Wolford to run for mayor as independent
Salem Mayor Jerry Wolford
SALEM
Republican Mayor Jerry Wolford has decided to run for another term, but this time as an independent candidate.
The longtime politician was planning to run again for mayor this year but discovered there was a new candidate for his post.
John Berlin, who was appointed late last year to fill an at-large council seat last August, is running as a Republican for mayor.
Berlin said in a statement he issued Tuesday night: “There is no question that the leadership of this city needs to refocus on streamlining costs, redirecting scarce resources and charting a long-range plan for the community. We need leadership that will make Salem an appealing place to live and work, that is safe for families and has an expanding economic base — rather than one in which the city government is living on the edge, where the community is losing employment and population and is facing increased crime and drug problems.”
He stated that he has three central themes for his campaign: reviewing every city department for efficiency, effectiveness and accountability; taking a leadership role in economic development; and getting tough on crime and drugs.
Berlin’s comments echo those of David Johnson, chairman of the Columbiana County Republican Party and a resident of Salem, who last year blasted his party’s members on city council over the city’s heavy spending.
Johnson said that there will be a slate of Republicans this year for all open seats.
Johnson did not want to make any further comment.
Wolford said he has 22 years of experience as a Perry Township trustee, Salem city council member, and as mayor.