Wednesday, February 13, 2002
LISBON -- The commander of an unorganized militia that operates in Columbiana County is running for county commissioner.
Don Vos, 48, of 190 Washington St., Washingtonville, filed petitions Tuesday to run in the May 7 primary for the Republican nomination for the seat now held by incumbent Dave Cranmer, a Democrat.
Cranmer has indicated he will seek re-election. The deadline for filing petitions with the county elections board is Feb. 21.
"Somebody has to make government accountable to the people. I can do that," Vos said in explaining why he's running.
Earlier interest: This would mark the first time Vos has been on an election ballot, though he has previously expressed interest in holding elective office.
In October, Vos said he wanted to be appointed to one of several vacant seats on Washingtonville council, or appointed to replace village Mayor Charles Morrow, who had resigned. Vos did not get any of the appointments.
In July 1999, he indicated he might run for county sheriff but never filed petitions.
Militia: Vos, who operates a construction and demolition business, holds a general's rank in the Columbiana County Unorganized Militia.
He said he also serves as commander of the Ohio Unorganized Militia.
The private groups frequently challenge the role local, state and federal governments play in individuals' lives.
They decline to give membership figures.
Also running for the Republican nomination is Greg Rayburn of Wellsville.