With the November election coming up, there are quite a few candidates to get to know. These positions include township trustees, fiscal officers, and board of education members. Although not often highlighted in media, especially in smaller areas, these positions are important to the smooth running of local government.
Each township has three trustees responsible for many aspects of local life. According to Ohiotownships.org, “Ohio townships most commonly provide residents with services such as road maintenance, cemetery management, police and fire protection, emergency medical services, solid waste disposal, and zoning.
Other functions include economic development, accounting, and finances (taxes, borrowing, grants, special assessments, fees, etc.), public records, land use planning, blight elimination, cable and other franchise management, community centers, building code enforcement, off-road vehicle regulation, street lighting, public information, and youth programs.”
Despite all these functions, many residents don’t know who their trustees are. This year several trustee positions are up for election. The News-Herald reached out to as many candidates as possible to ask a few questions.
This week, we are sharing the responses of the German Township Candidates: Neal Dawson and Charles Hayes.
Neal Dawson
Why did you decide to run for a trustee position?
I was approached by several people to consider running for the position, and since the selling of the dairy herd this past March, it has given me the time to dedicate to the effort of township trustee.
What is your vision for the township?
My vision or desire is that the people of the township will say that things are better now than they were before.
What sets you apart from other candidates?
I have had the experience of operating a dairy partnership within a budget. I have had experience of working with employees. I have had experience trying to purchase equipment that fits the need and stays within the budget.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
1. Safety of township roads
2. The overall condition of township roads
3. To seek good council even from other trustees in other townships
with their experiences
How will you include residents in township decisions?
I will consult the people on a decision that effects them the most, and I will consider their input to the situation.
Is there anything else you would like the community to know about you?
First, I want my life to reflect my beliefs. I am not afraid to admit when I am wrong. I am a graduate of Class 6 of The Ohio State University LEAD Program (Leadership, Education, And Development). I have lived and worked my whole life in German Township. I have been married to my wife Joan for 32 years. I have three adult married children and three precious granddaughters.
Charles Hayes
Why did you decide to run for a trustee position?
I lived here as a child and life has brought me back. I protect Harrison County by working as a deputy at the Harrison County sheriff office and now would like a chance to serve the township.
What is your vision for the township?
My vision is to have better communication between the residents and the trustees to work together to make German Township a better place.
What sets you apart from other candidates?
I was a township police officer for 15 years and enforcing the township and state laws already have an understanding of the system.
What are your top three priorities if elected?
I feel the roads need better taken care of; the train delay at the 646 crossing needs addressed, which I am already in contact with Apex employees working on the tracks. Also the smell coming from Apex. I think we can work together to solve theses issues.
How will you include residents in township decisions?
I’m not sure how many residents are aware but we have a chance to have full-time EMS by teaming up with Hopedale EMS but this needs put on the ballot so the residents can decide.
