Three candidates seeking two trustee spots for Carlisle Township

Three candidates, including two incumbents, are seeking to fill two seats on the Carlisle Township Board of Trustees this fall. Incumbents Berry Taylor and Jim Wright are running, challenged by James "Jim" Zelenka. Wright did not respond to requests for information. Berry Taylor Age: 69 Education: Ohio School of Banking, Ohio State University; OBA School of Marketing, Miami University of Ohio; Baldwin Wallace University; Lorain County Community College; Elyria High School, class of 1971 Family: Married to Brenda (Wukie) for 38 years; sons Jeremy, Justin, Jonathon and Joshua Job history: Carlisle Township trustee, 1999 to 2004, 2006 to present; agent, Hovey Kaiser Insurance Associates Inc., 2009 to present; previously independent financial consultant with LPL Financial (2009-21) and First Allied Securities (2003-09); senior financial adviser with Lorain National Bank, 2001-03; VP/financial consultant with Wukie Investment Management, 1993-2001; VP/branch manager/Southern District Administrator, Elyria Savings and Trust National Bank, 1970-93; U.S. Army, 1972-75. James "Jim" Zelenka Age: 65 Education: Jennifer McSweeney land use planning course; O.P.C. Cleveland Planning and Zoning Workshop; Lorain County prosecutors' seminars; Keystone High School class of 1975 Family: Married to Kristin for 43 years; daughter Elizabeth; son James, grandchildren Ayden, Maddelin, Gage and Jace Job history: Zelenka Paint Farm registered Paint Horses and board horses; owner The Pub Restaurant & Lounge; part-time farming of custom hay and raise beef cows. millwright union worker for 10 years; chairman of the Carlisle Township Zoning Commission for 12 years What makes you the best candidate for this position? Taylor: As a Carlisle Township resident for over 32 years and a trustee for 20 years, I have a good grasp of the resident's needs and expectations. In these 20 years, there have been many challenges that were successfully met. Working with the other trustees, we have improved our Fire Department through the updating of equipment, and we have strengthened the firefighters' ability to do their jobs by making sure they have the latest and comprehensive training opportunities available. We have also made solid choices in the hiring of Road Department personnel that take care of our 29 miles of roads. Zelenka: I have lived in Carlisle Township my entire life. There have been several negative changes in the years — losing land to the city of Elyria, through annexation and mounting pressure from the nearby landfill and commercial composting. In the 12 years when I was the chairman of the Zoning Commission, I was able to write and amend several of the township resolutions to protect this community. It is important to me to preserve Carlisle Township's heritage as a rural and agricultural community. I know the changes and challenges needed for our township. What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it? Taylor: The top two challenges facing our township are annexation and developments. I will fight all annexations where warranted with every means at our disposal. In trying to keep our township rural, you need a good land comprehensive plan and zoning in place, which we have done. I will continue to support these directives of planned growth in my recommendations on proposals that are sent to the Board of Trustees for consideration. Zelenka: To protect the township, friends and neighbors from the contamination of water wells, loss of property value and lack of outdoor enjoyment due to the overwhelming stench, all caused by the landfill. Addressing the EPA of the importance of this problem and for them to be more responsive to the landowners, not just the BIG industries. Right the wrong done to Brentwood Estates. To maintain Carlisle Township as a financially strong and independent community. To provide sewer lines at a reasonable cost, without seeking annexation. Also to assure that any development follows the existing comprehensive land-use plans. — Dave O'Brien Read more election guide coverage