The Coalition for Hispanic Issues and Progress (CHIP) hosted its annual Candidates Night at Lorain High School, giving residents a chance to meet the candidates, hear their platforms, and learn about key ballot issues ahead of the November 4 election. CHIP President Juanita Senquiz opened the evening with a welcome, an invocation by Alicia Pardon, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The event was televised by TV20 and supported by Lorain City Schools staff and volunteers.
Sheriff Jack Hall Urges ‘Yes’ on Issue 1, a Quarter-Percent Sales Tax for Operations
Lorain County Sheriff Jack Hall opened the speaking portion by explaining Issue 1, a quarter-percent sales and use tax renewal dedicated to funding the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office. “Issue One is a dedicated restoration of the 2016 quarter-percent sales tax,” Hall said. “This is not a tax for the Lorain County Jail.” He clarified that the proposal would not raise property or income taxes, adding, “It will add twenty-five cents to every hundred dollars spent on taxable goods and services in Lorain County.” Hall estimated the renewal would generate nearly $14 million in 2026, helping maintain essential services and staffing. He cited successful cost-cutting measures, including reduced inmate prescription costs through a state medical plan and more than $1 million in grants for de-escalation training, re-entry programs, opioid treatment, and anti-trafficking investigations. “My staff and I work diligently every day to ensure each dollar is sought and spent effectively,” Hall said. “For a dollar twenty-one, please support Issue 1.”
Superintendent Jeff Graham Backs Issues 21 and 22, Levy Renewals at No New Cost
Lorain City Schools Superintendent Dr. Jeff Graham encouraged voters to support Issues 21 and 22—both renewals, not new taxes. “We are not asking for an increase,” Graham said. “Even though property values have gone up, Ohio law caps the amount we can collect at the original levy amount.” The renewals collectively generate about $14 million each year for district operations. Graham said Lorain Schools saved $10 million this year through efficiency measures and saw enrollment rise from a projected 5,400 to more than 6,200 students, boosting state funding. He warned that revenue losses from new state and county tax laws make renewals even more critical. “If we fail to renew these levies, it will be catastrophic for our families and students,” Graham said.
Ward 6 Council Candidates Differ on Transparency and Infrastructure
Ward 6 Lorain City Council candidates Angel Arroyo and Aaron C. Knapp offered contrasting perspectives on transparency and fiscal priorities. Knapp said residents deserve greater access and input during meetings. “Citizens should be heard,” he said. “I’d like to see an open forum where issues can be addressed.” Arroyo said he has twice supported expanding public comment opportunities and highlighted infrastructure progress in South Lorain. “In the last four years and eight months, we’ve brought over $5 million in new streets and more than $8 million in new sewer lines since 2016,” he said. Knapp countered that the city needs tighter control over administrative spending. “We are spending way too much on administrative staff,” he said.
Clerk of Courts Race Pits Experience Against a Call for Change
Lorain Clerk of Courts candidates Ted Kalo and Kyriece Brooks outlined differing visions for office management and customer service. Kalo, the incumbent, said he inherited an office “in disarray” but has since modernized operations. “We implemented a new case management system, resolved audit findings, and created after-hours bonding so families aren’t stuck waiting overnight,” he said. “Experience matters in this race.” Brooks, an educator and behavior specialist, said the clerk’s office needs a trauma-informed approach. “You have to be trauma-informed in this community,” she said. “People walk into that office under stress. They deserve patience and understanding.” Brooks urged voters to “bring change and compassion into this office,” while Kalo highlighted consistency and proven leadership.
Oberlin Municipal Court Candidates Highlight Judicial Ethics and Fairness
Judicial candidates Farah Lillian Emeka and Richard S. Ramsey discussed courtroom ethics, impartiality, and cultural competence. When asked how to handle an unprepared defense attorney, Ramsey said a judge must protect defendants’ rights and address the matter privately. “Both counsel should be reminded of their duty to be competent or withdraw,” he said. Emeka agreed but stressed prevention through strong pre-trial management. “If rights are at risk, the court can grant a continuance, appoint new counsel, or, if necessary, declare a mistrial,” she said. Both emphasized respect for diversity and adherence to the law. “If you have an issue with a rule, there are legal channels to address it,” Emeka said. “A judge’s role is to apply the law as written.” Ramsey added, “The law comes first… always.”
Lorain School Board Candidates Focus on Absenteeism, Safety, and Reading Scores
Lorain City School Board candidates Mark Ballard II, Diamaris Rosario, and Bill Sturgill tackled absenteeism, school safety, and literacy. On attendance, Sturgill emphasized early engagement with parents. Rosario said the district should address barriers rather than rely solely on punitive truancy laws. Ballard proposed using the city’s VIA transportation program to help students get to school consistently. On safety, Rosario said every building should have adequate, trauma-trained safety officers. Sturgill noted the district’s expanded partnership with Lorain Police since 2016. Ballard emphasized mental health supports and conflict resolution education. The trio also addressed third-grade reading scores, which lag behind promotion rates. Ballard said automatic advancement “does a disservice to the child.” Rosario noted that standardized tests don’t always reflect true progress, while Sturgill favored early intervention and tutoring to prevent long-term gaps.
Closing Remarks
CHIP President Juanita Senquiz closed the evening by thanking the candidates, volunteers, and Lorain City Schools for hosting. “Your vote is your voice,” she reminded attendees, encouraging them to cast ballots on November 4.
