Dayton Daily News

The regional financial crisis impacts Jefferson Township's ability to secure funding from other levels of government. With the financial woes citizens are reluctant to support much needed levies. Troubles at any level of regional government go hand-in-hand with local challenges. focus must shift from spending to saving and from revenues to reassessment (and not just the property tax variety). A new day brings with it the need for a new way of doing business.

Jefferson Township has been affected, as most communities, by this economic downturn. We have seen the increase in foreclosures as well as higher unemployment numbers. I think Trustees should endeavor to position the Township for future growth. Infrastructure improvements are the most important issue at the present time. With this improvement, the Township is more attractive for future business development. Mr. Sims' valuable leadership experience makes him most suitable to get the job done.

I will continue working to create an environment conducive to economic development. We will achieve this by developing comprehensive land use plans and adequate zoning enforcement. Will focus on long range strategic planing to improve and maintain the infrastructure (water, sanitary sewer, and roads) to support existing and future growth. This will allow the growth necessary to provide an adequate base to support services. Planning must consider citizens in both rural and urban areas.

As JT’s Trustee, completing and implementing the strategic plan for Jefferson Township offers a clear path to overcoming economic woes in our community, region. This plan will be a roadmap for progress on needed health and safety projects, planned and suitable economic development, while increasing jobs in Jefferson Township. Our definitive plan will attract available stimulus money for specific, logical, and shovel-ready projects. I will communicate effectively with residents and collaborate with other governmental/private entities to benefit JT.

Jefferson Township (JT) is a community with rural and urban characteristics facing job loss and foreclosures. Trustees should listen and be responsive to citizens' concerns, review the tax structure; cut unnecessary spending; update infrastructure to attract businesses; decrease foreclosures through educaton; ensure a percentage of jobs are held by JT residents; and publicize existing JT businesses for residents to patronize. If elected, I am prepared to implement these changes that JT needs to thrive.