The following are the written statements submitted by candidates for 2014 University Area Commission district elections. Statements were required to be no more than 200 words in length and will be available for review at polling places on October 29 and November 1.
Read more about the upcoming elections here.
Dimitri McDaniel, District 1
2103 Summit St.
As an OSU student, I have a unique outlook on what the Area Commission can do. Unlike many on the Commission, I am relatively new to the community, living over 2 years in the Area, but I believe that my desire to remain within the community and make the neighborhood the best it can be is more important. I plan on remaining in Columbus post-graduation and would like to be involved with decisions that will be made concerning the neighborhood. I have been in leadership positions as the head Page for my Caucus at the Ohio House since February 2013. I was one of the first members of the Central Ohio Friends of Public Education group, an organization in pursuit of quality education for all Central Ohioans. I have coordinated a Voter Rights Forum, the first in all of Ohio this past summer and have worked to bring issues to local leaders as Coordinator of the LEAD group here in Frankilin County. I have worked with many local officials and continue to have working relationships with officials throughout the county. I believe I am a great fit for the Commission because of my experience and new vision for the community.
Kate Neithammer, District 1
2681 Summit Street
For the last three years, I have worked at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. I have been fortunate to be a part of the strategy and hard work that goes into supporting the sustainable development and growth of our city. My job encourages me to be thoughtful and deliberate on issues like education, infrastructure and public transportation. These are all parts of the magic that make up great communities. I believe the next 20 years will show major growth for Columbus, and neighborhoods like mine will be in high demand. I know my experience would be a valuable part of the dialog that happens between our commission and the city as this growth occurs. More importantly, I am a wife and a mother, and I love the amenities and culture that the Glen Echo neighborhood offers our daughter. I am passionate about preserving the unique character and spirit of this community and making it even more attractive to young families.
Deb Supelak, District 1
415 E. Maynard Ave
I simply love my neighborhood within the University District! It is unlike anything that can be found anywhere else. By running for Commissioner, I hope to help maintain and improve the quality of life in this quirky, warm, diverse community. I will help the Commission communicate more effectively with Area residents, and better reflect the interests of the many people who live here.
As crime increased a few years ago, I worked with my neighbors to create the SoHud Block Watch, and we have succeeded at getting residents involved, sharing information, taking ownership of and cleaning up our neighborhoods. Because crime continues to be a problem, I will work toward improving safety throughout the District, and if you know me, you know I am a tenacious advocate who sticks with a matter until it is resolved.
I aim to ensure quality of life in our neighborhoods, including addressing density and overcrowding which are major concerns for so many residents. This is our Area Commission, and I will represent the voices of Glen Echo, Iuka Ravine, Northwood Park, SoHud and Old North Columbus to help residents become more involved in the decisions that directly affect our homes and our lives.
Seth Golding, District 2
43 E. Dodridge St.,
I have been active on the UAC for many terms and have enjoyed representing my neighbors concerns to the city. I believe that a lot of issues have been addressed in the years I have been on the UAC and property values and the quality of life in the university area has risen.
Joyce Hughes, District 3
1196 N. 6th St.
I have served on the UAC for about 8 years representing District 3. As a result of revitalization in Weinland Park we are all concerned about density and gentrification as well as increasing home ownership. Having improved safety in Weinland Park, we want to increase and maintain a safe environment for families and children.
Rory Krupp, District 3
1356 Hamlet St.
I am concerned about historic preservation and planning the future density in the University District. My background in historic preservation and participation in Weinand Park revitalization gives me the tools and insights to be an effective neighborhood representative.
Jennifer Mankin, District 3
1515 Hamlet St.
As an area commissioner, I will represent my neighbors in promoting safety, stability, a wide-range of housing options and cultural diversity in the 3rd district. My focus is on maintaining an open dialog with information flowing in both directions.
Michael Sharvin, District 4
38 Clark Place
Michael enjoys having a voice in his community. He loves seeing the growth of the area and wants to ensure it continues in a sustainable way. He hopes his legal and engineering background can provide a useful perspective.