ELYRIA — Voters in Elyria and surrounding townships made their choices Tuesday in several contested local races, while a proposed Elyria City School District levy was turned down by a clear margin.
City of Elyria
Elyria’s at-large council race was one of the most competitive on the ballot, with six candidates vying for four seats. The city’s Democratic slate retained all positions, led by Gina R. Rothgery with 4,943 votes (21.34%), Matthew G. Van Wormer with 4,435 (19.14%), Chad Schneider with 4,177 (18.03%), and Phil Tollett with 4,131 (17.83%). Clifton G. Oliver received 2,813 votes (12.14%), and Paul Lungo (R) finished with 2,668 (11.52%).
In Ward 1, Andrew C.G. Lipian defeated Maggie Lieux (D) with 847 votes (63.26%) to 492 (36.74%). Ward 3 also saw a close race, with Edward J. Doehne (D) defeating Garry Gibbs (R) by 935 votes (53.28%) to 820 (46.72%). Ward 5 was narrowly won by Brad Armstrong, who earned 340 votes (53.21%) over Kim Black-Brown (D) with 299 (46.79%).
Uncontested seats went to Brenda Kay Davis (D) in Ward 2, Kenny Oswald (D) in Ward 4, Donna Mitchell (D) in Ward 6, and Jack W. Cerra (D) in Ward 7.
Elyria Township
In Elyria Township, four candidates competed for two trustee seats. Dave Fenik led with 397 votes (30.94%), followed by Tom Blaz with 364 (28.37%). Both were elected. Jeff Bowers received 262 votes (20.42%), and Michael Benko Jr. finished with 260 (20.26%).
Elyria City School District Levy
The proposed additional tax levy for emergency requirements was rejected by voters. The measure received 3,631 votes (44.37%) in favor and 4,552 votes (55.63%) against. The district had sought the levy to support operational funding amid ongoing budget challenges.
Overview
All results are unofficial until certified by the Lorain County Board of Elections. Turnout in Elyria was moderate, with contested ward and at-large races drawing steady participation across the city’s 32 precincts.
Source: Lorain County Board of Elections, Unofficial Results – November 4, 2025