Update: Amy Cowell withdrew from the race for Grove City’s 5th ward council seat on Oct. 28, by which point it was too late to remove her name from the ballot, according to the Franklin County Board of Elections. The board posted notices at polling places notifying voters that votes for Cowell would not count.
Two candidates are battling on the general election ballot to represent the 5th ward on Grove City Council. The current council member, Rodney Dew, is not seeking reelection.
Ohio’s general election is Nov. 4, with polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Voters also may vote early through absentee ballots or in-person 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.
Amy Cowell
Age: 49
Campaign website: Amy Cowell for Grove City Council Ward 5 (Facebook)
Key issues:
Background: Currently works at Macy’s but previously has 25 years experience as an administrative assistant. Holds a degree in human resources management. Served on the South Western City Schools board of education.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am a hometown candidate that is familiar with what Grove City needs and what our citizens want. My family has been here for five generations now. I want to be a representative for the hardworking, blue-collar people of my ward, along with everyone else, of course. Ward 5 is landlocked, but we’re still affected by development in the city, so we need our voice to be heard.”
Mohamed Omar
Age: 24
Campaign website: omarforgrovecity.com
Key issues:
Background: Serves as the Graduate and Student Services Manager at Academia Medical Institute, helping students succeed in their academic and professional goals. Holds a Master’s degree in Education from Tiffin University and a Bachelor’s degree from Northern Kentucky University. Proud to be the youngest candidate to ever run for Grove City Council and the first Black Muslim candidate in the city’s history, bringing a fresh perspective and a commitment to inclusive leadership.
Why are you the best candidate? “I am the best candidate for Grove City Council because I bring a combination of fresh perspective, strong community commitment and the lived experience of being both the youngest person to ever run for this office and the first Black Muslim candidate in our city’s history. My candidacy reflects the future of Grove City: diverse, inclusive and focused on creating opportunities for everyone.
“My priorities are clear and community centered: expanding affordable and sustainable housing so that families, seniors and young professionals can live and thrive here; investing in a community recreation center to bring residents together and support youth; and addressing infrastructure challenges to reduce traffic and improve connectivity.
“I believe leadership should be transparent, accessible and accountable. I will always listen to residents and ensure their voices are at the heart of decision making. Grove City deserves bold leadership that looks forward, and I am ready to deliver it.”
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Two candidates vying for Grove City Council Ward 5 seat in Nov. 4 election
Reporting by Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
