I'm not a historian or a politician, but as the Nov. 6 election is close at hand, my mind is nurtured by things that have taken place in Seneca County in recent years and many more which possibly could have namely increased manufacturing, growth in population, building consolidations and/or preservations, more grant money applications, debt controls, savings, etc. And, yes, improve our state and federal highway system within our country.
I often wonder why our beautiful county has never enjoyed the good fortune of a four-lane highway, for example, when every county bordering us has at least one. (I know we have a five lane at Westgate.) We hear many reasons why, but one must wonder with proper actions and contacts explored, could this actually be possible? Is the importance being initiated and driven home to people responsible in Columbus? Is anyone even thinking about such a reality?
Why do I bring this up? With the business I've been involved with in Seneca County for more than 50 years, I've traveled in all directions, border to border, hundreds of times. Our county has more than 500 square miles of area, approximately 29 miles east to west and roughly 19 miles north to south. I've often thought US 224 and SR 53 - with all the dangers one encounters while traveling these routes, (records show the high accidents rates) - at least a three-lane expansion would suffice for more safety if a four-lane is out of the question. However, nothing is even mentioned, the last serious proposal was the Route 106 bypass on the drawing boards when Grabler Mfg. was located on the east side of town. That was scuttled with a change of politics in the statehouse.
I absolutely believe Fred Zoeller, who is running for Seneca County commissioner Nov. 6, is the person who could definitely add a new dimension to this office. As a "business man, not a politician," he will help elevate a degree of progress which we've not enjoyed in many years. Why? Just the mere fact as business man, he will bring to the table all the experience he has gained over 27 years in running an extremely successful business. Plus, he is offering to help run this county and continue his interest in the business he is in! That means he'll have hands on in the economy - not just in Seneca County, but he'll bring back to us information and ideas he gathers from around the country. He promises to have people on board at his plants, allowing him the time necessary to fill all responsibilities, and more, in the commissioner's position.
I personally have known Fred Zoeller for most of his life and have worked with him on the Calvert Foundation Board, for which he is currently president. He has a wealth of knowledge and has uncanny business methods of getting things accomplished. He's a "get 'er done" kind of guy.
Fred Zoeller has much to offer the citizens of Seneca County and I truly believe he will take our cause to Columbus at every opportunity and with his knowledge, and successful business experience, maybe open some doors and gain some attention at the Statehouse level for our county and what our needs and desires are up here. This is the type of person I believe we should send to our commissioners office.
For a change, a businessman and not another seasoned politician.
James C. Streacker,
Tiffin
