Copyright cleveland.com
EASTLAKE, Ohio — In the wake of a surprising primary result that saw incumbent Mayor James Overstreet eliminated, two former city officials — Laura DePledge and Kevin Kostelnik — are now battling for the mayor’s office in Eastlake on Nov. 4. Attorney Laura DePledge and retired service director Kevin Kostelnik will face off for the city’s top post. Both candidates are longtime residents with records of public service and deep roots in the lakeshore community. DePledge previously served as the city’s prosecutor from 2020 to 2022, council president from 2016 to 2017, and council member from 2005 to 2017. She operates her own law office in Eastlake, which she founded in 1998, according to her campaign materials. She hopes to manage the city’s budget, support senior citizens’ tax-reduction programs and provide strong support for first responders, she said on her campaign Facebook page. “Our city is strongest when we work together,” DePledge said in a campaign flier. “I’m running for mayor to serve every resident — regardless of background, beliefs or politics. My focus is on listening, finding common ground, and making decisions that put our community and families first.” Kevin Kostelnik is campaigning to be mayor after retiring earlier this year following 31 years in public service. He served as the city’s service director where he managed infrastructure projects and oversaw improvements to roads, sewers and public buildings. A lifelong Eastlake resident, Kostelnik said on his Facebook page that his top priority as mayor will be re-establishing the city’s Recreation Department to create more opportunities for residents to engage in community life. He also emphasizes open communication, transparency in government and steady leadership. “I have the leadership skills, knowledge, and dedication to step into the role of mayor and continue making Eastlake a great place to live and work,” he said. Kostelnik’s campaign is backed by several local leaders, including Lake County Commissioners Richard Regovich and John Plecnik, state Sen. Jerry Cirino, state Rep. Daniel T. Troy and outgoing Mayor James Overstreet, who was eliminated in the primary election. Overstreet is seeking a return to city government as one of six candidates running for three at-large seats on Eastlake City Council. The winner will serve a four-year term overseeing operations and finances for the city of about 17,000 residents along Lake Erie.
