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SUMMIT COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT #1

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    Rita Darrow
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

1. Why are you the best candidate for the office?

2. What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?

3. What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?

Campaign Email address ritadarrow619@yahoo.com
Campaign phone 216-409-4029
Education Westlake High School; ICM School of Business (Medical Assistant)
Training/Experience Current Summit County Council President (Summit County District 1); Macedonia City Council, 2012-2015
Website https://www.ritadarrow.com/
Twitter @@Ritajack21
Previous public office Macedonia City Council 2012 to 2015; Summit County Council 2020 to present
I'm running because I'm a Democrat who has devoted her adult life to helping others and making my community better. I was elected to the Macedonia (OH) City Council in 2012 and eventually served as Council President. I won that election by getting out, knocking on doors, and having conversations with hundreds of voters. During my tenure, the Council achieved the following significant benefits for our city: · Increased staffing and modernized equipment for police and fire/rescue · Paid off City debt, reduced tax rates, eliminated deficit spending and built a 10% surplus · Focused on economic development, resulting in the creation of hundreds of jobs, new housing and retail, options for senior housing and a new hotel. · Obtained more than $200M in State and Federal funding for infrastructure programs, including highway improvements, road resurfacing and playground equipment.

Stable Housing: Now more than ever, stable housing is crucial to the safety and well-being of Summit County residents. Economic Development: Summit County needs to encourage regional job growth and business development to increase economic opportunity for all Summit County residents. Public Safety: Summit County can enhance public safety through a number of initiatives including improved collaboration among communities and law enforcement organizations, enhanced community engagement, and technology upgrades with our first responder organizations. Protecting Green Spaces: Effective land management practices, including regular monitoring and maintenance, can help protect our green spaces, preserving them for generations to come.
I will advocate for policies that support renters and homeowners, such as tenant protections, and incentivizing the development of affordable housing units. Additionally, I will explore opportunities to rehabilitate vacant properties and invest in community land trusts to ensure long-term housing stability. I will collaborate with economic development agencies, chambers of commerce, and local businesses to identify and address barriers to growth. I will also advocate for targeted investments in infrastructure, workforce development programs, and small business support services. In terms of public safety, I will focus on enhancing collaboration among communities and law enforcement organizations. Furthermore, I will work to secure funding for technology upgrades and training for first responders to ensure they have the resources and tools needed to effectively respond to emergencies and keep our communities safe. I will assure that we promote sustainable development.