Kyle Hawke, Roberta Vance running to fill unexpired Eaton Twp. trustee post (UPDATED)

Roberta Vance Age: 63 Education: High school, some college Family: Single; two adult children; three grandchildren Job history: 26 years of banking experience at The Cleveland Police Credit Union Website: Roberta Vance: Write-in Candidate for Eaton Township Trustee on Facebook Kyle Hawke Age: 41Education: Cleveland Institute of Art; Lorain County Community College; Midview High School Family: Wife, JennyJob history: Small business owner, Eaton Township; Eaton Township Zoning Commission alternate, Indemnity board, Lorain County Rural Wastewater District board alternate; township Comprehensive Land Use Plan Steering Committee lead. Website: Hawke for Eaton Township Trustee on Facebook Two candidates want to fill the remaining two years of an unexpired four-year term on the Eaton Township Board of Trustees. Kyle Hawke and Roberta Vance are running to fill the unexpired term left by the resignation of Dee Schippel in September 2024. Hawke is on the ballot, while Vance is running as a write-in candidate. The race is nonpartisan and the term will end Dec. 31, 2027. What makes you the best candidate for the position? Vance: I believe I'm the best candidate for trustee because I bring over 60 years of deep roots in Lorain County and 26 years of professional banking experience at the Cleveland Police Credit Union. I bring strong financial insight, integrity, and a deep understanding of our community's needs. I'm committed to listening to residents and taking meaningful action on their concerns. My goal is to ensure transparent, responsible township governance that puts people first.Hawke: I'm dedicated to helping the community I've always called home, in any way I can. Since becoming involved, I've volunteered countless hours to Eaton Township, whenever there was a need I stepped up to help. I don't just talk about making a difference, I show up and do the work. I've served on multiple boards and commissions, gaining a deep understanding of how our township really works — and how much is at stake. What is the biggest challenge facing the township and how would you address it? Vance: One of the biggest challenges facing the township is our roads and the lack of a long-term, cost-effective plan to maintain and improve them. Poorly maintained roads affect daily life and public safety. Short-term fixes cost more in the long run. I'm proposing the development of a comprehensive 10-year road maintenance plan. This would be a strategic, data-driven approach that prioritizes the most critical repairs, uses cost-effective materials and methods. Additionally, I will actively pursue available grants and interest-free loans to reduce the financial burden on taxpayers and ensure we're using every resource available to improve our infrastructure responsibly. Hawke: We are a rapidly growing community and need to have a plan in place for how that growth is handled responsibly. I will focus on our residents' well-being first and foremost, and make sure their voices are heard. I will seek grant opportunities for road maintenance, flooding issues, and improving our parks. I want to preserve our rural atmosphere and fight for the people that call this place home. — Dave O'BrienThis story has been updated to correct an error.