By Richard Zowie
Leader Staff Writer
‘I think the voters are ready for fresh eyes and a new perspective to look at the issues.?
That’s what Linda Gierak, one of two new Addison Township trustee members elected in the August 5 primary, feels is why she and fellow newcomer John Boehmer were elected to office.
Boehmer was the top vote getter in the six-person race for the four available positions, earning 616 votes. Gierak, at 561 votes, narrowly finished third behind incumbent Ed Brakefield (who earned 567 votes).
Boehmer said that while out campaigning, he sensed a desire for change also.
‘In talking to people in Addison, I think their mood reflected some of what is happening in the country today,? he said. ‘There is some discontent due to the economic and political times that we’re in.?
Having been appointed to the planning commission, Boehmer will for the first time serve as an elected official. His goal is to serve using ‘effective governance? and feels that the people want to see the township move forward.
Gierak encouraged everybody to take the time to offer themselves for community service, saying that she felt she had the skills to contribute as well. Like Boehmer, she thinks people in the community will appreciate seeing new blood at Addison’s trustee positions.
She added: ‘It’s about looking at the problems and issues with fresh eyes,? she said. ‘I’d like to see more opportunities for families in parks and recreation along with Oxford and Addison communities working together. I think we can contribute to each other.?
Neither Brakefield nor John D. Sutphin, who won re-election as a trustee, could be reached for comment.