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The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area and LWV Ohio and asked of all candidates for this office.
See below for questions on
Redistricting,
Qualification,
Priorities,
Oversight Charter Schools,
Foreclosure
Click on a name for candidate information. See also more information about this contest.
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1. Both parties have called for redistricting reform. What three top criteria should be used in redrawing legislative districts? (150 word limit)
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Answer from Eric H Kearney, Esq.:
Redistricting must be handled in a constitutional manner. Too often it has been implemented in such a fashion that it does not meet constitutional scrutiny. We must have districts that are logically created and consider the historic linkages between communities.
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2. What are your Qualifications for Office? (50 word limit)
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Answer from Eric H Kearney, Esq.:
I am a Cincinnati native who has been active in improving our community. My experience as a small business owner, and, attorney, civic volunteer allows me to understand those issues of importance to the 9th District.
Answer from Thomas G. Brown:
Growing up on the west side, later moving to the east side, then becoming a homeowner in the middle of the district, and working in government has provided me with the insight to understand the district's needs from multiple angles.
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3. What plans do you have to address your top three priorities? (100 word limit)
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Answer from Thomas G. Brown:
Increasing the State's Business Development in the 9th District is my top priority. The 9th District needs more and better paying job opportunities. Businesses in the 9th District need help to grow and provide better jobs. Violent Crime has been a major issue in the 9th District for years. The State needs to provide assistance to the County and the various local cities and townships to address this issue. Our method of school funding was ruled unconstitutional years ago. The Senate has ignored the issue. Fair and adequate funding of all Ohio Schools is urgently needed, now.
Answer from Eric H Kearney, Esq.:
Simply stated, Ohio needs to improve its economy. We need to develop our small businesses in order to create more jobs. Additionally, we need to address our state's health care concerns through a comprehensive review of the needs and costs. My third priority is the prevention of crime. We must reduce crime in our communities, particularly crimes against children.
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4. What changes would you recommend for improving public oversight of charter schools? (150 word limit)
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Answer from Thomas G. Brown:
The voucher program as it exists today is a step in the right direction. It is far from perfect. The program needs to be reviewed and updated. Since being ruled unconstitutional years ago, the funding of our schools needs to be addressed. The State Legislature cannot continue to ignore the issue. Fair and adequate funding of all Ohio schools is urgently needed. With all Ohio schools properly funded, the voucher program can then be updated further.
Answer from Eric H Kearney, Esq.:
Charter schools must play by the same rules as public schools. That means that they must consistently test their students. They must be accountable to their parents and the public.
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5. Ohio has the highest foreclosure rate in the nation. What actions would you support at the state level to address this crisis? (150 word limit)
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Answer from Thomas G. Brown:
Homeownership is the single largest investment the typical American family will make in their lifetime. It is the single largest investment that the typical American family will use for their retirement. However, with high interest rates and increasing home prices have caused homeowners to take on more debt than they can afford. Thus, forcing more families into foreclosure. The State, along with the County and municipalities in the district needs to provide affordable housing. We need to look at incentives and projects that will rebuild and renew both our inner city neighborhoods and our older suburbs.
Answer from Eric H Kearney, Esq.:
I voted for Predatory Lending legislation in the Ohio Senate which is a step towards reducing the number of foreclosures. I am a proponent of increasing the opportunities for financial education for new home buyers and home owners.
Responses to questions asked of each candidate
are reproduced as submitted to the League.
Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. Word limits apply for each question. Direct references to opponents are not permitted.
The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.
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League of Women Voters of Ohio
