Primary 2021: Four Republicans vie for three Lorain Council at-large slots

For voters in the city of Lorain, only one race is contested this primary election. There are four Republicans running for City Council at-large: Lynne Christner, Brian Jameson, Otis Jenkins and Jeremy Leighty. Registered Republicans in the city will choose three to advance to the general election in November. Those three will face three incumbent Democrats this fall: Tony Dimacchia, Mitchell Fallis and Mary Springowski. What makes you the best candidate for the position? Christner: I believe the time is ripe for a change in Lorain, and I can be that change. I am honest, hardworking, have many fresh ideas, and will give the citizens the voice they deserve. Jameson: I am the best candidate for this position because of my extensive experience working with people. In the military you are transferred into a new command every three to four years and are expected to be able to work with new people while accomplishing the mission. There are men and women from all races, backgrounds and beliefs, which is no different than what we have in Lorain. I believe I have the ability to work with all regardless of the political differences we may have. I will listen to and fight for all citizens; that is in fact who Council works for. Jenkins: I am honest and trustworthy and believe in the trust. Leighty: To answer a question about why am I best seems incredibly self-serving, which is in stark contrast to serving the needs of Lorain residents. Every candidate seeking election has strengths and weaknesses which will be determined by voters who best aligns with the voters views and opinions. What is the biggest challenge facing Lorain and how would you address it? Christner: There are many issues challenging Lorain. They all roll back into Lorain city pride. We need to attract jobs so our youth will stay and raise families. Broadway is wonderful, but needs to grow with business — retail and restaurants, maybe an ethnic theme since we are the International City. We need to use our lakefront and attract people here for fishing, lighthouse tours, Black River tours, downtown shopping, eating, attending concerts, and staying at the Ariel on Broadway hotel. Council needs to work with the Port Authority and the Chamber of Commerce to attract clean industry. Growth in these areas will bring in jobs, tax revenue and growth. Jameson: The biggest challenge facing Lorain today is the lack of trust and accountability citizens have with current elected officials. Citizens voted for the establishment of a charter. The current administration and elected officials who were opposed to a charter made their way onto the commission and are undermining the process. They feel all is well within the city and the way business is conducted should not change. That is NOT what the citizens want. Citizens of Lorain want change and the only way to make that happen is vote those individuals out of office starting now. Jenkins: The biggest challenge facing Lorain is work for our community and recreation for our youth. Leighty: The biggest challenge facing Lorain is the loss of residents and business investments. I'd use Bloom's Taxonomy to develop a plan of action based on knowledge, comprehension, application of strategy developed through knowledge and comprehension, analyze what works and doesn't to develop further beneficial actions (synthesis) and continue to evaluate the plan. Lorain has had its share of bad decisions, which constantly get blamed on previous administrations. It's time to roll up our sleeves, put in the work and do what's necessary to stop making excuses while making better choices for Lorain residents.