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BEREA, Ohio — Berea residents will head to the polls this November to decide key city leadership races, including council president and multiple ward seats. From maintaining transparency and improving communication to addressing development and infrastructure needs, candidates shared their plans and priorities for the city’s future. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. For details on polling locations, early voting and absentee ballots, visit the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections at boe.cuyahogacounty.gov. President of council Jim Maxwell (incumbent): Maxwell said his connection to Berea runs deep. A lifelong resident who attended Berea High School and Baldwin Wallace University, he said his family’s longtime service to the community inspired him to follow in their footsteps. “This city is truly a part of me,” Maxwell said. “Both of my parents taught me the importance of being involved, speaking up, and giving back to the community that gave so much to us.” He said that more than 20 years on City Council have given him valuable insight into how Berea operates, from legislation to budgeting. “It has always been my goal to protect the best interests of Berea and its residents while providing everyone with an opportunity to have a voice in that governance,” Maxwell said. “This is a job where experience truly matters.” Looking ahead, Maxwell said he wants to continue asking difficult questions and maintaining fiscal accountability as the city faces decisions about development and infrastructure. “If re-elected I will continue to ask the tough questions, ensure legislation isn’t rushed through without due consideration, and oversee city expenditures,” he said. “Older suburbs like Berea often face difficult decisions when determining how to invest limited resources. My understanding of local government and ability to work with various groups will be beneficial in these endeavors.” Maxwell said accessibility is a cornerstone of his leadership style, adding that residents deserve to reach their elected officials easily. “I will continue to return phone calls and emails within 24 hours of receipt,” he said. “Residents may speak at council meetings, and I am frequently found around town at our various festivals and dining in our great locally owned bars and restaurants.” Daune Jaynes (challenger): Jaynes said her decision to run for council president comes from a long history of public service and leadership within Berea. Having worked for the city and served in several community organizations, she said she understands the importance of cooperation and open dialogue in local government. “My inspiration came from four council members who asked me to run,” Jaynes said. “We need a friendlier and more positive perspective to lead our City Council.” Jaynes said she sees the council president’s role as both facilitator and communicator — ensuring that information flows efficiently between residents, council members and the mayor’s office. “I would like to update and review ordinances to support better decisions in collaboration with our council members going forward,” she said. “I will make sure that the visibility of council meetings on social media and other platforms is maintained.” She said her priorities also include transparency in budgeting and improving how council meetings are shared with the public, especially after years of audio and video issues. “I would like to make sure that we have plenty of time to review the budget before the vote,” Jaynes said. “Our audio and video have had problems for over two years. Sometimes you can see and sometimes you can hear. This problem also affects the municipal court, preventing it from using this room to process its court cases.” Jaynes said she plans to take an active approach to resident engagement by ensuring issues raised at council meetings are quickly followed up on and resolved. “When residents come to the council to voice their concerns, I will personally introduce them to their councilperson,” she said. “I will ensure that we actively address and resolve their issues by the next meeting and confirm that the ward councilperson has followed up on these matters.” She said she also hopes to improve community outreach through newsletters and citywide events that keep residents informed and connected. “Additionally, I would like to create a section in our local mayor’s monthly newsletter to inform residents about new legislation or ordinances and ward council meetings and to include articles on the City Council website,” Jaynes said. “I would like to see the council restart the food drives that previously supported the city food pantry.” Council at large Christopher McManis (incumbent): McManis did not respond to multiple interview requests. Gene Zacharyasz (incumbent): Zacharyasz did not respond to multiple interview requests. Ward 1 Jonathan D. Montag: Montag said personal experiences with neighborhood safety and community advocacy motivated him to run for City Council. “Two previous experiences led me to run for City Council,” Montag said. “My daughter was hit by a car at the intersection of Maple and E. 5th in 2017 while walking to school. She was not hurt badly, but she was shaken up by the experience. I lobbied City Hall to have School Zone signs posted on both Maple and E. 5th after that.” He said his leadership experience at St. Paul’s Church helped him develop the patience and perspective needed to serve in public office. “Forming a solution, while trying to keep both sides agreeable, is hard work,” he said. Montag said he plans to make safety and communication top priorities if elected, ensuring residents feel heard and informed. “Keeping lines of communication open between the city and residents is of utmost importance,” he said. “The safety of the streets, in terms of traffic safety, does need some attention.” He said accessibility will remain central to his leadership style. “I plan to make my email and cell phone available for residents to reach out,” Montag said. “Sometimes it may not be the answer that the resident wants to hear, but we need to communicate that news as well.” Vance Redding: Redding did not respond to multiple interview requests. Ward 2 Mary K. Brown (incumbent): Brown said her path to city government began when local leaders encouraged her to get involved, first as a volunteer and later through the city’s Charter Review Commission. “I started as another council person’s treasurer, and he kind of introduced me to the whole thing,” Brown said. “Then I sat down with our mayor at the time, Mayor Joe Biddlecombe, and I said, ‘I’d really like to pursue something more in the city, and maybe even run for mayor one day.’” Over the years, Brown said she has focused on projects that directly improve quality of life for residents. One of those efforts was creating Berea’s sidewalk committee, a citywide initiative that began as a Ward 2 project after she noticed accessibility issues in her own neighborhood. “I started a sidewalk committee,” Brown said. “I’m in a scooter and wheelchair, so getting around the city for me is very difficult, even getting around my own neighborhood.” Brown said the idea came during a conversation with a resident who shared similar frustrations about the condition of sidewalks, which pushed her to find a solution. “I went up to this one guy in my neighborhood, and I asked if he would sign my petition,” she said. “And he said, ‘Why should I? Nothing ever changes in the city. Take these sidewalks, for instance.’ And I thought, you know what? He’s right.” She said she then worked with the mayor to secure funding for repairs, ensuring the city could assist homeowners with the cost of replacements. “If you go to a homeowner and say it’s going to cost you $1,000 or $2,000 to replace the two slabs, how many people have that kind of money sitting around for a sidewalk?” Brown said. “So I thought, it’s a problem and we need to resolve it.” Brown said she has also been deeply involved in development efforts on Berea’s north end, particularly around the Browns complex, and views that project as a major opportunity for growth. “The Browns complex has been the biggest thing that I’ve worked on,” she said. “There’s going to be a hotel there, and a UH building, all kinds of things on top of the field that they’re building.” She said the experience has helped her see how long-term planning and collaboration can bring new life to the city while keeping Berea’s identity intact. She also worked on the city’s new short-term rental legislation, which she said took months of research and discussion. “We had no legislation in Berea at all regarding short-term rentals,” she said. “We got a committee together, we had meetings for about six months, and we came up with legislation that just passed, and my name was on that legislation, and I’m proud of it.” Brown said she will continue focusing on housing, short-term rental regulations and development opportunities across Berea, while staying closely connected to residents. “I have a ward meeting every year,” Brown said. “My phone number and email are on the city website for anyone who wants to get in touch.” Michael Kurtz (challenger): Kurtz said his decision to run for Berea City Council comes from a lifelong commitment to service and a desire to help strengthen the community where he and his family have put down roots. “Berea is where I chose to start my family and plant our roots,” Kurtz said. “This city means so much to my family and I want to be sure it continues to be a great place to live, work and raise a family.” He said years of experience as a teacher, coach and nonprofit founder have given him the leadership skills and perspective to serve effectively. “As a teacher and coach, I have spent my career listening, problem-solving and helping others grow,” Kurtz said. “I know how to lead with empathy, stay focused on solutions and work as part of a team.” Kurtz said his background in education and volunteerism has also shown him how important inclusion and accessibility are for families and children of all abilities. “My family started a nonprofit in Akron that creates sports opportunities for individuals with special needs, a program built on inclusion and belonging,” he said. “That experience taught me how to serve others with purpose.” He said his priorities center on connection, youth engagement and responsible growth. “My top priorities are building stronger community connections, supporting youth and families, and improving transparency and communication between residents and city leadership,” Kurtz said. “First, I want to strengthen how our local government connects with the people it serves. Too many residents feel unheard or do not know who to go to with questions or concerns.” Kurtz said he plans to be a visible and approachable council representative who listens to residents and keeps them informed about what is happening in their neighborhoods. “I will work to be a visible and responsive presence in the community, someone people can trust and easily talk to,” he said. “I also want to improve communication through regular updates, community meetings and open dialogue so residents feel informed and involved.” He said supporting young people and families will also be a major focus. “As a teacher and coach, I see every day how important it is to give kids safe spaces to grow and thrive,” he said. “Whether it is through quality schools, strong recreational programs, or inclusive opportunities for all abilities, I will advocate for resources and partnerships that give young people the support they need right here in Berea.” Kurtz said thoughtful development and neighborhood safety go hand in hand. He emphasized that decisions about growth should always reflect what residents value most about Berea. “I want to focus on thoughtful, community-centered development,” he said. “That includes keeping our neighborhoods safe and walkable, improving roads and infrastructure, and making sure any growth in our city reflects the needs and values of the people who live here.” He said public service means being consistently present and accountable to the people he represents. “As the city council representative for Ward 2, staying connected with residents is one of my highest priorities,” he said. “I believe people deserve a representative who is accessible, visible and genuinely invested in listening to their concerns and ideas.” Kurtz said he plans to attend local events, meet residents where they are and use multiple channels of communication to keep people engaged. Ward 3 Lisa J. Weaver (incumbent): Weaver did not respond to multiple interview requests. She is running unopposed. Ward 4 Erika Coble (incumbent): Coble said her decision to run for council began after seeing how the 2008 housing crisis affected her neighborhood. She said she wanted to advocate for residents when local government responses fell short. “When my husband and I chose historic downtown Berea as our home in 2002, it was for its unique character, welcoming neighborhoods and walkable streets — the perfect place to raise our sons,” Coble said. “Those same qualities continue to inspire my work as your Ward Four Council member.” She said her involvement in public service began by addressing neighborhood challenges when many homes in the college district were converted into student rentals managed by absentee landlords. Coble said neighbors were left to deal with the impacts while students faced poor conditions, which motivated her to take action. “After repeated requests for support from the local government went unanswered, I decided to step up and advocate for our community myself,” she said. “That led me to run for office and commit to directing city resources toward the needs of our residents.” Coble said her academic and professional background has also shaped her approach to problem-solving and policy. “I hold two bachelor’s degrees — in Political Science and Sustainability — and a Master’s in Liberal Studies, which shape my values and approach to policy,” she said. “Having lived abroad in three countries over seven years, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and the importance of inclusive, community-centered governance.” She said sustainability remains one of her top priorities, with a focus on expanding tree planting, securing grants, and partnering with local organizations to maintain Berea’s environmental health. “I co-founded Sustainable Berea and serve on the Shade Tree Commission, partnering with Baldwin Wallace University and the city to plant native trees, secure grants and promote environmental responsibility,” Coble said. Coble said she plans to continue focusing on neighborhood stability, collaboration with community partners, and environmental stewardship. She emphasized that partnerships between Baldwin Wallace University, the fairgrounds, Metroparks, and local businesses are essential to Berea’s success. “At the heart of my work is staying connected with residents,” she said. “I engage by walking neighborhoods, organizing and attending community meetings, and sending regular email updates — and I’m always available to listen, brainstorm solutions and help resolve issues quickly.” Coble said that accessibility and accountability are central to her leadership style, and she views her council seat as belonging to the community, not to herself. “When new developments or legislation come before Council, I reach out directly to gather input because hearing from the people of the Ward Four community always guides my decisions,” she said. “My goal is simple: to make sure every resident feels represented, heard and supported.” Margaret Anne Lill (challenger): Lill said her decision to run for city council grew from both professional experience and a deep sense of connection to Berea. “I’m running for city council because I believe my professional experience and my deep love for Berea can benefit the people who live here,” Lill said. “Over the years, I’ve worked in real estate, communications, and customer service, helping folks navigate complex topics like health benefits, commercial property markets, and home lending.” She said her experience managing safety programs, coordinating outreach campaigns, and creating accessible resources has given her a practical understanding of how to solve problems and communicate effectively with residents. “I’ve built safety programs, organized company-wide trivia and engagement campaigns, and developed websites and resources that make important information easier to understand,” she said. “I want to use those skills to help solve Bereans’ problems and bring them together.” Lill said her platform focuses on connection, fairness, and community, emphasizing the importance of helping residents navigate city processes and ensuring their voices are represented in decision-making. “If I’m elected, my top priorities are connection, fairness, and community,” she said. “First, I want to be a bridge between city council and the people of Berea. That means helping residents get answers to their questions without needing to attend every meeting.” She said she would also push for policies that strengthen neighborhoods and protect homeowners. “I’ll focus on fair housing policies that protect our neighborhoods,” Lill said. “I want to make sure we’re studying other cities like ours, tracking the right data to understand how things like short-term rentals affect our neighborhoods, and taking action if those values are at risk.” Beyond policy, Lill said she wants to make Berea’s council more visible, approachable and community-driven. “I want to bring people together in positive ways,” she said. “Let me do the work at council meetings, and then let’s have fun getting to know each other through events I’ll host.” She said she will prioritize ongoing communication and engagement with residents, ensuring everyone can access city information in a way that works for them. “I plan to stay connected by meeting people where they are,” she said. “This spring, I’ll follow up with every door I’ve knocked on to collect contact info and ask how neighbors want to stay in touch, whether it’s text, phone, email, or social. Everyone deserves to be informed in the way that works for them.” Lill said that for her, public service is about approachability and trust. “I want residents to know I’ll be responsive, reliable and visible,” she said. “I want to celebrate our neighborhoods and make Berea a place where people feel heard and connected.” Ward 5 Rick Skoczen (incumbent): Skoczen said he was inspired to run for council after seeing firsthand how local leadership responds to challenges. “I was inspired to run for Berea City Council to restore an active, collaborative voice for residents and ensure our community’s needs are always at the forefront of local decision-making,” he said. He said his experience as an assistant high school principal and lifelong Berea resident gives him a strong foundation in communication and teamwork. “As a lifelong Berea resident and assistant high school principal in North Royalton, I bring strong experience in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving — skills that directly support effective public service,” he said. Skoczen said he will continue prioritizing infrastructure improvements, transparency and collaboration. “If re-elected, my priorities will remain centered on progress, not promises,” he said. “Maintaining open communication and transparency will also remain a priority — I want residents to be informed, engaged and confident their voices are reflected in every decision.” He said accessibility and engagement remain central to his approach. “Staying connected with residents is one of my highest priorities,” Skoczen said. “I promptly respond to all phone calls, emails and voicemails to ensure open communication and trust.”
