Dear Editor:
On Oct. 1, candidates for a seat as Knox County Commissioner held a debate sponsored by Knox Pages at the Woodward Opera House.
Republican Barry Lester introduced himself as a veteran and the CEO of a multi-million-dollar business. He works at Donnelly Ford.
Democrat Chuck Rogers, a native of Knox County, has been an EMT, firefighter, and a medic on rescue helicopters. Also a carpenter, Rogers is involved with Habitat for Humanity, serves on board, and is interested in finding/building more housing affordable to working people. His wife and he run an animal shelter.
In a series of responses to questions from Knox Pages editors, the men agreed on several things but had different ideas of what to do about issues.
Both men support medical marijuana. Rogers got more specific. He said we need a marijuana dispensary in Knox County so we can collect taxes that help pay for recovery programs.
Chuck discovered that Mansfield collects $250,000/year. Employees there are paying taxes on their $15/hour wages. We could use that income if consumers bought locally.
Asked what should be protected from cuts, Rogers would shield fair boards, Jobs and Family Services, arts, recycling, and help for foster kids. Lester agreed.
Regarding the anticipated impact of Intel, Lester offered no ideas about low-income housing for workers. Chuck Rogers wants more generational housing, zoning changes, and putting houses in villages instead of on two-acre plots in the country. Rogers reported 12 homes being built on Columbus Rd. by Habitat.
Regarding tax increases and public transit, Rogers showed more detailed research. He wants to provide more information for people 65 and older about Homestead exemptions of up to $25,000 annually.
For totally disabled veterans, $50,000 a year would not be taxed. Lester said all veterans got a letter about exemptions but claimed that some veterans cheat.
On public transit, Lester said Moda and CART are not extensive but are used mainly for shopping; Rogers believes transit should be updated to take workers to JELD-WEN and other places of employment.
The candidates were asked what distinguishes them. Barry Lester said his resume speaks for itself.
Rogers is active in the community, goes to meetings, and works with the animal shelter and Habitat for Humanity.
Chuck Rogers is the clear choice for representation.
Jill GrubbÂ
Gambier, Ohio