Two compete to represent Lorain's 6th Ward

ANGEL ARROYO Jr. Age: 42 Party: Democratic Education: Southview High School, class of 2002; Zion Bible CollegeFamily: Father, Attorney Angel Arroyo Sr.; Mother Elizabeth "Cookie" Arroyo; sisters Amelia Meinhold (Arroyo) and Analisa Crankfield (Arroyo); brother Alex Arroyo; daughter, Angelise Arroyo, 13; four nephews; one niece; three brothers-in-lawJob history: Care coordinator Glenbeigh Hospital, 2021-current; Lorain City Council, 2025-current; Lorain City Council, 2016-20; case manager Cleveland Peacemakers Alliance, 2009-16Website: Elect Angel Arroyo Jr. for 6th Ward Facebook AARON KNAPP Age: 52 Party: RepublicanEducation: A.A. in liberal arts, College of Southern Idaho, 2018; B.S. in social work with a minor in substance-use disorders, The Ohio State University, 2022Family: 14-year-old daughter at Lorain High SchoolJob history: Military veteran; licensed social worker; experience providing direct care and therapeutic support in secure youth treatment settings; specialized in working with individuals and families impacted by substance-use disorders; community organizerWebsite: www.AaronKnappFor6thWard.com or on Facebook. LORAIN — Two men seek to represent a portion of South Lorain this November. Incumbent Democrat Angel Arroyo Jr. faces Republican challenger Aaron Knapp to represent Lorain's 6th Ward. What makes you the best candidate for the position? ARROYO: I'm running to continue serving Ward 6 because our community deserves leadership that delivers. We've restored lights, fixed roads, and improved safety — but the job isn't done. I'll keep fighting for better infrastructure, safer neighborhoods, and new opportunities for South Lorain. KNAPP: I am the best candidate because I bring professional expertise as a licensed social worker, the perspective of a 6th Ward homeowner, and the lived experience of raising my daughter in Lorain. My military service taught me discipline, structure, and respect for the oath of office. My career in juvenile justice and substance-use treatment shows I know how to solve problems, build trust, and stand up for those without a voice. I am not a career politician; this is my first campaign, and I will lead with honesty, accountability, and a strong commitment to Lorain families. What is the biggest challenge facing the city/ward and how would address it? ARROYO: The greatest challenge facing Ward 6 — and truly our entire city — is aging infrastructure. Roads are deteriorating, water and sewer lines are outdated, and when these basics fail, everything from public safety to economic growth is affected. My priority is securing resources for Ward 6: paving more streets, replacing failing water and sewer lines, and ensuring all new development includes long-term infrastructure planning. I also will partner with city departments to target repairs where families feel the impact most — on the streets they drive and neighborhoods where children play. Stronger infrastructure enhances safety, attracts businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens our economy. KNAPP: The biggest challenge facing our city and Ward 6 is restoring trust in local government. Residents are frustrated by inefficiency, poor communication, and a lack of accountability that blocks real progress. As councilmember, I will enforce transparency in budgeting and decision-making, require open meetings and records, and create genuine opportunities for residents to shape solutions. With accountability as the foundation, we can repair roads, improve safety, and make sure tax dollars serve the community. I will lead with integrity, persistence, and collaboration so Lorain can finally move from neglect to growth. — Carissa Woytach