Shade to fill Jones’ West Carrollton council seat

City taps banker to take seat of councilwoman who had resigned amid federal investigation.

New pool at 'The Heights' opens
5/27/12
Huber Heights suing consultant for more than $50,000
5/26/12
4 arrested for OVI at Kettering checkpoint
5/26/12
Man found dead at bar; police seek suspect
5/26/12
Turner adopts role for Romney campaign
5/26/12
> More headlines

By Kristin McAllister, Staff Reporter 7:00 PM Thursday, March 31, 2011

WEST CARROLLTON — The West Carrollton City Council has appointed Erica Shade to complete the term of former Councilwoman Jody Jones, who resigned in February.

Jones stepped down after she was named a suspect in a federal investigation involving charges and a Moraine-based business owned by her ex-husband, Ed Jones, of West Carrollton.

A 1990 Miamisburg High School graduate, Shade, 39, is a West Carrollton resident of 10 years and manager of the West Carrollton branch of the Farmers & Merchants Bank.

Shade’s banking background and daily interaction at work with city residents was key in making her stand out among eight other candidates.

“I think that her financial background is a good fit for the council at this time,” said Mayor Jeff Sanner, noting the high quality candidates who competed against Shade for the seat.

Council announced Shade’s appointment on March 22. Her term ends on Dec. 31, however, Shade, who is a political newcomer, said she plans to run for election in November.

“I’m excited to be a part of what’s happening to make the city look nicer and be a better community for residents, such as the Exit 47 project,” she said. “We’ve finally got that going.”

Shade said she wants to use those good things happening in West Carrollton as a springboard to attract new businesses and help existing ones grow.

“Exit 47 will definitely be an attraction,” she said. “And, we have some buildings the city owns and is working on what to do with them.”

Shade said she is also looking forward to reenergizing efforts to create development along the Great Miami River.

“It’s been something we’ve wanted to do for a long time and I think it would really make a difference in the community,” she said.

Shade, who studied banking and finance at Sinclair Community College, was a past member of the former West Carrollton Rotary Club and a current member of the business YAR Networking Group.

Share this article