ThisWeek CW 09/26/2013
Incumbent Madison Township trustees Victor Paini and Edward Dildine are being challenged in the Nov. 5 election by newcomer Maria Stewart for two seats on the three-member board.
Stewart said that, as a home healthcare worker, she has spent many years making an impact in the community, which includes having received awards and recognition for her work.
“I’m not an incumbent but have many years of knowledge about our community and I don’t feel that there is an issue that can’t be fixed,” Stewart said. “There is always room for improvement, and I am very resourceful. For this reason, I feel that I can make an impact in the community.”
Dildine, a retired firefighter, said his record during his first term should indicate the type of work he plans to continue, if he is re-elected.
“During the course of my career, I have both valued and enjoyed my service to Madison Township as a firefighter and elected trustee,” he said. “My goals for the next four years are straightforward and attainable: better water quality and lower rates for residents of Blacklick Estates, maintain high quality of life for all residents and high degree of public safety within budgetary limits.”
Paini, a technology director, said the township has accomplished great things in the past but there is more work to be done.
“My first priority is economic development. Bringing new companies to Madison Township would also expand the tax base, helping to reduce the tax burden across the board,” Paini said.
“My second priority is to be really good at the services we offer. That means ensuring our fire and police are equipped and prepared to meet residents’ calls 24 hours a day. It means making sure that infrastructure improvements are made and kept up. And it means being an advocate for residents on important issues like water.”