Republican Aaron Montz said if elected his biggest concern is to jump-start the local economy.
"We're facing a jobs crisis here in Tiffin, and we keep getting bad news," he said. "We've got to figure out a way, the next administration, on how we can grow the local economy."
Montz wants to focus on "diversifying the industrial base," by working with Seneca Industrial and Economic Development Corp. to market the industrial parks to small manufacturers, and invest in infrastructure.
Article Photos
Montz
He also is working with former politicians, business and community leaders and citizens to create a seven-to-nine person advisory council which is to meet regularly to advise him on issues, including economic development.
Montz said he wants a committee that "is not afraid to stand up to me and say what needs to be done."
The committee also would advise on issues including homelessness, as the Mayor's Taskforce currently does.
Montz also hopes to look at issues which could be considered red tape or hurdles for businesses looking to expand or locate to the city. For example, he feels the sign code needs to be updated for areas outside the downtown historic district. He said downtown parking needs to be better enforced, and more parking also is needed.
Considering the positives of the current administration, Montz said he wants to continue to an open, close relationship with employees and department heads. He would like to host regular departmental chat sessions to address employee issues and grievances.
Montz said he looks forward to working with council and hopes to have a positive relationship with the group, regardless of disagreements.
"I would rather have a council that makes an informed, educated decision and disagrees with me than a council that agrees with me but makes an uninformed decision," he said. "As long as council is willing to do the homework and make an informed decision, I'm fine with them disagreeing with me. In fact, I think it's good. I don't want a council that is a rubber stamp for me. ... I don't think that does a service to this community."
In addition to his time on city council, Montz works operations management for a retail establishment in Toledo and holds a bachelor's degree in history with a minor in political science from Heidelberg University. He said believes his communication skills and hardworking attitude are his best assets.
