Make sensible economic development a priority for our future.

North Royalton needs more than drug stores and pizza shops to expand its commercial base. I will work in conjunction with our county, state and federal elected officials in order to actively promote our Industrial Park. I believe that the key to expanding our industrial base is the widening of State Route 82, specifically the section between West 130^th Street and York Road. This will open up North Royalton’s industrial corridor, which will make North Royalton a more attractive business location.

Economic development must be addressed immediately if we expect to compete for new businesses in North Royalton, which in turn decreases the tax burden for the residents. Before I was elected to my first term as Ward 6 Councilman in 1999, I spoke on the need to aggressively search and apply for federal, state and county funds and grants. In early 2002, I sponsored legislation for the creation of the Community Development

Department and Community Development Director. Since its passage in April 2002, the department has become a major disappointment. The intended purpose of this department is attracting new business, retaining existing business, and bringing funds and/or grants to our city. I don’t see any of those things happening! As Mayor, this will change during my administration! I will hire a professional, experienced economic development director who has the credentials to take us to the next level of economic development, which we so desperately need.