Anthony Capretta defeats long-time incumbent Mike Kovack in race for Medina County Auditor

MEDINA — Republican Anthony Capretta won the race for Medina County auditor against Democratic incumbent Mike Kovack, who has been auditor since 1993, according to unofficial election results Tuesday. At press time, 118 out of 121 precincts were reporting in Medina County. Capretta received 53.01 percent of the votes, which was 39,578 votes. Kovack had 46.99 percent of the votes, or 35,082 votes. "First of all, I would like to thank the voters for selecting me as their next auditor," Capretta said. "At the same time, I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped me in my campaign. This was a team effort from Medina County Republicans, independents and Democrats who all want change in the auditor's office." Capretta is currently a Brunswick city councilman for Ward 4. He previously worked for the Cuyahoga County Auditor's Office and has been a bailiff and a police officer. "I'm looking forward to my new position as auditor and working with my staff and the county public officials," he said. Throughout Kovack's career, he has been the Medina County auditor, a Wadsworth city councilman, U.S. Navy officer, high school teacher, real-estate agent and a small-business owner. "It's been my honor to serve the people of Medina County these past 29 years," he said in a statement. "I believe we've served them well. I've had a good long run, and I wish Tony Capretta the best and hope he serves the people of Medina County well." Capretta also thanked Kovack for his military service after the results came out. "As a matter of fact, this Friday is Veterans Day, and I'd like to say thank you to Mike and to all of our veterans, men and women who have served our country," he said. Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.