by Sean Gerski
Editor
Munroe Falls -- Voters in Munroe Falls will have a pair of choices for mayor Nov. 6 when incumbent Frank Larson takes on Ron Budzowski.
Larson, 62, said his second term would focus on development and economics.
"After stabilizing the city's finances, I started several projects that are moving the development and economic welfare of Munroe Falls forward," said Larson. "These projects take time and I would like to serve the citizens another four years and see them completed."
He cited several projects he began during his first term he would like to complete, including "working with the city of Tallmadge in a joint project to secure funding to improve Route 91 from North River Road to the Tallmadge Circle."
Budzowski, 60, said he is running for mayor because he wants to improve the city.
"[Serving on the most recent] charter review commission really caused me to look at where our city is heading," he said.
Budzowski said his first goal in office would be to hire a new service director for the city, a job that has been unfilled since February 2006.
"My top priority would be to get a combination service director/road superintendent that has the skill set to manage our infrastructure, maintenance and repairs, [be] a good communicator and someone who could be in a working-type position, not just behind a desk," said Budzowski. "It's not been the intent of our charter to have a mayor do that on a regular basis."
Larson said his top priority would be to make certain "that the fire, EMS and police departments are there to protect and serve our residents."
"Ensuring that the taxpayers' money is spent wisely is second; and then, I will continue to promote Munroe Falls as a great place to live and as a business-friendly community," he added.
Larson said he has kept busy campaigning.
"I have been going door to door, listening to residents and have used mailings outlining my accomplishments and talking about future plans for the city," he said.
Budzowski said he also has been making sure his message is heard, by going "door to door and trying to reach every registered voter in the city. I am doing quite well at that."
Budzowski said he has plenty of relevant experience.
"Being a past Councilman, sitting on the planning commission as a representative to Council, and of course, [serving on] the charter review [commission], working on civic organizations, helping the EMS come forth in the '90s, it's just a natural fit for me," he said.
Larson said his most relevant experience is "serving as mayor the last four years and working with my department heads to provide services to our residents without raising their taxes."
"Past business experiences have been helpful in the fact that I knew how to put together a strong professional management team and institute good business practices," he said.
Editor's note: Associate Editor Kristin Casale contributed to this report.
E-mail: sgerski@recordpub.com
Phone: 330-686-3918