U.S. House of Representatives Ohio 9th District Marcy Kaptur (D)
2026
VOTERS GUIDE Toledo City Paper reached out to candidates with a series of questions to provide our readers with information to be informed to decide how to cast their ballots on November 3. Due to space constraints in the Toledo City Paper print edition, all the responses of some candidate may have been cut. This digital Toledo City Paper Politics Guide contains all candidate answers in their entirety. We are also working with the League of Women Voters of Northwest Ohio to provide further election information to our readers. Please click here to visit their website at Vote411.org We do not report on uncontested races. If we did not receive a response, we note that here.
Can you imagine Toledo without the City Paper? We can't either. For 30 years, the Toledo City Paper has been finding the cool, the weird, the delicious, the unexpected and the downright interesting — and putting it in front of you. We’re proudly free to read. And we intend to keep it that way.
RT
PO
NT
JO
ISM
TOLEDO CITY PAPER
AL
SUP
DEPENDE
RN
SUPPORT LOCAL
L IN
INSIDER 2026 MEMBER JOURNALISM HERE
Here’s just a small sample of what we’ve delivered for Toledo recently: • $24.5 million in Safe Streets for All funding to rebuild and revitalize Monroe Street from Downtown Toledo through Sylvania.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I grew up right here in Toledo, and my parents were both UAW members. My dad was a local grocer, and my mom worked at Champion Spark Plug, where she was a UAW organizer. I grew up knowing what a good union job meant to families like mine – and then I watched what happened when big corporations started shipping our jobs and factories overseas. I saw families struggle and neighborhoods hollowed out, and that has always stayed with me. When I first ran for office, unemployment was near record numbers in our region. I was the first in my family to graduate high school and college, and I became passionate about rebuilding communities like ours. I didn’t feel like working people in places like Toledo had enough voices in Washington who truly understood their lives. I thought: if I don’t believe Washington is working for communities like the ones I grew up in, why not go there and try to change it? So I ran, and I’m grateful every day that I did. I’ve never forgotten who sent me to Washington or why I decided to run in the first place. I still live in the neighborhood that raised me, and I still wake up every day fighting for the same thing: making sure working families have a voice and Northwest Ohio gets the jobs, investment, and future we deserve.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
U
LO
CA
out Wall Street, I voted no. I’ve always Candidate U.S. House of Representatives, known that my job is to deliver what Northwest Ohio needs, even if it’s not Ohio's 9th Congressional District what Washington or Wall Street wants. That’s why I fought for a seat on the Appropriations Committee, where the decisions about federal funding actually get made. Those seats often go to members from the money centers on the coasts like New York and San Francisco, but I wanted Northwest Ohio to have a seat at that table. Today, as a senior member, I use that seat to bring our tax dollars back home and deliver for our communities.
Representing Toledo and Northwest Ohio in Congress has been the honor of a lifetime, and a responsibility I’ve never taken lightly. I’ve spent my career listening to the working people of this district, and that’s led me to take positions the Washington establishment hated, but I knew were right for Northwest Ohio. When both parties pushed NAFTA, I fought back. When both parties bailed
• $4 million to the Englewood-Junction neighborhood for workforce training, economic growth, and affordable housing. • $4 million to restore St. Anthony’s Church as a community space for the Junction neighborhood. • $2.5 million for affordable housing in the Junction and East Toledo neighborhoods. • $5.9 million for Collingwood Green Section 202 senior housing. • $1.05 million to rehabilitate homes through the North Toledo Home Ownership program. • $850,000 to renovate the Cherry Street Ministries emergency shelter and add new space for job training services. • $30 million from the American Rescue Plan for Wayman Palmer YMCA. • $4 million to expand the East Toledo Family Center. • $1.25 million to revitalize the Glann School as a community center. • $2 million for Dani’s Place, a new mental health rehabilitation center. • $1 million to assist building a downtown pharmacy serving underserved and uninsured families • $500,000 for a UTMC mobile medical unit reaching underserved families. • $1.1 million for Toledo Public Schools for automotive mechanic training at Toledo Technology Academy. • $1.1 million for Toledo Tomorrow’s Regional Educational Partnership to advance early childhood reading. • $3 million for a community center and consumer financial counseling hub at Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union to help expand access to financial education and additional financial resources.
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 1
U.S. House of Representatives Ohio 9th District What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I’m a fighter for the hardworking people in our communities. That’s who I’ve always been, and who I’ll always be. Right now, Toledo families are getting crushed by rising costs for gas, health care, groceries, electricity, and housing. I’m fighting to bring those costs down, protect Social Security and Medicare from being cut for Billionaire tax giveaways, and bring our tax dollars home as investments that grow our economy. I’m also taking on the powerful interests driving up our costs to line their own pockets. The affordability crisis comes from a rigged economy that rewards wealth and power instead of hard work. That’s why making life more affordable and cleaning up Washington go hand in hand. I’m fighting for accountability, transparency, and one set of rules for everyone: working families, Billionaires, big corporations, and members of Congress alike.
try by USA Today readers! A world-class collection hangs right alongside work by Toledo’s talented local artists, and because general admission is free, it truly belongs to everyone in our city, just as Edward Drummond Libbey intended. While most of the museum is closed for reinstallation until fall 2027, the Glass Pavilion, Sculpture Garden, Education Wing, and Library are all open and definitely worth a visit in the meantime!
Derek Merrin (R)
Candidate U.S. House of Representatives, Ohio's 9th Congressional District
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in the Reynolds Corners neighborhood, the same neighborhood I was raised in, and in the same house I grew up in. It’s full of hardworking families and neighbors who look out for each other, and I’ve never wanted to live anywhere else. When I have a free moment, which is rare these days, you’ll find me at the Toledo Botanical Garden or in my own garden. The Botanical Garden is a peaceful place to wander around and take in all the beauty around us. I also love the Toledo Museum of Art, which was recently voted the best free museum in the coun-
2 | October 2026 |
economic environment for our downtown community and address blight.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I was blessed to be raised in a family that shared conservative principles with me at a young age. My father, who was my high school basketball coach, taught me the importance of integrity in sports and always doing the right thing. I always aspire to be a leader who finds solutions that positively affect all within the community.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful?
If not, what would you do to change that? Our downtown has seen improvements but more needs to be done. We need more revitalization and housing. We must prioritize public safety so our city is safer for all our citizens. Our local police and first responders deserve leaders who will support them and provide the tools needed to do their jobs. I will work to foster a better local
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
The National Museum of the Great Lakes, right on the Maumee River in East Toledo. It tells our region’s story: the working people who made our Great Lakes region the backbone of American industry and a key part of our nation’s history. Every visit makes me proud to be from here. Once you’ve finished at the museum, I highly recommend taking a walk along our Glass City Riverwalk, one of the recent projects I’m proudest of. I fought to bring home tens of millions of dollars to design, build, and continue its development. Today, it’s transforming our riverfront, with new trails connecting our neighborhoods and new apartments and local businesses springing up along the way. It’s the kind of local investment that will serve our city for generations.
New Leadership: Northwest Ohioans are tired of career politicians who care more about their title, their power, and their career than solving problems for the American people. Northwest Ohioans expect more from their representative. They want to know that their representative will fight for them, not for themselves. I support term limits for all members of Congress.
What do you see as the top three concerns for Toledo’s future, and how do you intend or propose to address them?
Economy: Toledo, Ohio, used to be one of the wealthiest cities in our country – built on manufacturing, becoming the world center of the glass industry, and featuring a robust economy with a growing population and high-paying jobs. We have seen failing policies force families to struggle to afford groceries, high healthcare costs, and utility bills. In Congress, I will fight for lower federal taxes, a balanced budget, reduce regulations, and work to attract more jobs with higher wages to our region. We must lower the cost of living by common sense measures that increase supply while removing federal policies promoted by special interests that drive up costs. Additionally, I'll be a strong advocate for bringing more federal resources into Northwest Ohio, and I'll fight to bring more passenger airlines to Toledo Express Airport. Public Safety: I believe we must make our streets and neighborhoods safer and more secure. I will always support our local communities and work to make them a safer place to live, work, and raise a family. Because of my priority focus on public safety, Toledo Police Command Officers’ Association, Toledo Police Patrolman’s Association, and the International Union of Police Associations are all supporting my candidacy.
www.toledocitypaper.com
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
I have always believed all politics is local and that locals know best. In Congress, I will work to foster an open dialogue with my constituency.
For the 43 years my opponent, Marcy Kaptur has represented this district, domestic manufacturing floundered and jobs disappeared one by one, hollowing out our city and sending our wealth to foreign nations. Northwest Ohio cannot afford more of the same failed leadership year after year. I’m running for Congress because, unlike Kaptur, I’ll fight for Ohio families and bring new needed leadership to Northwest Ohio. I won’t just talk—I will deliver results.
Extra! Extra!
Extra Savings for Seniors! Seniors and disabled homeowners who qualify for Homestead in Tax Year 2026 will receive a one-time additional discount estimated at $450 on their January 2027 property taxes.
Auditor Katie Moline is visiting area senior centers to help sign up eligible homeowners in Lucas County J. Frank Troy Senior Center Wednesday, October 7 10 am - 2 pm Jewish Senior, Family, & Social Services Annual Senior Expo Thursday, October 15 12 pm - 2:30 pm
Mayores Senior Center Resource Fair Friday, October 23 10 am - 2 pm East Toledo Senior Center Thursday, October 29 9 am - 1 pm
Questions?
Maumee Senior Center 419-213-4406 Wednesday, October 21 9 am - 1 pm LucasCountyOhioAuditor.gov/Homestead
Ohio 6th District Court of Appeals Myron Duhart (D)
Candidate Ohio 6th District Court of Appeals
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/propose to address them?
I believe Toledo’s future depends on strong neighborhoods, economic opportunity, and making sure residents feel connected to the decisions that affect their daily lives. My approach would be to listen first, work collaboratively, and focus on practical solutions that strengthen existing neighborhoods while creating opportunities for responsible growth. After spending much of my life serving Toledo and Northwest Ohio, I have learned that lasting progress comes when people are treated with respect and have a meaningful voice in the process.
What provided you with the motivation/inspiration to run for office?
My motivation comes from a lifetime of service and from the people and institutions that helped shape me. I grew up near the Frederick Douglass Community Center, served in the United States Army, practiced law, and eventually became a judge. Those experiences taught me that public service is ultimately about giving back to the community that gave you opportunities and helping make those opportunities available to the next generation.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I currently serve as a judge on the Ohio Sixth District Court of Appeals, a position I have held since 2021. Before that, I served as a Lucas County Common Pleas judge, practiced law for many years, served as a U.S. Army JAG officer, and have taught trial practice at the University of Toledo College of Law. Those experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the importance of listening carefully, understanding complicated issues, treating people fairly, and making decisions based on facts and the law.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote?
I would want people to know that I am a Toledoan who has spent his life believing that service is a responsibility, not a title. Whether I was serving in the Army, practicing law, sitting on the bench, teaching students, or working
with community organizations, I have tried to approach people with respect and integrity. My life has taught me to listen, to work with people who may see things differently.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
For me, the Frederick Douglass Community Center will always be a special place. I grew up across the street from the center, and it was part of the environment that helped shape who I became. It represents something I value deeply about Toledo—the ability of neighborhood institutions to give young people a sense of belonging, possibility, and community.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
A healthy downtown is more than buildings and businesses; it should be a place where people want to live, work, visit, and spend time. I believe Toledo should continue looking for ways to bring life into our downtown while also making sure surrounding neighborhoods benefit from that investment. I would approach that work by listening to residents, businesses, community leaders, and people who have a stake in Toledo’s future.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/ better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
I don’t think Toledo has to choose one at the expense of the other. We should make better use of the homes, buildings, and commercial spaces we already have while remaining open to thoughtful new development. Revitalizing what is already here can preserve neighborhood character and create opportunity, while responsible new investment can help Toledo continue to grow. Myron Duhart (D) CONTINUED ON P. 4
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 3
Myron Duhart (D) CONTINUED FROM P. 3
A Lifetime in Lucas County’s Courtrooms Prepared Him for This
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city? Can all of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city?
Tom Puffenberger has experience as a public defender, a prosecutor, an appellate attorney, and a city attorney. Now he’s asking voters to let him bring that experience to the bench at Lucas County Probate Court, after spending nearly two decades practicing law and serving the people of Northwest Ohio.
Good government begins with listening. Throughout my career, I have learned that people may disagree about an issue but still have valuable perspectives that deserve to be heard. I would Transportation is closely connected to opportunity. People need reliable and encourage regular opportunities for residents to communicate directly with affordable ways to get to work, school, city leadership and would place particumedical appointments, businesses, and lar emphasis on hearing from people community activities. I would want to hear directly from residents about where who don’t. the gaps are and work with the appropriate agencies and community partners to identify practical ways to make transportation more accessible and dependable.
Tom built a career across nearly every corner of Lucas County’s legal system: as an assistant prosecutor starting in 2010, a staff attorney at the Sixth District Court of Appeals in 2015, and a senior attorney for the City of Toledo Law Department in 2017, defending the City, City Council, and various departments in civil trials. He returned to the Prosecutor’s Office in 2023 and now serves in the Tax Foreclosure Division, handling probate issues weekly. “The situations in Probate Court require more than legal knowledge,” Tom said, adding, “They require patience, compassion, sound judgment, and a commitment to treating everyone with dignity and respect.” “It’s what I was raised to believe in,” he said. “I learned the values that have shaped my life in that courthouse: upholding the rule of law, the ethic of public service, and the responsibility that comes with helping people through the hardest moments of their lives.” Tom’s father, Jack Puffenberger, has served as Lucas County’s Probate Judge for 35 years. “I’m incredibly proud of my dad, and I don’t apologize for wanting to be like him,” he said. “I watched someone I respected approach the law with preparation, fairness, humility and a real sense of responsibility to the community. If people see some of my dad in the way I approach this job, I consider that a compliment.”
Vote Tom Puffenberger for Probate Court Judge”
4 | October 2026 |
www.toledocitypaper.com
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
As a judge, I am duty bound to remain fair and impartial. I cannot comment on cases or controversies that may come before me.
CJ Kamm (R)
“I’m running for Probate Judge,” Tom said. “My experience has prepared me to serve this court, but my connection to Lucas County is what makes me want to serve. I want to bring experience, fairness, compassion, and common sense to a court that plays such an important role in the lives of Lucas County families.” Paid for by Puffenberger Campaign Committee
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our town?
Candidate Ohio 6th District Court of Appeals
Sponsored Content
Declined to respond.
Lucas County Commissioner Laura Brown (R)
Candidate Lucas County Commissioner
munity has allowed me to practically manage many facets of life and delegate my time efficiently and effectively with the view of the future I want for our children always present in every decision I am faced with.
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
The continued fiscal irresponsibility rampant across our county and inability to maintain a fiscally solvent plan in any capacity caused by the legacy of overspending by Democrat Commissioners is concerning. Over 5 years ago we were assured that a new jail would be completed by 2026 and construction has not even begun while millions are being spent buying time especially on repairing the roof of this delipidated building—which was not completed correctly (no vapor barrier) and is now falling apart along with the building it was supposed to preserve. In addition, reduced federal funds for SNAP and no financial safety net, they are now asking county agencies to cut their own budgets by 13% but continuing to spend millions on high end social events in the name of economic development. There have been no direct initiatives I am aware of that attempt to improve economic conditions that would result in less individuals requiring these benefits to ease that liability or procedures to make sure the benefits are only being provided to those who truly need them. Even if successfully elected as the first Republican County Commissioner in over 20 years I would remain in the minority for decisions brought before the Commissioners but want to be that voice willing to ask the hard questions and hold the line against frivolous expenses and decisions by asking for more in depth discourse before votes are cast in an attempt to draw more attention to decisions made and their impact on our county.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office? I was motivated to run for office in many ways but overwhelmingly because of the current troubling explosion of data center proposals in the outskirts of the county in our rural townships. I am active in Spencer Township and realized the board had passed their zoning regarding these massive projects nearly 2 years ago without the proper research or involvement of the township residents. Every meeting for 2 year span there were closed executive sessions often with county officials (they should be rare and to follow Sunshine laws for open meetings should only be for certain specific topics). When I approached the Commissioners after a meeting last fall I was patronized that
I didn’t understand the process and they were ‘not involved’ in making those decisions—I needed to go back to the township level. At the same time township trustees are on record stating they were advised by OTA (Ohio Township Assoc) and others like the Lucas County Economic Development Corporation on how to proceed. After a series of public record requests, I received over 400 pages of emails between the (now former) LCED Coordinator Matt Heyrman and our Zoning Enforcement and Township Economic Development lead, Jacob Barnes concerning many specific details on priming our area for data centers with a concerning lack of regulation in relation to the series detriments these projects can cause. Realizing how much involvement there was coupled with a multitude of questionable unanimous votes by the commissioners overall with little to no discourse made the decision an easy one. This is the time to bring about change in Lucas county government to include conservative voices that have been long needed in many concerns brought before the county.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I am currently working for a dynamic local data services company negotiating contracts for independent service repair. I have also worked in several industries that all give me a solid background in tackling the fiscal issues brought before the commission. I have worked many years in financial positions including subprime auto loan and Fannie Mae mortgage collections/ skiptracing and as AP/AR accounting analyst at The Toledo Club. In addition to finance I’ve also spent time working one on one with others in ministry at my parish in addition to planning/budgeting programs and events. I have also spent time previously at One Government on the 5th floor working with the OSU Extension office for 4H program. Most importantly is my vocation as a mother of 4 and maintaining a home while also doing things within my com-
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I pride myself on being authentic and straightforward in everything I do. I give complete devotion to the things I have invested in and do not tire easily even when facing issues that seem insurmountable. I do not back down from a challenge I am being called to or being the lone voice to speak out when I know it’s the right thing to do.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
It’s not really hidden—it’s presence is quite grand but not enough people know about it; Our Lady Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral on Collingwood. Celebrating the 100 year anniversary of its groundbreaking and going through a massive restoration to its original interior layout it’s quite an exciting time. Walking inside inspires to the depths of your soul; the beauty and truth contained within are inarguable and awe inspiring. Walking inside is like walking into a cathedral in Rome over 1000 years old and it’s right here in Holy Toledo! It has been my parish since 2024; I help coordinate weddings, am studying to be a tour guide, and my sons serve the mass.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/ better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
There are many areas that require rehabilitation. It can seem daunting but is necessary. Our world often focuses on new being better but there are many buildings that have solid foundation and structure that could have new life again. It’s sad and wasteful to see structures torn down sometimes after only standing a decade or two to make room for another similar building with new materials shortly after the demolished building was hauled to a landfill. We must be good stewards of what already exists and make the best efforts where it makes fiscal sense to rehabilitate and maintain both homes and businesses in efforts for revitalization.
We must also be more proactive in creative ways to incentivize keeping older structures from falling into disrepair that they cannot recover from.
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
What I am more concerned with is how the Plan Commission receives, investigates, and responds to local municipalities submitting zoning for review and approval. Often, like with our current county commissioners decisions there seems to be unanimous conclusions without true critical examination and discussion of what is being presented giving the appearance that final decisions were made before they ever entered the meeting. There are often very obvious questions not being posed before proposals are being approved and pushed along.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town? Elected officials have an obligation to listen and represent every constituent regardless of their political affiliation and beliefs. This is vital to accountability and transparency but also to real action. Being reachable by phone or email easily, holding informational and responsive community gatherings for discussion of pressing issues and concerns from the people, reminders and invitations for the public to attend the County Commissioners meetings whenever possible or review the online agendas, minutes, or recorded documentation are so important to making Lucas County more effective and efficient in the future.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
I think that our disabled veterans are vastly underfunded and often left unable financially to maintain their homes when an unexpected problem occurs which has led many down the dark road of homelessness. They have sacrificed so much for their country and should not feel abandoned when they have a repair that could impact their basic living conditions. 17 veterans a day take their own life and the instability in their housing security plays a role in that should be of utmost concern.
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 5
Lucas County Commissioner continued and Landbank conference to name a few and they have showcased our world class convention center. This is making Toledo/Lucas County a destination place to live, play and retire.
Lisa Sobecki (D)
Candidate Lucas County Commissioner
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intent/propose to address them?
The top 3 concerns for Toledo/Lucas County’s future is Affordable Housing, Access to Good Jobs and Fixing our Aging Infrastructure. I have and will continue to convene our public/private stakeholder to have our top priories for our region in alignment. I will also continue to support and advance grants from the state/federal government for dollars to upgrade and expand our infrastructure.
What provided you with the motivation/inspiration to run for office?
My motivation to run for re-election has and continue to be the great people of Lucas County.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
My day job is serving the County every day of the week, my experience as a past State Representative, County Employee and the Current County Commissioner. I have the understanding of how State/Federal and County operate and have proven this through my time working on behalf of the people.
6 | October 2026 |
I will continue to show up and observe community meetings where the residence are.
If elected, what three steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
My favorite “hidden gem” in Toledo is Middleground Metroparks. The View you have of the city and all it has to offer is just breath taking. It’s also a quiet place to reflect on the day.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
Our downtown area is healthy and successful, with the coordination of Private/Public investment in growth to business, entertainment and attractions. When a family can come to the rebirth of party in the park they are having fun through play. When a family comes to dine at our restaurants at an affordable rate they are coming back. When a family comes to walk our riverfront they are taking in the attractions. Businesses are moving back downtown because they have a place to live as well. We have hosted the freight conference
www.toledocitypaper.com
I will continue to make sound, best practice and financial decisions. Under my leadership we have been able to maintain a healthy reserve and receive strong credit rating and confidence in our economic outlook from the nations leading credit agencies.
What neighborhood do you live in? Point Place Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? I don’t have one favorite place to spend time but I do love spending time with my family.
What’s more important for our city right now: Building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts? Both can be true.
How do you feel about the transportation option currently available in our city? Can all
of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city?
Our transportations options for residence in Toledo has absolutely changed in Toledo. TARTA has made great strides in how they provide service to residence. I’m excited to see what they have next. However with rail we still run short on with the connectivity to other parts of our state and other destination states. I will continue to advocate for opportunities to grow our rail transportation.
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
I would change the process and restrictions put on development. Some of this is through other governmental bodies which will mean advocacy.
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city, how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing? I would listen first to have and understanding to what they are planning. Then I would do my research and ask questions before I make a decision.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
I would invest in the County in a project that would grow my million dollars to more for our County residence.
Lucas County Auditor
Carolyn Munn (R)
Candidate Lucas County Auditor
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I wanted to give people a choice for County Auditor. I’m tired of one party owning the county and not being held accountable. Being a property owner, I experienced the huge increase in property valuation and even greater increase in property taxes in 2024. The lack of transparency in the whole process disturbed me.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience (please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
Although I could be retired, I have worked for the past 15 year as a private contractor manager over various rentals in Toledo and over a mobile home park outside of Toledo but in Lucas County. I have helped property investors evaluate property and have done property transfers in the Auditor’s office.
surer of several organizations and am presently Treasurer of the Lucas County Republican Party. In my present occupation I work directly with tenants and property owners and am aware how property valuation affects all our lives.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
My background and college degree is education with a master’s in Human Resource Leadership. While teaching in Guatemala in an English language school, I also directed the school; working with parents, teachers, students, businesses, and overseeing the budget and finances. I have served as trea-
I’m not sure this is a “hidden gem” anymore, but when I came back to the Toledo area from Guatemala, I was introduced to birdwatching. We have a wealth of locations where people can enjoy the variety of birds migrating through our area, especially in the spring. Oak Openings is my favorite place to see the piliated woodpeckers.
matically inflated valuations for some homeowners. The political issue isn’t simply “property taxes are too high.” It’s: Can taxpayers trust that their property is being assessed correctly? My theme is: Fair Process. Fair Valuation. Accountable Government. First, I would prioritize accuracy and accountability. Second, I would make the valuation dispute process more transparent and accessible. Third, I would work to rebuild confidence through open communication.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
The 2024 revaluation and subsequent valuation disputes have created a trust problem. In one reported case, a contractor programming error affected hundreds of parcels and produced dra-
Lucas County Auditor Katie Moline (D)
Candidate Lucas County Auditor
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I am running because I want to take my experience as an elected official and a CPA to continue serving Lucas County as your Auditor with integrity. As a CPA, I know the value of your tax dollars and I am committed to making sure our funds are used responsibly for the good of the whole county. As I complete my duties in protecting purchases, disbursing school funds, and ensuring fair property values, I want the Auditor’s office to be a model for government transparency.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in
experience and education necessary to fulfill the CFO duties with the utmost professionalism, integrity and knowledge.
city (road, bridge, etc.), how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing?
An involved and educated electorate supports a robust and thriving democracy. Since elected County Auditor, I have consistently met residents where they are to discuss property evaluations, financial impacts of the County, and the Board of Revision application process. Now, I am focused on my 2nd annual Helping with Homestead Tour to ensure eligible property owners apply so they can receive an extra savings on their property tax bill in 2027!
ledo Fire and Rescue Department needs more coverage in this growing area especially as their run volume increases City-wide.
The most critical infrastructure How do you plan to involve resiproject Toledo needs at the moment is dents in the decision making another fire station in West Toledo. Toprocess in our town?
making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
The Lucas County Auditor serves as the CFO of the entire County. I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Having this state-licensed credential demonstrates the accounting and financial
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in the Close Park/Blessed Sacrament neighborhood in West Toledo. I grew up here so my closest family and friends are nearby, along with my beloved Parish Blessed Sacrament, beautiful Close Park, and a vibrant and diverse group of neighbors who care deeply about each other.
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 7
Lucas County Common Pleas Court, Domestic Relations Division
Nedal Adya Candidate Lucas County Domestic Relations Court
Lisa McGowan Candidate Lucas County Domestic Relations Court
What provided you with the motivation / inspiration to run for office?
I have learned from prior judges the knowledge, demeanor and approach to decision making necessary to be an effective judge. The DR Court handles some of life’s most difficult moments for families and I remain committed to applying the law impartially while focusing on the best interest of children and families in the community.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience (please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I have more than 26 years of experience working within the domestic relations court, including more than 11 years serving as a judge. Throughout my career, I have developed a comprehensive understanding of legal and family issues, as well as the administrative and operational responsibilities necessary to effectively manage a court. As Administrative Judge, I am equally committed to ensuring that the Court remains accessible, responsive, and efficient.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
Ultimately, I would ask voters to consider my record of service, my experience, and my commitment to the judiciary. I am proud of the work I have done, and if given the opportunity to continue serving, I will remain committed to providing every person who comes before the Court with a fair hear-
ing and an impartial judge. Lisa D. McGowan was elected judge of Lucas County Domestic Relations Court in 2014. Prior to her election to the bench, she was appointed magistrate in the Domestic Relations Court from January 2012 through December 2014, and staff attorney for Judge David Lewandowski, Lucas County Domestic Relations Court from December 1999 to December 2011. Judge McGowan earned her Bachelor of Arts in Management/ Accounting from Hartwick College in 1989 and her law degree from the University of Toledo, College of Law in 1992. Prior to her service with the Lucas County Domestic Relations Court, she was an Assistant Public Defender, inhouse counsel with Centerior Energy Corporation/Toledo Edison Company, and engaged in the private practice of law with an emphasis on employment law. Judge McGowan was a PastPresident of the Toledo Women’s Bar Association and the Toledo Junior Bar Association and has served on many committees of the Toledo Bar Association. She has served on the Board of the University of Toledo College of Law Alumni Association, Maria Early Learning Center, Josina Lott Foundation, Senior Centers, Inc., and was President of the School Advisory Council of St. Pius X School. Judge McGowan was a Reader for the Ohio Bar Examination under the Ohio Board of Governors, Supreme Court of Ohio from 1997-2020. Judge McGowan lives in Sylvania with her husband, Chris, and their two children.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
My friends, neighbors and colleagues were the driving force behind my decision to run. Divorce Court is never anyone’s first choice, and right now couples and families are dealing with a court that can be run more efficiently and compassionately. I was honored to be encouraged to run, and I’m ready to get things working for more families.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I’ve served as a magistrate for the last 15 years in Juvenile and Probate Courts. Magistrates are to Judges what Physicians Assistants are to Doctors. I’ve been hearing cases and making decisions for Lucas County families for a long time, and there’s a lot of overlap between Juvenile Court and Domestic Relations Court. I’ve been there for families going through their most difficult moments, and I want to continue to do that as your next Judge.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I’ve been through this myself. We all know someone who has gotten a divorce. This is a situation no one plans for, and I think it’s important to have someone on the bench who gets it. Divorce can be challenging for a whole host of reasons, and I don’t think the court should be adding friction to the mix. I want everyone coming through
We are also working with the League of Women Voters of Northwest Ohio to provide further election information to our readers. Please click here to visit their website at Vote411.org
8 | October 2026 |
www.toledocitypaper.com
my court to know that they were seen, heard, and given a fair shake.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
They aren’t exactly hidden, but I truly love our parks system. We are working our way through visiting all the Metroparks in the county. Not to mention the number of City Parks we’re lucky to have. They’re tucked into neighborhoods making them a lot easier to get to when we want to get out for a quick visit.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
I would make our courts more accessible for folks. For working families, it’s difficult to take time off work, not everyone can afford a lawyer, and not everyone has reliable transportation. Court delays compound these problems, and make the whole thing more expensive and exhausting. Increasing our capacity for virtual hearings, transportation assistance, and legal clinics so people are able to make their hearings and feel confident in the process would be a huge improvement I’d love to see for our courts.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
My family and I live in the Deveaux neighborhood. It’s a great neighborhood with working class families, retirees, and children. We love the zoo, the Art Museum, seeing Mud Hens and Walleye games, the Symphony, and Party in the Park. We especially enjoy Jazz in the Park at the Toledo Botanical Gardens during the summer.
Lucas County Probate Court What provided you with the motivation/inspiration to run for office?
Jaimie Agnew Candidate Lucas County Probate Court
I felt a calling to public service— and particularly to the bench—after taking custody of my younger brother during my second year at the University of Toledo. That experience motivated me to attend law school, realizing I could help others facing similar circumstances. I understand the legal process from the personal side. I know how vulnerable it feels to navigate Probate Court, whether dealing with the loss of a loved one, family competency issues, involuntary commitments, adoptions, name changes, or marriage certificates.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I have an expansive legal career spanning 20 years. I began as a Reinberger Scholar in law school and interned at the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office. Upon graduating, I worked at a large corporate law firm before moving into private practice as
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I think Probate Court can be different. Many people come to Probate Court only when they have no other choice, during really difficult moments for them and their families. When a court is serving people at their most vulnerable, it shouldn’t feel confusing, intimidating, or like something that you want to avoid. I believe it’s our job to make Probate clear, accessible, and focused on those people so they can focus on their families.
Tom Puffenberger Candidate Lucas County Probate Court
What is your day job and how will your background and experience (please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I currently serve as an Assistant Lucas County Prosecutor in the Tax Foreclosure Division, where I work to protect the interests of Lucas County residents and ensure property laws are applied fairly. Prior to this, I worked in private practice handling probate matters: estate planning, guardianships, business transactions, and real estate.
a partner and later a solo practitioner. In 2013, I joined the Public Defender’s Office while continuing my private practice in family law, civil litigation, custody, and estate work. In 2018, I was appointed Magistrate in Toledo Municipal Court, presiding over civil and criminal dockets and serving as the 6th District’s Representative for Magistrates for five years. In 2023, I served as a Senior Assistant Attorney General in the Consumer Protection Division. I currently serve as a Supervising Attorney at the Public Defender’s Office.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I am the most qualified candidate for Probate Judge. In addition to my extensive, accredited 20-year legal career, I possess the life experience and personal perspective needed to understand and overcome the complex obstacles facing the individuals who come before the court.
Over my nearly two decades of legal experience, I’ve worked in both public service and private practice, a large part of that was helping families through Probate. Through it all, I’ve focused on treating people with fairness, professionalism, and understanding.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
That I not only bring 20 years of practical experience - including specific work on probate matters - to this extremely important position, but I have a vision to be a judge and to create a court that works better for the people it serves.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
One of my favorite hidden gems in Toledo is the National Museum of the Great Lakes. I think a lot of people who have lived here for years don’t realize how much there is to see. It’s right on the Maumee River and tells the story of how the Great Lakes helped shape Toledo and our community.
Hidden Gem in Toledo:
The downtown library is an absolute gem—not just for the books, but for the events they host for the community and their nifty gift shop!
Resident Involvement in Decision-Making:
In my administrative capacity as Judge of the Probate Court, if elected, I would address residents’ concerns and proposals for improvement through community outreach. I will also work to develop clinics for individuals with limited financial resources who need assistance with simpler legal issues and guidance on implementing the correct course of action in Probate Court.
Neighborhood & Favorite Local Places:
I have lived in the South End of Toledo since moving into my first apartment after undergraduate school. I love to boat and fish on the river, and I enjoy the parks and newly renovated docks. I am also a long-time member of the Toledo Zoo, which I love visiting with my family!
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I’d like to bring updates to our Courts. We have a lot of room to grow in making our courts more accessible to Lucas County residents. Most people only deal with Probate when they can’t avoid it, and I’d like to make it easier to navigate, increase our outreach and education efforts, and show that we can be an asset in planning ahead. When people really understand the process, everything goes smoother. We can do a lot better job at helping people feel confident in their ability to go through the court.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in Ottawa Hills, right off Secor Road. What I love most is the sense of community. There are always people out walking, neighbors stopping to talk, and families spending time together. I love that our neighborhood connects so naturally to Old Orchard and the University of Toledo, and that our kids can walk to school and see their friends along the way.
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 9
Ohio Senate District 11 Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
Paula Hicks-Hudson (D) Candidate Ohio Senate District 11
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
Equitable share of state income tax dollars returned to local public entities. Constitutionally based financial support for public schools. Health and Wellness for all aspects of our community. My entire legislative career has been focusing on these three areas. As a member of the minority caucus, it is difficult to sway the members of the majority on these issues. However, there have been some movements in urban agriculture, improving the water condition in Lake Erie through supporting the H2OH program and fair school funding. Unfortunately, the last operating budget stripped or altered funding formulas for both areas. If I am reelected, I will focus on reallocating and sustaining these programs.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I have been motivated by the idea that the government should work for the people. I was fortunate to work in all levels of government and saw that policies instituted without looking at the ultimate effect on the people are wrong. Also, I have been blessed by this community and I believe that my work in the space is a way of repaying the many good things that our community has to offer. I was taught that service for others is the rent that we pay for living on earth.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I am an attorney. Being one of four lawyers in the Ohio Senate, it is important for someone to speak up about the legal impact that the laws being discussed and ultimately voted on will have on people. As the former Mayor, it is really critical to speak about the many laws being passed that erode local control.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I use my knowledge, experience and skills to examine the work that I do. But the ultimate decision is whether this action will benefit ALL the people that make up the district. Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why? The people are our hidden gem. There are more people willing to help when they see a need. They are not waiting for anyone to give permission. They just do the work.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? I live in the Old West
End Neighborhood. There is a saying that “We come for the houses, but stay because of the neighbors”. That is definitely true for the people in my neighborhood. My favorite place to spend time is really either at the Middlegrounds Park or by the water of Lake Erie or Maumee River.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city? Can all of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city?
Again, there has been improvement in our mass (TARTA) transportation system. But the work continues so that residents can get to all the places that they need and want to go. I will continue to advocate for state funding and support federal funds to assist TARTA as the organization works to meet the needs of people.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
Ken Sharp (L) Ohio Senate District 11
I was asked by the County Party. I have never shrunk from helping where I can. I have been a part, one part, of many local community initiatives and actions. The success of those or not has not been the point as much as trying and helping others.
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
Toledo’s top concerns are the same as the States and the Nations. Balkanization of politics where cooperation and acceptance with those outside political lines is considered on the level of treason. Economic capture that is freezing people into a caste system. The two largest captures being healthcare and housing. The loss of community and unity under common goals of life, liberty and prosperity under rule of law that is equal to all. That does not mean the same goals, dreams or philosophy, but the right to equally pursue as long as we don’t transgress another. I am
10 | October 2026 |
Downtown is healthier than it has been and more than our neighborhoods. There has been a lot of investment in the downtown neighborhood. The issue of creating equality of investment on the east side of the Maumee is still a work in progress. The development through the Metroparks has provided some incentive on the eastside. However, it needs to extend further into the commercial district of Main Street and assist in maintaining the housing stock adjacent to the river.
honest in saying I cannot change those things. As possibly a lone Libertarian, and not necessarily traditional at that, the most I can do is alert my constituents and as many others who will listen, how what the Republicans and Democrats in Columbus are working against solutions, even if they mean well.
www.toledocitypaper.com
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
They likely have not heard of, or about me, as I have raised no money for a campaign intentionally. The few times I have been asked to speak in public I have said, “Keep your money you will need it. Neither Republicans nor Democrats will legislate our way out of the mess they both have brought upon
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
The ability to rebuild houses on current city vacant lots would be helpful to address the issue of housing shortages, etc.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town? I have always listened to my constituents. Whether it is having town hall meetings to inform them or they inform me, I believe it is the best way to provide representation. I will continue to meet with people either in the district or in Columbus.
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.), how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing?
The first question is what and who would benefit from the infrastructure. Is it needed or wanted? What is the cost for the project and what would be the sources for funding the project. Once those questions are answered that would determine the feasibility for the project.
If elected, what three steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
I will continue to push for increasing the local share of the local government fund. I would work with the administration on ways to provide more state funds in a more favorable way such as grants and low interest loans.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
I would use to leverage federal and state dollars for infrastructure projects such fixing our sanitary sewer system. us all. Don’t give money to any politician or party.” Instead I ask that they build community. Make it inclusive.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/ better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
Either/Or questions are almost never good. The key is always to first understand the problem that is trying to be addressed. Then assessing the resources, including people, that can be tasked with trying to tackle the issue. A key in this is looking at what government is doing that holds up or facilitates any response, and asking how those can be rid of or best utilized. Answers come from everywhere and aren’t always just common practice.
Ken Sharp (L) CONTINUED FROM P. 15
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town? If elected, I would inform my constituents, and any others that care to know, what legislation is being considered, how it likely will actually take effect versus how it is sold, and who they can work with to help advance or stop the legislation. I would be very responsive to issues my constituents, and all Ohioans have, and though individual issues may be outside the scope, it may point to more systemic issues that are relevant. I have no Republican opponent, my Democrat opponent is formidable as a former Mayor, current holder of the Senate seat, and ensconced State Democrat, so I am realistic about my chances in this district. I hope mostly that people learn to eschew fear and avoid Party demagoguery.
James Nowak (R)
Candidate Ohio Senate District 11
No response received.
Ohio House District 41 What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
Ericka White (D) Candidate Ohio House District 41
What do you see as the top three concerns for Toledo’s future, and how do you intend or propose to address them?
I see three major concerns: affordability and economic security, strong neighborhoods, and ensuring that opportunity reaches every part of our community. I represent Toledo, Maumee, Springfield Township and Holland. Each community has its own identity, however, all are affected by the cost of housing, utilities, healthcare, childcare and everyday expenses. We need good paying jobs and policies that help working people afford to live in the communities they help build. Economic development is an important part of that. When we create jobs, we also have the opportunity to create community. The goal should be to attract and grow jobs that provide family sustaining wages, benefits and real career pathways so people can build a life here, raise a family here and choose to stay here. Toledo has a strong labor history, and organized labor remains an important part of our economic identity. I am proud of that. Union jobs have helped generations of families build stability and enter the middle class. At the same time, my commitment is broader than any one type of workplace. I support workers, whether they are union members or not, and I want economic development to produce quality jobs where people are respected, fairly compensated and able to build a future. We also need continued investment in housing, roads, public safety, parks, libraries, small businesses and the services that determine whether communities grow or fall behind. Economic development must include existing residents. Local businesses, families and neighborhoods should benefit from new investment. When people can earn a good living, buy or build a home, support neighborhood businesses and raise their families here, we are not simply creating jobs. We are building stronger communities. As a state representative, my role is to bring these priorities to Columbus, fight for our fair share of state resources and make sure our communities have a strong state partner.
What provided you with the motivation or inspiration to run for office?
I did not set out to become a politician. I spent most of my adult life as a worker, union leader and community advocate.
I grew up in Toledo, where I watched my mother help women and families who needed support. I learned that helping people is something you do, not simply something you talk about. My years in the labor movement also taught me that when people do not have a voice at the table, decisions are still made. They are simply made without them. I ran because I wanted working people, families and communities like mine to have someone in government who understood their experiences. I also chose to stay and raise my family here because I believe in this community. This is home. It is a place built on hard work, resilience, connection and looking out for one another. I wanted to continue serving the area that helped shape me.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
Serving as the State Representative for Ohio House District 41 is my full time job and my full time commitment. I represent portions of Toledo as well as Maumee, Springfield Township and Holland, and I take seriously the responsibility of being accessible, present and accountable to the people I serve. Before entering public office, I spent approximately 30 years as a worker and union leader, including serving as vice president and president of Communications Workers of America Local 4319. My work involved wages, benefits, workplace safety and contracts. That experience taught me how to negotiate, listen, organize people around common goals and represent people whose views may not always be the same as mine. My background in health, wellness and community service has also shaped the way I approach public service. All of those experiences come with me to the Statehouse every day. This is not simply a title I hold. Serving the people of District 41 is my job, and it is a responsibility I am fully committed to.
My commitment to working people began long before I ran for office. Before serving in the Statehouse, I was a worker, union leader, mother, wife and community advocate. I understand the challenges of balancing a household budget, worrying about healthcare, advocating for your children and expecting that hard work should provide stability. I also want people to know that this district is not simply a place I represent. It is home. I grew up in Toledo and chose to stay in the Toledo area to raise my family because I believe in what this community stands for. Public office changed where I do some of my work. It did not change who I work for. For me, representation means listening, showing up and doing the work even when there is no camera in the room.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in Springfield Township, and this is home. I grew up in Toledo near Hill and Wenz and chose to stay in the Toledo area to raise my family because I believe in what this community represents. It is an area built on hard work, resilience, connection and looking out for one another. I enjoy our Metroparks, schools, libraries, neighborhood restaurants, small businesses and community spaces. I love the Toledo Museum of Art, the history and culture of South Toledo, Maumee’s historic downtown and the local gathering places throughout Holland and Springfield Township. What I love most is that our area is large enough to offer arts, sports, universities, healthcare, manufacturing and cultural institutions, yet still small enough for people to know their neighbors. There really are no six degrees of separation here. You can go almost anywhere and run into someone you know, or meet someone who knows someone you know. That connection is part of what makes this home, and it is worth protecting.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
It is hard for me to name just one because Toledo has so many places people may drive past every day without realizing just how special they are. UTMC is one of those hidden gems. We have nationally recognized healthcare and medical expertise right here in our community. Sometimes we do not Ericka White (D) CONTINUED ON P. 12
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 11
Ericka White (D) CONTINUED FROM P. 11 fully appreciate the quality of the institutions in our own backyard until we need them. UTMC is caring for patients while also supporting medical education and research in our region. Another is Unruly Arts, tucked inside the Artist Village at Toledo Botanical Garden. It is a wonderful example of what happens when art, inclusion and community come together. Artists with disabilities have a place where their creativity and artistic expression are at the center. I would also include the Sofia Quintero Art and Cultural Center in South Toledo. It celebrates Latino art, culture, food and education while remaining deeply rooted in the surrounding community. Culture there is not simply preserved. It is shared and used to bring people together. And then there is the Toledo Botanical Garden itself, where people can experience nature, public art, working artists and community all in one place. Those are the kinds of places I think of when I hear “hidden gem.” They represent healthcare, culture, inclusion, creativity and community, all right here at home.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
I represent communities with very different downtowns, from the urban core of Downtown Toledo to the historic, walkable downtown of Maumee. Both have real strengths, however, I do not think the health of a downtown should be measured only by what happens during a game, concert, festival or major event. A healthy downtown should have people living, working, shopping, eating and spending time there throughout the week. It needs locally owned businesses, appropriate housing, transportation, safe and walkable public spaces and strong connections to the communities around it. I support bringing vacant and historic buildings back into productive use, supporting local businesses and continuing to create places where people want to spend time. The goal should not be to make every downtown look the same. Each should build on its own identity and serve as an economic and community anchor. For me, a good test is what happens on an ordinary Tuesday. Are the storefronts active? Can businesses thrive? Do people feel comfortable walking around? Are residents using the space? Does it feel like somewhere people belong? That tells us a great deal about the health of a downtown.
What is more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabilitating, expanding or better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
We need both, however, we cannot overlook what we already have. 12 | October 2026 |
Vacant homes, commercial buildings and storefronts can often be rehabilitated and returned to productive use. That can stabilize neighborhoods, preserve community character and create opportunities for homeowners and small businesses. It also creates jobs. When we build a new home or save an existing one, we create work for carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers, laborers, contractors and other skilled trades. We also support suppliers, small businesses and the local economy. That is where housing and economic development really connect. When we create good, family sustaining jobs, people have the ability to buy a home, build a home, repair a home and spend money in the same community where they work. That helps us retain families who are already here and gives new workers a reason to choose the Toledo area as home. That matters when we talk about major employers such as Jeep, our manufacturing economy and the many businesses and suppliers connected to them. We want people to be able to work here and also afford to live here. A strong workforce needs strong neighborhoods and quality housing. When we invest in housing, we are doing more than improving housing stock. We are creating jobs, supporting workers, strengthening local businesses, growing our tax base and helping sustain the employers already investing in this region. My approach is simple: build where we need to build, restore what is worth saving and do not treat demolition as our first answer. When we create jobs, build housing and strengthen neighborhoods together, we are not just developing property. We are building community.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city? Can all of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city?
Transportation is opportunity. If someone cannot reliably get to work, school, a doctor’s appointment, the grocery store or childcare, transportation becomes an economic issue. We have public transportation options in our region, however, accessibility involves much more than the price of a fare. Frequency, hours of operation, reliability and connections matter just as much. Transportation also has to reflect the way people actually live. Someone may live in Toledo, work in Maumee, have a medical appointment somewhere else in Lucas County and have family in Springfield Township or Holland. People’s lives do not stop at municipal boundaries. I want state government to be a stronger partner in public transportation and infrastructure, while continuing to listen directly to the people who rely on those systems, particularly shift
www.toledocitypaper.com
workers, seniors, people with disabilities and daily transit users. A route on a map does not mean much if it does not get someone where they need to be when they need to be there.
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
I would want zoning policies to make it easier to bring vacant properties and underused buildings back into productive use while still protecting neighborhood character. Too often, communities can have housing needs and empty buildings at the same time. We should look at unnecessary barriers to rehabilitation, adaptive reuse and appropriate housing options, including smaller homes, duplexes or other options where they fit the character and infrastructure of a community. The approach will differ among Toledo, Maumee, Springfield Township and Holland because zoning is a local responsibility. As a state legislator, I would not write a local zoning code. My responsibility is to make sure state laws and resources do not unnecessarily stand in the way of communities trying to address housing and redevelopment responsibly.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
Residents should be involved early enough to influence decisions, not after those decisions have already been made. That means neighborhood meetings, roundtables, surveys, office hours and going into communities rather than always expecting people to come to government. It also means listening to people who disagree with you. One principle I try to bring to public service is simple: community investment must include the community. People closest to a problem often understand parts of that problem that government cannot see from behind a desk.
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city, such as a road or bridge, how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing?
I would start with three questions. What problem are we solving? Who benefits? What will this cost taxpayers not only to build, but to maintain twenty or thirty years from now? I would also consider safety, economic impact, neighborhood impact, environmental concerns and whether repairing or improving existing infrastructure could accomplish the same goal. I would want to know whether the project improves connections between people, jobs, businesses and services or creates new barriers. New is not automatically better. Public infrastructure should solve a
real problem, improve people’s lives and provide long term value.
If elected, what three steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
From the state level, I would focus on three things. First, grow the economic base by supporting jobs, small businesses, workforce development and investments that create lasting economic activity. When people earn family sustaining wages, they can buy homes, support local businesses and contribute back to the communities where they live. Second, protect our communities’ fair share of state resources and pursue state and federal funding for infrastructure, housing, public safety and neighborhood development so local taxpayers are not expected to carry every burden alone. Third, emphasize transparency and long term planning. Whenever possible, one time dollars should support one time investments rather than creating permanent expenses without a sustainable source of funding. Fiscal responsibility is not simply about spending less. It is about making sure the dollars we spend produce real value for the people paying the bills.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
I would use it as seed money for community investment, focusing on places where a relatively small investment could unlock much larger improvements. I would work with residents, local officials and community organizations to determine where those dollars could have the greatest measurable impact. That might mean housing rehabilitation, neighborhood storefronts, small business development, community spaces or another locally identified need. I would also look for opportunities where that investment could create jobs while improving the community. Repairing homes, rehabilitating buildings or restoring a commercial corridor can put people to work while creating something that remains in the neighborhood long after the initial investment is spent. One million dollars will not solve every problem. However, strategically invested, it could help stabilize a block, reopen a storefront, repair homes, support entrepreneurs and attract additional private and public investment. I would want that million dollars working more than once.
Ohio House District 41 CONTINUED other. I think at the end of the day, if we boiled it down to the simplest terms, that’s what being in the State Legislature is.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
Ian Chamberlain (R) Candidate Ohio House District 41
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you propose to address them?
I love our city, I love the people that make up our community here in Northwest Ohio. Everyone. My campaign isn’t about a particular group of people, or even people on the same side of the political aisle as me, it’s about all of us, and trying to make life better for us now and for future generations.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
I immediately think of my front porch in the summer. My wife and I will sit out there together and listen to the The three issues I see as most important to Toledo’s future are property- concerts playing at the Zoo. Sometimes tax relief, strong public schools, and safe the neighbors do the same thing and we just hang out and have a good time. neighborhoods.
First, we need meaningful property- Do you think our downtown tax relief. Too many seniors and working areas are healthy and successfamilies are seeing their tax bills rise ful? If not, what would you do faster than their incomes. I support ex- to change that? panding the Homestead Exemption and Downtown Toledo has made real pursuing reforms that help keep people progress, but I don’t think we’ve in the homes and neighborhoods they’ve reached our full potential. Investments invested in for years. in housing, entertainment, the riverSecond, we need to properly fund front, and historic redevelopment have our public schools. Toledo’s future brought new energy downtown, while depends on giving every child a quality vacant buildings and underused comeducation and teachers the resources mercial space show there is still work they need in the classroom. The state to do. needs to carry its fair share so we aren’t As a state representative, I would continually shifting the burden back focus on bringing state resources home onto local property taxpayers. to support infrastructure, brownfield Third, we need safe, strong neighremediation, historic redevelopment, borhoods. Toledo has recently made and the conversion of vacant buildings progress reducing violent crime, and we into productive housing and commershould build on it. cial space. I would also work to make Toledo’s future depends on whether Ohio more competitive for small busifamilies can afford to stay here, whether nesses and employers that can bring our children have opportunities to suc- jobs and year-round activity downtown. ceed, and whether people feel safe in Most importantly, downtown can’t their own neighborhoods. succeed as an island. We need to better connect its growth to surrounding What provided you with the neighborhoods and commercial cormotivation/ inspiration to run ridors so that investment benefits more for office? Toledoans. It’s just wanting to keep families What’s more important for our here in Northwest Ohio. Our populacity right now: building new tion has been declining over the past homes and commercial space 30 years and is projected to continue to or rehabbing/expanding/ do so over the next 25. I don’t think we better utilizing our existing should accept that future. We have to homes and storefronts? fight to keep our families together and I believe our first priority should be grow in a community that we love. making better use of what we already What is your day job and how have. Toledo has beautiful historic will your background and expe- homes, neighborhood storefronts, and rience ( please briefly commercial buildings that have been outline for our readers) assist part of our communities for genera or benefit you in serving Totions. When those properties can be ledo’s citizens? saved and put back intoproductive use, In my day job, I negotiate contracts, we should make that easier and more so I am used to reading legal language, affordable. trying to build partnerships, and workAs a state representative, I would Ian Chamberlain (R) ing to reach an agreeable position for support tools that help homeowners CONTINUED ON P. 14 parties that may disagree with each rehabilitate aging homes, encourage
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 13
redevelopment of vacant and blighted properties, and help small businesses bring empty storefronts back to life. That strengthens existing neighborhoods while protecting the character that makes Toledo unique. There is absolutely a place for new construction, particularly where there is demonstrated demand or where vacant land creates an opportunity for responsible infill development. But growth shouldn’t always mean building something new. Sometimes the best investment we can make is breathing new life into what we already have.
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city? Can all of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city?
We’ve made progress, particularly through TARTA’s awesome growth and continued development, but I don’t believe every Toledoan can yet affordably and reliably get where they need to go. Transportation is about more than getting from Point A to Point B — it’s about access to a job, school, healthcare, and opportunity. I would support continued investment in TARTA while focusing on reliability, frequency, and better connections to major employment centers, particularly for people working second and third shifts. We also need to strengthen options for seniors and residents with disabilities and improve the connections between public transit, sidewalks, bike infrastructure, and our neighborhoods. As a state representative, I would work to bring state and federal transportation resources back to Northwest Ohio and support partnerships between TARTA, local governments, and employers. We should also recognize that most Toledoans still rely on a car. That means maintaining our roads and bridges and keeping transportation costs affordable must remain part of the conversation.
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why?
Toledo has incredible existing housing, historic buildings, and neighborhood commercial corridors. Our zoning code should make it easier to invest in them, preserve their character, and put vacant properties back to work.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
Government works best when residents have a meaningful opportunity to be heard before decisions are made, not after. As a state representative, I would hold regular community office hours and town halls throughout the district, meet with neighborhood organizations and local leaders, and make myself accessible to residents who may never have contacted an elected official before. I would also use my office to clearly communicate what legislation is being considered in Columbus and how it could affect our community. Transparency is equally important. Residents should be able to understand what the government is doing, how their tax dollars are being spent, and why decisions are being made. That’s why I support stronger public-records protections and greater government financial transparency. Most importantly, I intend to show up and not just in election season. Whether someone voted for me or not, they deserve a representative who listens, answers questions, and takes their concerns back to Columbus.
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.), how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing?
I would start with three questions: Do we need it? Will it improve people’s lives or strengthen our economy? And can we afford to maintain it for the long term? I would look at objective measures like traffic and usage, safety concerns, economic impact, the condition of existing infrastructure, and whether repairing or improving what we already have would accomplish the same goal at a lower cost. I would also want meaningful input from the residents and businesses most affected by the project. Finally, we have to consider the full cost, not just what it takes to build something, but what taxpayers will spend maintaining it decades from now. State or federal grant money can help make a project possible, but it doesn’t make a project free. As a state representative, I would advocate for projects that demonstrate a clear public need, provide long-term value, and make responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
As a state representative, I wouldn’t control Toledo’s zoning code, but if I could change one thing, I would make it easier to reuse and rehabilitate existing buildings. Too often, an older storefront, home, or commercial building can face zoning requirements that make redevelopment more complicated or expensive than it needs to be. I would favor a more flexible approach to adaptive reuse, particularly when a property can be brought back into productive use without negatively affecting the surrounding neighborhood. That doesn’t mean eliminating If elected, what three steps reasonable standards or neighborhood would you take to put our city input. It means asking whether our on a firmer financial footing? rules are helping us revitalize vacant I’m running for the Ohio House of properties or unintentionally keeping Representatives, not the Toledo City them vacant. 14 | October 2026 | www.toledocitypaper.com
Council, however, there are things that I could do in Columbus to help put our city on a firmer financial footing. First, fight to bring more of Toledo’s tax dollars back home. Local governments have seen significant reductions in state support over the years, while they’re still expected to provide police, fire, roads, infrastructure, and other essential services. I will fight to bring more of our state tax dollars back home to Toledo and work with the city, county, and regional partners to compete for every available state and federal infrastructure dollar, so local taxpayers aren’t left carrying the entire burden. Second, grow the tax base instead of just raising taxes. Toledo’s long-term financial health depends on having more people working here, more businesses investing here, and more families choosing to stay here. I would focus on manufacturing, the skilled trades, small-business growth, and infrastructure that takes advantage of Toledo’s unique assets. Third, demand accountability for every taxpayer dollar. Before the government asks families for more money, it needs to demonstrate that it’s using the money it already has effectively. I support greater financial transparency, reviewing programs and spending for results, eliminating unnecessary administrative costs, and making it easier for taxpayers to see where their money is going.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why?
Based on conversations that I have recently been having and engaged with, I would use a portion of that grant to save the Toledo ZooTeens and ZooTeens ADaPT programs. The rest of the grant, I would invest directly into Toledo’s neighborhoods by creating a competitive fund to help rehabilitate owner-occupied homes and vacant neighborhood storefronts. Toledo has an incredible stock of older homes and commercial buildings, but maintaining and rehabilitating them can be expensive. I would prioritize projects that address critical repairs, bring vacant properties back into productive use, and leverage additional private investment so that the $1 million goes as far as possible. Helping families remain in their homes, putting vacant storefronts back to work, and preserving Toledo’s existing neighborhoods can create growth that carries us well into the future.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in Harvard Terrace. It’s an old neighborhood right off the Trail, nestled up against the Toledo Zoo. My wife and I love the South End and love our neighborhood. Our favorite places to spend time in town are probably Walbridge Park for the Summer Concert Series, Walleye games, and the Green Lantern.
VOTE NOVEMBER 3, 2026
CONTINUED FROM P. 13
Ohio House District 42
Robert McMahon (R) Candidate Ohio House District 42
How do you feel about the transportation options currently available in our city? Can all of our residents affordably get where they need to go? If not, what will you do to improve transportation in our city? Some citizens still find transportation options difficult.
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
While it may not be possible for all citizens to have every option, the best path forward is to find a way for at least one.
Demographic trends towards a smaller and older regional and statewide population: We must develop policies that promote and encourage families and businesses to relocate to the state and our great city of Toledo, Technological changes: We must have policies that encourage and promote the types of jobs needed for this new technology. If the environment is friendly to those companies, it will also help with the first problem. Strengthening and promoting the education that is needed for the trades will always require an actual person to complete the task. Policies to promote and encourage these education and training positions should also be prioritized.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
A friend of mine, Danny O’Connell past AOH National President, worked with Lt. Governor Jim Tressel years ago and used a quote that has stuck with me in my life. “If it is to be it begins with me.” The GOP asked if anyone would be willing to run for the State House 42 seat and I offered.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I hold BA and MA in Economics from University of Toledo. I am the former owner of the Budapest Restaurant, adjunct instructor of economics at University of Toledo, Lourdes University and Adrian College and currently for the last 10 years am a Director of Liturgy at Immaculate Conception Church and Operations Manager for Nobel Wealth Advisors at Vantage Financial.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
believe that all citizens have a right to their opinion that has been formed over a lifetime of experiences. Each of those has some part of the answer to our problems and our solutions. In economics we learn that everything is a trade off of scarce resources and often not a choice between good and bad. I will make decisions to provide the most benefit to the most citizens.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
The triple “Gem” of Parks, Museums and Zoo that allow Toledoans to share with each other.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
There has been a lot of work done by untold numbers of volunteers and community servants over my lifetime to help people do better in Toledo. There is much work still to be done. Success is not an end goal but a constant “towards”, as some of my golf league friends would say. Every day incremental changes can bring improvement as my friend Dr. Stuart Armstrong would say, “There is no end to better!
If elected, what three steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
Technology is best when creating efficiencies that allow more people to do more. Making sure all of our processes and departments and agencies at every level of government allows more people to have access to the tools needed to improve their lives by being: easy to understand, easy to use and easy to share the information with others. Finding out if there are barriers to businesses starting or relocating to Toledo and Ohio. Bringing down those barriers.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town? I have lived in Historic Bronson Place near Central Catholic HS my entire life. I want to help make Toledo a good place to live for every family. We love the MetroParks, Museums, Downtown Arenas and Markets.
What’s more important for our city
right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts. It is a Both/And but in the context of development, the priority should be to create the environment that has an educated workforce and friendly climate for businesses to use that workforce. If that happens the housing will follow.
If you could change one thing in our zoning code, what would it be and why? Zoning codes are made for the people not people for the zoning codes. The process to change zoning codes and enforcement needs to be more transparent and reasonable: Whether that is creating a new business on a current site, eliminating restrictions distance between facilities or making it easier for citizens to call attention when a negative externality is affecting them. How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town? Create a portal for my office to address concerns and how or who might be the best way to correct them. If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.), how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing? Many things are good ideas but we cannot do all of them. There are always direct cost/benefits of the project itself, but there are additional externalities both positive and negative that may help other areas of concern. Some parties are always affected more than others and it is the job of elected officials to make sure that the losers are compensated if realized. If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? Improving the ease of use and understanding of citizens in government agencies and processes through technology efficiencies. The easier it is to do business whether personal or commercial the faster we can improve.
Elgin Rogers (D) Candidate Ohio House District 42
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I was inspired to run for office because I care deeply about people and was called to serve. My experience working inside of government at varying levels has prepared me for now. I am able to help individuals and families navigate to the complexities of government. Equipped with this knowledge, a vast network and experience has made me an effective public servant able to deliver real support. My motivation is rooted in ensuring that our seniors, our children and future generations have the belief, tools, and opportunity to improve their lives and make a difference in the world. MOST of all it is about taking care of the present – making sure that our neighbors and families are good.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
A hidden gem in Toledo is the walking trails along Joey Brown Park in North Toledo, stretching from Lagrange Street toward the expressway around to Manhattan and Stickney. You can enjoy the scenery while listening to birds that draw visitors from around the world to our region and neighborhood. We are blessed to live in one of the most desired places on earth—sometimes you have to travel the world (outside of your own) to truly appreciate the beauty of Toledo, downtown Toledo, and Northwest Ohio. I am grateful to live here!
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
It is a fact! Downtown Toledo is a growing destination for visitors throughout the region and internationally, especially our neighbors in Canada. From splash pads and Metroparks to Party in the Park, our city offers people real reasons to gather, enjoy themselves, and take pride in where they live. We must keep building on that Elgin Rogers (D) CONTINUED ON P. 16
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 15
Ohio House District 43 CONTINUED FROM P. 15 momentum with the resources, leadership, and vision to support development, entrepreneurs, business owners, residents, and a vibrant nightlife. Every Toledoan should feel welcome, safe, and able to enjoy a night out downtown. It is an amazing time and place to be a Toledoan, and I am grateful to be part of a city with so much promise. Come downtown, I will be happy to share a cup of coffee with you at one of several of my meeting locations.
Michele Grim (D) Candidate Ohio House District 43
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
People who are eligible to vote must know that their calls, emails, townhall attendance, and voices in public meetings truly matter. I will continue to listen, respond, and make sure community concerns are carried into the rooms where decisions are made. Most importantly, I will continue to support and protect every citizen’s right to vote—so that no voice is taken away, abridged, or infringed upon.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I know life isn’t easy right now. I hear it when I talk to parents worried about their children. I hear it from seniors trying to make ends meet, from workers putting in long hours, and from families wondering whether the next generation will have the opportunities they deserve. I hear you. And I haven’t forgotten you. That’s why I answer the phone. That’s why I return your calls. That’s why I show up. Because being your State Representative isn’t about a title— it’s about helping people. I’m working for your family, your neighborhood, and most importantly, our children’s future. This fight is personal to me, because your future matters. Your children matter. And our community matters. I’m listening. I’m working. And I’m fighting for a better future for all of us. I have the receipts to prove it. Four years ago, I shared, and remain committed, to the vision of building bridges, showing compassion, and improving Northwest Ohio and its people. I have delivered in the legislature but am still working to expand upon the work that you all have entrusted me to do - that is to be of fruitful service.
What provided you with the motivation/inspiration to run for office?
I spent years in the public health field working to improve community health outcomes and strengthen access to healthcare, and earned my doctorate in law and policy, focusing on approaching gun violence as a public health crisis. I realized no matter how hard we worked on the ground or how thoughtfully we developed evidence-based solutions, we needed advocates in office who understand issues impacting our communities and have the urgency to fix them.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience (please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s residents?
Currently I am a full-time State Representative but my career has been in the public health field, most of it spent working with nonprofit healthcare agencies to strengthen access to medical care. I apply my public health training as a legislator by attacking problems systemically, and bring direct knowledge of our healthcare system to efforts to expand access to care and lower costs.
Crime and public safety- I am a former prosecutor, endorsed by Toledo Police Patrolman’s Assn and Toledo Police Command Officers Assn. I’ll advocate for tough enforcement and less discretion in sentencing violent offenders. Public corruption- I’ll hold public officials accountable for proper use of tax dollars. I filed a taxpayer lawsuit against Judge Jack Puffenberger for violating the Ohio law that prohibits using public funds to benefit a candidate, party, or issue, when he ran TV commercials in 2026 to boost his son’s name ID. Property tax relief- I support state legislation to limit the increase in property tax bills. My opponent voted against that bill (HB 186, 10-22-25), and also proposed the largest tax increase in Ohio history.(HB 289, intr. 5-20-25)
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I’ve been involved in politics since my mother, Irma Karmol, ran for the legislature in 1974, After she died in a traffic accident in 1979, I took her place in the legislature and was elected on my own in 1980. I’m passionate about serving the community and fighting for efficient services, lower taxes and accountability.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience (please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
What neighborhood do you live in? Why?
I’m an attorney by training and worked most of my life as an advocate. I currently serve as Vice President of the Toledo Lucas County Board of Health, and I work to improve the health and well-being of Toledoans. I’ve been on the board of the Glass City Dog Park, the Toledo Club and the Lucas County Board of Elections, serving my community.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I live in the Lincolnshire neighborhood in West Toledo with my husband Ben. We love the convenient location and the neighborhood’s midcentury modern ranch-style homes.
The Collingwood Arts Center. While its Gothic architecture is visually striking, the true gem is the buzzing, grassroots arts community thriving inside. It serves as a living hub for Toledo creators, offering both artist studios and performance spaces in the heart of the Old West End.
Where are you favorite places to spend time in our town? Our Metroparks! We’re lucky to have them.
16 | October 2026 |
David Karmol (R) Candidate Ohio House District 43
www.toledocitypaper.com
The job of state legislator is critical to your standard of living, both in terms of your taxes, and also the dollars that come back to Toledo. As a Republican, I’ll be able to get more for you from Columbus, because I’ll be in the majority party. And when my party is wrong, including it’s leaders, I will call them out, and vote to represent you, as I do now as a candidate and active member of the community
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
I’ve always believed the Glass City Dog Park is a great asset. I was on the Board shortly after it was established, and by requiring a membership and ensuring that all dogs at the park are vaxed and monitored, we allow the dogs to play leash-free, while owners have peace of mind that they won’t have to deal with aggressive dogs or rabies.
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
Holding events like “Party in the Park” with free entertainment on a regular schedule keeps the downtown vibrant. I love the public-private partnership that enables those events.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/ better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
I think you have to do both, but the city and state can help by providing incentives to re-develop existing buildings and sites that might not be economically feasible without some incentives.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
First, I pledge to respect the voters’ decisions in referendums and State Issue votes, something our current legislature has not done in several instances in recent years. To me, being a representative means actually representing the views of your voters- that’s just common sense, which is sadly not so common anymore.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in Ottawa Hills. I love how walkable it is, and the sense of community. My favorite public space is Wildwood Metropark, where I love to walk my deaf dog, Reno.
Zach Hall (L)
Candidate Ohio House District 43
No response received.
Ohio House District 44 RT
NT
JO
ISM
TOLEDO CITY PAPER
AL
PO
DEPENDE
RN
SUP
L IN
U
LO
CA
INSIDER 2026 MEMBER
David J. Fournier (D) Candidate Ohio House District 44
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
It started at Anthony Wayne school board meetings. Sarah and I began going because we wanted to understand what was happening in our kids’ schools. What we saw was a district being asked to do more with less from Columbus. As we got more involved in the Anthony Wayne community, I learned a lot about how Ohio funds its public schools, and how much of that ends up on all of our property tax bills. What I learned was upsetting. We have three kids, and probably talk politics with them more than we should. But we’ve always told them that if something is broken, don’t wait for someone else to come along and fix it (in their case, that usually means pick up your clutter or clear your dishes, please). I kept chewing on whether I was actually living that myself. So when Dave Blythe, our last candidate for this seat, asked me to run, I said yes. Which, technically, was waiting for someone else to come along, but it didn’t take much prodding to convince me that I needed to at least try.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I’m a lawyer. For about ten years I’ve practiced employee benefits law, mostly union pension and health plans, and also apprenticeship programs. I advise boards of trustees, the people who manage the money that pays for those benefits. Half the trustees are union representatives and half are employer representatives. They don’t always agree, but they have to set aside their own interests and come together for the good of the people in the plan. Some days it feels like a mini legislature. The law expects a lot from trustees. They’re held to what’s called a fiduciary standard. That means avoiding conflicts of interest and managing the money strictly in the interest of the people who earned the benefits. I think the Statehouse should be held to the same standard. Taxpayer dollars are the people’s money. When it’s time to write the next state budget, I’d like to treat them that way.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I grew up in a Republican household, with parents who own small businesses. So I’ve heard, and lived, the values on
that side of the aisle. I’m running as a Democrat, but I don’t think either party has a monopoly on good ideas, and I’m sure neither one has all the bad ones. If a bill helps people in this district, I don’t care whose name is on it or which side of the aisle it came from. Before I vote on something, I’ll talk to the people it affects and do my homework. And whether you agree with where I land or not, I’ll tell you why I landed there. You shouldn’t have to wait for an election to hear from me, either. I’ll be available to the people of this district, and I’ll pick up the phone. If something’s broken and the state has a hand in it, bring it to me.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
I’ll admit Kengo’s Sushi downtown isn’t much of a hidden gem anymore. The secret’s been out for a while. But it’s where Sarah and I go to celebrate. After we brought each of our kids home from the hospital, our first night out was always omakase at Kengo. It has a pretty special place in our hearts.
ships to help pay for police, fire, and roads. About fifteen years ago, Columbus cut it roughly in half and never put it back. Local governments have been making up the difference with levies ever since. Second, I’d make the state pay its full share for schools. Every dollar the state doesn’t pay turns into another levy on your ballot. Third, I’d put real strings on the tax breaks we hand big companies. If a company promises jobs to get a break and doesn’t deliver, we should get the money back. That goes double for data centers, which get big breaks and hire relatively few people once they’re built. We’re already paying the taxes. The question is where the money goes. For too long, Columbus has taken care of whoever has the best lobbyists. I’d like to get back to supporting the local governments that make life better for the people who live and work here.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
We live in Whitehouse. We brought How do you plan to involve resiour second child home during COVID, dents in the decision making and she’d been in daycare for a week process in our town?
To the extent I can, I’ll involve voters before I decide how to vote. Asking for input after the fact isn’t particularly helpful. This campaign has introduced me to a lot of groups that know their piece of Ohio better than I do, like the Toledo Regional Chamber, the Farm Bureau, and the Realtors. I plan to keep leaning on them to educate myself before I vote on anything in their wheelhouse. I’ll do the same with the voters who will feel a budget item or a bill the most. If a change will affect seniors on fixed incomes, parents, or people trying to buy their first house, I’ll ask for their feedback before I vote. And I’ll keep showing up at community events around the district. If you’re dealing with something and want to talk it through, call me. I’ll pick up.
If elected, what three steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
First, I’d restore the Local Government Fund. That’s the money the state shares with cities, villages, and town-
before they shut down. With both of us working from home, two kids under two, and four dogs, we decided we needed more space. This was the first house we didn’t get outbid on. Out here, our favorite spot is La Banda. They’ve been wonderful to our family. They know us and the kids, and it’s where we like to hang out. We also live right near Oak Openings, and we enjoy taking the kids to the park there and out on the trails. My first house was in Toledo, and my favorite haunt back then was Nick & Jimmy’s. Sarah and I got engaged at Mancy’s Italian, so that’s a special spot for us too. And we’ve been Toledo Zoo members for years.
Can you imagine Toledo without the City Paper? We can't either.
Support Local Journalism
Do you think our downtown areas are healthy and successful? If not, what would you do to change that?
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/ better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts?
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 17
Ohio House District 44
Edward L. Schimmel (R) Candidate Ohio House District 44
Lyndsey Stough (I) Candidate Ohio House District 44
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
Jobs, Affordable Housing and Tax Relief. We need to have policies in Ohio that secure good paying jobs for people in Northwest Ohio, and attract more employers here. The State needs to support building more affordable housing for the workforce. People won’t move here to work if there isn’t anywhere for them to live. Finally, real estate taxes are too high in Ohio, and we need further legislation to bring down the tax rates on homes for everyone. The focus needs to be on reducing taxes for retirees and low income people, so that they can stay in their homes.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
In my time as Mayor of the City of Northwood, I have met so many people that are dedicated to making their community better. That has really driven me to want to stay involved with government to make Ohio a better place for all of us to live and work.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens? I am an attorney, Mayor,
and a farmer. These different jobs have provided me with a broad background of professional experiences, and I feel prepared me to represent the 44th District in Columbus. The District to made up of communities that I’m familiar with and have worked in as an attorney, and with their elected officials as the past-chairman of the Lake Erie West Regional Council of Governments.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election? Experience.
I have the experience of nineteen years in local government and twenty three years in the business sector, that will help guide me in representing the 44th District. I know the issues that we’re facing in Ohio, and I’m ready to start addressing those issues on day one.
my childhood at the camp as a boy scout, and have very fond memories of those campouts. My two sons were also in scouts, and I was able to go back to the camp as a scout leader and experience Camp Miakonda as an adult. There are very few places that you can find within such a densely populated area that seem so far off in the wilderness.
What’s more important for our city right now: building new homes and commercial space or rehabbing/expanding/better utilizing our existing homes and storefronts? We need to focus
on fixing the housing and commercial spaces that we currently have. If some structures and beyond repair, then demolition needs to be a priority, and returning the property to green space for redevelopment. The State of Ohio needs to do more funding of these types of projects, and offer additional low interest loans and grants to return commercial, industrial and residential properties to green space for redevelopment.
If someone came to you with a proposal to build a new piece of public infrastructure in our city (road, bridge, etc.), how would you evaluate whether or not that project was worth implementing?
What is the cost, and how will we finance the project? Are there other projects that are a higher priority that will help a greater number of people? Then I would ask for public input on these questions to see how other people felt about the project before making any decisions.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why?
here are your favorite places to spend time in our town? I live in the City of Northwood. I’ve lived in Northwood for most of my life, and I like how I am basically in the middle of the Toledo area, with easy access to the turnpike, I-75 and I-280. My favorite place to spend time at is on my family farm.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why? Camp Miakonda. I spent many days of
18 | October 2026 |
www.toledocitypaper.com
Public Education. Public education is valuable and important, and it needs to be properly funded. Both parties agreed to the Fair School Funding Plan, but the current Budget Bill falls short by $400m, even though it is required by law. In addition, the current version of the voucher system weakens public education. The intention of school vouchers was to give students in struggling schools a chance at a better opportunity, not to discount the cost of private education for higher-income families in successful public school districts. Both of these realities are placing an undue burden on the local level and contribute to higher property taxes. Lower Costs. People are stretched thin and we need to find ways to lower common recurring costs. State budgets have reduced funds returning to local communities, resulting in higher costs in District 44. Supporting the Fair School Funding Plan, restoring the Local Government Fund, and working hard to fund local government capital improvement projects will help reduce financial burdens, lower property taxes, and improve day-to-day life. In addition, since the largest public corruption case in Ohio history in 2019, stricter oversight of anti-corruption and consumer protection is necessary to keep costs down for utilities, groceries, healthcare, and more. Voting Access and Integrity. Voting and elections policy must be fair, accessible, and secure. I support Voter ID and oppose making it harder for eligible citizens to vote. Vote by Mail and ballot drop boxes are long-standing, reliable methods that are both accessible and secure. Open primaries, ranked-choice voting, ending gerrymandering, and maintaining the ballot initiative process should be nonpartisan issues to ensure every vote counts and our government properly represents its citizens. The river-crossing “C” shape of District 44 is evidence that partisan gerrymandering is an ongoing issue in Ohio directly affecting Sylvania, District 44, and Northwest Ohio.
What provided you with the motivation/ inspiration to run for office?
I believe Sylvania, the 44th District, and Northwest Ohio need an independent voice for real progress in Columbus. The two parties are stuck grasping for power while major issues affecting
families go unaddressed and get worse. As an independent who answers directly to the district, I can help break the stalemate, be a voice of reason amid political pandering, and get things done. I am a candidate to give District 44 an independent voice for better government in Ohio, through practical solutions rather than partisan gridlock.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
As a third-generation architect in a small family business and as a Sylvania City Council member, I’ve spent my life building our community, not a political career. During my six years on Sylvania City Council, I have listened to neighbors’ hopes and concerns, continued our high level of service, and shaped the long-term vision for our community. Over my 15+ years in architecture I have designed and managed complex projects for local organizations including The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, TARTA, and Owens Community College by balancing competing needs, tight budgets, and hard deadlines. My background demonstrates I deliver results that will serve our community for decades.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
I am an independent because neither party has ever felt right for me. I don’t want to be told what to do; I want my ears open for neighbors, colleagues, and experts, to understand impacts, consider nuances, then decide for myself. I offer a viable alternative at a time when more and more people are feeling stretched thin, worried about the future, and frustrated by the government that is supposed to represent and serve them. I am not more of the “same old, same old” and an independent becomes a key player in the legislature if Republicans lose supermajority as anticipated. We are more alike than we are different, and we can achieve results on common ground CONTINUED ON P. 24
Ohio Supreme Court with respect and practical solutions. I have seen incredible results when political game-playing and ego are set aside to find solutions, and I want to do the same at the statehouse.
Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the Toledo area, and why?
The Sylvania Historical Village contains a collection of original and replica buildings that showcase key local historic architectural styles from the mid- to late-19th century, including a log home, a stone academy, and Sylvania’s original railroad depot. It has beautiful gardens, outdoor seating, frequent programming, and is a part of Downtown Sylvania’s DORA district. Plus there’s a candy shop next door! I’ve been visiting it since I was little and now love to take extra time while shopping and eating on Main Steet to stop by and play the ukulele, urban sketch, enjoy a beverage with friends, and take in the history of our community.
Judge Marilyn Zayas (D) Candidate Ohio Supreme Court
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo’s future and how do you intend/propose to address them?
Important to Toledo’s future are trust in our courts, public safety, and opportunities for our young people. Our courts must remain independent and impartial. I will decide every case based on the Constitution, the law, and the facts, not politics or outside influence. Strong communities depend on courts that people can trust. Public safety matters to every community. Courts must protect the public while ensuring accountability and fairness. Toledo has developed specialized dockets that address issues such as addiction and mental health. Where appropriate, I would support effective specialized dockets that combine accountability with treatment and help communities address the underlying issues that can contribute to repeat offenses. Young people deserve opportunities to see what is possible for their future. I created my Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders program in 2017 to introduce students to our court system and share my own journey. I have reached more than 2,000 students across Ohio, encouraging them to understand that where they start does not determine where they can go. I want to continue creating opportunities for young people to learn, ask questions, and see themselves as tomorrow’s leaders.
What provided you with the motivation/inspiration to run for office?
I am running for our Ohio Supreme Court because people are losing faith in our courts because of concerns over politics and outside influences. Court must be independent, impartial, and grounded in the Constitution, the law, and the facts. Courts have an important role in our system of government. They must protect constitutional rights and liberties, ensure that the government acts within the law, and provide a fair forum for people to seek justice. Everyone deserves independent and impartial courts where the same law applies to everyone. That is a responsibility I have taken seriously throughout my judicial career, and it is a responsibility I will continue to uphold on our Ohio Supreme Court.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience assist or benefit you in serving Toledo’s citizens?
I currently serve as a judge on the Ohio Court of Appeals, where I have served for nearly a decade. In this role, I have decided more than 2,000 appeal cases and am doing the same fundamental work that I will do as a justice on our Ohio Supreme Court. My record has earned the support and trust of attorneys across the political spectrum. Last year, a Chief Justice from a different political party selected me three times within a 40-day period to serve on the Ohio Supreme Court in place of a recused justice. These experiences reflect the independence and impartiality I would bring to the Supreme Court. I leave politics at the door and put the law first. I decide every case based on the Constitution, the law, and the facts, equally for everyone and free from outside influence. I will bring that same approach to the Ohio Supreme Court. I have accepted zero corporate contributions from energy, banking, or insurance interests because I believe judicial independence matters. I also bring realworld experience. Thirty-eight years ago, I chose Ohio as my home because I wanted to live in a safe, secure, and prosperous state. I grew up in a workingclass family in a neighborhood deeply affected by drugs and crime. I worked as an IT manager at Procter & Gamble, solving complex problems, and spent nearly 20 years as an attorney representing people and businesses. I also built partnerships with law enforcement agencies to help victims of violent crime. Those experiences taught me to listen carefully, understand complex issues, and make decisions based on the law and facts. I would bring that same practical and balanced approach to the Ohio Supreme Court.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote?
My judicial philosophy is simple: I decide every case on the Constitution, the law, and the facts, without any influence from outside interests. That philosophy is rooted in my personal experiences. I
grew up in a tough neighborhood, raised by a mother who had a seventh-grade education, migrated from Puerto Rico, and worked as a factory seamstress. She taught me hard work, perseverance, and integrity. Those values helped take me from growing up in “Drug City, USA” to becoming an elected judge in Ohio as a political outsider. My three brothers also helped to shape who I am. Two became teachers and, for decades, served as leaders in the Boy Scouts of America. My oldest brother, Peter, became a police officer and was severely injured in the line of duty when his cruiser was struck by a drunk driver. Those experiences shaped my commitment to fairness, courage, and public service. As a judge, I will continue to decide every case based solely on the Constitution, the law, and the facts, for everyone, equally.
What neighborhood do you live in? Why? Where are your favorite places to spend time in our town?
I live in downtown Cincinnati, very close to the court where currently I serve. A few years ago, I sold my home and moved into an apartment closer to work. It has given me a simpler lifestyle and more time with my family, while allowing me to focus on my work and my campaign for the Ohio Supreme Court, a court I care deeply about and want to help make even better. I have always loved museums. I grew up in a neighborhood nicknamed “Drug City, USA,” and as a child, my school, libraries, and museums were places where I could learn, dream, and see a world beyond my neighborhood. They became a refuge for me and helped shape my love of learning. One of my favorite places in Toledo is the Toledo Museum of Art. I especially love its extraordinary collection of glass art. I also appreciate its commitment to contemporary and local artists. The museum is more than a beautiful place to visit. It is a place where people of all ages can experience art, learn, and be inspired. Whenever I am in Toledo, I enjoy taking time to experience the museum and the city. Places like the Toledo Museum of Art remind me why access to education, culture, and opportunity matters so much to me.
www.toledocitypaper.com | October 2026 | 19
3 Issue tewide
a Ohio stio n to constitutio
Ohio Attorney General
WE’VE GOT ISSUES John Kulewicz (D) Candidate For Ohio Attorney General
What do you see as the top 3 concerns for Toledo's future and how do you intend/ propose to address them?
(1) Toledo needs a government in Columbus working on its behalf, not just its own; (2) Toledoans need someone willing to fight the corruption plaguing our state; and (3) Toledoans need someone willing to take on the bad actors rigging the economy against them. These are all top priorities for me if elected.
What is your day job and how will your background and experience ( please briefly outline for our readers) assist or benefit you in serving Toledo's citizens?
For over 40 years, I went to work every day as a lawyer. In doing that, I represented some of the toughest clients against some of the toughest opponents in America. In every instance, my clients trusted me to render my independent judgment as to what was in their best interest and then pursue it zealously. I've done it on the highest level for decades, winning cases in the Supreme Court of the United States, Supreme Court of Ohio, and state and federal courts around Ohio. Now, I'm running for Ohio Attorney General to put that experience to work for the people of Ohio.
What do you think is the most important thing you can tell City Paper readers about yourself that will assist them in making a decision concerning casting their vote in the upcoming election?
Tell us about a "hidden gem" in the Toledo area, and why?
As a statewide candidate, I have the benefit of seeing the entire state. The entire city of Toledo is a hidden gem in the midst of a great state. Too often, Ohioans, particularly those in the "Three Cs," lose sight of the rest of our state. On this campaign, I have enjoyed every trip--from visiting our printer in the Old South End to staying overnight in the Burroughs Neighborhood to talking with voters downtown in the Labor Day parade and everything in between. Toledo itself is a hidden gem made up of some of the hardest-working, most industrious people in the nation. They deserve an Ohio Attorney General working just as hard for them in Columbus as they work at home.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision making process in our town?
I intend to make the Ohio Attorney General's office more open and customer-service oriented. When I ran for city council, the essence of my campaigns was to knock on every door on every street and simply ask people, "How are things going from your perspective?" You learn more about how to fix things by listening than by telling.Ohioans everywhere have tremendous ideas about how to fix our issues, but nobody is listening to them. I would change that on day one.
I truly care about tackling corruption and making the economy of Ohio work better for the people of Ohio in every corner of our state. Ohioans everywhere know that things are tough right now. What we are doing is not working, and it is time for a lawyer, not a politician to take the reins in the Attorney General's office. I am ready to provide that aggressive new approach to go after things like consumer fraud, Medicaid provider fraud, nursing home fraud, elder abuse, monopoly pricing, and wage theft that make a real difference in the day-to-day lives of Ohioans.
20 | October 2026 |
www.toledocitypaper.com
e Oh ich seems amends th to vote-wh ID to reo h p is already require s photo ID a the t, s n w a o d ll n a u red . But also w la te a v st ID to ote quired in quire photo re to ds re tu legisla . That soun the future in e te n se . b a tmare like a nigh
Issue 8
Lucas County-wide
additional three mills levy for the Toledo-Lucas County Library. Replaced an expiring levy. Would cost $105 for every $100k of assessed value. Will raise about $34 million over five years to close a $2 million budget gap due to state cuts and restore service hours, among other things.
Issue 13
Lucas County-wide
Issue 16 Toledo
Renewal of a point one seven tion mills levy for Imagination Sta for science center. Would cost $3 e. valu d esse ass of 0k every $10 se the gas of on gall a n tha r ape Che r. ape che days. Much
New quarter per cen t income tax into the general fun d dedicated to neighborhood sa fety, police and fire, and gang dis ruption. Of course, the quarter per cent increase passed deca des ago was for trash-which res idents now pay for directly-and safety forces. Costs are going up.
Issues 17, 18, & 19 Toledo
ndments, breaking out A flurry of proposed charter ame ents which failed a ndm portions of the omnibus ame classification of city to tes rela een few years ago. Sevent ain aspects of Toledo employees. Eighteen aligns cert e the recent change -lik law elections with state election ber to May. Nineteen tem Sep from ary moving Toledo’s prim ndments with the ame charter aligns provisions surrounding n. utio stit con state
Issues 4, 5,
6, 7 & 9 Maumee, Springfield, Sy lvania, Toledo (Everg
reen, quarter percent inc ome tax revewal): 5(Maum new one and one quarte ee, r percent income tax); 6 (Springfield new one-half percent inc ome tax); 7 (Sylvania new one percent income tax and one poi nt seven mills property tax reduction); and 9 (Toledo , additonal six point nine mills pro prty tax): These are all school district iss ues. Evergreen’s renewal failed in August. Toledo passed a three point eight mills lev y in November twenty twenty-four. Syl vania is moving from a property tax to an income tax. Schools across the region face sig nificant budget shortfalls due to under funding from the state and federal