Five candidates compete for four Carrollton Village Council seats in Nov. 4 election

Five candidates are seeking four open seats on Carrollton Village Council in the Nov. 4 general election. 

The Free Press Standard invited each candidate to answer four questions about their background, qualifications, and goals for the village. Those responding include Kevin Butterfield, Wilma Lambert, Travis L. Parker, Brittany Nicole Tangler and Thomas R. White. 

Kevin Butterfield 

Age 57, 624 High St. NW, Carrollton 

Why are you seeking a seat on council? “I would like to help our village by making educated, informed decisions on issues that would improve our village and community.” 

Are you an incumbent or new, and what are your qualifications? “This is my first time seeking election for this position. I feel I am qualified because I have lived here most of my life and am invested in issues affecting our community. I graduated from Carrollton High School in 1987 and mowed for the village from 1982 to 1987 where I first learned the value of taking pride in your work. I am currently the small business owner of Butterfield's Auto Detailing where I continue that strong work ethic and attention to detail.” 

What changes, recommendations or proposals do you plan to make for improvement of the village? “One of the first issues I would like to address as a council member is working on our village's appearance by cleaning up our neighborhoods and increasing our curb appeal with the hopes of directly and positively affecting our local businesses and economy. I would also like to help our community by improving or adding sidewalks to make walking along our roadways safer for everyone.” 

Wilma L. Lambert 

Age 74, 240 Butler Ave. NW, Carrollton 

Why are you seeking a seat on council? “I feel that everyone needs to be heard and everyone’s issues and problems are important. Individuals' problems are often put on the back burner to deal with bigger problems that need addressed. We as members of council should listen to everyone and do the best we can to help resolve their problems and issues in a timely manner.” 

Are you an incumbent or new, and what are your qualifications? “I am an incumbent running for another term on council. I have always been interested in politics and wanted to serve my community in some capacity. I studied Political Science at Kent State University. I am currently serving my fourth term as a Council member. This has given me valuable experience and understanding to use going forward.” 

What changes, recommendations or proposals do you plan to make for improvement of the village? “Parking problems, loss of business downtown and zoning are three issues I would especially like to work on. These are all areas that need improvement and could help Carrollton become a more popular place to visit.” 

Travis Parker 

Age 35, 525 Ninth St. NW, Carrollton 

Why are you seeking a seat on council? “I am seeking election to the Carrollton Village Council. I am committed to helping our village continue to move forward—growing, modernizing, and creating a safe, well-cared-for community where our children and future generations can thrive.” 

Are you an incumbent or new, and what are your qualifications? “I am a 2008 graduate of Carrollton High School and a graduate of Kent State University. I previously served with the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department, where I advanced from firefighter to captain before my family and I returned to Carrollton in 2022. For the past six years, I have worked as the Golf Course Superintendent at Arrowhead Golf and Event Center in North Canton, where I oversee course maintenance and supervise daily operations to ensure the highest standards of care and safety.” 

What changes, recommendations or proposals do you plan to make for improvement of the village? “As an incumbent council member, my goal is to continue building on the progress we’ve made together. My priorities include: 

— Expanding and improving our parks and recreation facilities to provide more safe and enjoyable activities for local youth. 

— Supporting our first responders by ensuring they have the proper equipment, training, and facilities to serve and protect our residents. 

— Investing in infrastructure improvements, including repairing and replacing damaged roads and sidewalks and adding new walkways to make our community more accessible and pedestrian-friendly. 

— Enhancing community pride and property appearance, by addressing neglected properties, encouraging upkeep, and maintaining the clean, welcoming look our village deserves. 

Carrollton is a beautiful place to live, and I take great pride in calling it home. I want every resident to share that same sense of pride, knowing that together we are creating a community that is safe, modern, and thriving for generations to come.” 

Brittany Nicole Tangler 

Age 38, 634 Courtview Drive SW, Carrollton 

Why are you seeking a seat on council? “I am seeking re-election for a seat on Village Council because I care about the community of Carrollton. I want everyone to feel like their voice is heard when they come to council or contact me. I listen, research the concern, and try to come to the best solution and vote accordingly.” 

Are you an incumbent or new, and what are your qualifications? “I am an incumbent on Village Council. I have almost 12 year's experience in local government, and I am in my 8th year on Village Council. I graduated from Bowling Green State University and was a Carrollton High School graduate.” 

What changes, recommendations or proposals do you plan to make for improvement of the village? “Right now I think the Village is in a good spot. We are keeping up with equipment, vehicles, and technology. We have added value to the community by acting on council and resident suggestions. A couple major improvements have been the community splash pad, sidewalks to Carrollton schools, a new ladder truck for the fire department, and new water and sewer infrastructure. Right now we are looking into a sidewalk on 43 from resident suggestions and received quotes of around 13 million dollars. I would appreciate your vote this November.” 

Thomas R. White 

Age 80, 130 North Star St., Carrollton 

Why are you seeking a seat on council? “Following a lifetime of serving others as a business owner, I feel that I have much experience to offer in the same manner to the Village of Carrollton.” 

Are you an incumbent or new, and what are your qualifications? “I am an incumbent, having served for the last three years. My qualifications are as follows: I have served the people of Carroll County as an Insurance Agent for 35 years, held positions on the Airport Authority, the Pilates Association, the Carroll County Board of Health and served as County Commissioner. I have also served several years in leadership positions in my local church.” 

What changes, recommendations or proposals do you plan to make for improvement of the village? “The biggest concern facing Carrollton is the lack of proper ambulance service. This is an issue that needs to be addressed. I believe that our Fire Department and Police Department are both doing excellent jobs. However, we need to maintain a competitive market for our Police Department to be able to continue to guarantee the safety of our citizens.”