Geauga County Commissioner Tracy Jemison surprised a lot of people this week when he announced that he would retire from the position effective Oct. 31.

Jemison has served as a county commissioner for the past five years and before that he served as the county auditor for 13 years.

He also served for eight years in the 1970s as a Middlefield Village councilman and from 1988 to 1991 as a Berkshire School Board member.

So the county will lose a lot of the governmental expertise when Jemison takes his leave.

It also means there will be another political appointment to be made by the Geauga County Republican Party — something we’ve seen a lot of during the past few years.

Last year, the county GOP appointed Jim Flaiz as prosecutor after Dave Joyce left the post to run for Congress after former U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette decided at the end of July that he would retire and dropped out as the Republican candidate.

Dr. Robert S. Coleman was also appointed to be the party’s candidate for coroner last November after Dr. John Urbancic withdrew from the race.

When former Commissioner Bill Young retired last summer, Republicans appointed Walter “Skip” Claypool to serve until the next election — held in November 2012. The party appointed Commissioner Mary Samide to be that candidate, rather than Claypool, after she was defeated in a GOP primary for her own re-election. She then defeated Democrat Jim Dvorak.

The county GOP also was part of the process after former Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Charles “Chip” Henry died. Gov. John Kasich eventually selected Tim Grendell as the new judge.

Whoever is appointed as the new commissioner will have to run in a GOP primary in May if they want to finish the unexpired term, which ends Jan. 1, 2017.

Just a few of the names I’ve heard who might express interest are Chardon Mayor Phil King, South Russell Village Councilman Mark Porter, Claypool, and perhaps someone within the party leadership like Blake Rear.

Geauga County Democrats most likely will recruit someone to run in the May primary, as well. Perhaps Dvorak will give it another try?

Along with Jemison’s retirement prompting an election next year to finish his unexpired term, Samide’s term expires Dec. 31, 2014.

So that means there will be two commissioner seats up for grabs next year. This is going to be interesting.

Candidate endorsements

Candidates in Lake, Geauga and eastern Cuyahoga counties who appear on the Nov. 5 ballot may send in listings of endorsements they receive for the upcoming election via email, fax or standard mail. They will appear online periodically on The News-Herald’s Northern Ohio Politics blog.

Fundies

n Eric Condon, candidate for Euclid Council Ward 8, hosts Cleveland vs. Buffalo Tailgate Party, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 3 at Paradise Island Saloon in Euclid. See Condon.

n State Rep. Matt Lynch hosts a clambake, 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 4 at Centerville Mills Park in Bainbridge Township. See Lynch or Kerri Quay.

n Dennis Morley, candidate for Eastlake mayor, hosts Steak Roast Fundraiser, 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at Boracs Landing in Eastlake. See Donna Vaughn or Dale Bradley.

n Thomas E. Ray, candidate for Chardon Council, hosts a fundraiser 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 6 at Morgan's Smokehouse on the Square in Chardon. See Ray.

n State Rep. John Rogers hosts fall clambake, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Mentor Beach Park in Mentor-on-the-Lake. See Rogers or Kip Molenaar.

n Matt Jaworski, candidate for Wickliffe Council at large, hosts a bowling fundraiser, noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 12 at Wickliffe Lanes. See Jaworski or Matt Gallik.

n Lake County Commissioner Judy Moran hosts Oktoberfest 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at American Legion Hall in Willowick. See Paul Miller or Kevin Malecek.

n Lake County Recorder Ann M. Radcliffe hosts spaghetti dinner fundraiser 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Park Road Grill in Painesville Township. See Terri Conley.

To leave a comment, go to NorthernOhioLocalPolitics.blogspot.com.

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Links to election preview stories will be added as they are published on News-Herald.com.

 Lake, Geauga, Cuyahoga counties candidates, issues filed for Nov. 5 ballot

County-wide
Local governments ask Lake County voters to renew levies: Six renewal levies dedicated to local government funding in Lake County are going to be voted on Nov. 5, and all share one common variable that replacement and additional levies do not share. By Simon Husted.

Election: Laketran taking different route for sales tax levy renewal: Laketran is taking a slightly different route when it seeks passage of its 0.25 percent sales tax levy renewal on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Bill DeBus.

Election: 4 running for 3 seats on Lake County Educational Service Center board: Four candidates seek three open seats on the Lake County Educational Service Center board. Geoffrey T. Kent, write-in candidate Anthony Podojil, incumbent Erik L. Walter and write-in candidate Neil R. Wilson each seek a four-year term. By Caitlin Fertal.


Eastlake
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: In Eastlake mayor's race, incumbent mayor and council president face off: After a primary election in September, the two candidates left for Eastlake’s mayoral race were incumbent Ted Andrzejewski and sitting council President Dennis Morley. By Elizabeth Lundblad.

Election: 5 vie for 3 at-large seats on Eastlake City Council: Five candidates, including two incumbents, are running for three at-large seats up for grabs on Eastlake City Council. Those running include current at-large members Laura DePledge and Ken Hoefle. The other candidates are Kimberly Evers, Mary Matala and Michael Zuren. By Elizabeth Lundblad.

Election: Eastlake rec levy could open pool, provide continuous support: Looking to avoid another summer without an open community pool, Eastlake officials hope residents will consider passing a parks and recreation levy, which would ensure the pools’ opening and provide additional monies for citywide recreation. By Elizabeth Lundblad.

Election: 8 compete for 3 seats on Willoughby-Eastlake School Board: Eight candidates are running for three open seats on the Willoughby-Eastlake School Board. Rusty Bliss, incumbent Dan Hoffman, Steve Komarjanski, Larry Luciano, incumbent Connie Newyear, Tim O’Keeffe, incumbent Sharon Scott and Amy M. Zuren each seek a four-year seat on the board. By Caitlin Fertal.


Fairport Harbor
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: 7 people run for 4 Fairport Harbor Village Council seats: Seven candidates have their eyes set on Fairport Harbor Village Council, but there are only four seats up for election. By Simon Husted.


Kirtland
Election: Kirtland City Council race features some political veterans: All four Kirtland City Council at-large candidates have local government experience, but only three seats are available Nov. 5. By Betsy Scott.

Election: Kirtland School Board race draws 4 write-in candidates, 1 incumbent: Five candidates are seeking three seats on the Kirtland School Board in the Nov. 5 election. Richard A. Danks, Sandra Esser, Joseph W. Solnosky, Ronald A. Stepanovic and incumbent Katriona Torok each seek a four-year term. By Caitlin Fertal.


Leroy
Election: 4 running for 2 Leroy trustee slots: Four candidates are running for the Leroy Township Board of Trustees but only seats for half of them. By Simon Husted.


Madison Township
Election: 3 candidates run for 2 Madison Township trustee seats: Three Madison Township residents have their sights set on two trustee seats this Nov. 5. By Simon Husted.

Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: Madison Fire District seeks to replace 14-year-old levy: The Madison Fire District is asking the more than 11,300 voters in Madison Village and Madison Township to replace a 14-year-old levy to meet today’s home values. By Simon Husted.


Madison Village
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: Madison Fire District seeks to replace 14-year-old levy: The Madison Fire District is asking the more than 11,300 voters in Madison Village and Madison Township to replace a 14-year-old levy to meet today’s home values. By Simon Husted.

Election: Five candidates run for four Madison Village Council seats: Five people have their eyes set on Madison Village Council this election season with room for only four. Incumbents Donald Bartlett, Dan Donaldson, Duane Frager and John Hamercheck, and Gregory Mabe each want for one of four council seats that pays $5,400 a year. By Simon Husted.


Mentor
Trio of incumbents, 2 others seek 3 seats on Mentor School Board. Five candidates are looking to fill three open seats for the Mentor School Board when ballots are counted Nov. 5. By Caitlin Fertal.


Mentor-on-the-Lake
Election: 2 pursue Mentor-on-the-Lake mayor position: Two Mentor-on-the-Lake leaders will face off in the race to fill the remaining two years on former mayor John Rogers’ term. They are longtime Councilman Troy Elam and David Eva, who, as council president, assumed the mayor’s role last year following Rogers’ election to the Ohio House of Representatives. By Betsy Scott.

Election: Six seek four seats on Mentor-on-the-Lake City Council: Mentor-on-the-Lake’s 4,700-plElection: Kirtland City Council race features some political veteransus voters will have several choices for the four City Council spots up for election Nov. 5. By Betsy Scott.

Election: City services at stake for Mentor-on-the-Lake residents: Barking dogs, booming car stereos, vehicle lockouts and side-street speeding all are among the more common complaints handled by community police departments. However, such routine calls may, at times, go unanswered in Mentor-on-the-Lake if a levy on the Nov. 5 ballot fails, Police Chief John Gielink said. By Betsy Scott.


North Perry Village
7 candidates aim to capture 4 council seats in North Perry Village. Seven candidates are aiming to capture four seats on North Perry Village Council in the Nov. 5 election. By Simon Husted.

Election: 4 candidates seek 3 seats on Perry School Board: Four candidates are seeking three open seats on the Perry School Board. Incumbent Ashley Hacking, Scott Niedzwiecki, Andy Roberts and incumbent Suanne Sines each seek a four-year term. By Caitlin Fertal.


Perry Township
Election: 4 candidates seek 3 seats on Perry School Board: Four candidates are seeking three open seats on the Perry School Board. Incumbent Ashley Hacking, Scott Niedzwiecki, Andy Roberts and incumbent Suanne Sines each seek a four-year term. By Caitlin Fertal. 


Perry Village
Election: 4 candidates seek 3 seats on Perry School Board: Four candidates are seeking three open seats on the Perry School Board. Incumbent Ashley Hacking, Scott Niedzwiecki, Andy Roberts and incumbent Suanne Sines each seek a four-year term. By Caitlin Fertal. 


Painesville
Election: Painesville voters to decide on charter amendments: Every 10 years, Painesville City Council is required to establish a committee to review its municipal charter by which the city is governed. By Devon Turchan.

Election: Painesville residents to vote on 3 at-large Council seats: Three at-large Painesville City Council positions are up for grabs and voters will decide in November. By Devon Turchan.

Election: Candidates seek Painesville School Board seats: Three candidates look to fill two seats that are up for grabs on the Painesville School Board in November. Kathleen Powers Dolney, incumbent Jeffrey C. Powers and incumbent Alison Rossman each hope to earn a four-year term. Charles Tackett, meanwhile, is running unopposed for his seat that expires December 31, 2015. By Caitlin Fertal.


Painesville Township
Election: 9 vie for 2 open seats on Painesville Township trustee board: Nine candidates are on the ballot for two Painesville Township trustee openings. Amy Cossick, T.R. Hach, Chuck Hillier, Beth A. Knezevich, Edmund G. Leoson, Susan McGuinness, Josh Pennock, Joshua J. Strickland and Frank J. Zalek Jr. will appear on the ballot. By Devon Turchan.

Election: Fire levy at issue in Painesville Township: Voters in Painesville Township will decide Nov. 5 if a fire levy the township’s trustees placed on the ballot should pass. A continuing (permanent) 2.9-mill additional levy is proposed for fire capital expenses. By Devon Turchan.


Perry Township
3 candidates seek trustee seats in Perry Township. Two Perry Township trustee seats are up for grabs Nov. 5 and they are wanted by Robert Dawson and incumbents Phillip Haskell and Nancy Steele. By Simon Husted.


Perry Village
Election: Perry Village voters to decide on 2 income tax issues: The 900 registered voters in Perry Village face a complex Nov. 5 ballot as they decide on two issues targeting local income tax. By Simon Husted.

Election: 5 run for 4 Perry Village Council positions: Five people have their sights set on joining Perry Village Council next year, but the Nov. 5 ballot only has room for four seats. By Simon Husted.


Wickliffe
Election: 3 seeking pair of Wickliffe City Council at large seats: Wickliffe residents have three candidates to choose from to fill two at large seats on the City Council. All of the candidates, including two incumbents, have served on Wickliffe’s City Council. On Nov. 5, voters will select two of the following to serve as at large council members: Mark A. Iafelice, Matthew Jaworski and Sherry Koski. By Elizabeth Lundblad.


Willoughby
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: 8 compete for 3 seats on Willoughby-Eastlake School Board: Eight candidates are running for three open seats on the Willoughby-Eastlake School Board. Rusty Bliss, incumbent Dan Hoffman, Steve Komarjanski, Larry Luciano, incumbent Connie Newyear, Tim O’Keeffe, incumbent Sharon Scott and Amy M. Zuren each seek a four-year seat on the board. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: 2 ward seats, 1 at large seat up for grabs in Willoughby: Three seats on Willoughby City Council are up for grabs on Nov. 5, with two men seeking re-election against individual challengers. By Elizabeth Lundblad.


Willoughby Hills
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: Willoughby Hills City Council race draws business owner, professor. Of the four council at large seats up for grabs on Willoughby Hills City Council, just one is contested. By Elizabeth Lundblad.

Election: 8 compete for 3 seats on Willoughby-Eastlake School Board: Eight candidates are running for three open seats on the Willoughby-Eastlake School Board. Rusty Bliss, incumbent Dan Hoffman, Steve Komarjanski, Larry Luciano, incumbent Connie Newyear, Tim O’Keeffe, incumbent Sharon Scott and Amy M. Zuren each seek a four-year seat on the board. By Caitlin Fertal.


Willowick
Willoughby-Eastlake, Madison, Fairport Harbor school districts seeking renewal levies: Three districts will be on the ballot in November to ask voters to renew existing tax levies. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: 8 compete for 3 seats on Willoughby-Eastlake School Board: Eight candidates are running for three open seats on the Willoughby-Eastlake School Board. Rusty Bliss, incumbent Dan Hoffman, Steve Komarjanski, Larry Luciano, incumbent Connie Newyear, Tim O’Keeffe, incumbent Sharon Scott and Amy M. Zuren each seek a four-year seat on the board. By Caitlin Fertal.

Election: Willowick voters will go to ballot for charter changes: Willowick residents will have two charter amendments to vote on Nov. 5. By Elizabeth Lundblad.


Unopposed races 

Grand River, elect four: Deborah Dominish, Mario A. Eldridge, Robert Gildone and Jennifer Hood

Kirtland Hills, elect four: Paul C. Gum, William C. Pickett, Anthony J. Lariccia and Heidi B. Miller

Lakeline, elect four: Clay R. Hardy, Jonathan Miller, Larry R. Staton and Sandra L. Staton

Mentor, three council at-large: Janet A. Dowling, Scott J. Marn and Ray Kirchner

Timberlake, elect four: Dennis Dicki, Ritu Sharma, Kenneth L. Zalar

Timberlake Board of Public Affairs, elect one: None filed

Waite Hill, elect four: Ryan W. Cox, Robert I. Gale III, Richard A. Steudel Jr. and Courtenay O. Taplin

Wickliffe mayor: Bill Margalis

Concord Township trustees, elect two: Christopher Galloway and Paul R. Malchesky

Madison School Board, elect three: J. Jay Fabian, C. Michelle Hayes and Kelly R. Tromba

Riverside School Board, elect three: Belinda Grassi, Jennifer Harden and Jack Miley

Fairport School Board, elect two: Mary Javins and Katherine Paolino

Wickliffe School Board, elect three: Donald J. Marn, Jackie Sheridan and Dan Thomeier

Links to election preview stories will be added as they are published on MorningJournal.com.

County-wide
Election: EHOVE career center seeks replacement levy in November: A levy that has been on the books since 1979 is going to be on the ballot on Nov. 5 as a replacement issue. The EHOVE Career Center is hoping that a continuous 0.5-mill replacement levy will be approved by voters. By Jon Behm.


Huron
Election: 7 running for 3 seats on Huron School Board: Huron voters will vote Nov. 5 on who they feel should represent the schools of Huron. Three seats are wanted by Kevin Asher, Nancy Bulea, Sherry Catri, Donna Green, Cheryl Kleist, Eric Muehlhauser and Scott Slocum. By Kaylee Remington.


Sandusky
3 Sandusky Commission seats up for grabs: Three Sandusky Commission seats are up for grabs Nov. 5, and six candidates want them. By Jon Behm.


Vermilion
Election: Vermilion mayor's race a rematch of incumbent, predecessor: November will bring a rematch at the ballot box for two candidates who hope to become the next mayor of Vermilion. Mayor Eileen Bulan and her predecessor, Jean Anderson, will square off again at the polls. By Richard Payerchin.


Unopposed races

Northpoint ESC: Janet E. Tuttle

Links to election preview stories will be added as they are published on MorningJournal.com.

Candidates, issues filed in Lorain, Cuyahoga counties

County-wide
Lorain County Community College seeks approval of Issue 2 to bolster programs: Lorain County Community College will ask voters to approve a levy renewal with additional money to help sustain its University Partnership program. By Scott Mahoney.

Approval of Lorain County sales tax could help budget shortfall: The Lorain County Commissioners are hoping that county voters say yes to supporting a sales tax increase, which in turn, would roll back property taxes for land owners. By Kaylee Remington.

Election: Renewal issues prevalent on November ballot. Several local governments in Lorain County will be asking its voters on Nov. 5 to approve renewal levies which would maintain — not raise — the current property taxes. By Jon Behm.


Amherst
Election: 9 seeking seats on Amherst City Council: The 8,998 registered voters in Amherst will be deciding on are three at-large positions, 1st Ward council and 3rd Ward council in the Nov. 5 election. By Eric Bonzar.

Election: 5 candidates seek 3 seats on Amherst Village School Board: Five candidates are contending for three seats on the Amherst Village Board of Education in the Nov. 5 election. They are incumbent Teresa L. Gilles, Robert L. Kamnikar, incumbent Valerie Neidert, Joni L. Poli and incumbent Ronald D. Yacobozzi. By Eric Bonzar.

Election: 2 face off in Amherst treasurer race: Amherst voters will elect a new treasurer Nov. 5 because incumbent Mark S. Hullman will not seek re-election. Brian Dembinski and Richard Ramsey are vying for the post, which is four-years and pays $17,000 annually. By Eric Bonzar.


Avon
Election: 8 competing for seats on Avon City Council: Eight Avon City Council candidates will vie for contested seats Nov. 5. By Adriana Cuevas.

Election: 4 seek to be Avon's first new mayor in 20 years: On Nov. 5, Avon voters will take their pick of four candidates running for mayor, a position that has not had a turnover in two decades. By Adriana Cuevas.


Avon Lake
Avon Lake Charter amendments on the ballot for voters: Avon Lake residents will vote on two charter amendments in November. Both charter amendments will affect operations within the Avon Lake Municipal Utilities. By Adriana Cuevas.

Election: 3 candidates want seat on Avon Lake Municipal Utilities board: Avon Lake voters will have their pick at three candidates looking to take over two expiring seats on the Avon Lake Municipal Utilities board. By Adriana Cuevas.


Columbia Township
Passing of Columbia School District levy ‘critical': This November, voters in the Columbia School District will decide the fate of a 5.5-mill levy that could potentially save the district from state takeover. By Kaylee Remington.


Elyria
Election: 11 seek seats on Elyria City Council: Eleven candidates will vie for seven Elyria City Council seats Nov. 5. By Eric Bonzar.

Election: Elyria officials seek charter amendment: On Nov. 5, voters will decide the fate of a proposed charter amendment that would specifically define a “regular municipal election” as either a general or primary election. By Eric Bonzar.


Grafton
Election: 5 candidates seek 3 seats on Midview School Board: Five candidates are running for three open seats on Midview School’s Board of Education. By Eric Bonzar.


Lorain
Lorain School Board members to run unopposed in November election. The contested battle for one of the three open seats on th Lorain City School Board no more, as the only new face to the race has been scratched from the November ballot. By Eric Bonzar.

Eight campaigning for Clearview School Board: Eight candidates are seeking four seats on the Clearview School Board. Heidi Adkins, Giles Brown III, Crystal Fries, Michael David Kokinda Sr., Walter J. Koziura, Melissa Newsome, Danny L. Parsons Jr. and Michelle Pullin will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. The fifth seat occupied by board member Richard Marcucci is not up for re-election until 2015. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: Arredondo, De Los Santos vie for Lorain Council president: Two candidates seek to be president of Lorain’s governing board Nov. 5. Lorain City Council President Joel Arredondo, a Democrat, is running for re-election to the seat. His challenger is political newcomer Eli De Los Santos, a Republican. By Richard Payerchin.

Election: 3 wards up for grabs on Lorain City Council: There are contested races for seats representing three wards on Lorain City Council this fall. Voters in Wards 1, 4 and 8 will have to choose between candidates running for those seats on the 11-member governing board of Lorain. By Richard Payerchin.


North Ridgeville
Election: Six candidates running for North Ridgeville City Council: Six candidates are seeking three seats on the North Ridgeville City Council. Jerry Armstrong, Bernadine Butkowski, Bob Chapek, Kevin Corcoran, Roseanne Johnson and Jim Leonard are running for at-large seats and will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: Six charter amendments to appear on North Ridgeville ballot: Six charter amendments will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: Issue 33 on North Ridgeville ballot: The North Ridgeville School district will place Issue 33 on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: 4 candidates seek 3 seats on North Ridgeville School Board: Four candidates are seeking three seats on the North Ridgeville Board of Education. Incumbents Robb Lyons, Kelly McCarthy and Maria Sycz will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot along with Marci Saxon. By Jon Wysochanski.


Oberlin
Election: Oberlin residents to vote on fracking: City voters on Nov. 5 will decide whether to approve a community bill of rights banning the practice of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: 5 running for Oberlin School Board: Five candidates are seeking three seats on the Oberlin School Board. Albert Borroni, Rosa Gadsden, Heather Hougland, Anne Schaum and Kenneth Yancey will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. Seats held by Ken Stanley and Barry Richard are not up for re-election until 2015. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: Oberlin City Council race draws 9 candidates: Nine candidates are seeking seven seats on the Oberlin City Council. David Ashenhurst, Scott Broadwell, Bryan Burgess, Elizabeth Meadows, Anthony Mealy, Sharon Pearson, Kristin Peterson, Ronnie Rimbert and Sharon Soucy will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Jon Wysochanski.


Sheffield Lake
Election: Income tax issue on Sheffield Lake ballot: Voters will be asked Nov. 5 to approve a 0.5 percent increase to the city’s earned income tax. Passage of Issue 18 would increase Sheffield Lake’s income tax from 1.5 percent to 2 percent. A previous attempt to increase the income tax failed in May. By Jon Wysochanski.

Election: Two vie for Sheffield Lake council: Two candidates are vying to represent Ward 4 in Sheffield Lake. Mark Erdei, who currently holds the seat, will run against Dennis Pedings. Incumbents Leanna Stark, Alan Smith, and Mark Cizl are running unopposed for their seats. Eric Elliot will step down as Ward 3 representative and candidate Bill Wtulich will run for that seat unopposed. By Jon Wysochanski.


Sheffield Township
Eight campaigning for Clearview School Board: Eight candidates are seeking four seats on the Clearview School Board. Heidi Adkins, Giles Brown III, Crystal Fries, Michael David Kokinda Sr., Walter J. Koziura, Melissa Newsome, Danny L. Parsons Jr. and Michelle Pullin will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. The fifth seat occupied by board member Richard Marcucci is not up for re-election until 2015. By Jon Wysochanski.


Sheffield Village
Election: Sheffield Village asking voters to renew half-percent replacement levy: Issue 20 will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot asking voters to renew a half-percent replacement income tax levy. By Jon Wysochanski.


South Amherst
Election: Property tax levy on South Amherst Village ballot: South Amherst Village residents will see an additional property tax levy on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Eric Bonzar.

Election: South Amherst Village Council race draws 5 candidates: Five candidates will seek three seats on the South Amherst Village Council during the Nov. 5 election. Candidates Donna M. Hauck and Dean Nichol — along with incumbents Dennis Burdue, John Green and Robert A. James — will look to 1,119 voters to help secure the four-year term, paying $2,835 annually. By Eric Bonzar.



Unopposed races
Kipton Village Council: Karol Cornelius, Judy Wiele, Cindy Wiles

Amherst Township trustees: Dennis L. Abraham and Neil J. Lynch

Brownhelm Township trustees: Orrin Leimbach and James W. Northeim

Henrietta Township trustees: Ronald W. Baumann and Joseph R. Knoble

New Russia Township trustees: Patricia M. Brubaker and Jack A. Hoyt

Penfield Township trustees: Richard J. Conrad and Duane Johnson

LaGrange Township trustees: Rita Canfield and Gary Burnett

Rochester Township trustees: Gerald Cowie and Adam S. Mourton

Carlisle Township Fiscal Officer: Kimberly Fallon

Vermilion School Board: Grant Harding

Northpoint ESC: Janet E. Tuttle

Lorain Municipal Court Clerk: Lori A. Maiorana Clerk

Lorain Municipal Court: Judge Mark J. Mihok

Oberlin Municipal Court: Judge Thomas A Januzzi

Firelands School Board: Jane B. Battig, Ben Gibson and Daniel A. Pycraft

Wellington School Board: Ayers R. Ratliff, Sally Stewart and Lois A. Wulfhoop

Lorain County Educational Service Center

Sheffield Township trustees

Vermilion City Council 

Links to election preview stories will be added as they are published on News-Herald.com and MorningJournal.com.

Lake, Geauga, Cuyahoga counties candidates, issues filed for Nov. 5 ballot

Candidates, issues filed in Lorain, Cuyahoga counties

County-wide
Health and Human Services replacement levy on Cuyahoga County ballot: Cuyahoga County Health and Human Services will have a replacement levy on the November ballot to continue several services and programs for many people of the county. By Amy Popik.


Beachwood
Election: Beachwood City Council race draws 7 candidates: Seven candidates are running for three at large seats on Beachwood City Council. The 8,950 registered voters in Beachwood will choose from Justin Berns, David Eden, Michael Friedman, Alec Isaacson, incumbent Melvin Jacobs, James Pasch and Michael Silver. By Andrew Cass.


Bay Village
Election: 2 running for Bay Village mayor: On Nov. 5, Bay Village voters will go to the polls for the second time in two months to decide who will serve as the city’s mayor for the next four years. By Scott Mahoney.

Election: Incumbents to Bay Village Council challenged: Three of the four wards in Bay Village will be contested in Tuesday’s election. By Jon Behm.


Euclid
Charter amendment on ballot in Euclid: Euclid voters who head to the polls on Nov. 5 will see a charter amendment regarding a change to the Civil Service Commission. By Amy Popik.

Four candidates seek three seats on Euclid School Board. Four candidates are running for three seats on Euclid School Board that are up for election. Carla DeVontenno, incumbent Angela M. Lisy, incumbent Donna M. Sudar and Tisha R. Thomas are looking to fill those seats. By Amy Popik.

Election: 8 candidates vie for 3 ward council seats in Euclid: All even-numbered wards, Ward 1, and council president will be on the Euclid ballot in the Nov. 5 election, with several candidates hoping to win a council seat to represent Euclid. By Amy Popik.


Highland Heights
Election: Highland Heights to vote on all council members: All of Highland Heights City Council — three at large seats and four ward seats — will be up for election Nov. 5. By Amy Popik.

Election: 5 run for 3 seats on Mayfield School Board: Mayfield School Board has three seats open this election, with five candidates running to fill those seats. Incumbent Daniel A. Carlson, Ronald M. Fornaro Jr., incumbent Peter N. Glynos, incumbent George J. Hughes and James S. Teresi are the candidates on the ballot. By Amy Popik.


Mayfield Heights
Election: 5 run for 3 seats on Mayfield School Board: Mayfield School Board has three seats open this election, with five candidates running to fill those seats. Incumbent Daniel A. Carlson, Ronald M. Fornaro Jr., incumbent Peter N. Glynos, incumbent George J. Hughes and James S. Teresi are the candidates on the ballot. By Amy Popik.

Election: 4 Mayfield Heights City Council spots open for 5 candidates: Mayfield Heights City Council has four at large seats up for grabs, with five candidates looking to fill those positions. Michael J. Ballistrea, incumbent Robert J. DeJohn, Donald J. Manno, incumbent Joe Mercurio and Susan A. Sabetta are the candidates on the ballot. By Amy Popik.

Election: 3 seek to be Mayfield Heights mayor: There are three candidates running to be Mayfield Heights mayor this November. Incumbent Anthony J. DiCicco Jr., sitting council President pro tem Donna R. Finney, and sitting council President, Diane Marzano Snider are each hoping to come out on top Nov. 5. By Amy Popik.


Mayfield Village
Election: 3 vie for 2 at-large Mayfield Village Council seats. Three candidates are running for two at-large seats on Mayfield Village Council this November. By Amy Popik.

Election: 5 run for 3 seats on Mayfield School Board: Mayfield School Board has three seats open this election, with five candidates running to fill those seats. Incumbent Daniel A. Carlson, Ronald M. Fornaro Jr., incumbent Peter N. Glynos, incumbent George J. Hughes and James S. Teresi are the candidates on the ballot. By Amy Popik.


North Olmsted
Election: A number of familiar faces running for North Olmsted BOE: Four candidates are vying for three spots on the North Olmsted Board of Education in November’s general election. By Scott Mahoney.

Election: North Olmsted race pits former mayor against current: A few high-ranking positions will be up for grabs in North Olmsted on election day, but only one of those positions will be a contested race. By Jon Behm.

Election: 2 candidates vie for North Olmsted president of Council: The president of council position will be on the Nov. 5 ballot with incumbent Nicole Dailey Jones facing off against Dennis M. Lambert. By Jon Behm.

Election: Re-election not guaranteed on North Olmsted City Council: There will be four contested races for North Olmsted City Council as voters head to the polls Tuesday. While Ward 3 Councilman Paul D. Schumann faces no opposition, the same can not be said for Wards 1, 2 and 4, as well as a council at large seat. By Jon Behm.


Richmond Heights
Election: Richmond Heights mayor race has 4 contenders: Four candidates are seeking the mayor's office in Richmond Heights. Dave Ali, Miesha Wilson Headen, Eloise Henry and incumbent Daniel J. Ursu are all vying for the position. The winner will serve a four-year term and earn $15,000 a year. By Andrew Cass.

Election: 4 want at-large seats on Richmond Heights City Council: Two at-large seats on Richmond Heights City Council are being sought by four candidates. By Andrew Cass.

Election: 4 seek 2 seats on Richmond Heights School Board: Four candidates are seeking two spots on the Richmond Heights School Board. The 7,618 registered voters in Richmond Heights will choose from incumbent Bobby Jordan, Vida LePage, incumbent Nneka Slade Jackson and Carl Vinci. By Andrew Cass.


Rocky River
Election: Two vie for Rocky River Clerk of Courts position: The Rocky River Municipal Court Clerk of Courts position will be on the Nov. 5 ballot with incumbent Deborah F. Comery facing off against Jeanne Gallagher. By Jon Behm.

Election: Rocky River tax first on ballot since 1977: When 15,336 registered voters in Rocky River peruse their ballots for the Nov. 5 election, one of the key issues for the city’s future will be Issue 58. By Jon Behm.

Election: 4 vying for at-large seats on Rocky River City Council: All but one of the city government races in Rocky River will feature the incumbent running unopposed. However, the three at-large seats will be fought for by the three incumbents and a new challenger, all vying for the votes of the 15,336 registered voters in Rocky River. By Jon Behm.


Westlake
Westlake Schools seeks new money to avoid further cuts: Westlake City Schools will once again put an operation levy before voters in an effort to avoid making further cuts to the district. By Scott Mahoney.

Election: Westlake City Council race features 3 contested wards: Three of Westlake’s six wards will feature contested battles to represent the citizens. While six candidates battle to gain office, six other politicians who find themselves running unopposed for their positions Nov. 5. By Jon Behm.


Unopposed races

Bay Village School Board, Michael G. Caputo, Amy Huntley and Gayatry Jacob-Mosier

Rocky River School Board, Jon M. Francher, Kathy Goepfert and Jay Milano

South Euclid-Lyndhurst School Board, elect three: Ori Akrish, Cassandra M. Jones and Lisa A. Marko

Links to election preview stories will be added as they are published on News-Herald.com.

Lake, Geauga, Cuyahoga counties candidates, issues filed for Nov. 5 ballot

County-wide
Renewal levies set for Geauga County ballot: The majority of municipalities and townships as well as one school district in Geauga County are seeking to pass renewal levies in the Nov. 5 general election. A renewal is an issue in which voters are asked to approve an existing levy for an extended period of time, but at the same cost to taxpayers. By Jean Bonchak.

East Geauga Fire District seeking replacement levy in November: A replacement levy on the ballot in November will more than double a taxpayer’s annual cost, but the Middlefield Fire Department believes the resulting increase in funds is necessary to continue providing adequate coverage. By Matt Skrajner.

Geauga County voters asked to OK Health District levy renewal, addition: Geauga County voters will be asked Nov. 5 to approve two levies to help fund the Geauga County Health District. By John Arthur Hutchison.

Election: 4 candidates vie for 3 seats on Geauga County Educational Service Center Board: Three seats on the Geauga County Educational Service Center Board are being sought by four candidates. By Jean Bonchak.


Auburn
Election: 5 vying for 2 Auburn Township trustee seats: Five candidates are seeking two seats on the Auburn Township Board of Trustees. John A. Eberly, Karen E. Quay, Brian M. Richter, Claudine Steinfurth and Michael S. Troyan will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Tracey Read.


Burton
Election: 2 seats available for 5 Berkshire candidates: Five candidates are seeking two available seats on the Berkshire School Board. They are Kimberly M. Brown, John Guinn, Steven A. Hare, John J. Manfredi and Mark Rhoades. By Jean Bonchak.

Election: 7 running for 4 Burton Village Council seats: Four of the six seats on Burton Village Council will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot and the positions are sought by seven candidates. By John Arthur Hutchison.

Election: 3 want seat on Burton Township Board of Trustees: Three candidates are seeking two open seats on the Burton Township Board of Trustees. By Tracey Read.


Chagrin Falls
Election: 5 candidates seek 3 seats on Kenston School Board: Five candidates are vying for three available spots on the Kenston School Board. They are Thomas R. Fussner, Beth Krause, Wanda L. Richardson, William C. Timmons and Beth Ward. By Jean Bonchak.

Chardon
Election: Several candidates seek Chardon City Council seat: A field of six candidates seeks to fill four spots on Chardon City Council this November. By Betsy Scott.

Election: Chardon voters to decide on new council rules, merged services: More than 3,600 Chardon City voters can decide the fate of four proposed charter amendments on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Betsy Scott.

Election: Chardon School District hoping voters will pass 5.9-mill levy: The Chardon School District is seeking the passage of a 5.9-mill levy in the upcoming Nov. 5 election. By Jean Bonchak.

Election: 4 seek 2 seats on Chardon School Board: Two seats on the Chardon School Board are being sought by four candidates. They are Madelon Horvath, Gregory Kernc, Larry Reiter and Paul Stefanko. By Jean Bonchak.


Chester Township
Election: 5 candidates vying for Chester trustee seats: Two of the three seats on the Chester Township Board of Trustees will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot and the positions are sought by five candidates. By John Arthur Hutchison.

Election: 4 vie for 2 seats on West Geauga School Board: Four candidates are vying for two seats on the West Geauga School Board. They are William Beers, Sally Gillmore, Thomas Phelps and Dan Thoreson. By Jean Bonchak.


Claridon Township
Election: 3 candidates run for 2 Claridon trustee seats: Three candidates are vying for two available Claridon Township trustee seats. Come Nov. 5, the 2,142 registered voters in the township will choose between incumbent David L. Brockway, incumbent Mike Farrell, and Steven J. Smetana. By Matt Skrajner.


Hambden Township
Election: 5 competing for 2 Hambden trustee positions: Five candidates are seeking two open seats on the Hambden Township Board of Trustees. John Bryant, Eric Daniel Germovsek, incumbent Edward W. Kaminski, Donald H. Kleve and incumbent Nadine Pope will appear on the Nov. 5. By Tracey Read.


Huntsburg Township
Election: Additional Huntsburg levy would generate more than $60,000: Huntsburg Township residents will have to determine whether a tax increase is worth improving their local parks. By Matt Skrajner.

Election: 5 seek 2 Huntsburg Township trustee positions: Five candidates are vying for two open positions on the Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees. Incumbents James Baker and Jon Hunter, as well as challengers Nancy Saunders, Jason Sutter and Al Vontorcik, will appear on the ballot Nov. 5. By Matt Skrajner.


Middlefield Village
Election: 6 seeking 4 seats on Middlefield Village Council: Four incumbents are being challenged by two other candidates for four seats up for election on Middlefield Village Council. Incumbent Bill Blue, Edna L. Davis, incumbent Scott E. Klein, Brandon M. Reed, incumbent Rick Seyer and incumbent Ronald W. Wiech will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. By Tracey Read.


Montville Township
Ledgemont School District seeks levy passage in November election: The outcome of an upcoming levy presented to voters in Montville and Thompson townships may emerge as a deciding factor in the ultimate future of Ledgemont Schools. By Jean Bonchak.

Election: 3 running for Montville Township trustee positions: Three candidates will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot seeking to win one of two seats on the Montville Township Board of Trustees. Lu Ann Burger and incumbents James Marsic and Randal C. Peterson are running for the position. By John Arthur Hutchison.


Munson Township
Four candidates vie for two Munson Township trustee positions. Four candidates, including two incumbents, are battling for two available trustee positions in Munson Township. By Matt Skrajner.

Todd Ray seeking re-election as Munson Township trustee. Four candidates, including two incumbents, are battling for two available trustee positions in Munson Township. By Matt Skrajner.

Election: 4 vie for 2 seats on West Geauga School Board: Four candidates are vying for two seats on the West Geauga School Board. They are William Beers, Sally Gillmore, Thomas Phelps and Dan Thoreson. By Jean Bonchak.


Newbury Township
Election: Newbury Schools seeking additional emergency levy: Voters in the Newbury School District will decide a five-year, 7.1-mill additional emergency levy on the Nov. 5 ballot. If passed, the levy will cost taxpayers $248.50 per $100,000 property valuation to yield $1,190,000 a year. By Jean Bonchak.


Parkman Township
Election: Parkman Township Fire seeks first new levy in nearly 30 years. Parkman Township residents are being asked to go to the polls Nov. 5 to approve a five-year, 1-mill replacement levy for fire services. By Tracey Read.

Election: Parkman Township Board of Trustees to get new faces: The three-member Parkman Township Board of Trustees will be made up of all new faces next year. By Tracey Read.


Russell Township
Election: Russell Township voters face three levies in November: Russell Township voters will be asked to consider three levies on the Nov. 5 ballot. By John Arthur Hutchison.

Election: Russell Township has logjam of candidates for 2 trustee spots: Two of the three seats on the Russell Township Board of Trustees will appear on the Nov. 5 ballot and the positions are sought by six candidates. By John Arthur Hutchison.

Election: 4 vie for 2 seats on West Geauga School Board: Four candidates are vying for two seats on the West Geauga School Board. They are William Beers, Sally Gillmore, Thomas Phelps and Dan Thoreson. By Jean Bonchak.


Thompson Township
Ledgemont School District seeks levy passage in November election: The outcome of an upcoming levy presented to voters in Montville and Thompson townships may emerge as a deciding factor in the ultimate future of Ledgemont Schools. By Jean Bonchak.


Troy Township
Election: 3 candidates battle for 2 Troy Township trustee positions: Three candidates are vying for two seats on the Troy Township Board of Trustees. By Matt Skrajner.


Unopposed races

Aquilla Village Council, elect four: Joy L. Bennington, Ron Eging, Colleen Goebelt and Jeannette E. Mitchell

Bainbridge Township trustee, elect two: Lorrie A. Sass Benza and Jeff Markley

Cardinal School Board, elect two: Kenneth J. Klima

Chardon Township trustee, elect two: Steven J. Borawski and Michael Brown

Ledgemont School Board, elect two: Richard A. Loveland and Barbara Raikes; Unexpired term concluding Dec. 31, 2015, elect one: Carol A. Geisman

Middlefield Township trustee, elect two: Robert A. Evans and Mervin E. Miller

Newbury School Board, elect three: Susan G. Arnold, John A. Gingerich and Guy A. Mann

Newbury Township trustee, elect two: Janice M. Blair and William J. Skomrock Jr.

Thompson Township trustee, elect two: Erwin M. Leffel and Frank Sirna

South Russell Village Council, elect four: Mike Carroll, John Dishong, Bill Koons and Mark E. Porter

Now that Gov. John Kasich has appointed Mark Bartolotta to serve as Lake County Probate Court judge, look for some other developments to shake out involving who might run for other county judicial offices in 2014.

Lake County Assistant Prosecutor John O’Donnell, who was one of four finalists for the Probate Court appointment, quickly pulled candidacy petitions to run for the Lake County Common Pleas Court seat on the bench held by Judge Joe Gibson.

Due to age limits for judges, Gibson is not able to seek re-election, so that leaves an open seat up for grabs.

Look for O’Donnell, a Willowick Republican who also serves as a city councilman, to announce fairly soon that he will run for the judicial position.

Will any other Republicans decide to run for the seat?

On the Democratic side, how about attorney Ron Graham, who ran against Judge Vincent A. Culotta in the 2004 election?

Dennis N. Loconti finished second to Gibson in the 2008 Democratic Party. Would he be interested in another run?

How about Paul Miller? He was a finalist for the recent county Public Defender appointment and ran in the Democratic primary in 2008 for county Juvenile Court judge.

If not for a Common Pleas position, would Miller have any interest in running again for Juvenile Court judge? Judge Karen Lawson, a Republican, also will be on the ballot next year.

So will the seat on the Domestic Relations Court bench held by Judge Colleen A. Falkowski, a Democrat. She was unopposed in 2008.

It’s early, but I’m not hearing of any potential Republican interest for a primary against Bartolotta for Probate Court judge.

By the way, Bartolotta was sworn in Thursday by Culotta during a private ceremony and is scheduled to begin service on the bench on Monday. A public swearing in ceremony is planned Sept. 30 for Bartolotta at the courthouse.

Mentor Prosecutor Lisa Klammer, a Democrat, is said to have interest in running for the Probate Court seat.

Eastlake mayor race set

Eastlake Council President Dennis Morley and incumbent Mayor Ted Andrzejewski were the top two finishers in Tuesday’s mayor primary, so they will now face each other on the Nov. 5 ballot.

Councilwoman Cindy Quinn-Hopkins finished third, meaning she does not advance.

The special election attracted about 19 percent of the city’s registered voters. Election officials said that’s a good turnout for this type of election.

I find it rather disappointing that not even one out of every five voters bothered to take the time to cast a ballot to help determine who should be the city’s top elected official.

Candidate endorsements

Candidates in Lake, Geauga and eastern Cuyahoga counties who appear on the Nov. 5 ballot may send in listings of endorsements they receive for the upcoming election via email, fax or standard mail. They will appear online periodically on The News-Herald’s Northern Ohio Politics blog.

Event

Perry Township Trustee candidate Bob Dawson hosts a meet the candidate picnic from 2 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at Perry Township Park.

Fundies

n Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy hosts Fall Classic Golf Outing and Clam Bake, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start Sept. 27 at Lost Nation Municipal Golf Course in Willoughby. See Kip Molenaar.

n Eric Condon, candidate for Euclid Council Ward 8, hosts Cleveland vs. Buffalo Tailgate Party, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Oct. 3 at Paradise Island Saloon in Euclid. See Condon.

n Dennis Morley, candidate for Eastlake mayor, hosts Steak Roast Fundraiser, 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at Boracs Landing in Eastlake. See Donna Vaughn or Dale Bradley.

n State Rep. John Rogers hosts fall clambake, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Mentor Beach Park in Mentor-on-the-Lake. See Rogers or Kip Molenaar.

n Lake County Commissioner Judy Moran hosts Oktoberfest 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at American Legion Hall in Willowick. See Paul Miller or Kevin Malecek.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

The Ohio Ballot Board has certified a proposed initiated statute concerning Medicaid as containing only one proposed law, Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted announced Thursday.

Petitioners must now collect 115,574 signatures, equal to 3 percent of the total vote cast for governor in the most recent gubernatorial election, 2010, to bring the issue before the General Assembly for consideration.

Petitioners must file the required number of valid signatures with the Secretary of State’s Office not less than 10 days prior to the start of any legislative session in a calendar year in order to get the issue on that year’s General Election ballot.

The General Assembly has four months to act on the proposed law. If lawmakers do not pass the law, pass it in an amended form or take no action after four months, petitioners may collect additional signatures to place the issue on the ballot. The number of supplemental signatures required is 115,574, equal to 3 percent of the total vote cast for governor in the most recent gubernatorial election, 2010.

As part of the total number of signatures needed for both the initial and supplemental signatures filed, petitioners must also collect signatures from at least 44 of Ohio’s 88 counties, and within each of those counties, collect enough signatures equal to one and one-half percent of the total vote cast for governor in the most recent gubernatorial election, 2010, in that county.

Members of the Ballot Board are Husted, chair; Mark Griffin, vice chair; state Sens. Nina Turner, D-Cleveland, and Bill Coley, R-Liberty Township in Montgomery County; and and William N. Morgan.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

State Sen. Nina Turner, D-Cleveland, has endorsed Armond Budish in the race for Cuyahoga County Executive.

Turner, who represents half of Lake County in Ohio Senate District 25, and Budish released these statements regarding the endorsement:

“Armond Budish is a leader with a deep commitment to public service and the experience to unite diverse communities behind a common goal,”Turner said. “As one of the leaders of county reform, I am confident that he will continue to push for accountability, equity, and efficiency in government and transform Cuyahoga County into an economic powerhouse."

“Sen. Turner is a leading voice for Cuyahoga County both at home and around our state," Budish said. "We both care deeply about attracting good-paying jobs to our communities, and ensuring that every Ohioan has an equal and fair opportunity to exercise their right to vote. I am honored to have her support.”

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted has called a meeting of the Ohio Ballot Board for Thursday at 1 p.m. in Columbus.

As required by Ohio law, the Ballot Board will meet to determine whether a proposed initiated statute regarding Medicaid consists of only one proposed law. The Ballot Board has 10 days from the date the certification is received from the attorney general to complete this task.

The review is one step in the process toward potentially putting the issue on the statewide ballot in November 2014.

Members of the Ballot Board are Husted, chair; Mark Griffin, vice chair; state Sens. Nina Turner, D-Cleveland, and Bill Coley, R-Liberty Township in Montgomery County; and and William N. Morgan. Coley will be sworn in as a member to replace Ohio Senate President Keith Faber.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Joe Zawatski, candidate for Willoughby Hills Council at Large announced he received endorsements by Willoughby Hills Council President David Reichelt, Councilman Christopher Biro, Councilman Frank Germano, Councilman Kevin Malecek, and Councilman Raymond Somich.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Now that state Rep. John Patrick Carney has announced he will run for Ohio Auditor, Democrats have filled most of their slate of statewide candidates who will challenge Republican incumbents in 2014.

Carney is a Columbus-based healthcare attorney who grew up in Bay Village and has served in the Ohio General Assembly for three two-year terms.

He will challenge incumbent state Auditor Dave Yost, a Republican who is finishing his first term in office.

Other races shape up for now to pit Gov. John Kasich vs. Cuyahoga County Executive Ed Fitzgerald; Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel vs. state Rep. Connie Pillach; Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted vs. state Sen. Nina Turner; and Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine vs. former Hamilton County Commissioner David Pepper.

Ohio Supreme Court Justice Sharon Kennedy also will be on the ballot next year. No Democrat opposition has announced so far.

Carney said during an interview with The News-Herald that he believes his experience in the health care field would serve him well as he would aim as auditor to carefully examine the large percentage of the state’s revenue that is spent on health care.

Other issues Carney will use as campaign talking points are to protect Lake Erie and waterway assets and what he says is the gerrymandering of legislative districts that eliminates bipartisanship on the state level.

He also believes that JobsOhio needs to be more transparent and said Ohioans deserve to know where public tax money is spent in the effort to help create jobs.

It should be an interesting election season next year to see if Republicans continue to dominate state politics or whether Democrats make any headway.

Welcome to the bench

Congratulations to Geauga County Assistant Prosecutor Mark Bartolotta, who was appointed by Kasich to become the new Lake County Probate Court judge. I’ll write a little bit more on this development in a future column.

Events

Geauga County Democratic Party hosts a spaghetti dinner at 6 p.m. Thursday and a speaker will discuss the new federal health care law. Former Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner will talk about women’s issues and her new book at 2 p.m. Sept. 22. The party’s annual clambake will be at 6 p.m. Oct. 5. Each of the events will be at party headquarters in Newbury Township.

Geauga County Republican Party hosts GOP Steak Roast with a mystery guest speaker at 2 p.m. Oct. 6 at the Troy Township Pavilion.

Lake County Democratic Women’s Club hosts 75th anniversary luncheon and Woman of the Year award on Sept. 21 at Dino’s Party Center in Willoughby.

Candidate endorsements

Candidates in Lake, Geauga and eastern Cuyahoga counties who appear on the Nov. 5 ballot may send in listings of endorsements they receive for the upcoming election via email, fax or standard mail. They will appear online periodically on The News-Herald’s Northern Ohio Politics blog.

Change in publication date

Starting with the Sept. 21 edition, this column will be published on The News-Herald’s editorial page on Saturdays instead of on Sundays.

Fundies

n Susan McGuinness, candidate for Painesville Township trustee, hosts a ’60s Night fundraiser, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Harry Buffalo in Painesville Township. See Susan or Ray McGuinness.

n Geauga County Auditor Frank J. Gliha hosts Chinese Dinner fundraiser, 6:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at Pineview Lake in Munson Township. See Gliha.

n Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy hosts Fall Classic golf outing and Clam Bake, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start Sept. 27 at Lost Nation Municipal Golf Course in Willoughby. See Kip Molenaar.

n Dennis Morley, candidate for Eastlake mayor, hosts Steak Roast Fundraiser, 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at Boracs Landing in Eastlake. See Donna Vaughn or Dale Bradley.

n State Rep. John Rogers hosts fall clambake, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Mentor Beach Park in Mentor-on-the-Lake. See Rogers or Kip Molenaar.

n Lake County Commissioner Judy Moran hosts Oktoberfest 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at American Legion Hall in Willowick. See Paul Miller or Kevin Malecek.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Josh Pennock, candidate for Painesville Township trustee announced he’s received endorsements by Lake County Prosecutor Charles E. Coulson, former Lake County Treasuruer John S. Crocker, Lake County Engineer James R. Gills, Grand River Mayor Christopher Conley, Grand River Village Streets Commissioner Rex Buchs.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Ed Jerse, candidate in 2014 for Ohio Senate District 25, announced he received endorsements by state Rep. John Rogers and Orange Village Mayor Kathy Mulcahy.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Rusty Bliss, candidate for Willoughby-Eastlake School Board, announced he’s received endorsements from Willoughby Hills Councilman David Fiebig, Eastlake Councilwoman Cindy Quinn-Hopkins and Willoughby Councilman Chris Woodin.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

When it comes to behavioral health services in Lake County, I frequently hear the word collaboration mentioned by leaders who visit from outside the area.

Tracy Plouck, who is the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services director, is no exception.

Plouck visited the county this week to speak with local leaders and to visit several facilities that provide services.

She took part in a roundtable discussion at the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services board’s office that included many of the folks who are directly involved in the behavioral health field in the county.

Among them were elected officials such as Sheriff Daniel A. Dunlap, Juvenile Court Judge Karen Lawson and Mentor Municipal Court Judge John Trebets, who also runs a mental health and drug court.

Also part of the discussion were members from the ADAMHS board and its management team including Executive Director Kim Fraser, Lake County Job and Family Services Director Matt Battiato, Lake County Educational Service Center Director Brian Bontempo, NAMI Lake County Director Carole Jazbec and Lake County Ombudsman Christi Farmer.

As jails continue to be overcrowded and caring for many people who need mental health and addiction treatment, Plouck talked about developing partnerships with sheriffs across the state and increasing the dialogue with courts to help improve services.

The state continues to integrate physical health along with behavioral health to treat the person as a whole, Plouck said.

Her impression of Lake County leaders is they operate with a great degree of collaboration, and she said she was particularly struck by the compassion they have to help people who are struggling.

Plouck wrapped up her visit to the county by serving as one of the featured speakers at the 20th anniversary reception in Willoughby for BRIDGES: Mental Health Consumer Empowerment.

Eastlake mayoral primary

The three candidates for Eastlake mayor turned in pre-election campaign spending reports for this past Thursday’s deadline.

The primary will be held for Eastlake voters Sept. 17 with the top two vote-getters advancing to the Nov. 5 ballot.

Candidates are incumbent Ted Andrzejewski, Council President Dennis Morley and Councilwoman Cindy Quinn-Hopkins.

Here’s a quick glance at their warchests, according to campaign finance reports turned in to the Lake County Elections Board.

Andrzejewski raised $23,263; spent $14,648, received $779 as in-kind contributions and had $1,900 in outstanding loans owed by the committee.

Morley raised $2,376 and spent $1,320.

Quinn-Hopkins raised $3,425, spent $1,334 and made $450 as in-kind contributions.

Event

Quinn-Hopkins will host a soup-and-crackers free lunch event from 11:30 to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Surfside Towers Party Room in Eastlake.

Candidate endorsements

Candidates in Lake, Geauga and eastern Cuyahoga counties who appear on the Nov. 5 ballot may send in listings of endorsements they receive for the upcoming election via email, fax or standard mail. They will appear online periodically on The News-Herald’s Northern Ohio Politics blog.

Fundies

n A summer buffet fundraiser for Sarah Fowler, state Board of Education District 7, 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Orchard Hills Event Center in Chester Township. See Fowler.

n Susan McGuinness, candidate for Painesville Township trustee, hosts a ’60s Night fundraiser, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Harry Buffalo in Painesville Township. See Susan or Ray McGuinness.

n Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy hosts Fall Classic golf outing and Clam Bake, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start Sept. 27 at Lost Nation Municipal Golf Course in Willoughby. See Kip Molenaar.

n Morley hosts Steak Roast Fundraiser, 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 6 at Boracs Landing in Eastlake. See Donna Vaughn or Dale Bradley.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah