There are several critical issues that Stow will face in the next two years. Whomever the voters select to serve as mayor and councilors must confront these problems:

• The Budget – Stow’s budget will have run a deficit for three consecutive years by the end of 2011. The stakes will get much higher next year, because the state budget will strip at least $1 million from city revenue annually. Stow needs leaders, not complainers. The state’s budget will have a huge impact on Stow, and there is no excuse for pretending the problem does not exist. Nor can Stow ignore the long-term impact that digging into the reserve fund will have on the city’s ability to obtain loans with reasonable interest rates. Mike proposed amendments to the past two budgets that would have resulted in a balanced budget. Although these amendments failed by a 4-3 vote (D’Antonio, Drew, Costello, and Pribonic voted “no”), Mike will work with the next council to balance the 2012 budget. Unlike Councilwoman Drew, Mike does not think Stow residents “will have to give up white glove treatment.” (See link to minutes from that meeting: Meeting Minutes) Contrary to Ms. Drew’s opinion, Stow can balance its budget with minimal impact on the residents.

• The Roads – The condition of Stow’s neighborhood roads is perhaps the greatest threat to the city’s future. By the end of 2011, Stow will have stripped $3 million from its roads fund in the past three years. According to a study by Mayor Fritschel, 53 roads are already in “very poor” condition and 49 other roads are in “poor” condition. The 2012 budget must be balanced, but it also must reinvest in the city’s infrastructure. This is a critical time in the city’s history, and it is inexcusable for Stow’s leaders to remain dormant on this issue. Property values are being threatened, and the threat is looming larger each year.

• The Good Ole Boy Network – Mike has worked tirelessly to end the clique-like mentality that is present at City Hall. You shouldn’t have to be friends with the somebody important to have your concerns properly addressed. For instance, Mike advocated for the residents on Hile Road when the administration mistakenly tore up their ditch without notice, and then ignored their complaints. Mike will continue to advocate for residents who are overlooked by the clique.

• Groupthink – Mike believes that city council has been misguided in the past because of the concept that everyone has to “go along to get along.” It’s a philosophy best explained by Councilman Pribonic, who has said that, “If we’re not all on the same page, it doesn’t work.” Mike vehemently disagrees with that statement. Governments work best when the representatives think for themselves, ask tough questions, and vote in the manner their consciences guide them. In light of this, Mike will continue to inquire about discretionary spending and make common-sense amendments where necessary. Unlike Pribonic, Mike is not afraid to vote “no” on wasteful spending.

• Economic Development – Without businesses in Stow, the city loses tax dollars that pay for roads, parks, police, firefighters, and services that residents rely upon. Like other cities, Stow has lost significant tax revenue in the past several years. City council’s job must go beyond preaching about economic development. Stow needs to develop an identity of growth for owners of small and mid-sized businesses. You cannot repeat “economic development” in one breath, and then pass burdensome regulations and fees in the next. As a business attorney, Mike understands what circumstances and laws attract employers and the accompanying tax revenue to Stow. Mike will continue to meet with business owners, learn their concerns, and implement strategies that contribute to growth.

• Fox Den Golf Course – The city paid $5.5 million for Fox Den in 2005. Aside from significantly overpaying for the property, the city council agreed to give all of the shareholders (many of whom are friends with the clique) the privilege of free golf for life. Most importantly, the city will pay about $350,000 on the loan every year until 2032. The golf course has also suffered severe operating losses each year, which have only deepened since the government took control of the course. Mike has proposed, and will continue to propose, common-sense solutions to alleviate the burden that Fox Den Golf Course levies upon taxpayers.