Two candidates are vying to represent Vermilion's 4th Ward.

Philip G. Dombrowski Age: 40 Education: The Ohio State University Family: Wife, Dannielle; son James Job history: 20 years in the green industry, entry level up to branch manager Homer S. Taft Age: 80 Education: Juris doctorate, Case Western Reserve Law; Bachelor of Arts, Kent State University Family: Married to Helen Job history: 55 years as an attorney; property management; 18 year as a manufacturing CEO; real estate sales Two candidates are vying to represent Vermilion's 4th Ward. It is a two-year, nonpartisan term, currently held by Jeff Lucas. Lucas is running unopposed for Council president. Neither candidate has held public office before. Homer S. Taft is a frequent attender of city meetings and ran for City Council president in 2021 and for Ohio State Senate in 2018. Phillip Gerald Dombrowski currently serves on the city's Parks and Recreation Board. What makes you the best candidate for the position? Dombrowski: I have established a commitment to civic services in Vermilion, being appointed to the Vermilion City Parks/Recreation Board, and an active member of the Showse Park Revitalization Project Team. With past experience in the green industry I can help with keeping our park beautiful and people will want to come visit. My best interests are for the long term of Vermilion. We need Vermilion to reach its full potential not just for my family but for all the youth of our town. The best way to achieve this is for all parts of Vermilion to work together. Taft: By training, work, life experience, and years to attending City Council, boards and commissions meetings, I understand the requirements of governance, taxation, budgeting, and spending that are core responsibilities, along with proper drafting of the laws Council passes, and am best prepared and positioned to help a new administration and Council better manage city government. What is the biggest challenge facing the city and how would you address it? Dombrowski: Advancing East Corridor development: There has to be smart commercial growth in Ward 4. But the growth has to be beneficial for us. We also need to have quality residential expansion. Both of these will help strengthen our local community and economy. When we strengthen from within, we then are given the opportunity to better our neighborhoods, whether that be upgrading roads, keeping our shorelines strong and safe. Protecting our natural treasure that is our lake and parks. Taft: Overall, our poorly built and maintained roads, old water lines, sewer lines, and wastewater plant, but infrastructure generally. Most have been poorly maintained for well over 30 years, and we fail to measure the needs or intelligently prioritize upgrades while chasing expensive "legacy" projects. Well-planned responsible development is needed, but depends on existing infrastructure as well. There are other immediate challenges, including the required Charter Review that needs thorough attention and a complete review of our codified ordinances for regulatory sensibility and enforcement, especially in planning and zoning. — Rini Jeffers