planner by profession, practiced in Lucas County, Ohio, and Chicago, Illinois, for 15 years; urban adviser to President Jimmy Carter; founding member and secretary-treasurer of the National Consumer Cooperative Bank Website: www.MarcyKaptur.com

McKenzie Levindofske, 38 Party: Independent Education: Bachelor’s from University at Buffalo Family: Private Job history: Knight, Public Safety Task Force operator, project manager, property

manager, construction manager, warehouse manager, bar and night club manager, actor, writer, musician, carpenter, Historical Fencing Club founder Website: McKenzieForCongress. com

Levindofske

Rob Weber, 48 Party: Republican Education: Bachelor’s from U.S. Military Academy at West Point; master’s from University of Louisville; juris doctorate from Weber Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. Family: Wife, Mickie Weber Job history: U.S. Army, 1991 to 2000; trial lawyer, 2003 to 2020 Website: www.RobWeberForCongress. com

Congress’ longest-serving woman in the history of the House is defending her seat on Nov. 3. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, will face off against Republican Rob Weber and write-in candidate McKenzie Levindofske, an independent.

Weber won in a landslide in his primary race against three other Republicans, while Kaptur handily defeated her Democratic challenger. Levindofske also ran as a write-in candidate in 2018, when write-in candidates got 48 votes.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Kaptur: I believe we must reach across the aisle on shared interests, put the American people ahead of special interests, and ensure economic, retirement, education and health security for all. I have dedicated my time in Congress pursuing legislation to address the economic needs of our region.

Through my efforts, more than a billion dollars in federal funds have returned home to our district, including more than $25 million to restore the Black River through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. I have a solid record of achieving results and

of working to form partnerships that make government work for the people.

Levindofske: I am the candidate who will protect us from the increasing impositions and deceptions of global government operating through the coronavirus response, climate action initiatives and other programs.

I will support laws and resolutions that promote clean energy, sustainable products and packaging, waste free environments, compassion for human and animal life, and healthy communities without restricting citizens rights to own property, operate businesses, travel freely, and have access to resources.

Weber: I am proud to be a political outsider. It is time to replace the career/ professional politicians from both parties who have long ago lost touch with the lives of us regular people. I am blessed with a very unique and diverse educational and professional background: military service, engineering, business and advocacy-based lawyering, all of which makes me well-prepared to handle the myriad of duties of being a congressman.

See 9TH, 5

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

5

OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

3 challenge in state’s 55th District Incumbent state Rep. Gayle Manning, R-North Ridgeville, is vying to keep her 55th District seat in the Ohio House for another term. She faces Democratic newcomer Zach Stepp and write-in independent Dale Stein.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Manning: My track record shows that you can trust I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that I am always accessible to you, the constituent, and that I am a leader and am willing to work with people from all par-

ties to get the job done. I have demonstrated that the single most important thing to me is to make sure your voice is heard. I have the experience, the respect of my colleagues, and strong relationships with those in legislature and in the community to continue to be an effective leader. I have shown my ability to represent the people of this district and will continue to work tirelessly for them.

Stein: I am not best candidate if you think government exists to make your life better. I have a working understanding of a con-

9TH From 4

In short, my entire life has been dedicated to the service of others, and I would be honored to continue that service as Ohio’s 9th District’s representative in Congress.

What is the biggest challenge facing the district and how would you address it?

Levindofske: Politics have too much of an impact on our daily lives.

Politicians now decide how and when we can run our businesses, our travel limitations and our medical directives. I will support laws and resolutions that maintain individual rights in regards to property ownership, business operations, religion, free speech, weapon ownership, vaccinations, surveillance tracking, lockdown, quarantine and biometric identification or proof of vaccination certificate programs. Political division negatively affects our communities at all levels — dueling yard signs turn neighbors into enemies, media and educational indoctrination tear families apart, while politically inflamed mobs destroy their own cities. I will work on uniting our fractured communities and going forward; I will protect them from the politics that have set them apart and debilitated them.

Kaptur: Stabilizing our fragile economy and keeping people safe.

Lorain County has seen the effects of job washout and the undermining of economic security on family life. I remain committed to ensuring economic security, health security, education security, retirement security and national security for all. We must fully finance traditional Social Security and Medicare and turn the tide on job offshoring to secure good U.S. jobs with living wages and benefits that can’t be taken away.

And we must invest in our young people by fully funding public education and federal initiatives that strengthen families and children.

Weber: Bringing back good quality and high-paying jobs to the region must be the priority. The north coast has lost over 100,000 good jobs in the last 40 years. Most of them were shipped overseas under NAFTA. We need legislation that will provide incentives for America’s businesses to bring their operations back to the USA and stop catering to China.

Sadly, Marcy Kaptur voted “no” on the USMCA trade agreement, which nearly all Democrats and union members supported. The 9th District deserves a representative who will actually advocate for policies that will bring quality jobs back to northern Ohio.

— Laina Yost

stitutionally limited government as intended by the founders of this nation and would seek to provide a biblical view to the legislative process. If you believe in less government and more responsibility, then I may be the best candidate for you.

Stepp: As someone who grew

up in a working-class family in Lorain County that often struggled to make ends meet, I know how too many of us have been left behind — and ignored by the special interests in Columbus. I understand all too well the corrupting influence of money on our elections that has dulled our

political discourse and stagnated progress on every major public policy challenge of our time. I’ve got plans to build for our future and over the past year, I’ve laid out a series of policy proposals that I believe would move our state and county forward.

See 55TH, 6

6

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

2 vie to represent state’s 56th District Incumbent state Rep. Joe Miller, D-Amherst, is being challenged by Republican Bradley Lacko to represent the state’s 56th District. Miller is seeking his second term in the Statehouse and this is Lacko’s first time running for the position.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Lacko: I have many years of on the job experience in various areas such as transportation, construction and agriculture, that will be very useful in reaching my goal of bringing back quality paying jobs to my district, and Lorain County.

Miller: My current knowledge and experience at the local, state and federal level gives me a keen perspective on how power is shared in a federalist system and how our governments are supposed to work for the people. My experience in the private sector has enabled me to understand the challenges employers and employees face in this ever changing economy. I will take these assets, coupled with my willingness to listen to constituents, be empathetic to their struggles, and laser focus on finding solutions to work for them for a second term.

What is the biggest challenge facing the district and how would you address it?

Lacko: We have lost a large number of manufacturing jobs in my district, specifically the city of Lorain.

We need to focus on those good-paying, quality manufacturing jobs, and do whatever we can to bring them back to Lorain County.

Miller: Government only works well when it works for the people and power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. For too long, the power of all branches in the Ohio Statehouse has been in the hands of one party and they have been corrupted by it. It is time to remove the challenge of one party rule who currently makes policies for the few in Ohio as opposed to the many because they go unchecked.

The biggest challenge being in the minority without the ability to check the majority power is we often are overlooked and our policies dismissed. I pride myself in working across the aisle on policies that are good for all Ohioans but the partisan approach in today’s political atmosphere creates a whole other set of challenges that could be mitigated with the balance of power being restored in Columbus.

— Carissa Woytach

7TH From 4

What is the biggest challenge facing the 7th district and how would you address it?

Gibbs: We must recommit to the principles that helped usher in prosperity. We can rebuild the economy, lifting up every American, not dragging them down with government mandates. We can make it easier to achieve the American Dream by furthering educational choice and expanding career and tech ed opportunities. We can restore our way of life: continue investing in rapid testing, fast-tracked vaccine trials, and effective therapies against the coronavirus. We must keep our communities safe. Rather than defund the police, we need to make sure they have adequate training. Looting and rioting weakens communities, makes them less safe.

Lape: Our biggest challenge is restoring our freedom. We have been sold the illusion of security at the cost of our liberty. We start by electing a person that isn’t beholden to super PACs, major corporations, or party leaders. If elected, I work for the people of the 7th. I represent their needs, their views, and I protect their liberty. We elect a principled individual that doesn’t use divisive politics to dissuade. We elect the person willing to fix our problems as opposed to only working to run for re-election. If elected, I promise to work to pass term limits and will not serve more than two terms.

Potter: COVID-19 relief legislation will be necessary given the current lack of a national plan. But the biggest challenge in the 7th District is the shrinking middle class. Too many people are living paycheck to paycheck and some without a paycheck at all. I will work to secure and broaden the middle class and respecting the “dignity of work” by investing in good-paying jobs, increasing the wages of many of our “essential workers,” protecting and expanding the Affordable Care Act and by protecting unions, Social Security and Medicare.

— Dylan Reynolds

Bradley A. Lacko, 41

Lacko

Joe Miller, 51 Party: Democrat Education: Bachelor’s of science, BGSU; master’s of education and master’s of administration, Ashland University Family: Wife, Kelly, and sons Joseph and Jordan Job history: Worked in the public and private sector in both employee and management positions. In addition to being a state representative for Ohio House District 56, an adjunct instructor at LCCC. Website: www.joemillerforohio.com

Gayle Manning, 70 Party: Republican Education: Graduate of Brookside High School; bachelor’s degree in education from Kent State University; master’s in reading from University of Akron Family: 2 adult children, 3 Manning grandchildren Job history: Retired elementary teacher of 37 years; North Ridgeville City Council; instructor at Lorain County Community College Website: www.gaylemanning.com

Dale Stein, 44 Party: Independent Education: Associate degree of arts, LCCC Family: Married with three children Job history: CNC machinist, financial coach, homeschool dad Website: www.facebook.com/ DaleSteinOhio55

Stein

Zach Stepp, 25

Stepp

Party: Democrat Education: University of Chicago bachelor’s degree, 2018 Family: Single Job history: Past: U.S. congressional campaign manager, numerous jobs in the restaurant industry and higher education. Current: data analytics consultant in the federal

government Website: http://zachsteppforohio.com

Party: Republican Education: A.A.S., computer design engineering 2001; LCJVS, two-year certificate computers and accounting, 1997; Keystone High School, 1997 Family: Wife, Tracey; two daughters, Emily and Macy Job history: Self-employed for over 15 years as an independent trucker and farmer Website: www.bradlacko.com

MIller

55TH From 5

What is the biggest challenge facing the district and how would you address it?

Manning: COVID-19 is our biggest challenge. In January 2011, Ohio had an $8 billion deficit, $0.89 in the rainy-day fund, and an 11 percent unemployment rate.

By January 2020, we had balanced the budget, put $2.7 billion in the rainy-day fund, the unemployment rate was 4 percent, and there were $5 billion less in taxes.

COVID-19 has created setbacks in our economy and in our schools, but we can rebound again. We are working to develop industry-recognized credential and certificate programs to help workers in the job market, and I have sponsored legislation to reduce state mandated testing, overhaul school funding, and to make schools safer.

Stein: The biggest challenge facing this district is that some people have no hope because they have not heard of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. I would address this obstacle by presenting the gospel as well as demonstrating how a reliance on Jesus Christ can overcome a false hope offered by government.

Stepp: We need Columbus to become a partner for the revitalization of Lorain County. I will push for new investments in Elyria and other Lorain County cities for good-paying, stable jobs that attract young people and kickstart a family’s prosperity. Ohio’s growth strategy can’t just be Columbus-centric, we need to grow together as a state. I have proposed developing incentives, akin to brownfield restoration, to transition declining sites like Midway Mall into thriving 21st-century hubs of growth. To the same end, I will fight for quality public education, take on corrupt special interests, and make higher education options more affordable.

— Carissa Woytach

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

7

2 face off for state’s 57th District seat Incumbent state Rep. Dick Stein wants to retain his 57th District Ohio House seat. Democratic challenger Dara Adkison wants to oust him. The two will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Adkison: For too long, we’ve had representatives putting corporate interests and bailouts before the needs of our community.

My opponent chose to bailout nuclear power plants and declined to co-sponsor or support a bill that would cap the cost of insulin at $100. When elected, I promise to work for you and the needs of your community. I will bring my technical background in computer engineering, my advocacy experience in civil rights public policy, and life experience as the mother of a young child. I’m well-rounded, rooted in this community, and I promise to be the vocal advocate we need.

Stein: I have shown a willingness to listen to all positions and to make myself available to my constituents. As someone who has retired from business, I have devoted myself full time to serving the people of our district and yet know the issues our businesses face day to day. I have taken the time to research issues and build a better understanding of policies that affect our district and our state. Second, our office has helped hundreds of our constituents navigate through our state agencies. We pride ourselves on assisting citizens across our district with their needs.

What is the biggest challenge facing the district and how would you address it?

Adkison: The biggest challenge facing District 57 is a lack of leadership in Columbus. We need elected officials who aren’t afraid to fight for what the people they represent need. I promise to write, co-sponsor, and vote for legislation to help our community. I will also use the power of the state representative platform to elevate issues that need more attention, while directly addressing businesses, organizations, and companies to help the people of our district. Our communities deserve good public schools, lands that are free of pollution, clean water, affordable health care, digital privacy, and equal civil rights and liberties for all.

Stein: I am concerned with the prevalence of opioid and drug addiction in the county and in the state. Lorain and Huron counties have some of the highest overdose rates in our state. In regard to the opioid epidemic, it’s imperative to increase collaboration between agencies and make people aware of the services available in the district. The pandemic has brought to light issues related to the executive’s public health orders and lack of input from the legislature. As a co-equal branch of government, the legislature should be more engaged in the governor’s decisions as they relate to the long-term directive of the Ohio Department of Health. We need to address the long-term consequences of local businesses affected by state policy.

— Brookie Madison

Dick Stein, 66 Party: Republican Education: 1972 graduate of St. Paul High School-Norwalk; master’s of photography degree from the Professional Photographers of America (1992); photographic craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America

Stein

(1994) Family: Wife, Patty, and two sons, Chad and Troy, along with

nine grandchildren Job history: Prior to being elected as state representative in 2016, I worked as a small-business owner in Norwalk for 42 years.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/RepDickStein or http://ohiohouse.gov/ dick-stein

Dara Adkison, 35 Party: Democrat Education: Walter Panas High School, Allegheny College, Software Craftsmanship Guild Family: My wife and I live in Columbia Station with our fantastic toddler.

Job history: For the better part of the last 10 years, I’ve

Adkison

been working in tech with my specialty being in database engineering and data security. Before that, I worked in marketing, product design, retail, and customer service. I’ve owned a successful small business, and I’ve helped other businesses reach their next level of success. I also regularly volunteer my tech skills to area community service organizations.

Website: https://dara4ohio.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/Dara4Ohio

November 3rd Vote for leaders you can trust

RETAIN

Chronicle HEADLINES in your inbox sign up at chroniclet.com/newsbreak

Lorain County Commissioners Lori Kokoski and Sharon Sweda Paid for by Friends of Lori Kokoski and Friends of Sharon Sweda

8

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

LORAIN COUNTY COMMISSIONER

2 races, 2 incumbents, 2 challengers Incumbent Lorain County Commissioner Lori Kokoski, a Democrat seeking another four years on the board, will face a challenge from first-term Republican North Ridgeville City Councilwoman Michelle Hung, who is seeking her first countywide elected office on Election Day. Kokoski, who currently serves as president of the three-member board, is a lifelong resident of Lorain County who previously worked in real estate and health care office settings. She was elected to Lorain City Council in 2000 and as county commissioner in 2005.

Hung formerly was in auto sales, finance and inventory management. Her current and first term as an at-large councilperson on North Ridgeville City Council expires in December 2021. She also was co-chair of the Lorain County campaign to elect Donald Trump in 2016.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Hung: The current Board of Commissioners have become too reliant on the county administrator.

Commissioners rely on him and are not hands-on performing their day-to-day leadership roles. A prime example was at last month’s Mayors meeting, where the commissioners were invited to speak at their monthly meeting about the issues at 911.

The commissioners sat idle while the administrator

addressed the mayors’ concerns. According to the administrator, everything is fine, but the next day there was a failure at a dispatcher’s console. As your next commissioner, I will work toward a permanent fix for 911. We will make sure the system has proper backups, senior and new hire dispatchers receive the required training, and we will replace ineffective management with qualified candidates. A Human Resource Department will be created and will work to alleviate any perceived improprieties for our employees. We should be pro-active in fostering a positive culture ensuring our policies and practices are applied consistently and that a partnership exists between management and employees.

Kokoski: I am a lifelong resident so I know and understand our community. My government experience has given me the opportunity to build solid relationships with other leaders throughout the county and I have a reputation of honesty and integrity. My government roles and Realtor experience gave me the understanding of both our county’s landscape and our residents. I have led us successfully through very challenging times. I have made tough decisions that have enabled our county to prosper and kept our residents and law enforcement safe. The county needs strong and stable leadership to navigate through the demanding times ahead.

See HUNG, KOKOSKI, 12

Sharon Sweda, 67 Party: Democrat Education: Marion L. Steele High School, Amherst; Lorain County Community College Family: Blended family of six children, 11 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren Job history: owner/broker, Sweda, Sweda Sweda and Associates, 1985-2004; feature writer, Credit Union Business Magazine, 2004-2010; owner/agent, American Patriot Title, 2006-2019 Website: CommissionerSharonSweda.com

David J. Moore, 58 Party: Republican Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, University of Michigan Family: Married with three daughters, a son-in-law and grandson Job history: Businessman/real estate/ investor Website: www.VoteMoore2020.com

Moore

Michelle Hung, 50

Hung

Party: Republican Education: North Olmsted High School, three years college at Cuyahoga County Community College and Kent State University.

Family: Husband Jeff, one child Job history: Retired automotive sales, finance and inventory manager for Motorcars Honda with more than 15 years private sector business experience.

Website: Hungforcommissioner.com

Lori Kokoski, 55 Party: Democrat Education: Marion L. Steele High School, Amherst; and Lorain County Joint Vocational School, Oberlin; Lorain Business College and Lorain County Community College.

Family: Children Tara, Joseph and Jordan; grandchildren Gavin and Ava Job history: County commissioner since 2005. 8th Kokoski Ward Lorain City Council representative, 2000 to 2005.

Realtor with Russell Realtors in North Ridgeville and also performed sales reviews for the Lorain County auditor. Employed at Community Health Partners (Mercy) from 1993 until 2005, working in human resources during the merger and also worked in Registration and Pre-admission testing. Worked for the Steelworkers Reemployment program in the late 1980s, which assisted laid-off Steelworkers with the training they needed to get them back to work.

County Commissioner Sharon Sweda, a Democrat, faces a challenge from business consultant and former commissioner David J. Moore for her first full four-year term on the board.

In February 2019, Lorain County commissioners appointed Sweda to fill the unexpired term of Ted Kalo, who stepped down as commissioner to become Lorain Municipal Clerk of Courts.

She has been criticized by Moore and his campaign manager, former Republican commissioner Tom Williams, for using her county email for campaign purposes. Auditor of State Keith Faber’s office is investigating the complaint.

Sweda previously ran for the Ohio Senate in 2018 but lost to Nathan Manning.

Moore is a former mortgage broker and businessman with experience in real estate. He served a single term as county commissioner from 2001 to 2005 before opting not to run again.

While in office in 2003, he settled a $1.3 million federal lawsuit that accused him of tricking borrowers into signing unfair mortgages, and in 2007 and 2008, a Lorain County judge ordered Moore to pay back a $250,000 loan to Lorain National Bank and $600,000 to FirstMerit Bank.

Now a business consultant, he also was co-chair of the Lorain County campaign to elect Donald Trump in 2016.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Moore: As a former commissioner (2001-2005) I accomplished more in my first 90 days than my opponent has done in her term. As a commissioner, I created a Trade Free Zone that created tax incentives for Lorain County businesses — keeping them from leaving our county. Other projects such as GLIDE — a business incubator in partnership with LCCC. Created a business creation and retention department — County Port Authority. Managed the Justice Center project — on time and under budget by $15 million, exposed corruption that led to officials going to prison.

Sweda: I am the best candidate because of my successful business experience. I have had to manage staffing, create and execute training programs, manage marketing, recruit and retain while building companies that have survived for decades. I built my company through acquisitions and successfully blended cultures. In the worst of times, I never laid off an employee or filed bankruptcy. I have received numerous accolades for the work I did to save homeowners who were victims of predatory lenders, unemployment and economic downturn. Along with my time in office, that experience enables me to be a skilled public servant.

See MOORE, SWEDA, 12

v

Chronicle Home Delivery Saves Time & Money 329-7200 • chroniclet.com

Significant Savings compared to buying it at the newsstand.

Compare our New Customer Specials

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

9

LORAIN COUNTY PROSECUTOR

2 square off to be new top legal official Robert Gargasz, 61 Party: Republican Education: University of Toledo, 1980; Ohio Northern University, Claude W. Pettit College of Law, 1982.

Family: Married to Kathryn (Wiegand) 40 years, sons Andrew and Joseph.

Job history: Legal counsel for the Lorain Gargasz Port Authority from 2000-2005; president and attorney at law for his own practice in Lorain, 1991 to present; Civil assistant to the Law Director of Lorain, 1992 to 1999; attorney at law for Warhola, O’Toole, Loughman, Alderman and Stumphauzer in Lorain, 19881991, in personal injury, trial discovery and preparation, insurance defense and commercial litigation.

Website: robertgargasz.com

J.D. Tomlinson, 39 Party: Democrat Education: Firelands High School; bachelor’s degree in economics from Oberlin College; juris doctorate from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Family: Parents Marie and Daniel Tomlinson, brother Travis Tomlinson, significant other Michele Drew.

Job History: Practice of law, 2007 to present.

Website: jdforprosecutor.com

Tomlinson

Democrat J.D. Tomlinson and Republican Robert Gargasz will face off Nov. 3 to determine the next elected Lorain County prosecutor.

On his second try for the office, the first being in 2016, Tomlinson defeated incumbent Lorain County Prosecutor Dennis Will in the Democratic primary in April. Gargasz was unopposed in the Republican primary.

Tomlinson is a defense attorney in private practice, primarily in criminal defense matters. Gargasz is likewise an attorney in private practice, primarily in civil matters.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Gargasz: I have 37 years experience in the law. I have taken many different types of cases so my experiences are varied for a well-rounded database of information. I am the law and order candidate. I will be tough on crime and I’m a victims’ rights advocate. I have former prosecutorial experience with the city of Lorain in addition to representing the Lorain Port Authority. I am a constitutional conservative and believe strongly in the Bill of Rights and rule of law.

Tomlinson: I am the best candidate for prosecutor for two reasons. First, having spent my career in the courtroom, I understand the problems and duties that the prosecutors in both the civil and criminal divisions of the office will face. Further, having developed strong relationships with our police agencies, I can work well with them in preventing and prosecuting crime. Second, I like people and I know how to use time. I will organize the prosecutor’s office efficiently, and maximize the work out-

put of each employee in the office. This way I can provide optimum service to the county’s public officials, agencies and townships.

What is the biggest challenge facing the county Prosecutor’s Office and how would you address it?

Gargasz: To consider the interests of the state while maintaining constitutional rights and freedoms of Lorain County’s citizens. Our constitutional republic requires a strong advocate and leader who is not afraid of public criticism, without concern for how it might affect political relationships. I am the experienced candidate capable of doing the job. We need our community to create a better place for our children and grandchildren to thrive in. The Prosecutor’s Office needs to go from a reactive to a proactive mode.

Tomlinson: I believe the main problem facing the county Prosecutor’s Office will be budgetary, due to decreased revenue as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic.

I will address this problem in two ways. First, I believe the costs of the office will be reduced through employee attrition, that is, through the retirement of several employees who are currently in the higher salary range. These employees can be replaced by hiring well qualified individuals, earning competitive salaries, and whose benefit package (retirement, vacation, etc.) are not as costly.

Second, I intend to reduce costs through efficiency, by producing more work product and with the above cost savings.

— Dave O’Brien

LORAIN COUNTY RECORDER

Advancements, innovation at issue The Lorain County recorder race will be decided between incumbent Democrat Judy Nedwick, who has held the position since 2003, and Republican challenger Mike Doran.

What makes you the best candidate for the position?

Doran: I bring a fresh new look to the Recorder’s Office. I will not only bring my knowledge of cybersecurity, but also expand online historical document searches while maintaining secure systems. I have also been working with other county recorders throughout the state to provide our property owners with a much needed property fraud alert system. Since 2003, our Recorder’s Office has slowly been becoming more a part of the Auditor’s Office. While these offices are to work together, they should maintain their separate identities.

Nedwick: My experience in the Auditor’s Office and as recorder have provided me with the knowledge and expertise to continue to serve as the most qualified

person for Lorain County Recorder. My working relationship with the Auditor, Treasurer, Veterans’ Services, Probate, and other county offices allows me to achieve the best outcome for residents by working together to provide solutions and services.

My involvement with the Ohio Recorders’ Association and IAGO allows me to work with other county and state officials to ensure that our office continues to remain technologically advanced and current with ever changing legislative initiatives.

What is the biggest challenge facing Lorain County and how would you address it?

Doran: The biggest challenge facing Lorain County is a lack of experience and knowledge in the County IT departments.

This can be seen in multiple areas, the most notable examples being the malware attack at the Recorder’s Office in late 2019, as well as the multiple outages at 911. This can be fixed by hiring individuals with proper training and experience in the systems we are putting in place. These are lifeline sys-

tems, which should be installed with multiple levels of redundancy. That does not yet seem to be the case.

Nedwick: At this time, the biggest challenge facing everyone is providing business services during the COVID-19 pandemic, while balancing the safety of our community and employees. We have operated at full capacity and maintained continuity of all services to the public and land professionals throughout the pandemic by making necessary adjustments to the work environment. Our online search site is available 24/7 to accommodate title examiners and the public. Our advanced computer system provides for transactions in real time on our search site, and our exceptional e-recording process, which has provided a convenient alternative for doing business during the pandemic.

— Dylan Reynolds

Mike Doran, 36 Party: Republican Education: ITT Tech - (Computers and Electronics Engineering Technology) Family: Wife, Christina, and five children ages 3 Doran to 17 Job history: Self-employed Website: mikedoran.com

Judy Nedwick, 77 Party: Democrat Education: Graduate of Elyria Catholic High School in 1961; Continuing Education for the Ohio Recorder’s Association annually Family: My late husband, Nedwick Sonny, and I raised two children, Jeff, who is employed as a state auditor, and Jennifer, who is a licensed social worker. Four grandchildren.

Job history: Began career with Lorain County Auditor’s Office in 1984 and, after 20 years with the auditor, appointed recorder in 2003. Re-elected as recorder in 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016.

10

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

U.S. PRESIDENT

Where Trump, Biden stand on the issues Kevin Uhrmacher and Andrew Braford The Washington Post

In his reelection bid, President Donald Trump is touting his stewardship of the economy, promising a rapid coronavirus vaccine, and employing tough rhetoric on immigration and social unrest. His challenger, former Vice president Joe Biden, says he would reverse many of Trump’s actions and pursue ambitious proposals to address the pandemic, racial injustice and climate change.

The Washington Post compiled the candidates’ stances to inform readers about the issues defining the 2020 election. Both campaigns were given an opportunity to confirm or correct the characterizations.

Biden’s campaign clarified several stances; Trump’s campaign did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Coronavirus response Supports mask mandates nationwide to fight the pandemic?

Trump: No Trump opposes a national requirement for mask-wearing and left it to states or local governments to enact mandates, although the federal Strategic National Stockpile is providing some masks.

Trump has appeared at many public events without a mask and has mocked Biden for wearing one.

Biden: Yes Biden said that his legal team thinks that he, as president, would have the authority to institute a national mask mandate, but that he would also call for all governors to enact mask mandates. “I would do everything possible to make it required that people had to wear masks in public,” he said in June. Biden routinely wears a mask when he appears at public events.

Supports federal action to expand testing?

Trump: Yes Trump has said the government provides free coronavirus tests, but a national testing strategy the administration wrote at Congress’ direction leaves much of the responsibility for testing plans to the states. At times, Trump has complained that widespread testing “makes us look bad” by increasing known case counts.

Biden: Yes Biden said he would adopt nationwide testing and contact tracing, including by doubling the number of drive-thru testing sites and providing federal funding for “regular and reliable COVID-19 testing for every worker called back on the job.”

Supports fast-tracking the development

MELINA MARA / WASHINGTON POST

President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden are shown at the presidential debate on Sept. 29 in Cleveland. of a safe and effective vaccine?

Trump: Yes Trump has repeatedly said a vaccine could be available as soon as this fall.

The chief scientific adviser for Operation Warp Speed, the Trump administration’s effort to accelerate production of a coronavirus vaccine, said that timeline was “possible but very unlikely.”

Biden: Yes Biden said he would accelerate the development of treatment and vaccines in his plan to combat the coronavirus.

He has expressed reservations about whether a coronavirus vaccine approved by the Trump administration would be safe, raising doubts about the president’s ability to put the health of Americans before politics.

Supports schools reopening amid the pandemic?

Trump: Yes Trump has called on schools to open fully — although he said in July that “cities or states that are current hot spots … may need to delay reopening for a few weeks.” He has said federal funding should be withheld from districts that don’t reopen.

Biden: Yes Biden emphasizes that districts should make decisions about reopening safely based on local conditions. He called on Congress to provide billions of dollars in emergency funding for school districts to make the changes necessary and buy protective equipment.

Withdraw from the World Health Organization?

Trump: Yes Trump’s administration notified the

United Nations in June of its intent to withdraw from the World Health Organization over what he called the group’s “China-centric” coronavirus response.

Biden: No Biden said he would reverse the withdrawal on his first day in office.

Economy and trade Supports raising the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour?

Trump: Unclear Trump hinted at possible action on the minimum wage in July and expressed openness to $15 an hour in 2019. The wage has not budged since 2009. Trump’s campaign did not clarify his stance by publication.

Biden: Yes Biden supports a minimum wage of $15, as well as ending the lower minimum wages for tipped workers and people with disabilities.

Supports U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade deal?

Trump: Yes Trump won bipartisan support for the revamped trade agreement, fulfilling his campaign pledge to rework the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Biden: Yes Biden backed the final version of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, although his campaign said he does not think it is ideal. He credited “improvements that the labor and progressive movements” won during negotiations for his support.

Supports ‘Made in America’ policies?

Trump: Yes Trump signed an executive order requiring that certain “essential” drugs and

medical supplies purchased by the U.S. government be manufactured domestically.

Biden: Yes A Biden proposal would penalize American companies for moving manufacturing and service jobs overseas and then selling their products in the United States. He called for the federal government to spend $400 billion over four years on materials and services made in the United States, as well as $300 billion on U.S.-based research and development involving electric cars, artificial intelligence and similar technology.

Supports allowing the Federal Reserve to operate independent of political pressure?

Trump: No Trump has pressed the Fed to lower interest rates and nominated allies with controversial stances on the Fed’s independence and monetary policy.

Biden: Yes “No president — or even a candidate for president — should be tweeting or commenting on an institution that requires independence to fulfill its duties,” Biden told The Post during the Democratic primary.

Supports an eviction moratorium during the pandemic?

Trump: Yes Trump repeatedly promised that he would step in to help the millions of people vulnerable to eviction. When eviction bans eventually end, millions of renters are likely to owe months of back rent they can’t afford.

Biden: Yes Biden supports an eviction moratorium, a campaign spokesperson said. His plan promises “immediate relief” for renters facing eviction, and support for legal assistance and community programs that provide alternatives to eviction.

Supports funding up to 12 weeks of paid family leave for American workers?

Trump: Yes, but limited action Trump signed a defense bill in 2019 that included a measure pushed by House Democrats and his daughter Ivanka Trump that guarantees 12 weeks of paid parental leave for federal workers. Trump committed to provide paid parental leave for working parents in his fiscal year 2020 budget and backed a bill that would allow new parents to take advance payments on future child tax credits, but he has not pushed the issue.

Biden: Yes Biden pledges to support “universal paid sick days and 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave.”

See PRESIDENTIAL, 11

The Chronicle-Telegram

PRESIDENTIAL From 10

Supports Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal?

Trump: No Trump fulfilled a campaign promise to withdraw from the deal at the beginning of his first term.

Biden: Would renegotiate parts of it Biden helped craft and promote the original deal to counter China’s rising economic might, but now says parts of it would need to be renegotiated for him to support it.

Supports tariffs on goods from China?

Trump: Yes Biden: Would reevaluate them Supports reparations to descendants of enslaved people?

Trump: No Trump called the debate “interesting” but said he doesn’t see it happening.

Biden: Would study it “While my administration takes major actions to address systemic racism, it will also study how reparations may be part of those efforts and ensure the voices of descendants are central when gathering data and information,” Biden told The Post.

Taxes and entitlements Supports extending $600-per-month federal unemployment insurance supplement?

Trump: No Trump issued a White House executive directive providing a temporary $300 weekly jobless benefit after the enhanced federal unemployment benefit of $600 ran out. The order stipulated that people receiving less than $100 per week in unemployment benefits from their states are not eligible for the extra $300, effectively preventing as many as 1 million jobless Americans from receiving the benefit. The new funding was already running out at the beginning of September.

Biden: Unclear Biden said he would “extend COVID crisis unemployment insurance,” but has not committed to $600. Biden’s campaign did not clarify his stance by publication.

Supports cutting Social Security?

Trump: Unclear “We will strongly protect Medicaid and Social Security,” Trump said in September. He has suggested deferring payroll taxes, which are a large funder of Social Security, and funding the program from the Treasury’s general fund. He told CNBC he would “take a look” at changing Social Security. Trump’s campaign did not clarify his stance by publication.

Biden: No Biden’s plan pledges to prevent cuts to Social Security and extend more benefits

ELECTION 2020 to the oldest Americans. “We urgently need action to make the program solvent and prevent cuts to American retirees,” the plan states. During his Senate career, Biden at times has suggested changes in Social Security and other government spending to tackle rising budget deficits.

Supports 2017 GOP tax cut?

Trump: Yes Trump signed a significant overhaul of the U.S. tax code in 2017, which he touted as “a bill for the middle class and a bill for jobs.” Corporations received a major tax cut, while most Americans saw temporary savings of various sizes.

Biden: No Biden has said that he would reverse many of Trump’s tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations to fund, in part, costly climate, education and health-care plans.

He said he would not increase taxes for anyone earning less than $400,000.

Supports increasing capital gains taxes?

Trump: No Trump said he’s “seriously considering” cutting capital gains taxes.

Biden: Yes Biden’s plan would effectively double the rate by subjecting capital gains to his plan’s top marginal rate, 39.6 percent, for people with incomes of $1 million or more.

Supports increasing corporate tax rate?

Trump: No Trump’s tax cut lowered the corporate rate from 35 percent to 21 percent.

Biden: Yes Biden would raise the corporate tax rate from 21 percent to 28 percent.

Supports opportunity zones, which create tax incentives to encourage investment in struggling communities?

Trump: Yes Biden: Would reform the program

Health care Supports Affordable Care Act? Trump: No Trump has said he would offer a replacement plan, but has not done so. His administration supports a case, now before the Supreme Court, that seeks to overturn the 2010 law.

Biden: Yes Biden regularly attacks Trump for his undermining of the ACA, President Barack Obama’s signature policy achievement during Biden’s time as vice president.

Supports requiring health insurance to cover preexisting conditions?

Trump: Unclear Trump has said repeatedly that he will always protect Americans with preexisting medical conditions. Yet the protections are part of the ACA, which the administration wants the Supreme Court to strike down. The president threw his support behind House and Senate bills that would have weakened preexisting

condition protections by allowing states to seek waivers. If the bills had been signed into law, costs for people with existing health conditions almost certainly would have increased.

Biden: Yes Biden regularly attacks Trump for his undermining of the ACA. Supports a public health insurance option for government-financed care?

Trump: No Biden: Yes Biden says he would build on the ACA to give more people the choice of a public insurance plan, rather than creating a Medicare-for-all single-payer system.

Supports lowering Medicare eligibility age?

Trump: No Biden: Yes Biden announced a proposal in the spring to make Americans eligible for Medicare at age 60, instead of the current 65.

Supports Medicaid expansion, as 38 states and the District of Columbia already have done under the ACA? Trump: No Biden: Yes Supports right-to-try legislation, which allows patients with life-threatening diseases or conditions to have access to experimental drugs or procedures?

Trump: Yes Trump signed the federal Right to Try Act in 2018.

Biden: Unclear Biden’s campaign did not clarify his stance by publication.

Supports importing certain prescription drugs from Canada, where they are sold at a lower cost?

Trump: Yes Trump issued an executive order to accomplish this, but the federal rules that health officials began developing last year are not final.

Biden: Yes Biden supports allowing consumers to import prescription drugs.

Supports allowing undocumented immigrants to get insurance through Medicaid or other public insurance programs?

Trump: No Trump pledges to “block illegal immigrants from becoming eligible for taxpayer-funded welfare, healthcare, and free college tuition” in his second term.

Biden: Yes The Biden campaign has a policy position that undocumented immigrants should be able to purchase insurance on the Affordable Care Act exchanges, but without receiving any subsidies.

“You cannot let people who are sick, no matter where they come from, no matter what their status, go uncovered,” Biden said during the first Democratic primary debate.

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

11

Criminal justice Supports “defunding” the police?

Trump: No Trump has defended law enforcement against calls from liberal activists to “defund the police” or to abolish police, saying that most in law enforcement are “doing an incredible job.”

Biden: No Biden has firmly rejected calls to defund police departments. His proposal advocates spending an additional $300 million a year on community policing initiatives and conditioning existing funding on reforms. “The vast majority of police are decent, honorable people, but there are bad apples, man. And we have to change the way in which we teach police.

We have to release all the information,” he said at a fundraiser.

Supports ending qualified immunity, which shields police from lawsuits?

Trump: No Trump has called the idea of ending qualified immunity for police “crazy.”

Biden: Would reform it A campaign spokesperson said Biden thinks qualified immunity “needs to be reined in.” He reportedly would not agree to call for an end to the doctrine.

Supports lowering mandatory minimum prison sentences?

Trump: Yes Trump signed the bipartisan First Step Act, which aimed to lessen long-standing disparities in incarceration by reducing prison sentences.

Biden: Would eliminate them Biden supports ending mandatory minimum sentences federally and urging states to end them, although during his 36-year career in the Senate, he had a history of pushing for legislation that included mandatory minimum sentences.

Supports federal legalization of recreational marijuana?

Trump: No As a candidate, Trump said legalization should be left up to the states, but in 2018, then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions made it easier for U.S. prosecutors to enforce federal marijuana laws in states that have legalized the substance. Trump later said that he would “probably” support a bipartisan bill to work out the federal-state differences.

Biden: No, but would decriminalize it Biden’s criminal justice plan seeks to decriminalize recreational marijuana use and legalize medical use federally, let states opt for recreational legalization and reclassify it to allow more research on its effects. His plan also would expunge prior cannabis convictions.

See PRESIDENTIAL, 12

12

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

AMHERST

Doubling of term lengths sought ISSUE 4 WHAT IT IS: Proposed ordinance PURPOSE: To lengthen Amherst City Council terms from two years to four years DURATION: N/A

ISSUE 5

WHAT IT IS: Proposed ordinance PURPOSE: To lengthen Amherst City Council president term from two years to four years DURATION: N/A

Jason Hawk Amherst News-Times Should voters choose their local lawmakers every two years, or every four years?

That’s the question being asked in Amherst, where City Council has placed a referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot seeking longer terms.

The goal, according to Councilman David Janik, D-At large, is to give newly elected members more time to “learn the ropes” of the job.

“We felt a four-year term would be more aligned with how exactly we move forward in terms of ensuring folks get enough time to adjust to the position,” he said.

Councilman Phil Van Treuren, R-At large, said longer terms would mean having to campaign less often, hold fewer fundraisers, place fewer

PRESIDENTIAL From 11

Supports the death penalty?

Trump: Yes Trump has been a staunch supporter of capital punishment for decades, calling for death sentences to be handed down time and time again.

Biden: No “We cannot ensure we get death penalty cases right every time,” Biden’s criminal justice plan said. He would eliminate it.

Supports privatizing prisons?

Trump: Yes Trump reversed an Obama-era directive to stop using private prisons to house federal inmates.

Biden: No Biden wants to end the federal use of pri-

HUNG, KOKOSKI From 8

What is the biggest challenge facing the county and how would you address it?

Hung: The current Board of Commissioners only have one solution for managing the county budget, and that is raising the sales tax. They don’t have the ability to understand budgetary management and they are forced to rely on others to explain it to them. My background in the automotive industry, tracking dollars for a multi-million-dollar inventory, and my experience in budgetary management far exceeds my opponent. Effective budget management is key to running a business.

This experience has helped me achieve my goals in the private and public sector.

yard signs and “take the money out of local politics.”

Every two years, all seven Amherst Council seats go up for grabs — one for each of the town’s four wards, and three at-larges that represent the entire city. That schedule would also change if Issue 4 is passed. It would stagger Council elections so that three members would appear on the ballot one cycle and four the next.

As a result, there would never be a risk of seven brand-new Council members being elected at one time. That scenario hasn’t happened in living memory.

But it is a concern for Councilman Jake Wachholz, D-3rd Ward, “because if we had a completely new Council come up, it would be very difficult for all the new members to really get a

vate prisons and encourage states to stop using them.

Supports eliminating cash bail?

Trump: No Trump does not want to eliminate cash bail and even supports ending “cashless bail,” which allows judges to decide whether an accused person can leave bail free, or must wait in jail for trial.

Biden: Yes Biden wants to end cash bail, calling it a “modern-day debtors’ prison.”

Voting and government Supports vote-by-mail?

Trump: Under some circumstances Trump has falsely suggested that voteby-mail is a significant source of voter fraud, although he casts his ballots by mail. He opposes automatically sending ballots to voters but supports people votIf elected, I will bring leadership and a steady and reliable work ethic to the Board of Commissioners.

Kokoski: The uncertainty relating to the COVID-19 virus and its long-term effects on our community is very concerning.

We have put prevention measures in our county buildings to keep our employees and the public safe. Along with the pandemic, we continue to face the drug epidemic. I stay involved with the MHARS board and other community partners to help people needing treatment. We provided and retrofitted a building that houses the drug task force, DEA and FBI who are working collectively to get drug dealers off our streets. Overdoses went down 31 percent from 2017 to 2019 because of these efforts.

— Dave O’Brien

handle, and if we’re staggering, we at the very least have people that are able to help and guide others.”

The proposed change would keep races partisan. There would still be Democratic and Republican primaries in each, and the ward and at-large system would not change.

A second related referendum also appears on the fall ballot as Issue 5. It would increase the length of the Amherst City Council president’s term from two to four years.

The president isn’t technically a member of Council but an administrator — they don’t take part in committees and cannot vote except to break a tie, but they do decide what proposed legislation goes to the floor.

Contact Jason Hawk at jason@lcnewspapers.com.

ing absentee with a specific reason.

Biden: Yes Supports voter ID laws, which require voters to show identification at the polls?

Trump: Yes Biden: No Supports restoring voting rights for people convicted of felonies who have completed their sentences?

Trump: No Biden: Yes Supports statehood for Washington, D.C.?

Trump: No Trump told the New York Post that Republicans would be “very, very stupid” to allow the deep-blue city to become a state and elect two senators.

Biden: Yes “You should be a state,” Biden said at a 2015 news conference with the D.C. mayor.

MOORE, SWEDA From 8

What is the biggest challenge facing the county and how would you address it?

Moore: The inability of the current board of commissioners to lead, they allow the county administrator (unelected official) to run the county while they collect an annual salary of over $86,000 each. The county has major issues at 911; multiple shutdowns, system failures, understaffed and dispatchers are concerned about the lack of training they are receiving. As a commissioner, I will bring back the HR department to ensure the county hires qualified personnel and is a safe place for employees who have issues without repercussions. I fixed 911 the last time I was elected and I will fix the mess that the cur-

Supports statehood for Puerto Rico?

Trump: No “With the mayor of San Juan as bad as she is and as incompetent as she is, Puerto Rico shouldn’t be talking about statehood until they get some people that really know what they’re doing,” Trump said in 2018.

Biden: Let Puerto Ricans decide “I will work with representatives who support each of the status options in Puerto Rico on a fair and binding process to determine their own status,” Biden said in September. “I believe statehood would be the most effective means of ensuring that residents of Puerto Rico are treated equally, with equal representation at the federal level. But the people of Puerto Rico must decide, and the federal government must respect and act on their decision.” rent board has created again, without raising taxes.

Sweda: The biggest current challenge is how we rebound from the pandemic. The pandemic has cost jobs, while isolation caused drug and addiction rates to spike.

Parents struggle with home school challenges and many students are predictably going to fall behind absent deliberate focus.

Technology resources are at a shortage in school systems. Meeting this challenge requires economic development, aggressive wellness and anti-systemic race initiatives and thoughtful use of CARES funding to meet these critical challenges. I intend to allocate funding to meet those needs. I am hoping that we can look forward to county-building initiatives in the not-so-distant future.

— Dave O’Brien

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

13

ELYRIA ISSUE 6

Renewal would pay for crucial upgrades and expenses related to city operations

KRISTIN BAUER / CHRONICLE

Supporters of Issue 6, which is a renewal of the 0.5 percent income tax Elyria voters passed in 2016, are shown.

Laina Yost The Chronicle-Telegram Elyria’s income tax is making a return to the ballot to be extended for another five years.

Issue 6 is a renewal of the 0.5 percent income tax Elyria voters passed in 2016. The money is earmarked for city services like police, fire and parks. A resident with a $100,000 taxable income would pay $500 per year. If passed, the issue would begin on July 1, 2021, and go to June 30, 2026.

City Council members, who have headed up the campaigns for Issue 6, are pointing to where the money has gone as the main reason to renew the issue. Council members have also emphasized that it is not a tax increase, just a renewal.

Money will be divided between departments mostly how it was four years ago, with a few changes. Fiber optics has been taken out, as it wasn’t deemed needed despite a push for it in the first campaign. Those dol-

lars instead went toward new computers, new street lights and some upgrades in technology to Elyria Municipal Court.

Mark Jessie, D-3rd Ward, said city officials estimated that Elyria will bring in about $5 million a year with Issue 6. That’s a conservative estimate, but with the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s hard to predict exactly how much the city will see from an income tax.

Social Security, disability and retirement income are not taxed.

Street resurfacing will continue to be one of the city’s biggest targets for funding. The levy earmarks $1.5 million per year toward residential streets. Police will receive a little less per year, $750,000. Parks have been earmarked for $500,000; departmental capital needs will receive $1.25 million; economic development will get $500,000; and maintaining basic city services will receive $500,000.

See ISSUE 6, 14

UNION ENDORSED PROUDLY ENDORSEDBY BY: Police

Firefighters Deputies Labor Teachers

Paid for by Committee to Elect J.D. Tomlinson for Lorain County Prosecutor

14

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

KIPTON

Permits formation of natural gas buying group Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram A ballot issue would authorize natural gas consumers in Kipton to form a buying group with the intention of securing better energy rates and better terms due to buying in bulk.

“If the community decides to go with natural gas aggregation instead of them buying it as an individual property owner, it would be the property owners that were part of the aggregation trying to purchase natural gas as a group,” Kipton fiscal officer Christie Homer-

ISSUE 6 From 13

This go around, City Council is promising the addition of body cameras for Elyria police. Over the last four years, money dedicated to police has gone for new vehicles and a new dispatch system.

It is also the only Issue 6 category that has money dedicated to some personnel.

Jessie said city officials want body cameras, but they also recognize it is an expensive venture.

He said they don’t want the cameras to force them to keep up on funding other police services and needs. “(Police Chief Duane Whitely) recognizes the need,” Jessie said.

“We all recognize the need. I think everybody recognizes the need, and it’s a safety factor for the police as well as for the public. We all feel that it’s such an important issue, particularly in this climate, and that we just need to make it happen.”

Although Parks has less money earmarked for it, Jessie said it has nothing to do with any recent news over the department. Early in the year, Mayor Frank Whitfield laid off the Parks director and suspended the department because COVID-19 canceled its programming.

Council members have been in a fight with Whitfield to get the Parks director rehired and get programming started back up. Jessie said there’s less money to split between departments this go around, which is why the Parks Department is receiving less.

Other categories for spending have been controversial in the past, like maintaining basic city services. Jessie said that does allow

Miller said.

If the issue passes and gas purchasing becomes aggregated, residents who do not wish to participate would have the ability to opt out.

It was decided at a village meeting July 6 to put the issue on the ballot following a unanimous vote by Village Council.

This came after a Feb. 3 presentation by representatives of the Northern Ohio Public Energy Council, also known as NOPEC, regarding the potential benefits of aggregation.

ISSUE 6 WHAT IT IS: A 0.5 percent income tax renewal DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: Approximately $5 million per year PURPOSE: To raise money for city services COST TO HOMEOWNER/ TAXPAYER: A resident with a $100,000 taxable income will pay $500 annually

them to supplement the general fund if needed, saying it’s like a “rainy day fund.”

Council members considered taking the category out, but Jessie said with COVID-19’s impact on the economy, they didn’t want to remove it.

If nothing else, Jessie said the long list of streets that have been repaved — 79 total — and improvements made to the Parks are key examples of how the money has been spent well within the city.

Council President Vic Stewart said city officials have been good stewards of the money, and they have used it as they said they would. He said they listened to the citizens, and they also completed projects on time.

If the issue doesn’t pass, Stewart said it would probably go back on the ballot in the next election.

“This is just another step in that direction,” Stewart said. “We’re asking voters for help under these conditions, in the pandemic that we’re in, in the climate that we’re in. Financially, we know the impact of what’s happened with our residents, but we feel that we need to keep moving forward.”

Contact Laina Yost at (440) 329-7121 or lyost@chroniclet.com.

“There are many companies out there that will do aggregation. NOPEC is a nonprofit, while many of them are for profit,” HomerMiller said.

“That’s something to consider when you’re doing aggregation,” Homer-Miller said.

If NOPEC achieves savings above what it expected, it provides grants to the member communities rather than pocketing the difference, she added.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@ chroniclet.com. Follow him on Twitter @drey1357.

ISSUE 7 WHAT IT IS: Kipton natural gas aggregation issue DURATION: N/A PURPOSE: To allow natural gas consumers to form a buying group COST TO HOMEOWNER: No cost to homeowner

LEFT: Tim and Mary Bryan, of Elyria, put together signs for Issue 6 to be distributed to supporters of the issue.

BELOW: Issue 6 is a renewal of the 0.5 percent income tax Elyria voters passed in 2016. Council members have emphasized that it is not a tax increase, just a renewal.

KRISTIN BAUER / CHRONICLE PHOTOS

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

15

Meijer Fire and EMS levy renewal would and gas cover a multitude of expenses station seeking Sunday alcohol sales CARLISLE TOWNSHIP

Carissa Woytach The Chronicle-Telegram

Voters in part of Lorain’s 8th Ward will decide if the recently opened Meijer’s store and gas station shall be able to sell alcohol on Sundays.

The grocery store chain and its accompanying gas station is seeking a D-6 liquor permit, which would allow patrons to purchase wine and mixed beverages between 10 a.m. and midnight.

The listing for the grocery store, 5350 Leavitt Road, is Issue 8. The listing for the gas station, 5310 Leavitt Road, is Issue 9.

The Meijer, just past the Amherst border, opened this summer.

ISSUE 8 WHAT IT IS: Local liquor option PURPOSE: Allows Meijer’s grocery store to sell wine and mixed alcoholic beverages on Sundays

ISSUE 9 WHAT IT IS: Local liquor option PURPOSE: Allows Meijer’s gas station to sell wine and mixed alcoholic beverages on Sundays

Dylan Reynolds The Chronicle-Telegram Voters in Carlisle Township must decide whether to renew a fire and EMS levy that covers a multitude of the department’s expenses.

The levy covers the volunteer firefighters’ pay, training, equipment and operations.

Money generated by the levy was used to buy a new truck that was recently put into service.

The Carlisle Township Fire Department employs five people full time and the rest, about 18 to 20 people, work part time, paid per call. LifeCare Ambulance provides transportation services for the department, but Carlisle is a first responder.

There were discussions about asking for new money for fire and EMS due to rising costs, said fire Chief Steve Higgins, but officials decided against it because they knew this year’s pandemic presented financial challenges for many homeowners. “We knew going in that it was going to be a

ISSUE 10

WHAT IT IS: Carlisle Township Fire and EMS 2.25-mill renewal levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH IT WOULD RAISE: $417,697 per year PURPOSE: Volunteer firefighters’ pay, training, equipment, operations COST TO HOMEOWNER: Owner of a $100,000 home would continue to pay $71.41 per year

tough year because of the COVID-19,� Higgins said. “A lot of people were out of work. That’s why we went with the renewal, just to kind of keep things status quo.�

Taxes would not go up if the renewal levy passes. Homeowners would continue to pay $71.41 per $100,000 valuation of their home, generating about $417,697 per year.

Higgins said the training firefighters must

routinely undergo is extensive and was made even more complex by the COVID-19 pandemic. The department used to have one training session three times per month, but it has been broken up into two training sessions twice per month to keep the staff socially distant. “Our instructors are full-time personnel, so we tried to do the best we could with getting them to do the training when they’re on shift, but that’s not always the case,� Higgins said. “Now, instead of doing one, you’re paying overtime for two trainings.�

Other expenses have risen for the department recently, including equipment costs and maintenance fees, but Higgins said he is confident the renewal will be sufficient for the time being as everyone works to “get through this rough period.�

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@ chroniclet.com. Follow him on Twitter @drey1357.

Telling the stories beyond the games

16

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

WELLINGTON TOWNSHIP

Spirit of ’76 Museum seeks operations renewal Brookie Madison The Chronicle-Telegram Voters are being asked to fund the Spirit of ’76 Museum’s renewal levy this November. Issue 13 would raise the $36,000 a year to run the museum’s operations and pay for utilities. The levy would last for five years and would cost a $100,000 home owner $7.46.

“This tax levy is the only money that we ever have coming in,” Treasurer Barb Leiby said. “I try to locate grants to be able to pay to do things or else we wouldn’t be able to do some of our major projects.”

The levy provides some, and the museum seeks out grants to fund major efforts, said Scott Markel, project manager.

“Lately, we’ve been getting involved with some grant situations to help fund our projects up there, so we’re trying not to abuse the taxpayers’ money,” Markel said. “It’s for their benefit because it’s for museum display and for the latest and greatest that we have up there.”

The museum recently received a 60/40 matching grant from the state of Ohio and used more than $30,000 to restore an Archibald Willard mural that is 10 feet by 13 feet.

“It’s the largest piece of artwork that Archibald Willard is known to have done,” Markel said. “We now have it on display. It is in phase one of three.”

Leiby said that the museum brought in 1,200 people last year, as it does school and bus tours.

“The museum has been there for 52 years in the same building,” Leiby said. “We are a nonprofit. We do not charge. We do accept donations of items or if people want to donate to the museum they are welcome to.”

Contact Brookie Madison at (440) 329-7148 or bmadison@chroniclet.com.

ISSUE 13

STEVE MANHEIM / CHRONICLE FILE

The Spirit of ’76 Museum in Wellington. Issue 13, which is on the Nov. 3 ballot, would raise the $36,000 per year to run the museum’s operations and pay for utilities.

WHAT IT IS: 0.3-mill renewal levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $36,925 a year PURPOSE: To pay for utilities and operations for the Spirit of ’76 Museum COST TO A $100,000 HOME OWNER/TAXPAYER: $7.46 per year

PITTSFIELD TOWNSHIP

Allows trustees to negotiate electricity, gas rates Christina Jolliffe ISSUE 11 The Chronicle-Telegram Far from a tax levy, these issues could WHAT IT IS: Allows trustees to actually save taxpayers money. negotiate for aggregate prices on Some residents could see a decrease in electricity their utility bills, if Issue 11 and Issue 12 pass in November.

ISSUE 12 The issues, which appear separately on WHAT IT IS: Allows trustees to the ballot, give trustees permission to negonegotiate for aggregate prices for tiate with aggregate buyers for electric (Issue natural gas 11) and natural gas (Issue 12) services.

However, not all residents will benefit.

Those who are serviced by the Lorain-Me- residents who do not have natural gas serdina Rural Electric co-op are not eligible vice would not benefit either. because co-ops are exempt and, of course, But there are still plenty of residents who

could save.

Trustee Mark McConnell said since individuals cannot negotiate with aggregate suppliers on their own, if approved, these issues would allow trustees to do just that.

“We can’t do anything until we put it on the ballot,” McConnell said of negotiations.

“In most situations where other townships have done this, it just provides an option for residents.”

McConnell is one of those residents who would not benefit from either issue. He does not have natural gas services and he has Lorain-Medina Rural Electric.

Still, he sees it as a good opportunity for

others.

“Our people would possibly benefit from it,” he said. “If it passes, then we would negotiate with aggregate suppliers, pick one, and then the residents have the ability to choose.”

It’s too early in the process to say how much residents might save, McConnell said.

One thing is certain, though: No one has to change electric or gas providers if they don’t want to change.

“This is just a potential service we can facilitate, if voters want it,” he said.

Contact Christina Jolliffe at ctnews@chroniclet.com.

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

17

AVON LAKE

STEVE MANHEIM / CHRONICLE FILE

Fourthgraders at Westview Elementary School in Avon Lake pet Bogart, a Boston Terrier rescue dog, with Bob Votruba during a 2019 visit to the school as part of the One Million Acts of Kindness program to inspire students to lead a lifetime of spreading kindness to others. Avon Lake Schools is asking voters to approve Issue 14, a permanent improvement renewal levy to pay for projects like bus purchases, roof upkeep, sidewalk installation and more.

School district seeks renewal of permanent improvement levy Dylan Reynolds ISSUE 14 The Chronicle-Telegram A levy that has helped Avon Lake Schools WHAT IT IS: 1.50-mill renewal levy for Avon Lake Schools buy buses and complete long-term projects DURATION: Five years since the mid-1980s is up for renewal again HOW MUCH IT WOULD RAISE: in November. This is the sixth time the dis$704,986 per year trict has asked for the five-year levy to be PURPOSE: General permanent renewed. improvements “What you really want to do is spend smart COST TO HOMEOWNER: Owner of a dollars, and the PI levy allows us to be smart,” $100,000 home would continue to pay Superintendent Bob Scott said. “We’re not $17.27 per year going to have fewer buildings now and we’re not going to have fewer students. We need to The levy raises about $704,986 each year, keep the facilities safe and we need to keep costing the owner of a $100,000 home $17.27 them appropriate to educate kids.”

Avon Lake Schools serves nearly 4,000 stu- annually. Those funds go toward projects dents in seven buildings. like bus purchases, roof upkeep, sidewalk

installation and more.

The district had been saving permanent improvement money every year to pay for the recent artificial turf replacement at Avon Lake Memorial Stadium, Scott said, improving not only the visual appearance of the field but also the safety for student athletes playing on it.

Some of the uses for permanent improvement money, such as the turf, are very visible to families in the district. Buses are another easily noticeable place where the money is spent; Scott said Avon Lake Schools buys about two buses annually for a cost around $90,000 each.

But the levy would also fund less visible upkeep projects.

“It’s just like your house. You have to take care of that infrastructure,” Scott said. “For us, just like in your house, our roofs are huge.”

The roofs are inspected every year and maintenance is conducted regularly, he said, but sometimes further work is needed. Sections of the Avon Lake High School roof had to be replaced this summer, while parts of the Troy Intermediate School roof had to be replaced last year.

This is the only levy Avon Lake Schools has specifically for permanent improvements, although general fund money is sometimes used for maintenance needs.

Contact Dylan Reynolds at (440) 329-7123 or dreynolds@chroniclet.com. Follow him on Twitter @drey1357.

18

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

FIRELANDS SCHOOLS

District hopes voters OK combined levy

Christina Jolliffe ISSUE 16 The Chronicle-Telegram SOUTH AMHERST — School officials WHAT IT IS: A substitute 5.98-mill levy DURATION: 10 years hope to increase revenue from new conHOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $2.32 struction in the district by combining two million for the first year, with increases expiring levies into one without increasing from new construction for the following the cost for residents. years Currently, the district has two emergency PURPOSE: Necessary requirements levies on the ballot that generate $820,000 COST TO HOMEOWNER/TAXPAYER: annually and $1.5 million annually. Both The owner of a $100,000 home would levies expire in 2021, but instead of renewing pay about $183.14 annually. the levies and remaining stagnant, the board decided to combine them, which allows the the first year, but over time, that amount district to collect on new construction.

If the substitute levy passes in November, would increase based on new development.

“This will capture additional funding from it would generate the same $2.32 million for

new construction in the district,” Firelands Schools Superintendent Mike Von Gunten said. “Unlike other communities, like North Ridgeville or Avon, we don’t have 50, 75 and 200 home developments going in. But there is new construction.”

The amount of money the levy will generate based on new development is unknown at this time. But the new property owners would be taxed at the same rate as current property owners.

And Von Gunten wants to stress that the substitute levy is not an increase for current homeowners.

The district already has been collecting these levies since 2006 and 2011 with the

money being used to help fund the district’s academic, athletic and arts programs. It is used to purchase class materials and technology, as well as supports the transportation department and teachers.

“It’s money we have been receiving for several years,” Von Gunten said.

“If it did not pass in November, we would be losing $2.3 million annually. We certainly couldn’t sustain losing $2.3 million year after year, and that would trigger many, many cuts.”

Although Von Gunten said talks of cuts are a long way off, if the levy does not pass, the district would have to go back to the voters.

Contact Christina Jolliffe at ctnews@chroniclet.com.

ERIE COUNTY

Health district seeks renewal to continue services Christina Jolliffe The Chronicle-Telegram Voters are being asked to approve a renewal levy in November that won’t increase taxes, but will continue to help fund the Erie County General Health District.

Money from the levy aids in the day-today operation of the health district, which is vast.

The agency provides services including behavior and mental health, detoxification, long-term recovery housing for women, nursing and medical care at the county jail, as well as primary care, dental care, pediatric care and immunizations.

“We have 14 outreach centers and schoolbased health centers as well, and the levy helps support the cost of running all of these

The Erie County General Health District did not shut down during the early stages of the pandemic, continuing to go out into the WHAT IT IS: A 0.5 mill renewal levy community to provide services.

DURATION: Five years And while the services never stopped, revHOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: enue took a hit, especially when the public $1.1 million annually was sheltering in place throughout March, PURPOSE: Funds to carry out health April and May. program “People are starting to come back, and we COST TO HOMEOWNER/TAXPAYER: did get some Cares Act money, but we are The owner of a $100,000 home would not where we should be,” Schade said. “Our pay about $13 annually. response as a public health department has been unparalleled throughout all of this, as programs,” said Erie County General Health we continue COVID-19 testing in nursing District Commissioner Peter Schade. homes, including the Ohio Veterans Home.

“We really need it more than ever because We had money in the bank and were able to of the current situation as a health depart- do everything we did. The levy will help us ment.” get back to normal.”

ISSUE 15

The owner of a $100,000 home pays about $13 annually, which does not change with the renewal.

“For a little more than $1 per month, we provide a lot of services for our community,” Schade said.

“We do a lot of things that are geared to increase the quality of life in and around Erie County. We provide great customer service and we are good stewards with taxpayer money.”

In terms of public health, Schade maintains Erie County is a safe place to come.

“We are always monitoring in our community and putting out those fires,” he said.

Contact Christina Jolliffe at ctnews@chroniclet.com.

Trusted Local News—More Crucial Now Than Ever

Activate Full-Digital Access Free with your subscription

Get FULL digital Access included with every print subscription

‘Gardening saved my life’: Lorain man seeks to impact the community with his vegetables August 3, 2020 | The Chronicle-Telegram LORAIN — Growing vegetables was Jim Goforth’s ticket to a better quality of life.

In fact, the Lorain resident and gardener behind Gateway Pharms said growing

News Alerts • Videos • E-edition • Breaking News chroniclet.com/subscribe

The Chronicle-Telegram

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

19

LORAIN SCHOOLS

KRISTIN BAUER / CHRONICLE

Karen Rossi, a pre-K educator at Toni Morrison Elementary School in Lorain, films one of her daily lessons for her preschool students with her daughter Maggie, 19, behind the camera. Rossi was leading daily lessons for her students to keep them engaged and learning after a state order shut down schools. Lorain Schools has a renewal levy on the ballot that would pay operating costs including technology, engagement and outreach, and other programs.

District seeks operations renewal levy Carissa Woytach The Chronicle-Telegram Lorain Schools is hoping voters approve a roughly $10 million-per-year levy expiring at the end of 2021.

The renewal, which would not raise property taxes, comes a year after a $21 million, seven-year renewal levy was passed by voters last November.

Issue 17 totals roughly $50 million for the duration of the levy, and it is used to pay operating costs including technology, engagement and outreach programs, and for support for families who speak Span-

ish at home.

“It’s to continue with the work that we’re (doing), the programs we’re working on now. It’s five years, $10 million a year that goes into our general fund,” said Bambi Dillion, chairwoman and treasurer of Citizens for Lorain Schools.

Her group, with the district and school board’s blessing, organizes the campaigns surrounding any levy the board puts on the ballot.

See ISSUE 17, 21

ISSUE 17 WHAT IT IS: A 23.85-mill renewal levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH IT WOULD RAISE: About $9.9 million per year PURPOSE: Operating costs for Lorain Schools COST: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $456.42 per year

Losing $10 million a year would mean cuts to staff and programming, and a looming deficit that could result in state interventions into the Lorain school district’s budget.

20

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

LORAIN COUNTY JVS

Money to update, repair aging building Laina Yost and Jason Hawk The Chronicle-Telegram

The Lorain County Joint Vocational School is going for its second attempt to pass a levy to repair its building.

Issue 18 is a 10-year, 0.66-mill permanent improvement levy. It would cost the taxpayer with a $100,000 home $23.10 a year, or $1.92 per month. That would generate about $4.5 million per year.

JVS Superintendent Glenn Faircloth said the school has been operating on the same millage levy since 1985. He said school officials stretched the money as best as they could, but now the 49-year-old building needs repairs that reach into the millions.

“We’re the last school in the books in our county to get a significant renovation,” Faircloth said. “We’re the last ones, and we belong to the county.”

Lorain County JVS first put the levy on the ballot in last year’s general election, but it failed with 55 percent against to 45 percent in favor, or 27,657 votes to 22,374 votes.

Roof repairs for the school would cost several million, he said, as would air handlers.

ISSUE 18 WHAT IT IS: A 0.66-mill permanent improvement levy DURATION: 10 years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $4.5 million per year PURPOSE: To make repairs to the 49-year-old Lorain County JVS building COST TO HOMEOWNER: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay an additional $23.10 per year

Updating the labs for students would cost several hundred thousand. Faircloth said students need updated equipment and labs to be able to continue learning at the JVS. Parts of the parking lot have been closed off to staff and students because Faircloth said it’s become too dangerous to be able to park there.

The majority of the buildings also don’t have a fire suppression system, or sprinklers.

In order to do some renovations, like knocking down walls, Faircloth said the buildings must have a fire suppression system in place because it’s code now.

Faircloth said it doesn’t make sense to fix the old ceiling tiles and light ceiling fixtures without first putting in a sprinkler system.

Galvanized piping is used throughout the building, which has caused the JVS to block off certain sinks and toilets because the water pressure isn’t good enough. And Faircloth said the building is just plain outdated.

Some walls still have carpet on them.

“We just have a gamut of issues,” he said.

Ayers Ratliff, who represents Wellington on the JVS board, has opposed the past few levies to support the vocational school.

He is against it again.

“Because it’s too much additional tax money that they want so that they don’t have to use some of the general fund,’’ Ratliff said.

Ratliff said he would back a request for a lesser amount — roughly half the $4.5 million per year the JVS is seeking.

The school has about seven months of operating cash on hand, far exceeding the state’s three-month standard, said Ratliff, and ended the fiscal year with a $1.2 million budget carryover.

“You can’t overtax the taxpayers, because all your feeder schools have to be taken care

of, too,” he said.

The $4.5 million a year would generate enough over 10 years to pay for the repairs, Faircloth said. That would be cheaper than tearing the building down and building new, which Faircloth said would cost well over $100 million.

“The framework is sturdy and strong,” he said. “We’re not asking for a new facility. We did a cost analysis and we’re not asking for that. But these repairs are significant and are in the millions and our general fund isn’t enough to hold that.”

These days, Faircloth said schools are hard pressed to operate on the same millage they have been for years.

“We’re asking the community for help,” he said. “This is our JVS. We’re the only county school outside of the college. I think it’s our responsibility to make sure we have it for another 50 years. It will take all of us. We provide a great return on investment. Many of our students go back in the community.”

Contact Laina Yost at (440) 329-7121 or lyost@ chroniclet.com. Contact Jason Hawk at news@ lcnewspapers.com.

“We’re the last school in the books in our county to get a significant renovation. We’re the last ones, and we belong to the county.”

Lorain County Joint Vocational School Superintendent Glenn Faircloth

OBERLIN SCHOOLS

Renewals would keep district rolling ISSUE 21 WHAT IT IS: A 3.77-mill renewal levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $4.7 million PURPOSE: To pay for day-to-day operating expenses of the Oberlin Schools COST TO HOMEOWNER: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $115.46 annually

ISSUE 22 WHAT IT IS: A 2-mill renewal levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: Up to $2.3 million PURPOSE: To pay for repairs and upgrades to Oberlin Schools buildings, and purchase new vehicles, equipment and materials COST TO HOMEOWNER: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $26.89 annually, but the Board of Education intends to ask residents for only $13.45

Jason Hawk Oberlin News-Tribune From buying masks to providing students with computers, the unexpected costs of the COVID-19 pandemic are taking a toll on the Oberlin Schools.

But even without those added costs, the district still would need voters to back Issue 21, a 3.77-mill operating levy renewal that appears on the Nov. 3 ballot, said Treasurer Robert Rinehart.

“To keep the district going, it’s definitely a need,” he said.

The Oberlin school system is asking voters to keep $940,000 per year flowing in.

The money covers the daily costs of education, from teacher salaries to No. 2 pencils, lunches, utility bills and gasoline.

Rinehart is preparing a state report that maps out the district’s finances for the next five years, due in November. He said that as long as the levy is renewed again this fall, Oberlin’s books will stay in the black.

Board of Education members and Superintendent David Hall have worked hard

to avoid a deficit, he said, and that work has paid off. As of June, they had come in $200,000 over the year’s financial projections.

“They’ve done a great job of cutting expenses and keeping everything in check,” he said.

But failure at the polls isn’t an option. Rinehart said losing nearly $1 million per year in funding on top of cuts already handed down by state legislators would be a disaster.

Also on the ballot is Issue 22, a 2-mill permanent improvement levy renewal.

Permanent improvement levies can’t be used for paychecks and other operating expenses, only for investments in physical purchases that last for five or more years — school buses, desks, heating and cooling units, football helmets, a stadium and so on.

Rinehart said he expects some of that money to go toward repairing or replacing computers used by students for remote learning this fall due to the pandemic.

Another $200,000 will be set aside to purchase two new school buses, which will replace very old models.

At the moment, there are no pressing

emergencies such as badly leaking roofs or broken boiler systems, but the district needs money on hand to handle surprise problems.

“Right now, financially we’re pretty sound.

But if we lose four boilers at $120,000 apiece, that’s funds we don’t have budgeted,” Rinehart said.

The permanent improvement renewal would in theory generate $445,922 annually and cost the owner of a $100,000 home $26.89 per year.

But here’s where it gets a little tricky: As a thank you to taxpayers for funding construction of a new elementary school, the Oberlin Board of Education intends to collect only half the millage on the ballot.

If voters approve the 2 mills, the board intends to vote each year to collect only 1 mill, or $13.45 for the owner of a $100,000 home.

That vote isn’t guaranteed to pass each year, however, since new board members could be elected.

Contact Jason Hawk at jason@lcnewspapers.com.

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

21

KRISTIN BAUER / CHRONICLE PHOTOS

Bill Dillom, a volunteer with Lorain City Schools, sorts through food at General Johnnie Wilson Middle School earlier this year. The Second Harvest Food Bank brought food to the school. The school district is hoping voters approve Issue 17 next month. The renewal levy, which would not raise property taxes, would be used to pay operating costs including technology, engagement and outreach, and other programs.

ISSUE 17 From 19

The levy money supports programs like the district’s meal distribution — which has been expanded during the pandemic — and day-to-day expenses like curriculum costs.

Even without students and staff in each building daily, funds are needed to keep the buildings clean, and safe for when students can return, she said.

Start your newspaper subscription

24/7

Lorain High School graduate Michael Leyva, 18, is congratulated by his mother, Meghann Johnson, after graduating on May 27. Leyva was set to attend Central State to study forensic sciences and psychology. Lorain Schools’ Issue 17 is on the Nov. 3 ballot.

The levy expires at the end of 2021. Issue 17 is the first chance it has on the ballot.

If voters refuse it Nov. 3, the Lorain school board would have to try again by placing it on the May 2021 or November 2021 ballot for passage.

If the levy expires without renewal, it will “financially devastate” the district starting in fiscal year 2022-2023, Treasurer Tia Kearney said.

Losing $10 million a year would mean cuts to staff and programming, and a loom-

ing deficit that could result in state interventions into the district’s budget.

In a statement, CEO Jeff Graham said the levy’s passage is critical to the district and the children it serves.

“The loss of these funds would cripple the district as these monies will allow us to continue to implement the short- and longterm plans necessary to meet the academic needs of the children we serve — which includes removing their many nonacademic barriers to learning,” he said.

“While we continue to craft our longterm plan, the selfless approach of our staff is evident in their willingness to do whatever is needed — as no one is doing work that is consistent with their job description right now. Instead, teachers, support staff and our administrative team are all pitching in to assure our children continue to learn while everyone remains safe.”

Contact Carissa Woytach at (440) 329-7245 or cwoytach@chroniclet.com.

VOTE NO on ISSUE 18 Our taxpayers currently pay $14,126,156.00 each year in property tax to support the Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS). The LCJVS is asking our taxpayers for a property tax dollar increase on November 3, 2020 of $4,526,928.00. This $4,526,928.00 is more than a 32% tax increase in our local property tax support for the LCJVS. In 2020, our taxpayers cannot afford a 32% increase in our property tax support. We have to look out for our families. This massive increase in property tax is not fair to our taxpayers.

chroniclet. com/subscribe

Please VOTE NO on ISSUE 18 on November 3, 2020 Paid for by Lorain County Taxpayer, Ayers R. Ratliff

22

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

LORAIN COUNTY CHILDREN SERVICES

Levy helps abused, neglected children ISSUE 24 WHAT IT IS: A 1.8-mill levy for Lorain County Children Services.

DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $12.3 million per year PURPOSE: To provide services to abused and neglected children, foster children and foster families, and families dealing with addiction, as well as visitation, kinship and adoption services provided by Lorain County Children Services. The levy makes up 54 percent of the agency’s budget.

COST TO HOMEOWNER: The owner of a $100,000 home would continue to pay $49.84 annually.

The Chronicle-Telegram Lorain County Children Services is asking voters to renew its 1.8-mill operations levy on Nov. 3 so it can continue to provide for abused and neglected children and foster families.

The owner of a $100,000 home will continue to pay $49.84 annually to support the levy, which is Issue 24 on the ballot and will last for five years.

The levy will not raise taxes and will continue to provide $12.3 million annually, or about 54 percent of the agency’s annual $21 million budget. Another 35 percent of the agency’s funding comes from federal sources, 11 percent from the state and less than 1 percent from elsewhere.

Children Services investigates claims of child abuse and neglect, provides services to foster families, places children with family members if their parents are unable to care for them and provides those family members with monthly payments so children can stay with family members and not enter the foster care system.

It also supports adoption services and programs for families dealing with addiction and assists teens aging out of foster care.

The number of newly licensed foster families has risen since last year, and the need for adults to foster children surpassed the number of foster parents who retired last year, agency Director Kristen Fox-Berki said earlier this year.

The agency has been accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Children and Families since 1999, and it is regularly reviewed for compliance by federal, state and local organizations.

“Our commitment to quality and continuous improvement is only surpassed by our commitment to the abused and neglected children we serve,” Fox-Berki said in June.

“We want to do the right things right the first time, every time, on time, one child at a time.”

Lorain County commissioners threw their unanimous support behind the levy in June.

VERMILION SCHOOLS

Renewal sought for key funding source Rini Jeffers The Chronicle-Telegram Voters in the Vermilion Schools district are being asked to renew a levy that accounts for almost a fifth of the district’s annual budget.

The levy was first passed in 2006 as two emergency levies and over the years was combined, said district Treasurer Justin Klingshirn. It was approved in 2011 and again in 2016, and district officials are hoping to secure it early by adding it to a predicted active fall ballot.

Its annual collection of $4.25 million is roughly 18 percent of the district’s forecast of a $23.7 million annual budget, he said.

If approved, it wouldn’t be collected until after November 2021, when the current levy expires.

One of the chief earmarks for the funds are the district’s technology and related software needs. Its estimated 1,800 students have long had a one-to-one computer ratio, but COVID-19 meant the district had to update and invest in more technology.

Younger grades were not previously issued take-home devices, and when teaching went to online-only for the first grading period, officials had to secure enough extra chargers and carriers for each device provided.

Even if classes do return to the classroom,

devices cannot be shared among students.

The district also had to invest more in purchasing programs used to teach kids virtually, he said.

“We had to spend a lot of money just to get everything up to COVID speed, so to speak,” he said.

Other uses include facilities and grounds maintenance, bus repairs and purchases, and extracurricular and workforce development programs.

Contact Rini Jeffers at rinijeffers@gmail.com.

I CAN’T STOP CHILD ABUSE

YOU CAN VOTE YES ON CHILDREN SERVICES

NOT A NEW TAX Help keep Lorain County’s children safe Paid for by the Friends of Children Services

ISSUE 23 WHAT IT IS: An 8.95-mill levy DURATION: Five years HOW MUCH WOULD IT RAISE: $4.25 million annually PURPOSE: Operating costs COST TO HOMEOWNER: The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $274.09 annually.

Trusted Local News—More Crucial Now Than Ever

Activate Full-Digital Access Free with your subscription

Get FULL digital Access included with every print subscription

‘Gardening saved my life’: Lorain man seeks to impact the community with his vegetables August 3, 2020 | The Chronicle-Telegram LORAIN — Growing vegetables was Jim Goforth’s ticket to a better quality of life.

In fact, the Lorain resident and gardener behind Gateway Pharms said growing vegetables has helped him grow from

News Alerts • Videos • E-edition • Breaking News chroniclet.com/subscribe

ELECTION 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

23

Charter issue could change how Lorain is governed Carissa Woytach The Chronicle-Telegram An effort to form a charter commission for Lorain — one of two statutory cities left in the county — will appear on the November ballot.

The issue was first pushed in part by Avon Lake-based attorney Gerald Phillips, Amherst Township resident Tia Hilton and former 2nd Ward Councilman Dennis Flores.

They, along with a handful of area residents, collected more than 1,100 valid signatures to put the issue before Lorain City Council in early September, which Council unanimously approved for the ballot at the threat of a lawsuit.

Two questions will appear on the ballot under Issue No. 25: if a charter commission should be formed; and the selection of 15 commission members from a slate of 35 candidates. The first part must pass for the commission members to be selected, but those that vote “no” on whether a commission should be formed can still pick candidates for that commission in the event it passes.

The same lawyer who pushed for the issue to appear on the November ballot attempted to pull it from this election cycle Sept. 29 — a week before early voting started.

Phillips sent a letter to the Lorain County Board of Elections requesting the matter be withdrawn, but Board of Elections director Paul Adams said after speaking to the county Prosecutor’s Office at the time it did not appear that the issue could be removed from the ballot.

During the Oct. 5 City Council meeting, Council members briefly discussed the issue after city Law Director Pat Riley brought it to

ISSUE 25

LIST OF CHARTER COMMISSION CANDIDATES:

Part 1: WHAT IT IS: Whether or not a charter commission shall be formed PURPOSE: To form a commission to draft a city charter

n David Arredondo

n Henry Patterson Jr.

n Joel Arredondo

n David Petroskey

n Tim Carrion

n Mary Santiago

Part 2: WHAT IT IS: Selection of charter commission members PURPOSE: Select no more than 15 electors to the potential charter commission

n Lynne Maxine Christner

n Max Schaefer

n Tony Dimacchia

n Dennis Shawver

their attention.

He noted there is no case law on the matter and several differing opinions. Council members chose to leave the matter up to the Board of Elections.

Several Council members noted the city’s registered voters signed petitions to put the issue on the November ballot, so they were not inclined to usurp residents’ say.

Lorain and Amherst are the only statutory cities left in the county, meaning their government structure is dictated by the Ohio Revised Code. A city charter could allow for more local control in how the city operates including whether it would have a weak or strong mayor, a nonpartisan council or a city administrator.

If the formation of a charter commission is approved, the group will draft a city charter that will be put to a vote once complete.

Lorain attempted to create a charter in the early 1990s, but voters rejected the final draft completed by the commission.

Contact Carissa Woytach at (440) 329-7245 or cwoytach@chroniclet.com.

Chronicle headlines in your inbox

NOON NEWS BREAK Sign up at chroniclet.com/newsbreak

n Jeffrey Bearer

n Garon Petty

n Jack Bradley

n Mallory Santiago

n Kyriece Brooks

n Jerry Donovan

n Karen Shawver

n Mitchell Fallis

n Ricardo Soto

n Jay Ferguson n Dennis Flores

n Terri Soto

n Douglas George

n Joshua Thornsberry

n James Gula Jr.

n AJ Torres

n Jessica Higgins

n Ruben Torres

n Ted Kalo n Kathryn Kennedy

n Jessie Tower

n Jeremy Leighty

n Sanford Washington Jr.

n Lori Olson

n Brandon Wysocki

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR

ELYRIACITY SCHOOLS

for providing newspapers to students in Lorain County The Elyria City School District is the sponsor of The Chronicle’s NIE Election 2020 Program

24

ELECTION 2020

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

The Chronicle-Telegram

A guide to the candidates, issues in Lorain County * denotes incumbents

FEDERAL OFFICES PRESIDENT/VICE PRESIDENT Joseph R. Biden Jr./Kamala D. Harris (D) Donald J. Trump*/Michael R. Pence (R) Howie Hawkins/Angela Walker (Green) Jo Jorgensen/Spike Cohen (Libertarian) Write-in: President R19 Boddie/Eric Stoneham Brian Carroll/Amar Patel Tom Hoefling/Andy Prior Dario Hunter/Dawn Neptune Adams Jade Simmons/Claudeliah J. Roze Kasey Wells/Rachel Wells HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 4TH DISTRICT Shannon M. Freshour (D) Jim Jordan* (R) Steve Perkins (L) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 7TH DISTRICT Bob Gibbs* (R) Brandon Lape (L) Quentin Potter (D) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 9TH DISTRICT Marcy Kaptur* (D) Rob Weber (R) Write-in: McKenzie Levindofske

STATE OFFICES OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 55TH DISTRICT Gayle L. Manning* (R) Zach Stepp (D) Write-in: Dale Stein

OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 56TH DISTRICT Bradley A. Lacko (R) Joe Miller* (D) OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 57TH DISTRICT Dara Adkison (D) Dick Stein* (R) OHIO SUPREME COURT JUSTICE (Term beginning Jan. 1, 2021) Sharon L. Kennedy* (R) John P. O’Donnell (D) (Term beginning Jan. 2, 2021) Jennifer Brunner (D) Judi French* (R) COURT OF APPEALS 9TH DISTRICT JUDGE (Term beginning Feb. 9, 2021) Julie A. Schafer* (R) Betty Sutton (D)

LORAIN COUNTY OFFICES COMMISSIONER (Term beginning Jan. 2, 2021) Michelle Hung (R) Lori Kokoski* (D) COMMISSIONER (Term beginning Jan. 3, 2021) David J. Moore (R) Sharon Sweda* (D) CORONER Frank P. Miller III (R) ENGINEER Ken Carney* (D) PROSECUTOR Robert J. Gargasz (R) J.D. Tomlinson (D) RECORDER Mike Doran (R) Judy Nedwick* (D) SHERIFF Phil R. Stammitti* (D) TREASURER

November 3rd Vote for leaders you can trust

RETAIN

Lorain County Commissioners Lori Kokoski and Sharon Sweda Paid for by Friends of Lori Kokoski and Friends of Sharon Sweda

E

EAR LY VOTI N G H O U R S

arly, in-person absentee voting began Oct. 6 at the Lorain County Board of Elections, 1985 North Ridge Road, Sheffield Township.

Oct. 5, was the final day to register to vote in the Nov. 3 election.

There are varying hours for early voting prior to Election Day: n 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 19. n 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 19-23. n 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 26-30. n 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 24 and 31, which are both Saturdays. n 1-5 p.m. Oct. 25 and Nov. 1, which are both Sundays.

The board offices also will be open for early, in-person absentee voting on Nov. 2, the day before the election, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Polls are then open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Election Day, Nov. 3.

For more information, visit the Board of Elections website at www.voteloraincountyohio.gov or call (440) 326-5900.

— from staff reports Daniel J. Talarek* (D) CLERK OF COURTS Tom Orlando* (D) PROBATE JUDGE James T. Walther* (D)

Candidates for proposed Lorain City Charter Commission (15 to be elected.)

David Arredondo Joel P. Arredondo Jeffrey Bearer Jack W. Bradley Kyriece Brooks Tim Carrion Lynne Maxine Christner Tony Dimacchia Jerry Donovan Mitchell J. Fallis Jay Ferguson Dennis Flores Douglas A. George James C. Gula Jr. Jessica Higgins Ted Kalo Kathryn L. Kennedy Jeremy S. Leighty Lori L. Olson Henry T. Patterson Jr. David Petroskey Garon Petty Mallory Santiago Mary Santiago Max Schaefer Dennis L. Shawver Karen Shawver Ricardo Soto Terri Soto Joshua Thornsberry A. J. Torres Ruben Torres Jessie Tower Sanford Washington Jr. Brandon J. Wysocki Candidates for Wellington Village Charter Review Commission (11 to be elected) Dan Cwalina Write-in: Hans Schneider (No other candidates filed.)

president to four years.

LORAIN COUNTY ISSUES ISSUE 24: A 1.8-mill, five-year renewal levy for Children’s Services.

SCHOOL ISSUES AVON LAKE ISSUE 14: A 1.5-mill, 5-year renewal levy for general permanent improvements.

FIRELANDS ISSUE 16: A 5.98-mill, 10-year substitute levy for necessary requirements.

LORAIN ISSUE 17: A 23.85-mill, five-year renewal levy for current expenses.

MAPLETON ISSUE 19: A 4.0-mill, permanent renewal levy for permanent improvements.

ISSUE 20: A 4.0-mill, permanent renewal levy for current expenses.

OBERLIN ISSUE 21: A 3.77-mill, five-year renewal levy for emergency requirements.

ISSUE 22: A 2.0-mill, five-year renewal levy for general permanent improvements.

VERMILION ISSUE 23: A 8.95-mill, five-year renewal levy for emergency requirements.

LORAIN COUNTY JVS ISSUE 18: A 0.66-mill, 10-year additional levy for enlarging, improving, or rebuilding.

CITY ISSUES AMHERST ISSUE 4: A proposed ordinance to change the term of city council members to four years.

ISSUE 5: A proposed ordinance to change the term of city council

ELYRIA ISSUE 6: A five-year renewal of the city’s half-percent income tax.

LORAIN ISSUE 25: A proposal to frame a city charter.

ISSUE 8: A local option to allow the Sunday sale of alcoholic beverages at Meijer’s store, 5350 N. Leavitt Road, in Ward 8, Precinct F. ISSUE 9: A local option to allow the Sunday sale of alcoholic beverages at Meijer’s service station, 5310 N. Leavitt Road, in Ward 8, Precinct F.

TOWNSHIP ISSUES CARLISLE ISSUE 10: A 2.25-mill renewal levy for fire protection and emergency medical services.

PITTSFIELD ISSUE 11: A proposal to approve electric aggregation.

ISSUE 12: A proposal to approve natural gas aggregation.

WELLINGTON ISSUE 13: A 0.3-mill, five-year renewal levy for the Spirit of 76 Museum.

VILLAGE ISSUES KIPTON ISSUE 7: A proposal for natural gas aggregation.

OTHER ISSUES ERIE COUNTY GENERAL HEALTH DISTRICT ISSUE 15: A 0.5-mill, five-year renewal levy for health programs.