Primary 2024: Letters to the Editor
Brakey Shares Geauga’s Values
I am supporting Carolyn Brakey for Commissioner because Geauga County is at a crossroads.
We take pride in Geauga for its natural beauty, small towns and rural townships, and a standard of living that is among the highest in Ohio.
I can name few places in America, let alone Ohio, better to raise a family. Since my wife and I moved to Geauga over five years ago, we’ve raised three (soon to be four) children here and become full members of Geauga’s rich community spirit.
Yet, the natural advantages of Geauga are at risk. Dysfunctional local government, constant squabbling amongst the familiar cast of characters, and lack of vision for the County and its residents put what we love in jeopardy. Geauga is blessed, but for these blessings to continue for ourselves and our posterity, we must expect better from our local government and its leaders.
I believe we will do better with Carolyn Brakey. My wife and I have come to know her and her family over the last few years, after meeting during the pushback against the draconian COVID restrictions of 2020-21.
Carolyn combines intelligence and competency. She shares Geauga’s values and, more fundamentally, Brakey has the grit and determination to turn these values into effective, lasting policy. Geauga’s leadership to-date has been marked by petty personal disputes. Brakey is above all of that, focused on doing the boring, dry, but essential work of effective governance.
From Steve Demetriou to Sarah Fowler-Arthur, a new generation of leaders are emerging to ensure that Geauga remains a great place to live and raise a family. I encourage my fellow Geaugans to dream and vote for better. Vote Brakey for Geauga County Commissioner.
Dane Davis
Bainbridge Township
Brakey: Bold, Faith-Based Conservative Leadership
I am writing to express my wholehearted support for Carolyn Brakey in her Geauga County Commissioner race in the upcoming March 19 primary election.
My connection with the Brakey family began last year when Matt, Carolyn’s husband, volunteered as the coach for our daughters’ church-based basketball team. Matt’s genuine kindness and exceptional rapport with the children left a lasting positive impression on our family.
As I closely followed Carolyn’s campaign for County Commissioner starting last September, I found myself aligned with every aspect of her platform. Her decisive action in ending masking in schools showcased true leadership. During a time when bold and decisive actions were both desperately needed, Carolyn fearlessly took charge on the Board of Health, putting an end to mask mandates and other Covid-related restrictions in Geauga County.
I also appreciate Carolyn’s commitment to preserving our Second Amendment rights. The Brakey family’s responsible firearm ownership, as demonstrated in how they guide their 8-year-old son, reflects a principled approach aligned with Geauga values.
Beyond their policy positions, it has been a joy to get to know the Brakey family on a personal level. Their impact extends beyond politics, having touched our lives in meaningful ways.
Carolyn has consistently demonstrated that she possesses the qualities necessary to provide Geauga County with the bold, faith-based conservative leadership it requires. That’s why my family gives its unreserved endorsement for Carolyn Brakey for Geauga County Commissioner.
Rachael Carlson
Chardon
Functioning Government, Not Conflict
Carolyn Brakey and Skip Claypool are running in the Republican primary for the open seat for Geauga County Commissioner.
I have known Mr. Claypool for more than 10 years, including the two years he served with me on the Chester Township Board of Trustees. Mr. Claypool is passionate and outspoken, as many of us know.
I have known Carolyn Brakey for several years, having first met her when she interviewed (and was elected to) a position on the Geauga Public Health Board.
I am impressed with Carolyn’s attitude regarding service to the people, her comportment and effort. Over the past several years I have met with Carolyn personally at least a half dozen times to discuss county government and local political issues. Carolyn is thoughtful and deliberate, qualities I respect in an individual serving on a public board.
I have had the honor and privilege of serving as a Chester Township trustee for the past 12 years. I frequently tell people, as an elected official, “How you conduct your business is just as important as the business you conduct.” With your vote, I am confident that Carolyn Brakey, as County Commissioner, will conduct the people’s business in the best interests of Geauga County residents.
Ken Radtke Jr.
Chester Township
McArthur for Change
Our commissioners in Geauga County have been on a spending spree and reckless path of extensive litigation, out of control committees and general lack of regard for the people they serve. It is time for a change.
One commissioner keeps saying he won’t run again, but four years later he’s back! Maybe he is too busy being a full-time public employee in another county.
Being a commissioner should not be a side job or something you do for extra spending money. That is why I am asking all Geauga County residents to vote for Nancy McArthur for Geauga County Commissioner in the Republican Primary on Tuesday, March 19.
Nancy McArthur is dedicated to Geauga County. She is the Chairman of the Geauga County Republican Party and has served on Chardon City Council and the Geauga County Board of Elections.
Nancy will be a full-time dedicated Commissioner. She will be there for parades, festivals, events and will attend all board and committee meetings.
Nancy McArthur shows up for Geauga County. She will not be off working for another county.
Nancy is a fiscally responsible conservative who can lead this county into the future. Please vote for Nancy McArthur in the Republican Primary on March 19. Thank you, Geauga.
Mary O’Toole
Republican State Central Committee Woman District 27
