“It’s overwhelming,” Suddith said. “I just feel the full weight of the responsibility; there’s a lot of work to be done, and it’s an incredible honor to be able to do it.”
Suddith, 52, who has lived in Kettering for nearly 25 years, is deputy director of the Montgomery County Veterans Service Commission and has a master’s degree in public administration. He has served as a councilman for two years.
The reason for his broad appeal is because of his focus on community and neighbors over party, he said.
His immediate plans are to work with outgoing Mayor Peggy Lehner, who is retiring from public office after nearly three decades at the local and state level, as well as City Manager Matt Greeson.
“I’m really thankful that I have access and friendship with Peggy,” Suddith said. “This will be the most inexperienced council since the ’50s, and we have a lot of work to do and a lot of big challenges to tackle in the coming years.”
The budget is one of those challenges. He doesn’t favor increasing taxes but revenue is not matching the growth of costs, so this means there will need to be important decisions. Other important issues are property maintenance, code enforcement and helping to create opportunities for new homeowners and businesses on vacant lots and properties.
Scott, 67, who is a third-generation Kettering resident, is a retired business executive and owner. He will remain a member of council because his term does not end until December 2027.
“We ran a campaign based on character and integrity. Many residents shared my vision for the city. There are two Ketterings: one that shared the vision and one that does not,” Scott said. “I will continue to serve on council to the best of my ability for the citizens of Kettering.”
At-large council race
The top vote-getters in a three-way race of political newcomers for two at-large council seats were Laura Arber with 43% of the vote and Dan Palmer with 37%, according to final, unofficial returns. Third-place candidate Tyler Scott, who is no relation to Bob Scott, garnered 20% of votes cast.
“I’m so excited, and I wanted to thank everyone that’s helped me and believed in my: all my family and friends and volunteers. Without this support, this win would not be possible,” Arber said.
The 62-year-old Kettering resident of 27 years who is newly retired from her job at CareSource, where she was a project and business analyst, said her priorities are strategic development and fiscal responsibility.
“I want to make sure Kettering is that place we all want to live, work and play,” Arber said.
Palmer, 54, is a 29-year Kettering resident and teacher at John F. Kennedy Elementary School who also has served as an assistant principal and principal for Kettering City Schools.
“I am really overwhelmed how much support the Kettering community gave to Laura and me,” said Palmer, who also commended opponent Scott, 23, for running “a classy campaign.”
Palmer said he is dedicating his victory to his fourth-grade students and their families.
“I’m thrilled and excited to share the news with them,” he said. “They’ve been my biggest supporters.”
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