Candidates in municipal elections pen their political views

LAFAYETTE, Ind. -- The Journal & Courier invited candidates in the upcoming municipal election to submit commentaries for publication via a story published Sunday, Oct. 1. The deadline was Oct. 5. The commentaries appear as submitted, with only minimal editing for formatting.

Tony Roswarski, Democratic incumbent candidate for mayor of Lafayette

It is with a deep sense of humility, appreciation, and pride that I write this column. Never did I imagine that a kid from a blue-collar family growing up in the north end would have the opportunities I’ve had to serve the community I call home and love.

I would like to thank my father and mother, Bob & Jane Roswarski. Without their love, discipline, encouragement, and work ethic, I would not be where I am today.

I would like to thank my wife, Tonya, and my kids who have stood by me being a police officer, and then Mayor. Our family never had a normal schedule, but they supported me through it all. My family and Lafayette mean everything to me.

In 2003, when I announced running for Mayor, I campaigned on being open and accessible. I was looking for a job not a position, and I promised that I would work collaboratively to build a vision and implement that together with our citizens. I believe I have kept those promises.

With this vision, and all of us working together, we have made our community better. Our economic growth has been unprecedented. We have helped existing companies grow and brought in new companies creating unparalleled economic success. These efforts have provided a high quality of life by creating opportunities for exciting new jobs and career advancement. To support this, I serve on the board for Greater Lafayette Commerce and as the Regional Chief Elected Official for the Workforce Investment Board, encompassing a 12-county region in Central Indiana.

Working together, we have been recognized statewide and nationally. Forbes magazine ranked Lafayette in the top 10 in the US for best small places for business and careers for five consecutive years.  Smart Asset recognized Greater Lafayette as Best Place for Career Opportunities, number two for Best Places to Work in Manufacturing, and Top Ten in the US for Most Livable Small Cities. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce named Greater Lafayette as the Community of the Year in 2021. Lafayette was ranked in the Top Ten in Real Estate Markets by Realtor.com and the number one Emerging Housing Market in the US by the Wall Street Journal.

Providing outstanding city services and public safety has been a centerpiece of my administration. We fully support and properly fund our police officers, firefighters, and public safety initiatives. We backed up that commitment with our recently completed state-of-the-art public safety center.  Other services are also priority including trash, recycling, large item pickup, tree limbs and leaves, we pick up just about anything.

Our beloved parks are better than ever, and we have significant future plans. In addition, I serve as the President of the Wabash River Enhancement Corporation, a nonprofit organization working to bring recreation and sustainable development to the Wabash River corridor.

In this election experience matters. My experience and unwavering passion for Lafayette coupled with you, will ensure our community continues to move forward. I am asking for your vote on November 7th.

Lauren Ahlersmeyer, Democratic candidate for Lafayette City Council, District 4

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Journal & Courier did not have a photo of Ahlersmeyer at press time.

As a candidate for city council, I maintain a vision for our city that centers on the well-being and prosperity of its residents. City services, amenities, and good-paying jobs are elements that are the cornerstones of a vibrant and thriving community, and they form the foundation of my commitment to your future.

Effective and accessible city services are the lifeblood of any thriving community. They include everything from public safety and healthcare to public transportation and waste management. When these services are efficient and responsive, they improve our quality of life and create a sense of security. I am committed to ensuring that our city's services are not only maintained but enhanced to meet the evolving needs of our residents.

A well-funded and well-staffed police and fire department is essential for our safety. We must invest in community policing and mental health teams to build trust and address the root causes of crime. Additionally, continued backing of community agencies who support those in need, and offer guidance to at-risk populations, is an essential component to a safe city.

A vibrant city is one that offers its residents a wide range of amenities and recreational opportunities. Our parks, cultural institutions, and community centers are not just nice to have; I feel they are essential for our well-being. These spaces foster community bonds, provide opportunities for personal growth, and contribute to our city's overall attractiveness.  Investing in our parks, and supporting local artists and cultural events, allows opportunities for enlightenment and entertainment, both of which increase the quality of life.

A prosperous city is one where residents have access to good-paying jobs that provide financial stability and opportunities for advancement. I strongly support maintaining an environment where our local businesses can thrive, bringing economic growth and job opportunities to our city.

By supporting small businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and attracting new industries, we can keep Lafayette thriving.  Community partnerships, and programs with local schools and colleges, ensure our residents have the skills needed to secure high-paying jobs in emerging fields.

As your councilperson, know that I am filled with pride for our community and its citizens.   Lafayette is a community where city services are responsive and reliable, amenities are abundant and accessible, and good-paying jobs are within reach for all. This election, I humbly ask for your support, and I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve.

Joshia Eller, Libertarian candidate for Lafayette City Council, District 4

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Journal & Courier had not received a photo from Eller at press time.

Community-Based Solutions for Our Community:

In our current political landscape, partisan politics has become the unfortunate status quo. Yet, when we engage with the everyday person, it's clear that what they truly desire is common sense, not party-driven agendas. At the pinnacle of our political hierarchy, we find two figures, one from each side of the aisle, whom the majority of citizens do not want as their president. Astonishingly, these individuals dominate their respective parties, leaving many of us wondering how we reached this point.

But let me make one thing abundantly clear: local politics should be our top priority, even more so than the Governor or the President. There's a significant local issue that looms over us, one that could profoundly impact each and every one of us, and it's high time we address it as a community.

The most pressing matter our community faces today is the pipeline intended to supply water to Lebanon. This situation epitomizes why big government does not serve the best interests of the people. The state aims to levy taxes on citizens all across Indiana to essentially pilfer water from us, all to facilitate a corporation's expansion in a town unable to provide water otherwise.

Mayor Gentry of Lebanon himself has admitted their incapacity to supply water. In such a scenario, the only logical course of action is to deny permission for a company to build there. We can only speculate about the dealings happening behind closed doors, but it doesn't take a genius to figure out the exchanges occurring between corporations and politicians.

This is a textbook example of why government has grown far too large. The consensus among most people is that the intertwining of money and politics yields unfavorable outcomes. The only remedy is to curtail the government's power.

Another pressing issue that has come up during my campaign for city council is affordable housing. A straightforward examination reveals that when the government keeps its hands off or adopts a light-touch approach in an industry, such as software, toys, or televisions, prices tend to decrease. Conversely, when the government intervenes heavily in sectors like hospital care, college tuition, and childcare, prices skyrocket over decades.

Our American free enterprise system isn't perfect, but it has consistently outperformed the government in making everything more affordable. The key to affordable housing lies in incentivizing growth, and how do we achieve that? Lower taxes. Reduced taxes provide the incentive for people to invest in our community, build their homes, and establish their lives here. It's always tempting for the government to raise taxes with the intention of funding well-meaning programs or implementing regulations, but as Thomas Sowell states  in his book Basic Economics, rent control has consistently yielded the same result throughout history—it raises rent and diminishes supply.

My commitment is to offer community-driven solutions, not government-imposed ones. Whatever challenges we cannot collectively overcome, we must demand accountability from our government for the services they provide. If elected, I pledge to be the voice that holds our government responsible for serving the people's interests.

James Blanco, Democratic incumbent candidate for West Lafayette City Council, At Large

I’m James Blanco, and I’m proud to have served you as a member of the West Lafayette City Council these past four years. For much of my term, we have faced unprecedented challenges as a community, including a global pandemic and the recovery from it. We faced these challenges as a community.

Now we face the challenges of a housing shortage and the LEAP Project that would siphon off millions of gallons of our most precious natural resource, our water. I don’t claim to know the definitive answers to these questions, but I have some ideas. On the issue of housing, I authored Resolution 6-2023, which serves to push Purdue and the city to get to work in consultation with each other to address our growing shortage, and I support zoning reform allowing for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in certain neighborhoods, as well as increased housing density near Purdue's campus.

As for the LEAP Project, I cosponsored Resolution 22-2023 with my colleague David Sanders, which declares our community's strong opposition to the project. The LEAP Project has been shrouded in secrecy and would tap vast quantities of water from our aquifer every single day. The state lacks basic protections for our water rights, and doesn't even have a water management agency, so in these circumstances I can't support a project with so much risk. I have yet to hear of any real benefits the project would bring to Tippecanoe County.

Nevertheless, the resolutions I've sponsored are only steps in addressing our community's challenges. In addition to the legislative work, I will be active and visible in the community to hear out your concerns and your thoughts on these issues. You won’t have to attend a council meeting to see me and talk with me. I aim to represent many whose voices have been ignored by government, especially working people and renters, and I ask for your vote to continue the critical work on behalf of our community.

David Sanders, incumbent Democratic candidate for West Lafayette City Council, At Large

I’m David Sanders, candidate for West Lafayette City Council—At Large.  If you are a registered voter in West Lafayette, there’s a good chance that you have met me.  Perhaps you would recognize me by the hats I wear.

I’m an Associate Professor of Biological Sciences at Purdue University. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Yale College in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry and my Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. I have lived in West Lafayette for more than 28 years. I joined the Markey Center for Structural Biology at Purdue University in 1995 and am the author of two U.S. patents on novel gene-therapy delivery techniques. My work on the Ebola virus led to my participation in the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency's Biological Weapons Proliferation Prevention Program, a product of the Nunn-Lugar legislation. I am a National Science Foundation CAREER Award recipient and an American Cancer Society Research Scholar.

My three sons all attended the West Lafayette public schools and I am a firm supporter of public education.

Having served as West Lafayette City Councilor since 2016, I am recognized for safeguarding taxpayer money and opposing government invasion of privacy and have championed local control of government functions.  I personally answer every message sent by constituents and hold monthly Meet Your Councilor meetings with them.

Housing is a critical issue in West Lafayette.  I support enhanced enforcement of rental-housing standards and empowering neighbors to oppose the conversion of housing to transient-rental properties. 

Most recently, I have been leading the opposition to the pipeline project, which is designed to remove tens of millions of gallons of water from the Wabash/Teays River aquifer and transfer it for industrial use in the LEAP district in Boone County.  It is a good illustration of how I engage in public service.  I solicited input from the community.  It was evident that opposition covered the entire political spectrum—this is true of many of the positions for which I have advocated.  I was supplied with many suggestions and documents and conducted extensive research using my skills a scientist.  I authored a resolution declaring the opposition of the West Lafayette City Council to the pipeline focusing on the lack of foresight in the project, its secrecy, and the harmful effects on Tippecanoe County.  I found a cosponsor for the resolution and discussed it extensively with Mayor John Dennis and future Mayor Erin Easter with both of whom I consult on a regular basis.  A citizen at our City Council made a good suggestion for an amendment to the resolution, and I moved that we adopt it.   The amended resolution was passed unanimously.

You can learn more about my positions on the issues at davidsandersforindiana.com.  You can also write directly to me from that website.

The choice in this election comes to this.  I possess the qualities of experience, a willingness to work hard, accessibility, responsiveness, public service, forthrightness, career accomplishment, dedication to my family, and contributing to my community.

I’m David Sanders, and I ask for your vote in the election for West Lafayette City Council—At Large.

NOTE: The association of David Sanders with Purdue University is included for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement by Purdue University or any of its administrative units.

Brian Russell, Republican candidate for West Lafayette City Council, At Large

As a lifelong resident of West Lafayette, I am deeply invested in the future of our community. I was born and raised here, attended Harrison High School, and pursued higher education at Purdue University. After spending a decade on the West Coast, I returned with my family to be a part of my mother's real estate company, now known as @properties – The Russell Company. Additionally, my partners and I own and operate Brokerage Brewing Company here in West Lafayette. I'm not just a resident; I'm a stakeholder in the success and growth of this city.

In this letter, I want to highlight three key focus areas that I believe are crucial for the continued prosperity of West Lafayette.

Back to Basics: Let's focus on what truly matters - our infrastructure and public services. Our streets and sewers, parks, and public safety are the backbone of our community. While discussions about trendy issues like Tide pods and plastic straws may capture attention, our priority should always be the fundamental aspects that ensure our city runs smoothly. Let's invest in maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure to make West Lafayette a safer and more attractive place to live.

Smart Growth: We must be proactive in addressing housing, zoning, and business development. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our community. To accommodate our growing population and changing needs, we need a clear vision and comprehensive plans for responsible growth. Smart zoning policies, for example, can encourage businesses to invest here, create jobs, and contribute to the economic well-being of our city.

Support Innovation: Companies like Saab, Rolls Royce, and SEL are essential for the sustained prosperity of West Lafayette. These innovative organizations not only provide jobs but also contribute to the advancement of technology and research in our region. To ensure their continued presence and growth, we must actively attract and encourage such companies to invest in our city. By offering incentives and a business-friendly environment, we can solidify our status as a hub for innovation.

In addition to these focus areas, I'd like to emphasize the importance of community engagement. Our city's strength lies in the involvement of its residents. I encourage all West Lafayette citizens to actively participate in local government and voice their concerns and ideas. Together, we can work towards a better, more vibrant, and sustainable future for our beloved city.

My love for West Lafayette runs deep, and my commitment to its growth and well-being is unwavering. By going back to basics, pursuing smart growth, and supporting innovation, we can build a brighter future for West Lafayette and ensure that it remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.

Iris O’Donnell Bellisario, Democratic candidate for West Lafayette City Council, At Large

It's an honor to be a candidate for the West Lafayette City Council, and I am committed to addressing these challenges with the same determination and empathy that has defined my career in public service. To tackle our housing issue, I propose a comprehensive approach. We need to work hand in hand with local developers, nonprofits, and community organizations to increase the supply of affordable housing. We should explore innovative solutions, such as mixed-income housing developments, to ensure that as our city grows, it remains inclusive. We can explore partnering with Purdue University to create a long term housing strategy that takes into consideration potential student enrollment growth. We must also review zoning regulations and promote smart urban planning to make housing more accessible without compromising the unique character of our neighborhoods.

Now, let's shift our focus to the vital issue of water supply and safety. Water is the lifeblood of our community, and ensuring a clean, reliable, and safe supply is non-negotiable. We've seen the consequences of water crises in other parts of the country, and we cannot afford to be complacent.

In all of these endeavors, we must prioritize transparency and community engagement. I believe in an open and inclusive approach to governance. We need to hear your voices, your concerns, and your ideas because it's together that we will find the best solutions to these challenges. West Lafayette, our community is strong, resilient, and full of potential. By addressing the issues of housing and water supply and safety head-on, we can ensure that our city remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I ask for your trust and your vote, and together, we will build a brighter future for West Lafayette, one that is inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous for all. Thank you, and may we continue to work together for a stronger, safer, and evermore vibrant West Lafayette.

Patrick Flannelly, Republican candidate for West Lafayette City Council, At Large

In 2022, after twenty-seven years in policing, I retired from the Lafayette Police Department, where I served as the Chief of Police for the last ten years. Public service has always been my calling, beginning with my enlistment in the United States Air Force after high school. Following four years of active duty, I returned to West Lafayette to attend Purdue University, supported by the G.I. Bill, and a job at Harry's Chocolate Shop, where I truly embraced the Boilermaker spirit.

My journey in public service continued in 1995 when I started my career in policing. I've been fortunate to work in a community with exceptional leadership across all government sectors. I had the privilege of working directly with two future mayors, and it's valuable to me that Mayor John Dennis is now my campaign committee chair and has endorsed my run for City Council. Both Mayor Dennis and Mayor Roswarski, in their respective roles, exemplify demanding leadership driven by their care for our community's well-being. They have mentored me in public safety challenges, supported my involvement in local community boards, and provided helpful guidance to enhance my leadership impact.

As Chief of Police, I actively engaged in staff meetings with exceptional department heads, contributing to our city's comprehensive planning and management for a decade. I learned through observation and hands-on experience that the greatness of a city government lies in the often-overlooked details and thoughtful collaboration.

These experiences have shaped my dedication to public service and my commitment to positively impacting our community. My background and understanding of effective governance, leadership, and collaboration equip me to strongly advocate for West Lafayette as a City Council at Large member.

A few notable highlights from my career include continual leadership learning at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government - State & Local Leaders Program and Northwestern University's School of Police Staff and Command. I have traveled to Washington DC, testifying before the U.S. Congress and Senate, where we successfully advocated for the reauthorization of the Juvenile Justice Delinquency Protection Act. I represented the Indiana Chief's Association at the Indiana Statehouse, serving as the legislative committee chair. In 2020, I was appointed by Governor Holcomb to serve on the Law Enforcement Training Board, a state board that oversees the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

I am humbled and grateful for the support I've received thus far, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community in a new capacity. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving West Lafayette for all its residents. Your vote will allow me to bring my dedication and experience to the City Council and work towards continued success for our community.

Aaron Abell, Republican candidate for West Lafayette City Council, District 1

Urbanism on the Wabash:

When I speak to residents of downtown West Lafayette, I hear two concerns most often: preserving the environment and combating housing costs. While those two issues may seem separate, I believe that modern principles of urbanism will go a long way towards solving both.

Our city stands in an enviable position. We host a world-class university, a nationally renowned public school system, and a thriving economic situation boosted by recent arrivals like Saab and the Rolls-Royce expansion. Yet for all of its virtues, I don’t think it’s a stretch to say one thing we lack is a true “Downtown” experience. As development continues on Chauncey Hill and the Wabash riverfront, we need city leaders who have the vision and urbanist principles to make it somewhere truly special.

A smart, modern, urbanist approach will transform District 1 and Greater Lafayette as a whole into the envy of the region. With the widespread use of dense, mixed-use development of a variety of types, we’ll be able to provide unmatched ease of shopping and dining while still allowing for enough housing to provide for our growing population. This will help with emissions by reducing the need for unnecessary car trips. Additionally, density reins in the need for environment-destroying sprawl. Furthermore, high-volume population centers make extra public transit options economically viable by virtue of having more riders and places of interest nearby. On top of being climate-friendly, public transit offsets growth-driven increases to traffic congestion by being more space-efficient.

More intuitively, this development will help make the cost of living more affordable. After all, this will result in a massive expansion in the supply of available housing. But beyond that, the Council needs to work with the Area Planning Commission and developers to build more options than just high-rise luxury apartments. We need more multiplexes, townhomes, low- and mid-rises, and other such options. These will enable everyone, from students to new families and recent graduates, to find places to live that fit their needs in an affordable way.

Building an urban downtown will provide other benefits as well. For one, the high population, car-free transportation options, number of walkable businesses, and location will aid in providing the area with a real sense of “place.” That is, somewhere that people would want to travel to experience—somewhere truly special. On another note, the new places of business will bring wealth to West Lafayette and foster local entrepreneurship, especially with the ingenuity of tens of thousands of Purdue students right up the road.

In the end, I envision Downtown West Lafayette growing into so much more than just glorified off-campus housing. I dream of a thriving, sustainable, and robust District where people come from all over the world to learn, raise a family, and enjoy life on the banks of the Wabash.

James Waters, Republican candidate for West Lafayette City Council, District 5

Hello and thank you for the opportunity.

A. Fisrt, I am a service connected disabled vetran, after the Corps, I hired on the Postal Service in Lafayette, IN in 1982. In total I served Tippecanoe for 28 1/2 years. I also went to Purdue for a year before the Postal Service.

The issues I see facing West Lafayette today is :

B.  Affordable Housing, for both Purdue students as well as for young people needing a nice little place to call home. Also for those whom wish to downsize. Say the children have all moved out and they would like something smaller and less to take care of.

C. The experience  I bring to the Council is simple. For one my many years both in the Marines and my long service with the Postal Service is a contribution to any council. I was also a Union Steward for over twenty years and a fill in as needed acting supervisor for six years. That brings experience and understanding for both sides and the ability to work great with others. As a former Marine I will not be intimidated and as a father I have the ability to listen and work through issues. I will also be looking at what it costs.

Jeff Brown, Republican incumbent candidate for West Lafayette City Council, District 6

Dr. Jeff Brown is a highly accomplished physician and healthcare leader with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Dr. Brown's educational journey began at Indiana University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology in 1976, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. He furthered his education at the Indiana University School of Medicine, earning his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in May 1980. Prior to his medical studies, he pursued coursework at Purdue University from 1972 to 1973, receiving Phi Eta Sigma honors.

Following his medical education, Dr. Brown embarked on postgraduate training, including an Internal Medicine Residency at Ball Memorial Hospital. He excelled during this time, becoming Chief Resident in Internal Medicine at the same institution. Dr. Brown's dedication to his field is highlighted by his Board Certification in Internal Medicine and his medical licensure in the State of Indiana.

Dr. Brown's extensive employment history reflects his commitment to healthcare, medical education, and service to others. His career encompassed multiple inpatient and outpatient clinical roles while his administrative positions included Division Director of Adult Inpatient Medicine and Chief Medical Officer at Indiana University Health Arnett.

Throughout his career, Dr. Brown was deeply involved in professional organizations and served on numerous boards. He was an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Lafayette Center for Medical Education, Indiana University School of Medicine, from 1996 to 2018. Notably, he served as President and CEO of the Arnett Clinic for over eight years and was President of Arnett Health Plans. He was also a member of several boards, including the Indiana Hospital & Health Association and the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of North Central Health Services (NCHS).

Dr. Brown takes pride in his role as father to a 15-year-old daughter. He also remains actively engaged in community service, currently serving as a West Lafayette City Councilman as well as Secretary, Board of Directors of the Blackbird Farms HOA. Dr. Brown is an avid sports enthusiast who greatly enjoys various activities, including bicycling, tennis, golf, and softball. This active lifestyle reflects his commitment to maintaining a healthy, balanced, and full life.

Dr. Brown has a passion for gardening, particularly tending to his roses and dahlias. This interest in gardening showcases his appreciation for nature and his ability to nurture beauty and growth.

In summary, Dr. Jeff Brown is a multifaceted individual who excels not only in his medical career and leadership roles but also as a devoted community member, father, sports enthusiast, and gardener. His dedication to both his profession and personal life demonstrates his well-rounded and admirable character.

Jen Mango, independent candidate for Dayton Town Council, At Large

The year was 2011 and my husband and I had been married for a couple of years and we were pregnant with our first child. We were looking to buy a house and had narrowed down our priority list. We wanted to stay in Tippecanoe County and really loved small-town living. Dayton is an attractive place to raise a family! We found a house to buy and when we moved, we knew right away that Dayton was our home.

Fast forward a few years and add another child to the mix and I started to become more active in what was happening in our community. I began attending council meetings and started to really pay attention to the decisions that were being made by our Town Council.

At this point in the story we are looking at 2019. My husband and I have a 3^rd child now. I am enjoying my roles as wife, mother, and teacher to my school aged children but I knew I needed to do more. I wanted my children to have the best and safest little town to grow up in. I ran for council and won!

January 2020 seems both like a lifetime ago and also so recent. While serving on our council I helped to abolish our confusing wards system to allow residents to vote for all 5 seats on the council. Our council had a study done to see if there was any way to lower utility bills for residents. Thankfully, we were able to lower our water rates! We budgeted and spent taxpayer money responsibly. Our bank account has grown over 75% while I have been in office. That doesn’t happen on accident! We are committed to fiscal responsibility. We applied for and received a $50,000 OCRA Grant to prepare a Comprehensive Plan for Dayton. With that plan in place, we now have a vision of what the community wants and a roadmap of how to get there. Our council has also strived to achieve full transparency. Our town website is always kept up to date not only with important information but also multiple ways to contact Dayton elected officials.

Sometimes while doing what’s best for the town and it’s residents you have to stand up to bigger and more powerful entities. This council is no stranger to that. We will not roll over and be a doormat for anyone just because we are small town Dayton. We hear you, Dayton. We will continue to work to make Dayton exactly what you want it while maintaining our small town character.

Jen Manago, Ron Koehler, Marc Buhrmester, and Carla Snodgrass have proven their loyalty to Dayton and doing what is best for Dayton. Vickie Beavers will be new to the council but she certainly isn’t new to the happenings of Dayton! This council and current clerk-treasurer, Bridget Cadwallader, work extremely well together and we would all appreciate your Vote on November 7^th and truly look forward to continuing to serve our community.

Leah Copas, independent incumbent candidate for Dayton Town Council, At Large

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Journal & Courier did not have an individual photo of Leah Copas at press time.

My name is Leah Copas, and I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for the Dayton Town Council in 2023. I want to express my deep gratitude for the incredible support I've received from this community. Rest assured, I am fully committed to supporting you in return.Let's delve into some of the pressing matters I intend to address. First and foremost, I aim to create a user-friendly web page to provide easy access to vital town information, including meeting schedules and multiple contact options to reach out to me directly.One issue of concern is the broken promises . I pledge to investigate this matter thoroughly and work towards finding a more equitable solution.Additionally, I plan to tackle the problem of vacant houses in our town, exploring ways to revitalize them or, at the very least, clean up these properties.But the list of necessary changes in Dayton is extensive. We must come together as a united team, fostering positive relationships with neighboring communities like Lafayette. Currently, it seems we are not on their good side, and that needs to change. My goal is to help Dayton grow and prosper while maintaining its status as a safe, strong, and happy small community.In terms of personal growth and community development, I aim to provide more activities and learning opportunities for our kids, especially during their time outside of school. I also envision the creation of a dog park, emphasizing the importance of responsible pet ownership through spaying and neutering programs. Moreover, I plan to establish bike trails, offering families an enjoyable way to spend time together while staying active.In closing, I want Dayton to thrive and remain a close-knit, safe, and joyful community. Together, we can make it happen.

Ron Koehler, independent incumbent candidate for Dayton Town Council, At Large

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Journal & Courier did not have an individual photo of Ron Koehler at press time.

My name is Ron Koehler and I’m an incumbent candidate for Dayton Town Council. I have served the Town of Dayton for 20 years; twelve as the Clerk-Treasurer and eight as a member of the Town Council. As a long-time observer of our local government and community volunteer, I was asked to run for Clerk-Treasurer in 2003. I ran for Town Council in 2015 to try to bring a government more open, transparent, and responsive to the citizens of the town. I ask for your vote now for myself and your other hometown folks, the “Dayton, Indiana Candidates 2023” (see Facebook page). We will continue to preserve, improve, and protect our town.

I moved to Dayton as a newlywed in May 1974. My wife, Cindy Marsh, and I raised our family here. As antique dealers, we visited many historic small towns and brought ideas and inspiration back to our own hometown. The Community Christmas Tree, American Flags, and Christmas Banners are just a few of the ideas that have been implemented. For nearly 50 years I have been working to make our small town even more special.

As an elected official, I have continued being a community volunteer, and have always stepped in whenever the town needed something. You might have seen me landscaping town hall, plowing snow, shutting off a water pit after a midnight break, and any number of different tasks. As president of Dayton Utilities, my phone number is posted on the Town Hall window and the town website.

I know the Clerk-Treasurer job, the Council Member job, and the Utility board job. I am committed to learning from any new situation that arises, and above all, I am committed to fiscal responsibility. I am especially proud that we have increased our bank balance by over $1.5 million in the last four years.

My current council partners and I have several signature accomplishments. Thanks to grant funding, we have completed the 2035 Distinctly Dayton Comprehensive Plan, we have requested and received grants of over a million dollars for Dayton Street projects, have initiated community events like the Spirit of Dayton, the Hometown Pumpkin Patch, and the Santa Visits Dayton event. Grants have funded the aesthetic improvements, such as the streetlights, decorative benches, and awnings on Town Hall. Stay tuned for more improvements to come.

The other “Dayton, Indiana Candidates” and I are established Dayton residents who are dedicated and committed to the town. We all are regular volunteers at community events and work hard to ensure our children and grandchildren will have a safe, quiet town to raise their own families. We want the town to grow in ways to enhance and compliment the town, not destroy it.

Please vote for your Hometown folks: Vote Ron Koehler, Vickie Beaver, Marc Buhrmester, Jen Manago, and Carla Snodgrass for Town Council. Show your support for Bridget Cadwallader for Clerk-Treasurer by voting for her too.

We are established Dayton residents who are proud to serve. We appreciate your vote!

Joy Tischer, independent candidate for Dayton Town Council, At Large

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Journal & Courier did not have an individual photo of Joy Tischer at press time.

Dear Dayton neighbors,As I step into the race for Dayton Town Council, I want to share my positive vision for our community. I came here from Lafayette just a year ago, and the town's small-town charm captured my heart. Now, I'm eager to contribute to Dayton's growth and prosperity.Our town is a gem, but I see opportunities for improvement. I dream of a Dayton with more businesses, activities, and events for residents of all ages. Let's come together to make our town an even more vibrant and dynamic place to live.One of my key initiatives is the creation of a scenic bike and walking trail. Picture a peaceful path where families can connect with nature and each other. I also believe in the power of live events, from local bands to lively festivals, to bring joy and excitement to Dayton.Building a pet-friendly community is important to a lot of us. Responsible pet ownership and a warm welcome for furry friends can enrich our lives.I'm running to ensure your voices are heard, and I'm committed to making Dayton more inclusive and vibrant, with an open-door policy for all residents.We won't govern by crisis, but rather, we'll meet regularly to address concerns and celebrate successes. I pledge to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where your voices are heard without harassment or criticism.Cooperation with neighboring communities, particularly Lafayette, is crucial. We won't isolate ourselves; instead, we'll seek to build stronger relationships and foster mutual support.Parks and trails are valuable assets, and I’ll work to create them. Fair enforcement of rules for rental homes will help maintain properties in good condition, ensuring our community remains beautiful.I invite you to join me on this journey toward a brighter Dayton. Together, we can create a town that thrives, listens, and welcomes all. Let's make Dayton a place we're proud to call home.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Candidates in municipal elections pen their political views