Scioto County voters are being asked to pick two of the four people running for democratic nomination for Scioto County Commissioner. Those chosen in the primary will move on to the November general election to face incumbents Mike Crabtree and Doug Coleman.
David Malone and Ryan Ottney are Democratic Candidates for a seat currently occupied by Doug Coleman, who’s running unopposed as a Republican Candidate for the seat.
Mike Crabtree is running unopposed as a Republican Candidate for Scioto County Commissioner. Thomas Jefferson Davis and Kevin W. Johnson are also seeking election to county commissioner.
Ottney said if elected he would work to improve public and media access to county records.
On his campaign Facebook page, accessible at www.ryanottney.com, Ottney wrote, “This year, the Ohio primary election falls right in the middle of Sunshine Week. What better time to think about the importance of these ideals? If elected, I promise to practice transparency with the community and local media. I will participate in Sunshine Law training for elected officials; I will support an online checkbook so citizens can see and know where their money is being spent, and I will improve access to public records.”
Former Portsmouth Mayor David Malone is running against Ottney for the democratic nomination for one of the commissioner seats.
According to the David Malone for Scioto County Commissioner Facebook page, “Reasons to vote for Davis: Proven people skill(s), respectful, honest and fair and (a) committed community leader with ten years experience in local government.”
Malone said he would also hope to maintain fiscal stability in the county as well as bring diversity and a different perspective to the office of commissioner.
Thomas Jefferson Davis said if given the nomination on Tuesday for one of the commissioner seats, he would campaign on the need for jobs and industry in Scioto County.
“I think helping to influence job creation, through federal, state or private funds to create jobs and industry in southern Ohio, is a key factor,” Davis said. “The drug epidemic and mental health counseling are also issues that need addressed. We need to make sure we have everyone on the right page.”
Portsmouth City Council First Ward Representative Kevin W. Johnson is seeking the Democratic Nomination against Davis on Tuesday.
Johnson said there are a few things he would hope to address as commissioner. He believes the proposed Scioto County Splash Park is a waste of money, he said the money could have been spent on needed infrastructure projects.
He said if the county really wanted to invest in recreation, they could get on board with Connex and their proposed bike trails.
Johnson said he would also address a lack of transparency in county government. He said the city of Portsmouth has a website where council minutes and agendas can be accessed at any time. He would also like to address the fact that the county is choosing not to participate in the Ohiocheckbook.com initiative.
The two candidates with the most votes will move on to the General Election.
For more information about the primary election visit, www.electionsonthe.net/oh/scioto
