Two candidates are running in the 2025 election to represent Dublin’s fourth ward, which includes the west-central part of the city. Incumbent Cathy DeRosa is facing a challenge from Kent A. Weakley.
Ohio’s general election is Nov. 4, with polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Voters also may cast their ballots early at the Franklin County Board of Elections, 1700 Morse Road.
The information below was supplied by candidates responding to a questionnaire. The Dispatch only edited responses for length or clarity.
Cathy DeRosa
Campaign website: derosa4dublin.com
Key issues:
Background: Retired business executive with a career spanning roles as a CPA, marketing executive, lecturer at Ohio State University, consultant and author. Holds a bachelor of science in accounting from the University of Arizona and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Served on Dublin City Council for eight years — four as vice mayor — along with service on other community boards including the Dublin Planning and Zoning Commission, COTA and the Dublin City Schools Business Advisory Council.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am experienced, committed, and focused on ensuring that residents’ needs are both heard and addressed. As your City Council Ward Representative, my top priority has always been listening to and serving our community. Over the past eight years, I have worked with hundreds of residents to resolve issues and deliver meaningful results.
“I am equally committed to sound financial stewardship. I have championed policies that require a balanced budget, responsible borrowing and full transparency. These practices protect taxpayer dollars while ensuring resources are available for community priorities.
“Looking ahead, Dublin must continue to honor its heritage while embracing innovation. I am dedicated to protecting and enhancing our existing assets, programs and natural resources, while also advancing new services and amenities that strengthen our quality of life and support long-term economic vitality.”
Kent A Weakley
Age: 43
Campaign website: weakley4Dublinfamilies.com
Key issues:
Background: Nationwide Children’s Hospital site director – Dublin and Marysville Close To Home Centers. Hold a BA in economics from Ohio Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in health administration from Ohio State University.
Why are you the best candidate? “I was born and raised in Dublin and proud to call it home for most of my life, and I am excited about the possibility to bring a fresh perspective to Dublin City Council. The city is embarking on two transformational projects: Metro Center revitalization and Sports Ohio expansion. I would provide value to these endeavors with my leadership experience and relationships that I have built throughout the community. We need leadership that listens to our constituents, and interacts with our citizens at the neighborhood level. I will accomplish this as I am heavily invested in our community. I am raising a family in our school system and also a corporate partner with the City of Dublin. I am forever grateful to recently serve as the Dublin Irish Festival Honorary Chair in 2025, now it is time for me to give back. Community events are very important to fostering connection in our city, and my experience in this area would add tremendous value. The health and wellness of our youth are critically important to our community’s future. I am proud to currently serve on the Dublin Wellness Alliance, and I have worked in health care for over 20 years.”
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Two candidates running for Dublin City Council Ward 4 in Nov. 4 election
Reporting by Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
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