Brian Baker, Carolyn White to face off in Democratic primary for county commissioner

Brian Baker Age: 63 Education: Two years, Lorain County Community College; four years, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 129 apprenticeship program Family: Married to wife, Kim, 44 years; two daughters; 10 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter Job history: Retired since 2022; IBEW Local 129 member for 40 years including 10 as journeyman electrician and 11 as business manager; IBEW International office, 15 years Website: FriendsOfBrianBaker.comCarolyn White Age: 71 Education: Bachelor's in business administration, Cleveland State University Family: Married to Gregory White for 40 years; three children; eight grandchildren; one great-granddaughter. Job history: Branch manager and assistant vice president, KeyBank, 21 years; licensed investment representative; licensed insurance agent with Universal American; two terms on Lorain City Council; 12 years on Sheffield Village Council. Website: CarolynWhite.net Two Democrats are facing off in the May 5 primary for a shot at running for Lorain County commissioner in November. Carolyn White, of Sheffield, and Brian Baker, of Brownhelm Township, are the candidates Lorain County Democrats will see on their primary ballot, choosing one to move on to the general election. Baker and White ran for county commissioner in 2024. The Board of Commissioners has three seats, and terms are four years each. The winner of the Democratic primary will face the winner of the Republican primary between Will Schlechter and incumbent Commissioner Jeff Riddell. What makes you the best candidate for the position? BAKER: As a candidate for commissioner, I bring a strong commitment to collaboration, vast experience and integrity. My background in community leadership has equipped me with the skills to work effectively with diverse groups, ensuring that every voice is heard. I have a proven track record of implementing initiatives that enhance the community well-being. My integrity drives my decisions, and I will prioritize the needs of our county above all else. I am dedicated to creating a positive impact and working together to build a brighter future for everyone, while bringing trust and integrity back to Lorain County. WHITE: My 36 years in politics with City Council positions as a councilwoman has given me the government experience to prepare me for assuming the county commissioner position. This has prepared me to be the best person for the job. I have served as the first African-American woman elected to Lorain City Council for two terms. I resigned to build a home in Sheffield where I served 12 terms as Village Council, president pro-tempore, chair of finance, and 45 days as acting mayor. My investment license has enabled me to grow finances and build wealth with many clients. What is the biggest challenge facing the county and how would you address it? BAKER: The main challenge with Lorain County at this time would be to monitor and stop the excessive spending. There has been a large amount of money expended to outside legal counsel. I will work with our Prosecutor's Office to bring that work back in house. I will sit down with all interested parties and elected officials to make sure all tax dollars are spent wisely and in the best interest of the county. Also, I would work diligently to make sure the $13.9 million that was expended to purchase the mall property will be returned to the county budget. WHITE: Challenges for the county include making wise use of land development and including the residents' perspective in making those decisions. One major job of commissioners is to set budgets and provide expenses to enable all residents to have a livable and viable existence. This includes our rural, urban and suburban counties. I will work to secure good-paying jobs in our county as well as working with existing businesses to ensure their growth, thereby keeping their business in our county. Bringing additional businesses will assist with our tax base enabling less reduction in necessary operations such as Job and Family Services, our Sheriff's Department, and Children's Services such as shelters for our youth, i.e. Turning Point, and our schools.