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Running for Ward 1 is incumbent commissioner, James David Vetter, who is being challenged by James R. Sheats, Jr. In Ward 5, Commissioner Kazy Hinds has chosen not to seek re-election. Gary Michael Koenig and Frank DeBrosse are both seeking to replace her.
Commissioner Kris Lee of Ward 3 will remain in office until his term ends in 2025.
In September, Talk Piqua sent each of the 5 candidates a questionnaire asking them for some general information about themselves as well as their opinions and positions on a variety of current issues in our community. It is our hope that our readers will be able to utilize the information from these questionnaires to help them cast an informed vote on Election Day.
It has been our pleasure working with the candidates on these questionnaires. We thank them tremendously for their participation and wish them all the best of luck come November 7th.
We would also like to remind our readers that early voting begins Wednesday, October 11th. If you would like to vote in this election but are not currently registered, you still have time to do so as long as you pay a visit to the Miami County Board of Elections located at 215 W Main St, Troy, OH 45373, no later than Tuesday, October 10th.
The following responses are the candidates' complete responses:
Ward 1
James David Vetter
Can you give us a little background information on your personal life?
Piqua High School graduate and Otterbein University graduate (B.A. in Sociology, minors in Religion and Psychology) I have served on numerous City commissions and study groups. I am/or have been on, the Piqua Utility Board, Piqua Tree Committee, Storm Water Advisory Committee, Southview Neighborhood Association (President), Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Piqua Neighborhood Improvement Corporation, Piqua High School Music Hall of Fame, Piqua Civic Band, Positively Promoting Piqua, Piqua Friends of the Parks.
What makes you passionate about the city of Piqua, and given the opportunity to change it, what's your biggest desire for the city during your term?
What makes me passionate about Piqua is that it is a great place to live and work. Piqua has a rich, historical past. Piqua has many citizens willing to work to make the City better.
I am an advocate for safe water and safe air. The biggest need in my neighborhood is safe, affordable housing. I am an advocate for the First-Time Home Buyers Project. I am also concerned about the feral cat problem in this Ward and abandoned vehicles parked on the street.
What do you feel makes you the most qualified candidate to be elected to the Piqua City Commission?
I am a 40-plus year resident of the neighborhood. I have a good education and high energy level. I see creative solutions to problems. I have been active in Community activities for my entire residency in this Ward.
Do you feel there is currently a "disconnect" between the citizens and the Piqua government? If yes, do you have any proposals for helping to find a resolution?
I think there is a "disconnect" from some citizens. I seek solutions to problem that are factually based and not rumor based. I seek civil discussions about important issues and am committed to hearing all sides of those issues.
If you are available to chat with members of your ward prior to the election, how may they reach you?
I have always been available to citizens of my Ward through phone messages and emails. I spend about an hour each day answering those calls and email.
The City Commission recently passed a rental registration and inspection program. What are your feelings on a program of this nature?
Ward 1 has the most rentals of any Ward in the City. We are desperately in need of a program that ensure that rentals meet City code standards.
The Lock 9 redevelopment project has been in the works off and on for several years now. What are your thoughts on the project and the spending on that particular project?
The City needs to put out a document that shows the three phases of Lock 9 and the funding for each phase. That document was presented to Commissioners, but needs to be made public. The premise for the Lock 9 project is that people will come to Piqua for entertainment opportunities and will find Piqua a good place to live and work. The ultimate test for Lock 9 will be a growth in population and economic development.
Piqua recently lost its swimming pool after the decision was made to fill it in rather than make a significant investment in repairs. Hance Pavilion is currently unsafe for use as well due to lack of necessary maintenance. Do you feel the right decisions were made? Should the city invest in a new pool or repairing the pavilion? Do you have an alternative proposal?
The Hance Pavilion is a high priority for me. If successful, this project will be a cooperative activity between the City of Piqua and the local citizens. Currently, there is no large citizen-led activity to establish a new pool. Both of these projects appear in the City capital improvement document/plan.
A new 201-acre rock quarry has been proposed to take up a significant portion of Piqua's southern entrance into town. What are your thoughts on that?
I voted against the annexation of that property.
Recently there was a young man from Piqua murdered at Fountain Park and another young man seriously injured during that altercation. The perpetrator has been arrested and charged, but the people are saying Fountain Park is too dangerous for kids due to poor lighting and frequent drug deals occurring in that area. What do you feel would help make Fountain Park safe for our children again?
Increased police surveillance of the Park. Lighting could be improved. But the drug activity occurs late at night when families are not using the Park. Families should be encouraged to use the Park during daylight hours. I support a review of the "dusk to dawn" curfew of all the Parks.
Lithium batteries have been being burned at the old water treatment plant for fire training and investigative purposes since approximately 2018, but for many of the citizens, this information just came to light in September 2023. Several citizens have expressed concerns about the potential hazards of the chemicals in the smoke affecting the health of the people enjoying the bike path in that area as well as the chemicals potentially contaminating Swift Run and the river, two sources where our drinking water is obtained. What are your thoughts on this?
I support clean air and clean water and am looking for factually based information about both topics. I feel that the City Commission was blindsided about the activity at the old water plant and the mutual termination of the contract with the company responsible has resolved the issue at this time.
What are your feelings about the road conditions in Piqua? Do you believe more improvements need to be made? If so, what do you feel should be done?
I feel the road conditions are fair to good. More work needs to be done and the City is exploring different alternatives for either replacing existing roads or re-conditioning roads. The ultimate solution will be more money, which needs to be generated from Piqua's general funds.
Back in the early 1990's, Piqua had a booming economy and was bigger than Troy. Since then Piqua's economy has slowed down considerably compared to Troy. Troy's population has surpassed Piqua's by quite a large amount. What do you think is the biggest contributor and do you have any proposals for Piqua making a comeback against Troy?
I question whether Piqua had a bigger economy than Troy. I look for facts about that. Troy benefits from being the County seat. Piqua has lost several opportunities for economic growth based on the attitudes of some of its citizens.
What main focal area do you think is most important for the future success of Piqua (ie. investing in parks & recreation, riverfront development, economic development, etc)?
Economic development is number 1. It may be necessary for additional funds for the parks to continue to make improvements. Also we need to decrease from the general funds those projects that are draining money.
Do you believe Piqua Fire Department is in good shape for the future? Some people have claimed Piqua needs an additional fire station and/or a new ladder truck so they don't have to rely on Troy to provide theirs. What are your feelings on that?
In general, I feel the Fire Department is in good shape. A new ladder truck is already in the capital improvements plan. Mutual aid from surrounding communities has always been a part of the fire protection plan and strategy. This is not limited to Troy.
Many people frequently complain about outrageously high utility bills and the inability to pay them, especially when a bill is received that is significantly higher than previous bills with seemingly no good explanation for it. What are your thoughts on Piqua's utility rates vs other local communities?
I am going to challenge the assumption that Piqua's utilities are higher than most. Piqua's rates are one of the lowest in the area. Piqua's new utility bill breaks down the costs per category. The only utility that is high compared to other communities is for water.
Heroin/fentanyl overdoses seem to have peaked within the past few years but heroin and meth use seem to be higher in Piqua than in many of our local communities. Do you have any thoughts on what the city could do to help reduce the abuse of hard drugs in Piqua?
I am concerned about drug use of any kind. I don't know that Piqua's use is any higher than other communities of the same size. Piqua needs to continue to cooperate with the drug enforcement agencies and Tri-County Board of Mental Health to combat the problem.
Final question... recently there was a proposed development on the former lot occupied by Wilder School. This development was very unpopular with the neighbors and ultimately defeated during the Planning Commission hearing. In addition to the Wilder lot, there are other school lots that remain undeveloped as well. What would you like to see happen with those lots and as a city commissioner, what uses would you be supportive of?
The Wilder project is a good example of citizens speaking up to voice their opposition for the development of that land. Favorite Hill is privately owned. The old Bennett school property is in discussion for development for housing. Piqua needs to continue to work cooperatively with the School Board about any sites that where there were old school buildings.
If there is anything we didn't cover above that you would like to touch on or anything else you would like to tell your potential voters, you may do so here...
To sum up: Ward 1 has a problem with feral cats and the Spay and Neuter program we have in effect is starting to show benefits. I am concerned about dormant/abandoned vehicles. I support home ownership and hope that citizens will spend money and time on maintaining their properties. If elected on November 7, I will continue to serve the Ward with energy and creativeness.
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James R. Sheats, Jr.
Can you give us a little background information on your personal life?
Born in Piqua. Graduated from Troy 1990. Moved back to Piqua 1990. I am married to Millie Cloud Sheats. Been together since 1994. We have one son. He is married. We have 5 grandchildren. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters. I work at Honda engine plant in Anna Ohio
What makes you passionate about the city of Piqua, and given the opportunity to change it, what's your biggest desire for the city during your term?
The people make me passionate. My biggest desire in Piqua is to hope it grows like the surrounding communities
What do you feel makes you the most qualified candidate to be elected to the Piqua City Commission?
I have an open mind. I will listen to the community. Not a yes man.
Do you feel there is currently a "disconnect" between the citizens and the Piqua government? If yes, do you have any proposals for helping to find a resolution?
Yes there is. I would like to hold round table meetings, go out talk to people, make my self available on social media. I want to know what is on our citizens minds
If you are available to chat with members of your ward prior to the election, how may they reach you?
Call me. Message me on Facebook
The City Commission recently passed a rental registration and inspection program. What are your feelings on a program of this nature?
I am not for the current program. I think having landlords pay a fee and having this inspection is not right. I would like to revisit this and hope to make it better for all
The Lock 9 redevelopment project has been in the works off and on for several years now. What are your thoughts on the project and the spending on that particular project?
I am for making our town beautiful. My opinion, too much money was spent on something that can not be enjoyed by all. There is nothing for our youth to do. It seems only for a certain crowd of people. The money that was spent could have bought something for our kids to do, maybe fix some of our streets.
Piqua recently lost its swimming pool after the decision was made to fill it in rather than make a significant investment in repairs. Hance Pavilion is currently unsafe for use as well due to lack of necessary maintenance. Do you feel the right decisions were made? Should the city invest in a new pool or repairing the pavilion? Do you have an alternative proposal?
We should consider looking into a water park pool . For our citizens most people are going to other cities that have pools. There goes money out of our city. The pavilion should be repaired. I would like to see if there are any state grants that could help with these issues
A new 201-acre rock quarry has been proposed to take up a significant portion of Piqua's southern entrance into town. What are your thoughts on that?
That is a tough one. I am all for bringing more jobs to Piqua but at what cost. I am sorry I don't know much about this issue to give an honest answer. I need to investigate further pros and cons
Recently there was a young man from Piqua murdered at Fountain Park and another young man seriously injured during that altercation. The perpetrator has been arrested and charged, but the people are saying Fountain Park is too dangerous for kids due to poor lighting and frequent drug deals occurring in that area. What do you feel would help make Fountain Park safe for our children again?
Have something for the kids to do. Maybe have more police presence. Better lighting
Lithium batteries have been being burned at the old water treatment plant for fire training and investigative purposes since approximately 2018, but for many of the citizens, this information just came to light in September 2023. Several citizens have expressed concerns about the potential hazards of the chemicals in the smoke affecting the health of the people enjoying the bike path in that area as well as the chemicals potentially contaminating Swift Run and the river, two sources where our drinking water is obtained. What are your thoughts on this?
I think the city was worried more about recovering money and did not do proper investigation on the effects of this
What are your feelings about the road conditions in Piqua? Do you believe more improvements need to be made? If so, what do you feel should be done?
Our roads are terrible. More action needs to be taken on improving them. Not just main roads. Side streets need attention
Back in the early 1990's, Piqua had a booming economy and was bigger than Troy. Since then Piqua's economy has slowed down considerably compared to Troy. Troy's population has surpassed Piqua's by quite a large amount. What do you think is the biggest contributor and do you have any proposals for Piqua making a comeback against Troy?
I think past government would not allow new businesses to come to Piqua because some of our current industry did not want to compete with these businesses with wages and benefits
What main focal area do you think is most important for the future success of Piqua (ie. investing in parks & recreation, riverfront development, economic development, etc)?
We need good paying jobs. If you have that then other things will follow. Right now people are working in other cities spending money away from Piqua
Do you believe Piqua Fire Department is in good shape for the future? Some people have claimed Piqua needs an additional fire station and/or a new ladder truck so they don't have to rely on Troy to provide theirs. What are your feelings on that?
We need at least a new ladder truck. New station is a good idea
Many people frequently complain about outrageously high utility bills and the inability to pay them, especially when a bill is received that is significantly higher than previous bills with seemingly no good explanation for it. What are your thoughts on Piqua's utility rates vs other local communities?
Our utilities are way too high. I would like to investigate why
Heroin/fentanyl overdoses seem to have peaked within the past few years but heroin and meth use seem to be higher in Piqua than in many of our local communities. Do you have any thoughts on what the city could do to help reduce the abuse of hard drugs in Piqua?
Start coming down on known drug houses, stronger police presence in schools, more education
Final question... recently there was a proposed development on the former lot occupied by Wilder School. This development was very unpopular with the neighbors and ultimately defeated during the Planning Commission hearing. In addition to the Wilder lot, there are other school lots that remain undeveloped as well. What would you like to see happen with those lots and as a city commissioner, what uses would you be supportive of?
I would like to see maybe some housing. Maybe a rec center
If there is anything we didn't cover above that you would like to touch on or anything else you would like to tell your potential voters, you may do so here...
I am new to city government. I am learning how things work. I will rely on our citizens to help me through this so I can be a help to our citizens and help the city become a great place to live
Ward 2
Paul Simmons
Can you give us a little background information on your personal life?
I'm 63, and have lived in Piqua since 2008.
Professionally, I started in adult life in law enforcement. After I was unable to continue in that field, I returned to school, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Since 1990, I have worked in the IT field, in a number of industries - including manufacturing, retail, product development and government.
However, life is more than what you do to put food on the table. I have been involved in both civic and spiritual service work for decades. I have been on mission trips to Russia (2000 and 2001) and Rwanda (2007). In our community, I have been part of ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Services) and the county RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services) team since I started in the hobby of Amateur radio in 2017. The RACES team works closely with the county EMA, which is currently under the leadership of Joel Smith. I am currently serving as the Emergency Communications Coordinator (EC) for Miami County ARES.
As for Piqua, I have served on the Parks Board (2017 - 2019), and am currently on the City of Piqua Income Tax Board of Review.
I am currently married to my darling wife, Jo. Jo has served with me in our amateur radio community, and also with the City Parks Board. However, she is terminally ill, and will not be with me for long.
I will freely confess to having had some crazy hobbies in the past - skydiving (stopped in 2000), counted cross-stitch (still trying), quilting (ditto), cooking (look for "Cowboys in the Kitchen", on YouTube - hope to start making episodes again!), candy-making...and, yes - doing stand-up comedy! What kind of comedy? I make fun of people who do and say stupid things. Please do not worry about anything you say or do at city commission meetings, while I hold a seat there. Joe Biden has left me with enough material to keep going to 2040.
What makes you passionate about the city of Piqua, and given the opportunity to change it, what's your biggest desire for the city during your term?
I moved to Piqua, from Seattle, in July of 2008. As a software developer, I was able to keep my job in Seattle and telecommute for most of my first year here, and was laid off only after Safeco Insurance was purchased by Liberty Mutual. It wasn't my first post-merger layoff, so I hold no grudges. In fact, I still laugh at the "Limu Emu and Doug" commercials!
A week after I moved here, there was a flashing message on my work computer screen, "DON'T GO OUTSIDE!" Curious, and not always the first to obey instructions, I went outside. Nothing was going on! Later, I discovered that the office building I had worked at three weeks earlier - at the corner of 2nd and Seneca, in downtown Seattle - was the scene of a shootout between police and a bank robber! This bank robber was not the sharpest tool in the shed, because his "disguise" was dressing up in drag. Not a huge issue...unless you elect to have a gunfight with the police, in high heels, on a street that looks every bit as sloped as the cable car images from San Francisco! Such people never stop to think "Wait - some guy who does stand-up comedy about people who do dumb things might hear about this!"
In any case, that was the day that I realized I could go outside my home, pretty much any hour of the day, for the most part, in relative safety! I still have to look both ways when I cross the street, but we refer to that as "prudent behavior". Best yet, when I go to the store and see strangers, I can smile and say "Hello" - and I usually get one right back! I love that
My biggest desire for this city, during my term, is to get our city government back to one where we get ideas from the people, and listen to them before we implement anything, rather than get a "vision" from an elected or appointed official, and foist that on the public without regard to their thoughts and/or feelings. Such behavior, on the part of our city government, has led to a city that we hope and pray won't become a huge Superfund site, and one where there is a general mistrust of our government officials. Now, I can't do everything that everyone wants, and I can't please everyone. To think that I could would be ridiculous! However, I promise to act in such a manner as to be a good steward of our tax dollars, and to think first about the following before voting on *anything*:
- How will this affect our city's environment?
- How will this affect our city's people?
- How will this affect our city's pocketbook?
- How will this affect our city's reputation?
What do you feel makes you the most qualified candidate to be elected to the Piqua City Commission?
I think that my broad experience in the working world, across numerous industries, makes me an excellent representative within Piqua's leadership. Right now, the VAST majority of our businesses are manufacturing and service. There's absolutely nothing wrong with those businesses - however, it would be an excellent thing for Piqua to try to appeal to other sectors - and yes, I'm referring to things such as IT "outsourcing shops", but not exclusively to that - in order to broaden our business base, and increase our city's tax base! I would much rather see a LOT of people, paying FEWER taxes, than a FEW people, paying MORE in taxes!
In our city, we have a LOT to do - not the least of which is testing for damage that the presence of ESRG and their abuse of our environment may have done! As we do that, and rebuild from any damage that we've experienced, it is up to US to make the city that WE want! If the citizens look to the city leaders and scream "What are YOU going to do?", you're only going to get another set of people who will dictate to the citizens from THEIR ideas. Here's what I think...let's all start asking "What are WE going to do?" Then, let's decide on a plan, chart the course, and make our way to the finish line! It has been said that a supervisor will tell you where to go - but a leader will TAKE YOU THERE. I don't want to be a supervisor, but I'd love to be a leader.
Do you feel there is currently a "disconnect" between the citizens and the Piqua government? If yes, do you have any proposals for helping to find a resolution?
There is a HUGE disconnect between the citizens and the Piqua government. But that disconnect did not start with the citizens! It started with elected officials, who are supposed to WORK FOR THE PEOPLE, deciding that they don't, but that they can DICTATE TO THE PEOPLE. Let's get away from that!
If you are available to chat with members of your ward prior to the election, how may they reach you?
My wife is currently in hospice care here at home, and my time is precious to me...because hers really is! But, I'm free to answer questions, and I'd still like to put together a "root beer float social" when and where I can - just to meet people and say hello (anyone who's been a caregiver of a loved one would understand - I've been cooped up in the house a lot!)
If it's not a bunch of folks at a time, and you'd like to meet and talk, call me up. The tea kettle is always on here, and you're welcome to stop by. You can test my skills as I try to figure out how the new coffee pot works. Who knows, maybe you, too can start a stand-up comedy hobby by watching me try out the coffee pot
The City Commission recently passed a rental registration and inspection program. What are your feelings on a program of this nature?
It is unconstitutional government overreach, and one of the commissioners (very conveniently) stated that the proponents of the plan "don't come to these meetings, because they did once and were very poorly treated". My plan is to propose a motion to "put the brakes" on it, until it can be FINALLY decided, in an election, BY THE VOTE OF THE PEOPLE! Nobody is going to be looking at you in the voting booth - so, if you want that passed, please feel free to vote for it. If it passes, I'll shut up. If it doesn't pass, I do *not* expect anyone to come back with this same proposition, in any recognizable "flavor".
If you're thinking "He's a landlord - of COURSE he doesn't want this!", well...here are some facts.
1) I only have one rental house.
2) I treat that house like I live there, my tenant treats it like she's buying it.
3) My tenant, and her kids, are like FAMILY to me! I would NEVER knowingly do anything that would harm them!
4) My tenant is one of the loudest opponents of this program!
The Lock 9 redevelopment project has been in the works off and on for several years now. What are your thoughts on the project and the spending on that particular project?
I think one or two people had, what they thought, was a really great idea. That great idea has blossomed into a huge bill that the people are now shouldering. ANY time you have an idea that blossoms into a huge bill being foist upon the the taxpaying populace of a city, it's a BAD idea, and a valid demonstration of poor stewardship.
Piqua recently lost its swimming pool after the decision was made to fill it in rather than make a significant investment in repairs. Hance Pavilion is currently unsafe for use as well due to lack of necessary maintenance. Do you feel the right decisions were made? Should the city invest in a new pool or repairing the pavilion? Do you have an alternative proposal?
I spent a couple years on the Parks Board. Here's how their budget works.
1) Every last other entity in the city gets paid.
2) Parks gets what's left.
If that's not enough to cover keeping a pool together, then keeping a pool together is no longer a tenable option. Same thing with Hance Pavilion. That said, we have three options:
1) Tear those things down (like we did with the pool).
2) Change how the Parks gets its funding (i.e., its budgetary priority)
3) See if we can partner with the private sector, or corporate sponsors, to set up those things. I'm not suggesting that we get another King's Island or Cedar Point in Piqua (as cool as my inner child thinks that would be!), but the city could work with a private entity to build a pool, whereby that company sells memberships to it - provided that they also make it a place where the high school could have a swim team practice or hold meets. I've seen this happen before, though not in recent years.
A new 201-acre rock quarry has been proposed to take up a significant portion of Piqua's southern entrance into town. What are your thoughts on that?
As a COPD patient, and someone clumsy enough to trip and fall into any reasonably sized hole in the ground, I think it's a horrible idea. Seriously, let's look at this. If it turns out poorly (much like the recently-uncovered ESRG fiasco), how do we remediate the situation and reclaim the property into something that doesn't make us look like another Love Canal or Chernobyl? I'm not saying it will be as bad as those places were/are, but how about we STOP CONSIDERING INDUSTRIAL OPTIONS THAT MAKE US THINK ABOUT WHAT WE HAVE TO DO TO REBUILD WHEN THEY'RE DONE???
Recently there was a young man from Piqua murdered at Fountain Park and another young man seriously injured during that altercation. The perpetrator has been arrested and charged, but the people are saying Fountain Park is too dangerous for kids due to poor lighting and frequent drug deals occurring in that area. What do you feel would help make Fountain Park safe for our children again?
I think we need to increase the lighting in the area, and maintain a higher police presence to deal with the issues related to the trafficking of narcotics in our parks. It might also be helpful to set up inconspicuous cameras to maintain a better visual presence in the parks after hours.
Lithium batteries have been being burned at the old water treatment plant for fire training and investigative purposes since approximately 2018, but for many of the citizens, this information just came to light in September 2023. Several citizens have expressed concerns about the potential hazards of the chemicals in the smoke affecting the health of the people enjoying the bike path in that area as well as the chemicals potentially contaminating Swift Run and the river, two sources where our drinking water is obtained. What are your thoughts on this?
I have already stated on social media, my firm belief in the "three R's", namely:
- Remember - let's forensically investigate this, from every angle, all the way back to 2018. Were there any instances of innocent lack of knowledge, unintentional negligence, or criminal malfeasance? Let's look at each instance, each individual, and hold them accountable to the law, and to the public they're supposed to serve.
- Rebuild - test, Test, TEST! Test everything - the air, the water, the bottom of the river, the moss on the trees, the trees themselves, other plants, and animals in the area. Test the SOIL. Find out what damage has been done, and do whatever needs to be done to remediate the damages and reclaim the area. Send the bill to ESRG! If we bankrupt them, then hey - sorry about your luck, guys...at least you won't be able to do it to anyone else!
- Recommit - This is where we STOP taking ideas from the few, and foist them upon the MANY, with little or no regard to the consequences!! This is where we take ideas from, and build those ideas to fruition, WITH THE COMMUNITY!! How about our leaders act like LEADERS (one of my favorite things about Kris Lee!) and our community work together like a COMMUNITY? It's only as difficult as *we* make it!
What are your feelings about the road conditions in Piqua? Do you believe more improvements need to be made? If so, what do you feel should be done?
The good news is, I have been on worse roads. The bad news is, that was on a two-lane highway, in western Siberia, in 2000. I haven't returned, but I'm pretty sure that highway has, since then, been resurfaced.
I have seen remarks from folks on Facebook, who are disgusted that the city is taking what they call "band-aid measures", that are causing damage to their vehicles?! If the city is paying OUR money for *temporary* fixes (other than patching potholes), that will just have to be removed and replaced later with more long-term fixes, then why don't we just do the following:
1) calculate what the mileage is of the streets we need to repave (prioritize, as some streets get much less wear and tear)
2) calculate what kind of schedule we need to perform needed repairs
3) calculate the cost
4) budget it, and make adjustments to the budget as needed
5) do the work!
Back in the early 1990's, Piqua had a booming economy and was bigger than Troy. Since then Piqua's economy has slowed down considerably compared to Troy. Troy's population has surpassed Piqua's by quite a large amount. What do you think is the biggest contributor and do you have any proposals for Piqua making a comeback against Troy?
I wasn't here in the 1990's, but I love to read about history. Since I moved here, I have looked into some of the older history about Piqua.
I think part of our problem is that some of the things manufactured here have gone "stale" - big "for instance"...I love Hartzell, but there are MANY fewer purchases of aircraft propellers than there were, say, during WW II. Since then, jet aircraft have taken over most of our aviation. They still make excellent products, but there isn't as much call for them now, as there used to be.
I think the solution would be to invite newer industries (other than quarries and companies that burn batteries) to come in. Make it enticing for them...heck, maybe throw in some incentives of lower initial taxes for the business! Yes, the business might pay less in taxes initially, but they will have employees - employees who live here and pay income taxes here! Remember - wider tax base = lower tax rates!
What main focal area do you think is most important for the future success of Piqua (ie. investing in parks & recreation, riverfront development, economic development, etc)?
Primarily, right now we need to make sure that our city is environmentally safe, and that it's going to stay that way! That means, if you get a company whose proposal starts off with "Hey, it's not going to be that bad", take some extra time to research - because that probably means that it's going to be worse than "that bad"!
Do you believe Piqua Fire Department is in good shape for the future? Some people have claimed Piqua needs an additional fire station and/or a new ladder truck so they don't have to rely on Troy to provide theirs. What are your feelings on that?
Let me start off by saying that I love our Fire Department! In my recent collision, when it happened I was on my way home with groceries (mainly juice) for my wife. I asked them to put it in the back of the ambulance so I could take it home when I got out of the hospital. Instead, they took my groceries and brought them to my home!!
They do need some new gear - and a ladder truck would be just the thing! After that, we can talk about another station. The question would be where to put it. My suggestion would be just west of Sunset and High Street. They could cover Eagle's Nest, Candlewood and pretty much every other subdivision on the hill, plus the manufacturing and other business facilities up here.
Many people frequently complain about outrageously high utility bills and the inability to pay them, especially when a bill is received that is significantly higher than previous bills with seemingly no good explanation for it. What are your thoughts on Piqua's utility rates vs other local communities?
I think our utility rates are insane! If our utilities department can't provide power at competitive rates, it is up to the Utility Commission to explain to the City Commission and the public why the disparity exists - and, possibly, it may be time for citizens to be allowed to purchase power from other sources.
Heroin/fentanyl overdoses seem to have peaked within the past few years but heroin and meth use seem to be higher in Piqua than in many of our local communities. Do you have any thoughts on what the city could do to help reduce the abuse of hard drugs in Piqua?
I think there is a solution:
Anyone caught with hard drugs (fentanyl/heroin/meth/cocaine/crack), upon arrest, will be tested to discover the levels of the drugs in their system. If it is determined that they are an addicted user, and the evidence does not support any allegations of trafficking, and if it is their first offense, offer them the option of
a) minimal incarceration
b) treatment
c) long-term monitoring
On the other hand, if they are shown to be selling, regardless of their own addiction, convict them and give them the maximum amount of time. If they're addicted, let them do in-prison treatment. Do not give them one single day of good behavior, do not suspend any part of their sentence. Do not let them out one single second before their time is served. Second offense, double the sentence. Third sentence (or, if someone dies as a result of their selling) life without parole. Three strikes.
Final question... recently there was a proposed development on the former lot occupied by Wilder School. This development was very unpopular with the neighbors and ultimately defeated during the Planning Commission hearing. In addition to the Wilder lot, there are other school lots that remain undeveloped as well. What would you like to see happen with those lots and as a city commissioner, what uses would you be supportive of?
I would like to see the Planning Commission LISTEN to the people who have to live with THEIR decisions. If something like this is going to go to a developer, it should be subject to a vote of the people, since it's the people's property. Find out who they are, what they're paying, and what they intend to do with the property. If the neighbors don't want that to go through, then ask them what they suggest should happen. CNA = Communicate-Negotiate-Agree
If there is anything we didn't cover above that you would like to touch on or anything else you would like to tell your potential voters, you may do so here...
“The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.” - Adrian Rogers
Ward 5
Gary Michael Koenig
Can you give us a little background information on your personal life?
I have a Bachelor of Science Degree from the U.S Military Academy at West Point. I have a Masters Degree from the University of California in Civil Engineering. I retired from the U.S. Army after over 20 years and from the U.S. Air Force where I was a Civil Servant at Wright-Patterson AFB. I am licensed to practice Civil Engineering in the State of Ohio.
Some brief personal information about me is that I am married. My wife and I have 2 sons who both graduated from Piqua High School and The Ohio State University. We have four grandchildren. I am a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Piqua. I like to hunt, fish and play golf – often at the City of Piqua Echo Hills Golf Course where I have a membership.
My civic experience, I am the Chair of the City of Piqua Planning Commission and have served on the Planning Commission since 2013. I have served over the past few years on the City of Piqua Board of Zoning Appeals and Housing Council. I am a graduate of the Piqua Government Academy.
What makes you passionate about the city of Piqua, and given the opportunity to change it, what's your biggest desire for the city during your term?
I have found that people are excited and positive about living in the City of Piqua. I am passionate about the opportunity to serve the citizens of Piqua as the 5th Ward Commissioner. It is a good fit to my leadership background and lifetime of service. The City of Piqua has been making outstanding progress over the last few years in providing service to its citizens. However, of late, we have seen issues which must be addressed to ensure "Accountable City Government" to the citizens. City services must be affordable.
The City of Piqua needs more good jobs. I will work to diligently to advertise our “shovel ready” public private developments to bring more good jobs to Piqua when elected as your 5th Ward City Commissioner.
What do you feel makes you the most qualified candidate to be elected to the Piqua City Commission?
I am the best qualified candidate. I will leverage my work experience and service to the City on Boards and Commissions over the years to provide outstanding city services to the City of Piqua when you vote for me as your 5th Ward Commissioner.
Do you feel there is currently a "disconnect" between the citizens and the Piqua government? If yes, do you have any proposals for helping to find a resolution?
I believe that the City Commission has sometimes not been receptive to the comments of the citizens on issues. I think that City Commissioners need to open communications to the citizens and listen and respond to their information.
If you are available to chat with members of your ward prior to the election, how may they reach you?
Yes. I am available to chat with all voters in the City of Piqua including members of my ward. It is a common misconception in the City of Piqua that you only vote for the Commissioner that represents your Ward. Not true. All electors in Piqua vote for all City Commissioner Candidates. I am campaigning in all 5 Wards and I humbly request the vote of all citizens in Piqua to serve as your City Commissioner. They may reach me by sending me an email to gkoenig@woh.rr.com. My contact information is on all my lawn signs in the City of Piqua. My phone number is (937) 418-1519 - please leave a message and I will call you back.
The City Commission recently passed a rental registration and inspection program. What are your feelings on a program of this nature?
I sent the City of Piqua over a page of comments on the rental registration and inspection program which they posted on their website. None of my comments were adopted into the ordinance. If elected, I will work with the other Commissioners to remedy the serious errors in this program.
The Lock 9 redevelopment project has been in the works off and on for several years now. What are your thoughts on the project and the spending on that particular project?
The project has increased in scope well beyond the intent when the program was initially proposed. I support the increase in amenities for the Piqua Mainstreet area; however, this project has taken some wrong turns. The last phase has already been approved by the City Commission. I look forward to the completion of the project and trust it turns out to be the positive catalyst for the City of Piqua.
Piqua recently lost its swimming pool after the decision was made to fill it in rather than make a significant investment in repairs. Hance Pavilion is currently unsafe for use as well due to lack of necessary maintenance. Do you feel the right decisions were made? Should the city invest in a new pool or repairing the pavilion? Do you have an alternative proposal?
I think that the City should absolutely invest in a new pool and that would be a priority when I am elected. Specifically, the pool down in Vandalia has a number of features which should be considered when developing the requirements for this project. Investments in Hance Pavillion should be deferred until the Piqua Dam Scenario Decision is made as the structure may be significantly impacted by that decision.
A new 201-acre rock quarry has been proposed to take up a significant portion of Piqua's southern entrance into town. What are your thoughts on that?
As I previously stated, I am the Chair of the City of Piqua Planning Commission. On 17 Feb 2023, Judge Pratt issued a decision on Case No. 22 CV 00396, that vacated the permit for the quarry. The Judge in her decision stated that, "...Planning Commissioners shall not communicate with any interested party, or members of the public, concerning...the subject of deliberations." I have no comment on this subject as I will comply with the court order.
Recently there was a young man from Piqua murdered at Fountain Park and another young man seriously injured during that altercation. The perpetrator has been arrested and charged, but the people are saying Fountain Park is too dangerous for kids due to poor lighting and frequent drug deals occurring in that area. What do you feel would help make Fountain Park safe for our children again?
Fountain Park should be a wonderful place for the Citizens of Piqua. Law enforcement needs to develop a plan to address this issue. As your City Commissioner, I will work with the law enforcement professionals to address this issue.
Lithium batteries have been being burned at the old water treatment plant for fire training and investigative purposes since approximately 2018, but for many of the citizens, this information just came to light in September 2023. Several citizens have expressed concerns about the potential hazards of the chemicals in the smoke affecting the health of the people enjoying the bike path in that area as well as the chemicals potentially contaminating Swift Run and the river, two sources where our drinking water is obtained. What are your thoughts on this?
I spoke at the 5 September 2023 City Commission Meeting in opposition to the resolution that allowed this activity. I am still in opposition to this program and when elected will advocate for solutions to this problem.
What are your feelings about the road conditions in Piqua? Do you believe more improvements need to be made? If so, what do you feel should be done?
Road conditions are a major issue for the Citizens of Piqua. There should be a pavement conditions assessment for all the roads in the City Limits and the road maintenance funds should be used to fix the "Worst First." Road maintenance funds should not be diverted to other "betterment" projects.
Back in the early 1990's, Piqua had a booming economy and was bigger than Troy. Since then Piqua's economy has slowed down considerably compared to Troy. Troy's population has surpassed Piqua's by quite a large amount. What do you think is the biggest contributor and do you have any proposals for Piqua making a comeback against Troy?
Troy is closer to the larger metropolitan areas to the South. Residential expansion is supported by being a closer commuting distance.
What main focal area do you think is most important for the future success of Piqua (ie. investing in parks & recreation, riverfront development, economic development, etc)?
Leadership on the City Commission and Accountability to the Citizens are important to the future success of Piqua.
Do you believe Piqua Fire Department is in good shape for the future? Some people have claimed Piqua needs an additional fire station and/or a new ladder truck so they don't have to rely on Troy to provide theirs. What are your feelings on that?
Yes. Continued resources are needed for the Piqua Fire Department. The ladder truck is in the Capital Improvement Plan. The idea of two fire stations is under review.
Many people frequently complain about outrageously high utility bills and the inability to pay them, especially when a bill is received that is significantly higher than previous bills with seemingly no good explanation for it. What are your thoughts on Piqua's utility rates vs other local communities?
Piqua utilities should not be as high as evidenced by the large budget surpluses. I will be an advocate to reduce utility rates.
Heroin/fentanyl overdoses seem to have peaked within the past few years but heroin and meth use seem to be higher in Piqua than in many of our local communities. Do you have any thoughts on what the city could do to help reduce the abuse of hard drugs in Piqua?
Law enforcement and education are two approaches to this issue.
Final question... recently there was a proposed development on the former lot occupied by Wilder School. This development was very unpopular with the neighbors and ultimately defeated during the Planning Commission hearing. In addition to the Wilder lot, there are other school lots that remain undeveloped as well. What would you like to see happen with those lots and as a city commissioner, what uses would you be supportive of?
It would be positive for the city if they were developed as residential in the current approved zoning. We need more housing in Piqua.
If there is anything we didn't cover above that you would like to touch on or anything else you would like to tell your potential voters, you may do so here...
Vote for Gary Koenig
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Frank DeBrosse
Can you give us a little background information on your personal life?
I was born and raised in Piqua, a 2000 Piqua High School graduate, and reside on Marwood Dr. with my wife Kelly and our two children, Kiaya and Olivia. I am a 2005 graduate of Bowling Green State University with a bachelor’s degree in political science. After graduation I began working for Congressman Steven C. LaTourette (R-OH) in Washington serving as a Staff Assistant then as a Legislative Assistant. In 2009 I left LaTourette’s office to move back home and take a position with Congressman John Boehner (R-OH). I served as a Field Representative I was responsible for Darke, Miami, Mercer, and Clark Counties until 2014 when I became the Speaker’s District Director. When Speaker Boehner retired, I became District Director for Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH). During my tenure with Congressman Turner, I have been responsible for bolstering relationships with local businesses, non-profits, advocacy groups, and Ohio constituents.
What makes you passionate about the city of Piqua, and given the opportunity to change it, what's your biggest desire for the city during your term?
I'm passionate about Piqua because Piqua is my home. I was born and raised here and moved back home to get married and raise my family here. My greatest motivation is to give the citizens of Piqua a reliable voice in their government. I also believe we need a stronger focus on economic development and job growth in our community.
What do you feel makes you the most qualified candidate to be elected to the Piqua City Commission?
In a word, experience. I have spent the last 18 years working for three of Ohio's most respected elected officials and have been involved in solving some of the most complex issues communities in the Miami Valley have faced. I've also been actively involved in several significant economic development projects throughout our region.
Do you feel there is currently a "disconnect" between the citizens and the Piqua government? If yes, do you have any proposals for helping to find a resolution?
Yes, I do. The best form of democracy is a participatory democracy. Elected Officials must engage with the citizens who elected them and advocate for their interests. We must do a better job of listening to the citizens of Piqua and working on the issues that are important to them.
If you are available to chat with members of your ward prior to the election, how may they reach you?
There is a good chance they'll see me at their door, or they can email me at fdebrosse5@gmail.com and we can set up a time to talk.
The City Commission recently passed a rental registration and inspection program. What are your feelings on a program of this nature?
I believe landlords should be held accountable to maintain and keep their properties up to code. With that being said, I have deep concerns with the program the city just passed and it's implementation, fee structure, and inspection process.
The Lock 9 redevelopment project has been in the works off and on for several years now. What are your thoughts on the project and the spending on that particular project?
Overall, I'm a supporter of the Lock 9 project. It has been a very long time since someone like the owners of Crooked Handle decided to invest in Piqua and not another city in Miami County. Investing in the development downtown, and future growth around Lock 9 will lead to continued investment in our city. With that being said, the constant delays in this project are concerning and the more delays the higher the cost of the project goes.
Piqua recently lost its swimming pool after the decision was made to fill it in rather than make a significant investment in repairs. Hance Pavilion is currently unsafe for use as well due to lack of necessary maintenance. Do you feel the right decisions were made? Should the city invest in a new pool or repairing the pavilion? Do you have an alternative proposal?
I do not, nor do the majority of the residents I have spoken to. These types of amenities are what make our community unique and help us to compete with other municipalities on economic development projects. We need to do a better job of protecting and investing in the amenities that we have.
A new 201-acre rock quarry has been proposed to take up a significant portion of Piqua's southern entrance into town. What are your thoughts on that?
I have significant concerns about this project. While I am an advocate for economic development, it needs to be the right type of development. I’m strongly opposed to any type of development that will be unsafe or will cause health issues for the citizens of the city.
Recently there was a young man from Piqua murdered at Fountain Park and another young man seriously injured during that altercation. The perpetrator has been arrested and charged, but the people are saying Fountain Park is too dangerous for kids due to poor lighting and frequent drug deals occurring in that area. What do you feel would help make Fountain Park safe for our children again?
First and foremost, it is critical that the city ensure the public’s safety. The events at Fountain Park are completely unacceptable. As a city we need a long-term plan to ensure such criminal behavior does not continue. We must ensure that Fountain Park, and all our public spaces, are safe and available for our residents and children to enjoy.
Lithium batteries have been being burned at the old water treatment plant for fire training and investigative purposes since approximately 2018, but for many of the citizens, this information just came to light in September 2023. Several citizens have expressed concerns about the potential hazards of the chemicals in the smoke affecting the health of the people enjoying the bike path in that area as well as the chemicals potentially contaminating Swift Run and the river, two sources where our drinking water is obtained. What are your thoughts on this?
My position is clear: I am adamantly opposed to the burning of hazardous materials - not just close to our water supply, homes, businesses, or parks - but within the city limits. Those who are responsible for allowing this to occur must be held accountable.
What are your feelings about the road conditions in Piqua? Do you believe more improvements need to be made? If so, what do you feel should be done?
The road conditions in the city need improvements just like the road conditions in most of the communities in our region. This is why both the federal and state governments are making large investments in infrastructure projects. We must work to secure financial grants from these programs to improve infrastructure in our city.
Back in the early 1990's, Piqua had a booming economy and was bigger than Troy. Since then Piqua's economy has slowed down considerably compared to Troy. Troy's population has surpassed Piqua's by quite a large amount. What do you think is the biggest contributor and do you have any proposals for Piqua making a comeback against Troy?
This is a major reason in why I decided to run, and it's not just Troy, it's all the communities in the region. Piqua is a tremendous place, and we have a lot of assets that make us an appealing place to live, work, and invest in. Economic Development and job creation will be a major focus of mine. I have been a part of several of these projects throughout the region and it's time that Piqua begin to capitalize on the economic development front.
What main focal area do you think is most important for the future success of Piqua (ie. investing in parks & recreation, riverfront development, economic development, etc)?
Economic Development, Job Creation and most importantly - Accountability and Transparency with the citizens of Piqua.
Do you believe Piqua Fire Department is in good shape for the future? Some people have claimed Piqua needs an additional fire station and/or a new ladder truck so they don't have to rely on Troy to provide theirs. What are your feelings on that?
Our first responders risk their lives everyday they show up for work. We owe it to them to provide them with the resources they need to do their job. I would look to available federal and state grant programs for first responders to help fund such investments in our community and the safety of its residents.
Many people frequently complain about outrageously high utility bills and the inability to pay them, especially when a bill is received that is significantly higher than previous bills with seemingly no good explanation for it. What are your thoughts on Piqua's utility rates vs other local communities?
This is an issue that comes up in many households across Piqua, including mine. My wife Kelly and I have had this exact conversation when we get our bills, trying to make sense of it. Fortunately, we are able to adjust our budget, but there are those residents, particularly our seniors, who are on a fixed income that are deeply impacted by excessive utility bills. Additionally, for those with difficulty paying their bill, we need to look at the affordability of services and what can be done to make it manageable for their individual situations.
Heroin/fentanyl overdoses seem to have peaked within the past few years but heroin and meth use seem to be higher in Piqua than in many of our local communities. Do you have any thoughts on what the city could do to help reduce the abuse of hard drugs in Piqua?
The opioid epidemic has touched most of our lives at some point over the past years. Whether it be a family member, a coworker or someone you know at your child's school, the epidemic that continues to devastate our country has also impacted our community here in Piqua. We need to take two actions simultaneously. We need to ensure Piqua law enforcement, in cooperation with joint task forces with surrounding communities, need to be given the resources they need to keep these devastating drugs off our streets and out of children’s hands. We also need to make sure access to treatment is available to those who are asking for help.
Final question... recently there was a proposed development on the former lot occupied by Wilder School. This development was very unpopular with the neighbors and ultimately defeated during the Planning Commission hearing. In addition to the Wilder lot, there are other school lots that remain undeveloped as well. What would you like to see happen with those lots and as a city commissioner, what uses would you be supportive of?
I'm in support of redevelopment of those sites, but the development must fit the neighborhood. It is critical that the process begin by consulting with the surrounding property owners and listening to their thoughts and concerns. The proposed Wilder development did not fit the neighborhood, and the planning commission rightly defeated that project.
If there is anything we didn't cover above that you would like to touch on or anything else you would like to tell your potential voters, you may do so here...
I believe it is time for new leadership in our city with a stronger focus on economic develop, job creation, fiscal responsibility, and most importantly - accountability and transparency with the citizens of Piqua.
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