Commissioner: Dimacchia, Gallagher seek to be elected Lorain County commissioner

Marty Gallagher, 60 Party: Republican Education: Dyke College (now known as Chancellor University; Cuyahoga Community College; North Olmsted High School. Family: Middle of 13 children. Married almost 32 years. Four adult children: Shannon, Megan, Liam and Erin. Job history: self-employed/co-owner, Suntan Supply, 1987-present; president, Ultraviolet Resources International, 1982-1987. Campaign web site: MartyGallagher.net *** Tony Dimacchia, 49 Party: Democrat Education: masters degree, Bowling Green State University; bachelor's degree, Tiffin University. Family: wife Morgan Dimacchia (nee Mathewson); Children: Helayna (22), Gabriella (16), Anthony (12), Stella Rose (3) Job history: Director of Operations, Lorain Schools (Current - 2 years), Director of Communications, Lorain Schools (1 year), Director of Operations, Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio (15 years), Educator: Lorain Schools (6 years), Lorain County Community College (10 years) Laborer: Lorain County Engineers (8 years), High School Athletics Coach: Avon Lake HS, Lorain Admiral King High School, Vermilion High School, Avon High School, Brookside High School, Clearview High School, and Avon Lake High School (28 years) *** What makes you the best candidate for the position? Dimacchia: The voters of Lorain County should vote for me if they want an honest, hardworking lifelong resident fighting for their concerns. I am an experienced leader that has demonstrated commitment to public service and will work hard to represent our residents with integrity and genuine transparency. I will focus on these priorities: a. Fiscal Transparency i. We deserve to know how every tax dollar is spent. b. Equitable Funding c. Restoring Trust d. Public Safety: Advocating and supporting Lorain County's safety forces e. Economic Development f. Community Engagement: I believe in open lines of communication and collaboration Gallagher: As a commissioner you are the budget authority. I have been in business for over 37 years with almost 40 employees. I am proficient in operating budgets, managed employee benefits, operations, manufacturing, and sales. I have a history of creating jobs for over 40 years. I have worked with state a federal legislators for over 10 years as a board member of a national trade association. I have also worked with non-profits, state and federal agencies. I will be able to lead on day one to implement positive changes for Lorain County. What is the biggest challenge facing the county and how would you address it? Dimacchia: 1. Regain the trust of our residents throughout the entire county. 2. Stop the wasteful spending and prioritize the overall needs of our county and its residents. 3. Economic development and recruitment of new businesses. I will focus on repairing the trust and confidence of our residents in our county government. I would first focus on listening and learning to identify the priorities of Lorain County and its residents. I will work with the various departments, organizations, and residents to strategically develop a comprehensive plan that will focus on improving the county's infrastructure, safety services, sewer system, and other priorities that have been identified. Gallagher: Creating and retaining high paying jobs. In order to this you must create a business-friendly environment. Repurposing blighted properties like Midway Mall which will create roughly 500 high paying jobs. I will continue to pursue economic development opportunities. As a member of NOACA I have been active in getting federal dollars for transportation such as our successful microtransit system and commuter passenger trains. By connecting microtransit and (Greater Cleveland) RTA to commuter rail service it will put Lorain County in a competitive position to attract and retain businesses. --David O'Brien