This article is part of the Voters Guide produced in partnership with the League of Women Voters of the Akron Area.
Rita Darrow
Democrat
Candidate Email: ritadarrow619@yahoo.com
Training/Experience: Current Summit County Council President (Summit County District 1); Macedonia City Council, 2012-2015
Campaign phone: 216-409-4029
Website: https://www.ritadarrow.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/darrowforcouncil
Twitter: @Ritajack21
Instagram: www.instagram.com/friends_of_rita_darrow/
Education: Westlake High School; ICM School of Business (Medical Assistant)
Previous public office: Summit County Council 2023, Vice President District 1, 2021 District 1 Summit County Council, Macedonia City Council 2012 to 2015
Why are you the best candidate for the office?
I believe I am the best candidate for office because I have dedicated my life to making a tangible difference in my community, both in public service and through hands-on involvement in local issues. My track record as President of Summit County Council in 2024 and Vice President in 2023 speaks to my leadership and ability to bring understand the complexities of union negotiations, grant funding, and strategic planning, having secured over $200 million in state and federal funding for critical infrastructure programs. My role on boards like the Summit County Land Bank and the Akron Summit Convention and Visitors Bureau has given me a comprehensive view of the economic and social challenges our community faces, and I am well-positioned to continue driving positive change.
Ultimately, I am running for office because I care deeply about this community. My experience, leadership, and dedication to public service make me the candidate who can continue to deliver results for Summit County.
What are the top priorities you seek to address once in office?
Stable Housing: Now more than ever, stable housing is crucial to the safety and well-being of Summit County residents.
Economic Development: Summit County needs to encourage regional job growth and business development to increase economic opportunity for all Summit County residents.
Public Safety: Summit County can enhance public safety through a number of initiatives including improved collaboration among communities and law enforcement organizations, enhanced community engagement, and technology upgrades with our first responder organizations.
Protecting Green Spaces: Effective land management practices, including regular monitoring and maintenance, can help protect our green spaces, preserving them for generations to come.
What strategies will you use to accomplish those priorities?
I will advocate for policies that support renters and homeowners, such as tenant protections, and incentivizing the development of affordable housing units.
Additionally, I will explore opportunities to rehabilitate vacant properties and invest in community land trusts to ensure long-term housing stability.
I will collaborate with economic development agencies, chambers of commerce, and local businesses to identify and address barriers to growth. I will also advocate for targeted investments in infrastructure, workforce development programs, and small business support services.
In terms of public safety, I will focus on enhancing collaboration among communities and law enforcement organizations. Furthermore, I will work to secure funding for technology upgrades and training for first responders to ensure they have the resources and tools needed to effectively respond to emergencies and keep our communities safe.
I will assure that we promote sustainable development.
Yulia Gray
Republican
Candidate Email: grayy984@gmail.com
Editor’s note: This candidate has not responded to other information requests.
