Commissioner’s seat is contested in primary

Incumbent Ralph Spidalieri faces challenger Dennis M. Galicki in Geauga County

South Russell Village Councilman Dennis M. Galicki is challenging incumbent Geauga County Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri in the March 17 Republican primary.

No Democrat has filed to seek the seat. The winner will begin a four-year term on Jan. 3 and earn an annual salary of $68,671.

The News-Herald mailed out questionnaires to the candidates and the following are some of the responses.

Galicki

Galicki, if elected, said one of his primary goals is “to be fully engaged in the governing process ... to show up to conduct county business and to increase my presence within the county; to more fully engage with the people of the county and solicit their concerns.”

“You can’t have an accurate idea of the concerns or opinions of the citizens if you’re not a presence within the community,” he said.

In addition, Galicki pledges that he will “improve transparency and accountability within county government and improve communication/access between the commissioners and the elected representatives of the townships and municipalities of Geauga County.”

He also will strive to “preserve the rural nature of (Geauga County)

and look forward strategically toward the future with respect to the needs of Geauga County’s citizens.”

Regarding his qualifications to serve as county commissioner, Galicki said he possesses the “leadership, education and professional experience that are perfectly suited to execute the duties of this office.”

“I understand the responsibilities of the office, that they cannot be taken lightly, and must be given the day-to-day attention that they require,” he said.

Spidalieri

Spidalieri, who is seeking a third consecutive term, did not return a News-Herald election questionnaire.

There are 65,083 registered voters eligible to cast ballots in this race as of March 6, according to the Geauga County Elections Board.