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Eastside election guide
Reynoldsburg City Council primary
Voters will decide among four Republican candidates for three available at-large seats on Reynoldsburg City Council in this year's May Republican primary. The three Republicans who win the primary will face off against two Democratic challengers in November for the three open seats.
Republicans:
| Nathan Burd |
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1566 Burkey Court
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Executive director
Employer: Franklin County Republican Party
Political party affiliation: Republican
Political history:
Republican voters in Reynoldsburg Ward 4 elected me to the Franklin County Republican Central Committee in 2006 when I resided in the Huber neighborhood.
Education/military experience:
The Ohio State University, from 1996 to 2000 - B.A. Political Science, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Goals if elected:
We must make sure the city exercises fiscal discipline. I'll bring a conservative approach to fiscal issues that sets clear priorities and respects the taxpayers. I'll support efforts that will increase safety in all neighborhoods. And I'll encourage city government to focus on the issues that truly matter to residents.
Why best candidate:
As a former Chairman of the Reynoldsburg Charter Review Commission, I have a firm grasp of our city government. I'm qualified for the job and I'll bring a fresh perspective to our city council that is desperately needed. My vision, energy and work ethic will serve our citizens well.
| Barth R. Cotner |
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1439 Jackson St.
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Funeral director
Employer: Cotner Funeral Home
Political party affiliation: Republican
Political history:
I am currently serving as an at large representative. I was appointed unanimously by Reynoldsburg city council members effective Feb. 1, 2009.
Education/military experience:
Bachelor's degree in Mortuary Science from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science
Goals if elected:
I would like to see a long-term plan for our city implemented. This would include revitalization to some places and maintaining in others. As our community changes I want to be actively involved in shaping our direction as Reynoldsburg continues to be a community of respect.
Why best candidate:
I've operated our family funeral home in Reynoldsburg for over 12 years. I've served on boards and as treasurer of several non profit organizations. I understand responsible management of our valuable resources. I have the knowledge and judgment needed to ensure a better quality of life in our city.
| Chris Long |
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1675 Haft Drive
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Assistant Vice President Finance
Employer: iQor Inc.
Political party affiliation: Republican
Political history:
• Candidate for Reynoldsburg City Council Ward 4 - 2007
• Reynoldsburg Building and Zoning Board of Appeals, Vice Chairman - 2009
Education/military experience:
I am a 1976 graduate of Reynoldsburg High School, and served in the U.S. Air Force as a Staff Sergeant in Security Police from 1976 to 1981. I attended the University of Chicago - General Studies (Air Force Base Extension Program).
Goals if elected:
• Re-building a sense of pride in our city. Working toward instilling within all members of our community a sense of responsibility for ones self and a true respect for our neighbor.
• Stricter, more effective enforcement of our City Codes.
• Effective communication with our local businesses and the issues they're facing.
Why best candidate:
I vow to keep in mind the saying "By the People, For the People." I pledge to fight to keep your tax dollars in your pockets. I believe that from the "bench" is an ineffective place for an elected official to serve his constituents. Together we can do it!
| Ron Stake |
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7660 Rodebaugh Road
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Small business owner
Employer: Financial Benefit Corp.
Political party affiliation: Republican
Political history:
I am in my second consecutive term of Council At Large. I was an unsuccessful candidate for mayor two years.
Education/military experience:
I have a BA in Political Science with a concentration in Public Administration from Westfield State College in Massachusetts, as well as completed an internship at the Center for Development Policy in Washington D.C. I completed leadership training at The Ohio State University's John Glenn Institute for Public Service and Public Policy. I've also graduated from the Municipal League Leadership Training Academy.
Goals if elected:
If elected I will work to attract more businesses to Old Reynoldsburg and the area of Brice and Livingston. This is important to our tax base and our ability to continue our level of services such as safety. I will continue to be fiscally responsible and spend taxes wisely.
Why best candidate:
My years of community involvement and business background make me uniquely qualified. I am aware of the needs of our citizens and the resources our city has to fulfill those needs. I'm able to work with my fellow leaders to get things done for the community.
Democrats:
| Cornelius McGrady III |
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8675 Kingsley Drive
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Retired
Political party affiliation: Democrat
Political history:
No previous office held and or pursued
Education/military experience:
Retired Internal Auditor from the State of Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, I have a year of college with experience in Medicaid Services, Court Mediation, Labor Relations, Labor Arbitration and contract negotiations between Ohio Civil Service Employee's Association Local 11 and the State of Ohio Auditor's Office and Treasurer's Office. Thirty plus years in the United States Army Reserves and currently hold the rank of Master Sergeant within the Military Police Corps. During my tenure with the Military my training and experience included Security Manager, Physical Security, Anti Terrorism, Equal Opportunity Representative, Facilitator, Instructor, Suicide First Responder and Non-Lethal Weapons.
Goals if elected:
Maintain and improve the needs of our city by (1) ensuring safe and secure neighborhoods to raise our families and protect our children and seniors. (2) increasing police force to provide the required security for our city. (3) providing additional services for our senior and disable population and (4) attracting new businesses.
Why best candidate:
A proven and tested background with 30 years state service, 28 years union advocacy and litigation and over 30 years military service, at which time I've placed the needs of these institutions before my own. If elected, my council vote will reflect a collective agenda for every citizen of Reynoldsburg.
| Donna A. Shirey |
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1023 Lancaster Ave.
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Occupation: Licensed Relationship Manager
Employer: Key Bank
Political party affiliation: Democrat
Political history:
I am currently on city council for Reynoldsburg as an At Large elected offical. I ran for office my first time in 2005 in which I was elected the top vote getter for Council At Large. This was very exciting for me because I wanted to make a difference for not only the city but for the citizens.
Education/military experience:
I am a 1981 graduate of Grove City High School. In my senior year I started my career in banking and have pursued this for the past 27 years. I specialize in retail banking as well as investments. When elected I completed all the courses for newly elected officials through the Ohio Municipal League in 2006.
Goals if elected:
When re-elected I will continue to:
• Listen to the citizens
• Abide by the charter
• Look for opportunities to bring in businesses that would make a positive impact to the city.
• Evaluate and improve the safety of our citizens/children
• Control spending on items that are not necessary
• Improve communication between council members and administration
• Demonstrate that regardless of being a Democrat or Republican you can make a difference and have a voice that will be heard.
Why best candidate:
I feel that I am the best candidate because within the last few years I have demonstrated that I stand up for what the citizens and I believe in. I abide by the charter that the residents voted upon. I have served on the Service, Safety and Community Development Committees and am currently the Co-Chairman on the Service Committee. I review all the information given to us before making a quick decision. I am able to communicate with the public in a positive and professional manner, and I have the best interest of the city at heart. I focus on the whole city and not just certain areas.
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