VOTE411 Voter Guide

"He who Controls the Water, Controls the Future"

Economic development has been the buzzword in and around Granville for decades. Opportunity has knocked, but we found ways to create barriers to entry. So much so, that several very lucrative opportunities have gone elsewhere - or found ways to work with neighboring municipalities to make their plans a reality.

In recent years the township and the village have made some progress in creating a JEDD (Joint Economic Development District) along the southern corridor of the township. Though it's been slow to take off, the infrastructure is being made available, so the prospect of making it a successful venture looks promising in the future.

Access to affordable extension of utilities is key in making any economic development successful. And successful for both the township/village and the developer. Small project commercial development will be in demand as the "Silicon Heartland" takes shape in New Albany, and we need to be prepared.

With extensive experience working with business, government and civic leaders throughout Central Ohio, I have honed my ability to make informed, balanced decisions that serve both the entities I represent and the public interest. I am able to navigate within the township trustee framework issues related to budgeting, zoning and public services to drive consensus and move issues forward.

I have similar experience regarding financial management, and look forward to working with township fiscal officer, Jerry Miller on the issues he oversees, so that he has the necessary guidance to ensure the township's fiscal responsibility.

As a community, we are blessed to have dedicated leadership from Jerry, Casey and Travis. I look forward to working with each of them, providing support and guidance without micro-managing their professional responsibilities.

The township platforms (calendar, minutes to past meetings, etc.) that exist already are a very good start. If elected my goal would be to increase interactive opportunities both in person and on line, while continuing to promote other community-sourced programs that foster a more participatory township and engagement with residents and businesses. I'm pretty visible, both on line and around town, so community engagement comes pretty naturally to me.

I agree that maintaining the rural character of the township is paramount, particularly as development pressures move closer by the year. As an original member of the Open Space Committee, I was able to listen to many ideas centered on targeted initiatives—such as strategic zoning, conservation easements, or community-led preservation programs—to protect these areas without overly broad or inefficient policies. A focused approach could involve prioritizing high-value properties for protection while integrating buffers in our economic development corridors, which is taking shape more recently.

Granville Township has been extremely fortunate with the elected trustees that have served over the years. From when I was a kid in the days of Lyle King essentially running the township single-handedly, to today's outgoing pair of Dan VanNess and Bryn Bird; each has put their heart and soul into keeping the township the envy of the county! We're lucky, too, to have the leadership of Casey Curtis in the fire department, Travis Binkley in charge of zoning, roads and cemeteries, and Jerry Miller maintaining the books as the fiscal officer. The leadership of each of these men makes the job of trustee much easier, so there's not a lot to improve upon, except to make sure everyone knows where credit belongs. I look forward to working with each of them if I am elected to serve as township trustee.

The continual housing development in adjacent areas and the impact on Granville Schools. Further development of the JEDD will help, but will not fix the problem. In addition to smart well planned economic development, we will need to seek better legislation at the State level and persist with our lobbying efforts.

As a business owner, I have experience in management, budgeting, and community service. Being a former Board Member of the Granville Chamber has allowed me the opportunity to work with other business leaders in the community. Additionally, I have 34 years experience within the insurance industry that will serve as a foundation and basis for good judgement on the insurance issues we will be facing. Most particularly, health insurance for our employees. I am familiar with the operation of Maple Grove Cemetery, and serve as a Trustee for Welsh Hills Cemetery. Finally, my life experience growing up around and working on the farms of Perry Township in Licking County has provided me with an appreciation and respect for agriculture.

Continual communication through our Township website, collaboration and consensus with institutions and organizations, and open, honest, and respectful conversations. You have my email, phone number, and know where I live.

I very much agree that it is a concern, and I am very thankful for our past leaders foresight in creating the open space areas and funding. The protection of green spaces will be a primary focus for me taking into account the resources that go along with those areas.

I would like to continue the good work and prudent management that has been accomplished in the township. Also, I would like to build more consensus and collaboration within the community. Specifically, between the residents, Township, Village, Denison University, Recreation Commission, Granville Chamber, Granville Schools, and adjoining municipalities. With the changes to the west, it is now more imperative that we work together at a more concerted level. Simply, I want what is best for Granville.

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