Dragish for Canfield mayor

There’s an interesting element in next Tuesday’s election for mayor of Canfield that voters would do well to consider.

Mayor Bernie Kosar Sr. isn’t seeking re-election, all four city council positions are on the ballot, and long-time City Manager Joe Warino is retiring.

In other words, if the three sitting city council members do not win re-election, and council President Don Dragish is unsuccessful in his bid for mayor, Canfield government would have no incumbents. The mayor is also a council member.

Advocates of term limits will welcome such a turnover. However, there’s risk in not having any decision-makers with knowledge of and experience in city government.

In the mayor’s race, Dragish, who moved to Canfield six years ago to start a family and is active in the community, is facing Richard Duffett, a lifelong resident and former Naval officer.

ECONOMIC GROWTH A PRIORITY

Both candidates in their interviews with The Vindicator Editorial Board made it clear economic growth must be in the city’s long-range plan. But both also insisted boosting the city’s operating revenue must occur without a tax increase.

Dragish pointed to his involvement in the creation of the Canfield Community Joint Economic District encompassing the city and the township as proof of his hands-on experience.

The district facilitated the construction of Windsor House’s skilled nursing community, with 72 full-time jobs. The increase in taxes benefits the communities as well as the school district.

As mayor, Dragish said he would work with Canfield Township officials to transform the Redgate Farm area into a “productive asset.”

Duffett points to his involvement with Mayor Kosar and U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, to bring a Veteran Affairs outpatient clinic to Canfield as evidence of his eagerness to work for the community.

He also believes cooperation with the school district and township is essential if the city is to attract new businesses.

While Duffett exudes confidence when he talks about what he would do as mayor, we believe actual experience in city government is preferred. Therefore, The Vindicator endorses Dragish for mayor of Canfield.