Below are the questions The Clermont Sun asked candidates running for office on the Nov. 7 ballot.
For this election, candidates running for an uncontested seat/position were told that they need not respond.
The Clermont Sun utilized the email addresses on file with the Clermont County Board of Elections. Additionally, an announcement to receive the Candidate Questionaire was posted on The Clermont Sun’s social media websites. Some candidates did not respond to the Candidate Questionnaire email that was distributed and they did not respond to the announcement. If you are a candidate, and you did not receive a questionnaire from The Clermont Sun, please send a request for one to info@www.clermontsun.com.
We asked each candidate four questions:
- Where do you specifically live (meaning, which village, township or city), and please include a short bio of who you are and your prior experience.
- Why are you running for this office?
- What is your platform?
- Where can voters go to learn more about your candidacy?
The only condition we placed upon their responses was to limit their total response to 200 words. We’ve also done light editing for grammar and style reasons. Otherwise, the responses remain as submitted to us.
As a reminder, the responses are grouped along with any other candidates running for that same local office.
Batavia Village Mayor
John Thebout
1. Lived in the Village of Batavia since 1970. Veteran – Air Force/Vietnam Era. Married (Marilyn) and 2 daughters (who live in Village). Attended Southern Ohio College & UC Clermont
Retired from Siemens in Norwood. Presently serving as Mayor – Past President of the Ohio Mayor’s Assoc (2022).
2. When first elected Mayor, the Village was in a FINANCIAL CRISIS. I worked to grow the Village and expand our financial base to the point where we were able to revitalize Main Street and make the Village of Batavia a place where people want to open their business (like Baxla Tractor, Towne Properties and CrossCountry Mortgage)….and raise their family, but we still have work to do!
3. I will work to continue the positive growth of the Village of Batavia to be able to maintain a strong financial base. I will continue to work with the County to maintain our quality supply of water. Upgrading of our streets as well as road equipment is a major priority. I will continue to upgrade our Police Department so Batavia remains a safe place to live. And, I will continue to work FULL TIME as your Mayor with an Open Door Policy if Re-Elected.
4. Feel free to contact me (513) 325-1025 or Jthebout@yahoo.com
Williamsburg Village Mayor
Tim Wood
1. Live in the Village of Williamsburg. Have been a business owner in Williamsburg for 35+ years. Currently serving second term on the Williamsburg Village Council and served one term as Vice Mayor.
2. To bring more transparency and fiscal responsibility to the Mayor’s office
3. Encourage community involvement, drive business and community growth with the residents’ goals and vision in mind, strengthen the community foundation
4. FB page: Tim Wood for Mayor of Williamsburg
Moscow Village Council
Julie Hawkins
1. I live in the Village of Moscow. I grew up in New Richmond and attended the New Richmond School District. Am from a family of six children and had two wonderful parents. I have two sons. Worked in Radio and Advertising my entire career. For 30 years have been with St. Gregory Group and recently became one of the owners.
2. I moved to Moscow a little over two years ago. Its a great place to live and would like it to remain a village and flourish.
3. Work with the mayor, administrator and council to keep the village finacially stable. Encourage growth with new construction and see the village flourish. It’s a fabulous community and great people who are like family.
4. n/a
Franklin Township Trustee
Greg Hensley
1. Live on my small farm on Franklin Rd Felicity Ohio Franklin Twp. I retired from the Clermont & Brown County Sheriffs office were i was a Deputy Sheriff for 30 years I also worked for Franklin Township as both head of maintenance and Zoning administrator for over 10 years. I have written several grants for Franklin Township an are familiar with budgets and finance
2. I am running for office to make their government more transparent.
3. Better services without increasing taxes
4. I can be contacted at Ghnsly@aol.com or Txt or call me at 513-313-2529
Kim Schwettman
My name is Kim Schwettman and I’m running for Franklin Township Trustee. I was born and raised in Franklin Township. I have a college degree and had a decade-long chemistry technician career before becoming a stay-at-home mom. Since leaving my career, I’ve taught high school math and science, worked at the bank in Felicity, and worked five years as the janitor at my church home, Felicity Christian Church. I’ve dedicated many hours to volunteering in our community such as helping at Felicity Elementary as a tutor and testing assistant, leading Brownie Girls Scouts, instructing Archery in the 4H Shooting Sports Club, helping at the Felicity Food Pantry, and cooking four times per year for the Felicity Soup Kitchen. I’m also an active member and currently President of the Felicity Garden Club. I enjoy cooking, gardening, and spending time with my family and friends.
My goal, if elected as a Franklin Township Trustee, is to help preserve the values and beauty of our township. We have a rich agricultural heritage and family-oriented community that is worth protecting from the many threats such as solar farms and other issues that have the potential to cause harm to our community. Please feel free to reach out to me on Facebook if you have any questions.
Monroe Township Trustee
Lindsey Aranyos
1. I am running for Monroe Township Trustee.
2. My passion is to serve, with that being said I want the community where my family resides to be the best it can be. I fell in love with local government while working for Clermont County.
3. My platform is: Dedicated. Responsive. Conservative. Creative. Understanding.
4. You can find more information about me on Facebook at Lindsey Aranyos for Monroe Township Trustee
Alice Rolfes
1. I have worked at 3CDC since 2006. In my 17 years at 3CDC I have been promoted from administrative assistant, office manager, HR manager, senior HR manager, and now I am the Employee Benefits Director managing the benefits for 3CDC’s 360 plus employees. I love the opportunity to find new ways to add value to our employee’s lives.
2. I have lived in Monroe Township for 15 years, but nothing noticeable has been done to improve the lives of its residents or employees. The firefighters and paramedics are underpaid and as a result there is high turnover. I don’t know if this is due to lack of funds or lack of concern, but it is a problem that requires the full focus of the township trustees.
3. Government is most effective when it is accessible. Residents have the right to understand how the township operates and how their tax money is being spent. Monroe Twp does not share its financial information on its website. How do we know if current leadership is financially responsible if this information is kept under wraps?
The township needs to create an automated system to share important information to residents. The Township website isn’t updated. We need a reliable method of communication. Residents deserve to know what is happening on their street and in their neighborhood.
4. Email me at vote4alice@gmail.com. (This response was edited to maintain the 200-word limit.)
Union Township Trustee
Michael Logue
1. I’m Michael Logue, a husband to Kristin, father of 3, and a Marine combat veteran in Union Township, Ohio. With an MBA in Executive Leadership and an Airline Transport Pilot certification, my military service instilled unwavering discipline and courage, values I’ve brought into my civilian life. I lead teams delivering national security.
Elected Trustee as an outsider candidate four years ago, I’ve tirelessly advocated for transparency, accountability, and communication in Union Township. I’m committed to leaving a better community for our families.
2. Four years ago, I prayed for guidance and felt called to run for office, aligning with our community’s interests. I’m passionate about listening to the residents and dedicated to addressing their concerns, evidenced by our community’s vote to replace all incumbents 2 years ago, I am eager to work for the community and continue the work we started 2 years ago.
3. My platform emphasizes transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility, community engagement, and smart economic growth. I’ve fulfilled promises like Ohio Checkbook, improved our parks, legalized dogs in parks, and accelerated road repairs by fixing more roads in one year than the last four combined. I’m committed to revitalizing Eastgate Mall and Mt. Carmel.
4. Please visit www.mikelogue.com, and follow @Logue4Ohio for campaign updates. Your support and prayers are greatly appreciated.
Wayne Township Trustee
Tony Schwab
1. Wayne Township, Tony Schwab 58 years old, Have been married for 30 years, raised 5 children in Wayne Township. Experience: Business owner for over 20 years, Newtonsville Street Commissioner, Administrator, police department
Coordinator for village functions. Fire Fighter EMT Training, Zoning Board of Appeals. Heavy Equipment Operator for former Township.
2. To better prepare our Township for the coming future, and to better our Zoning Department to better our employees pay and health benefits
3. To stand in the gap for the people its all about the people. (We can Move Mountains Together)
4. Tony Schwab For Trustee
Wayne Township Fiscal Officer
Maria Harp
1. I was born and raised in Goshen Ohio/Wayne township. I am a Wife and a mother of 4 beautiful children. I have worked in customer service for over 14 years. I have 5 years of accounting experience and 3 years as a bank teller. I also attend UC Cincinnati to further my education for an accounting degree.
2. I am running for the township Fiscal Officer because I would like to help the township with the finances as much as possible. I feel there are some ways to make the financials better to serve the different areas in the township.
3. I am not currently using any social media platforms.
4. Vote411.org
Bethel-Tate Local School District
Member of Board
Susan Ward
1. My name is Susan Ward, and I am a lifelong resident of Bethel. My parents, husband, two sons, and I are all Bethel Tate graduates, and I have dedicated 33 of my 35 years as an educator to serving the Bethel Tate School District. Having worked in leadership roles throughout my career, and successfully collaborated with parents, teachers, administrators and community members, I am confident that I will be open and responsive to all constituents. I have served on numerous committees at the building, district, and state level to facilitate change in order to increase student achievement and growth.
2. I am running for Bethel Tate School Board to be responsive to the concerns of the community and to make decisions that put students first.
3. As a board member, I will prioritize listening to the community, setting clear goals, and working collaboratively to achieve those goals with fiscal responsibility. I will advocate for policies that prioritize access to resources, opportunities, and a quality education to every student to ensure continued growth.
I will celebrate our current achievements and progress, and work collaboratively with district constituents for continued progress and growth.
4. My Campaign Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552111258833
Clermont Northeastern Local School District
Member of Board
Alex Cunningham
1. I was born, raised, and reside in Batavia Twp. I am a 2001 graduate of CNE and 2005 graduate of Morehead State University. I was previously elected to the board in 2013. My wife and I have 4 children in the district.
2. I am running because I love CNE and want to see it be the best district possible by working hard to advocate for it.
3. My priorities will be to: 1. Build staff and student morale. Board members help set the tone of the district and should celebrate our successes and work to fix our flaws all with a positive attitude. 2. Engage community residents and businesses. Our district is filled with amazing people and organizations. I will find ways to build genuine relationships between them and the school. 3. Improve and expand our facilities and services. Our facilities have been left behind by the state funding models. We need facilities able to accommodate all our students’ educational needs, youth and school sports teams, fine arts productions, and graduation- all on campus. I am ready to find ways to get the facilities our district deserves.
4. You can email me at cunnigham4CNE@gmail.com or visit my Facebook page at tinyurl.com/cunningham4cne
Goshen Local School District
Member of Board
Corey West
1. This is my first time running for public office and excited to be able to represent the taxpayers, students, parents, and teachers. I have lived in the Goshen district for 16+ years and been involved in almost everything dealing with schools and students. Coaching baseball, basketball, and football at all levels, putting the kids first and building the future.
2. To be a voice for the taxpayers, students, parents, and teachers. Stand up for what is the right thing to do for the kids.
3. Advocate for all students, influence financial decisions to ensure fiscal responsibility, and be a conduit between teachers and parents
4. Visit @Corey West for Goshen School Board on Facebook
Milford Exempted Village School District
Member of Board
Rebecca Born
1. I live in Milford, Miami Township. I hold a Bachelors in Education and a Masters in Social Work and recently served on the Citizen Action Committee for Milford Schools. I have developed and led a not-for-profit for 22 years and have extensive work with children.
2. I am compelled to run for School Board as I have observed the influx of ideology into the schools and the decline of parental authority. I believe children are not to be molded, rather given tools that unlock their God given potential. I’m dedicated to ensuring that quality education supersedes outside influences.
3. Transparency and communication: My social media will have important updates about school board decisions. Give facts and translate “school speak.” Safe and supportive learning environments: Protect student data and privacy. Review of mental health protocols. Fiscal Responsibility: This challenging financial situation requires difficult cost cutting decisions with limited impact upon students. Spending has to be critically assessed. Support for teachers: Staff should have direct access to Board without any possibility of censorship. Goal is to receive input about effectiveness of policies. Review imposed “extras” on classroom time.
4. www.Bornformilford.com and FB: Rebecca Born for Milford Schools
Paul J. Chambers
1. Miami Township (Milford). I am a 2019 grad of NKU with a Bachelors of Science in Middle Grades Education (Science & Social Studies). I am 41 years old, run a small business and have taught at multiple districts. I have a son who is a 2023 Grad and will be shipping out to the National Guard soon, as well as continuing his education at Ohio University in Law Enforcement. I look forward to representing my school district and community with a focus on education and fiscal spending within our budget.
2. In following how our district has been ran and allowed to drop into a fiscal “caution,” as well as a neglect of student mental health has motivated me to provide my experience and knowledge in both the education and business fields to help correct the path for future generations of Milford students and residents,
3. My platform has a central focus on the following topics: -Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability to our Administration. -Creating and supporting a better system in reporting, resolving and educating our students, parents and community on the topics of mental health and bullying in our schools. -Continued support for a student-centered approach to teaching in our classrooms specifically the subjects of math, ELA/writing, science and history/government.
4. All voters can go to our campaign page and/or Facebook Campaign Page: chambersformilford.com and/or https://www.facebook.com/chambersformilford/
Emily Chesnut
1. I live in Union Township. I am committed to serving the community and that shows through my experience of 8 yr on Clermont County DD, 3 yr on CCHMC Family Advisory Council and 4 yr on Milford School Board. All four of my kids participate in scouting which means I get to join many of the activities as an adult leader – watching them learn leadership skills has been very rewarding.
For all of the activities, I do my homework, I put in the work, I connect with the other members of the group. I am dedicated to ensuring that Milford is a great place both for my own children and as the heart of the community for all taxpayers.
2. I believe the best school board is comprised of five members with different backgrounds, viewpoints, and even political affiliations. We come from different angles, and as long as we all have the best of the district at heart and work towards that goal with good intent – our differences make us stronger as a team.
3. Experience and commitment to the community matter. We are all better together and I look for ways to connect and collaborate with others.
4. www.facebook.com/EmilyForMilford
Myra Powers
1. I live in Miami Township. I taught in Milford Schools 41 years and retired last year after teaching general, gifted, and special education in grades K – 9.
2. I have dedicated my entire adult life to Milford Schools and students and want to continue this by serving on the Milford School Board. I believe our schools and community are a wonderful place to live. Great schools make great communities!
3. My platform includes: Safe schools for all: Staff and students should feel and be safe at all times. This includes building and cybersecurity and a strong, consistent anti-bullying program.
A wise use of taxpayer money: Being on a fixed income, I know that this is imperative. I believe that Milford should explore a personal income tax. This would be fair for seniors and would spread the tax burden to renters. It would also ease the tax burden on young adults, when they are making less money. Keep national politics out of local school board governance and work on mutual respect and civility between the district and our community.
4. Voters can learn about me or email me at myraformilford.com.
Williamsburg Local School District
Member of Board
R. Josh Clifton
1. Williamsburg Township. I am a Williamsburg Local Schools Alumni- Class of 2003. I attended Williamsburg Schools from K-12. I have 2 degrees from NKU. I married my wife in 2008 and we have 2 children who attend Williamsburg Local Schools. I am employed with Carter Lumber as an OSR. I am the current WJAA Board President having volunteered 5 years on that Board.
2. I decided to run for this position when Mrs. Madsen announced she was not seeking reelection. I feel I could be a positive/productive member to this Board that understands the values/traditions of Williamsburg, while being a good steward of the taxpayer’s money.
3. I do not have a platform for change. Our current Board, Administrators, and Staff are doing a wonderful job. The proof is in the results of our State Report Cards, Extracurricular participation/results, and the building of a new Elementary building with no tax burden to the community. I would like to join the Board to make sure that the bar/expectations remain high for our School District.
4. Facebook- Elect R. Josh Clifton for Williamsburg School Board. Email- Rjoshclifton@yahoo.com
Charlie Maklem
I’m Charlie Maklem and I’m seeking re-election to the Williamsburg Board of Education. I’m a resident of the Village of Williamsburg. My wife Denise, son Richie, and myself are graduates of Williamsburg High School. Upon graduating from Miami University, I relocated to Michigan to begin my career in IT with Electronic Data Systems. I returned to Ohio and completed my career with General Motors.
I am very thankful the Williamsburg community has elected me to serve on the Williamsburg Board of Education for the last 8 years. I currently serve as the Board President and on the Technology and Finance Committees. My focus is to collaborate with all board members, the administration, faculty, and staff to provide our students with a safe environment and opportunities for academic excellence while being fiscally responsible. Examples include implementing a One-to-One Chromebook Program for grades K through 12, expanding the use of iPads and other technology in classrooms, and demonstrating fiscal responsibility as part of the negotiation team working to retain tax dollars while incentivizing new business growth within the district.
Please visit my campaign Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/maklem4burgschools to learn more about me and to ask questions.