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CITY OF GAHANNA COUNCIL MEMBER WARD 3 (Uncontested)

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    Kaylee Padova
    (NP)

Biographical Information

What do you see as the one or two most significant challenges facing the community you would serve, and how would you propose to address them?

What are your primary priorities for your term in office, and how would you plan to finance these priorities?

Central Ohio continues to experience a large population growth. How do you propose to address needed changes to infrastructure and housing options in your community based on this increase in population?

How do you plan to engage with residents and community stakeholders to ensure their voices are heard and represented in your decision-making?

Describe your approach to building consensus and resolving disagreements among different community stakeholder groups.

Campaign Phone 7402071027
Campaign Email kayleepadova@gmail.com
Campaign Website http://www.kayleepadova.com
Campaign Mailing Address 241 Heil Dr
Gahanna, Ohio 43230
Occupation Councilmember
Education Bachelor's degree from Capital University and a certificate in public and non-profit leadership from The Ohio State University
Qualifications for Office Four years on City Council taught me to listen, learn, and build strong community connections. With experience on the Visitors Bureau and Community Improvement Corporation, I’m ready to dig deeper and keep Gahanna moving forward in a second term.
One of the biggest challenges facing Gahanna is helping busy families feel connected and informed. Too often, parents don’t know what’s happening locally—not because they don’t care, but because their lives are full. Building relationships and meeting people where they are is key to creating a stronger sense of community. Another challenge is making thoughtful investments in Creekside so it can thrive as a unique destination. By encouraging a vibrant mix of local shops, restaurants, and gathering spaces, we can create an experience that sets Gahanna apart and strengthens both our economy and our community.
My top priority is making smart investments in our Creekside district so it can grow into a thriving destination. Gahanna has unique opportunities to stand out by creating an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants that connect a shopping, walking, and dining path from Upper Cup to Three Creeks. With Easton nearby, we must be intentional—focusing on local, new, used, and antique shops that bring character rather than duplicating big box stores. Financing comes through strategic redevelopment, partnerships, and reinvesting in existing spaces to maximize impact without raising taxes.
As Central Ohio grows, Gahanna must expand housing options while keeping our community vibrant and affordable. Adding more diverse housing in the Creekside district would both increase foot traffic for local businesses and provide much-needed units for the region. But affordability is about more than housing—it’s the overall cost of living. Free events like Holiday Lights, Touch a Truck, Creekside Live, and Cinema Under the Stars not only provide free family entertainment, they also bring neighbors together, strengthen connections, and build the kind of community that makes Gahanna special.
I plan to engage with residents by meeting people where they are—whether at parks, community events, or a walk around the neighborhood—so conversations feel natural and accessible. My experience has shown that many families care deeply about local issues but don’t always have the time to attend formal meetings. That’s why I value informal connections as much as official ones. I’ll also continue building relationships with local groups and advocates, ensuring their insights shape decisions. Open, consistent communication is the best way to keep Gahanna’s residents represented.
My approach to building consensus starts with listening. Every stakeholder brings a unique perspective, and the best solutions come from making sure people feel heard and respected. I focus on finding common ground—whether that’s shared goals for Creekside’s future or the desire for safe neighborhoods. Disagreements are natural, but by staying open-minded, asking questions, and encouraging collaboration, we can move from division toward solutions that reflect the values of the whole community.