This article is part of the 2025 General Election Voters' Guide produced in partnership with the League of Women Voters of the Akron Area.
Chris Banweg
Nonpartisan
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cbanweg/
Previous public office: Current Hudson City Council At-Large (2021-2025)
X: x.com/banweg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/citizens4banweg
Website: www.citizens4banweg.com
Campaign email address: citizens4banweg@gmail.com
Education: MSS Strategic Studies, Focus – Cyberspace Operations (US Army War College), MBA (Liberty University), BS Chemistry (Univ of Illinois – Urbana Champaign)
Campaign phone: 513-318-9256
Training/Experience: By profession, I’ve served as an executive across finance, manufacturing, and healthcare. But I’m also a proud member of the United States Marine Corps Reserves, having spent years overseas helping rebuild governments from the ground up. Whether in uniform or in corporate America, my focus has always been the same: accountability, service, principled leadership and results.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I’m running for Hudson City Council in 2025 because I believe in service, accountability, and results. As a Marine Colonel and business executive, I’ve spent my life solving tough problems and leading with integrity. I’ve already delivered on key promises—like expanding fiber access without raising taxes or dipping into the general fund. I bring practical experience to the city’s discussions and fight for fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, public safety, and respectful representation. I’ve helped reduce our debt-to-revenue ratio, protect our financial carryover, and invest millions in city services without burdening taxpayers. Hudson deserves leaders who listen, act, and stay true to their word. I’m committed to preserving what makes our city special while preparing it for a stronger future. I’ll continue to honor the voices of our residents, provide informed options, and lead with the quiet professionalism that defines real service.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
Hudson’s most pressing challenge is investing in infrastructure and securing sustainable funding for emergency services—especially fire and EMS. The current five-year outlook shows potential depletion of the fire fund under current staffing models. I’ll advocate for alternative funding, phased hybrid staffing, and economic growth, including city engagement to attract tenants to the former Jo-Ann Fabrics site. I’m committed to thoughtful leadership that puts Hudson first—balancing fiscal responsibility with long-term vision and always listening to those I serve. I’ll pursue these priorities with professionalism and respect, proving that even with differences, we can deliver results without division. Together, we can build a council that reflects the best of Hudson: united, forward-thinking, and rooted in service.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
To deliver my priorities—investing in infrastructure, securing sustainable emergency services funding, and driving economic growth—I rely on a disciplined blend of strategic planning, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement. Hudson offers tremendous opportunity, but also diverse perspectives. The key is prioritizing based on the city’s known needs, the community’s stated interests, and the resources available. This approach avoids endless debate and delivers real results. Over the past four years, strategic planning backed by fiscal discipline has proven effective—yielding optimal returns for residents through sound governance. Aligning funding with clear plans enables efficient use of grants and operational improvements. But strategy and discipline only work when rooted in meaningful public engagement. Council must align on priorities with broad support, guided by thoughtful analysis and transparent communication.
Samantha D’Eramo
Nonpartisan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576189331254
Website: votederamo.com
Campaign email address: votederamo@gmail.com
Education: Master of Science in Nursing Case Western Reserve, Bachelors of Nursing Duquesne University
Training/experience: Family Nurse Practitioner, Member of PTO, Assistant teacher for 1st grade PSR, Soccer 4 all volunteer, Member of the HOA of St. Andrews.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
My personal motivation to run has been the driving force behind my campaign. I have chosen to take action by being a leader in my community to help drive change. After losing my home and dog in a house fire in January of 2024, I immediately made it my mission to help improve our public services and advocate for change. As a Family Nurse Practitioner, I have built a career on listening closely, understanding individual needs, and making thoughtful decisions that impact lives. Those same qualities are exactly what Hudson needs on City Council. In healthcare, decisions often need to be made quickly yet responsibly, striking a balance between short-term needs and long-term outcomes. On council, I will apply this same ability to analyze complex issues, consider diverse perspectives, and choose the best path forward for Hudson. I am the best candidate for Council at Large because my focus is on the people of Hudson — not political groups or special interests.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
My top priorities reflect the needs and concerns I hear most from our community. First, I will continue to advance the full-time fire department model to meet the demands of our growing city, while also planning for a second fire station to enhance coverage and response times. Our service members deserve modern, safe, and functional facilities. Second, Hudson has been without an adequate senior center for far too long, leaving an essential part of our community without the resources and gathering space they deserve. I will work to expand services and create meaningful opportunities for engagement, connection, and support. Third, our parks and playgrounds are the heart of Hudson for many families. The inclusive playground has taken far too long to complete despite overwhelming community support. Also, I plan to push for needed improvements across all of Hudson’s parks and playgrounds to keep them safe and updated.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
I will actively pursue funding and grants from the state and federal levels to strengthen public services such as our fire department, without placing the burden on taxpayers. By leveraging external resources, Hudson can enhance safety, infrastructure, and quality of life while maintaining stable tax rates.
Hudson has opportunities to expand and enhance the spaces we already own. For example, Barlow Community Center could be revitalized into a more robust resource for seniors, families, and civic life. Similarly, Phase 2 of our downtown redevelopment could include a shared multi-use option that combines community services with growth opportunities. Finally, broadband expansion must remain a priority. The pilot program was a good start, but it’s time to finish the job. Reliable internet access is essential.
Karen Heater
Nonpartisan
Previous public office: Currently Hudson City Council At Large
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Heater4Hudson
Website: https://heater4hudson.com/
Campaign email address: karenheater1@gmail.com
Education: Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Campaign phone: 330-575-7866
Training/experience: I am a licensed professional engineer and certified energy manager and have over 35 years of industry experience—including 15 years in the power utility sector – with a deep understanding of infrastructure systems, utility markets, and organizational operations.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I am the best candidate for Hudson City Council because I combine professional expertise, proven results, and a collaborative leadership style. As a licensed engineer, I manage multi-million-dollar budgets and complex projects—skills I’ve applied to strengthen Hudson’s infrastructure, expand broadband, improve stormwater management, and maintain fiscal responsibility without raising taxes. What sets me apart is my approach. I listen first, respect all perspectives, and focus on consensus and results rather than division or ideology. I use social media to inform, not inflame, and I engage residents directly so their voices shape our decisions. I ran for Council to serve my community, not for personal gain, and that remains my focus. With Hudson facing significant challenges in infrastructure and services, I have the experience, track record, and commitment to ensure our city thrives for every resident.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
Hudson faces significant infrastructure needs and increasing demand for community services. My top priorities are: completing critical projects like the new public service facility and a 24/7 staffed fire station; developing Phase II in a way that reflects resident input from the comprehensive plan; exploring recreation and senior center options responsibly through public-private partnerships; maintaining strong fiscal stewardship and a healthy carryover balance; and strengthening connectivity and safety by expanding broadband, maintaining our roadways to the highest standards, and supporting public safety. These priorities balance immediate needs with long-term planning to keep Hudson strong, sustainable, and responsive to residents.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
I will focus on three core strategies. First, collaboration and transparency—building consensus on Council, engaging residents openly, and ensuring decisions reflect community values. Second, creative problem-solving—leveraging partnerships, grants, and regional collaboration to expand services and deliver infrastructure without overburdening taxpayers. Third, data-driven decision making—using facts, financial analysis, and resident feedback from the comprehensive plan to guide priorities such as Phase II development. Together, these strategies will allow Hudson to meet today’s needs, plan responsibly for the future, and preserve the high quality of life our residents expect.
Will McGinley
Nonpartisan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/p/Will-McGinley-for-Hudson-City-Council-61575036863622/
Website: www.electmcginley.com
Campaign email address: elect.mcginley@gmail.com
Education: BA Business Management, Taylor University
Training/Experience: I’m currently an Account Executive for the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, where I manage 2 education loan products as well as providing financial literacy training for high school and college families. I’ve spent most of the past two decades as a higher education professional predominantly in the Financial Aid Office. I’ve managed annual financial aid budgets exceeding $100M, launched aid and academic programs, directed large-scale projects, and developed policies impacting tens of thousands of students and families—all while leading diverse teams. At the same time, I’ve been deeply involved in our Hudson community, coaching youth sports, participating in ministries, or helping run a nonprofit tree service.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I’ve spent nearly 2 decades as a higher education administrator predominately in Financial Aid offices which is a compliance driven customer service office. Meaning each day I dealt with issues from students and families but also worked with divisions across the entire university due to being charged with maintaining institutional compliance for federal, state, and organizational regulation and policy.
Given my position, involvement in state associations, and the NCAA, I was fortunate enough to be a part of crafting and driving policy at institution, state, and national levels impacting students and families numbering in the 10’s of thousands over my career.
On a personal note, my wife and I have loved getting to raise our two teenage sons near the heart of downtown. I’ve enjoyed serving in a variety of ways, from coaching and helping run the Kiwanis travel basketball program, getting involved in multiple opportunities at our church, as well as starting a non-profit tree service.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
Looking ahead, my plan over the next four years is to build on the foundation our current council has laid by:
- Evaluating the success of the EMS/Fire expansion to ID any future investment needs
- Assessing the rollout of Velocity Broadband across the community
- Advocating for additional investment in stormwater mitigation, given the health and safety risks if it’s not properly managed
- Carefully weighing infrastructure investments to distinguish needs vs. wants, ensuring we fund what truly matters to our community
- Partnering with local organizations and leverage our Economic Growth Board to create the best environment for Hudson businesses to thrive
- Supporting common-sense solutions for both the Phase II area of downtown and the property on E. Hines Hill
- Doing all of this while keeping Property Taxes as low as possible.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
As a firm believer that none of us are as smart as all of us, I wouldn’t function alone on an island, I would rely on input city staff and local experts for their input as we pursue a better Hudson.
In addition to staff input, to properly evaluate the expansion of our safety services as well as Velocity broadband, I will lean into my project management and data analysis experience gained throughout my career helping me gauge the trends and the financial viability of the expansion.
When assessing wise investments and weighing our community’s needs vs wants (while keeping our property taxes low) will require open respectful dialogue with Hudson residents as well as the willingness to take our time to evaluate creative funding timelines while consistently pursuing available grants options. To keep our city’s storefronts thriving, we should look at potential tax abatements or term-restricted subsidies for any vacancies longer than 12-18 months.
Amanda Weinstein
Nonpartisan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/p/Amanda-Weinstein-for-Hudson-City-Council-61576816891284/
Website: https://amandaweinstein4council.com/
Campaign email address: AmandaForHudsonCouncil@gmail.com
Education: Ph.D. in Agricultural, Environmental, and Development Economics (The Ohio State University); M.S. in Operations Research (Air Force Institute of Technology); B.S. in Mathematics (U.S. Air Force Academy)
Training/experience: U.S. Air Force veteran and former officer; former Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Akron, where I served as Vice President of the Akron-American Association of University Professors and helped launch the annual Ohio Economic Forum. Currently Director of Research at the Center on Rural Innovation, leading a team focused on small-town economic development. I also serve on the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Economic Advisory Council, the Ohio River Valley Institute Advisory Board, and as a Board Member of the Anti-Defamation League Cleveland. Locally, I’ve been a Hudson Girl Scout troop leader and am an active member of the Hudson Inclusive Playground Committee.
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I am the best candidate for Hudson City Council because I bring proven leadership, deep expertise, and a strong record of service. As a U.S. Air Force veteran, former professor of economics, and current director at a national nonprofit, I have led diverse teams and delivered results. My training as an economist focuses on local economic development and improving quality of life, helping small towns across the country, including those hit by major firm closures, identify strategies that make the most of limited resources. I use both data and community input to balance competing interests and ensure investments deliver the greatest impact. Here in Hudson, I have shown my commitment through service as a Girl Scout leader and by working across the aisle to help secure funding for the Hudson Inclusive Playground. With my experience, skills, and dedication, I will bring thoughtful, effective leadership to keep Hudson safe, vibrant, and welcoming.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
My top priority is investing in what matters most for Hudson – our safety services, community spaces, and modern infrastructure. Public safety must come first, ensuring our fire and police departments are fully staffed and right-sized for our needs. To keep Hudson a welcoming community, we must maintain and modernize our parks facilities so they are accessible for residents of all ages and abilities, while also investing in gathering spaces for families and seniors. Supporting small businesses is also essential to keep our downtown community spaces vibrant and improve local economic development. We must also invest in modern infrastructure that prepares us for the future, from reliable and affordable broadband for every resident to water systems that can handle increased flooding from a changing climate. By focusing on safety, quality of life, and resilient infrastructure, we can keep Hudson a charming community where today’s families and tomorrow’s want to live and work.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
I believe thoughtful, collaborative leadership is the key to delivering for Hudson. That starts with listening first so residents with diverse perspectives feel heard, providing transparency in decision making and re-prioritizing when necessary. By promoting civility, we can lower the temperature of debate and focus on solving problems together. On council, I will work cooperatively across city government, with our schools, county, neighboring communities, and with state and federal officials to bring resources home to Hudson. Collaboration will help us move faster, secure state and federal grant funding, solve problems more effectively, and save taxpayer dollars. Whether it’s ensuring our fire department is right-sized, improving our parks and community spaces for families and seniors, supporting small businesses and a vibrant downtown, or investing in resilient infrastructure like broadband and water systems, collaboration is how we get it done.
Kyle Brezovec
Nonpartisan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/p/Kyle-Brezovec-for-Hudson-City-Council-61574562061760/
Website: kylebrezovec.com
Campaign email address: brezovec4hudson@gmail.com
Campaign phone: 330-998-1471