Incumbent Washington Twp. trustee retains his seat

Dale Berry (left) and Matt Lynch

Dale Berry (left) and Matt Lynch

Incumbent Washington Twp. Trustee Dale Berry held onto his seat Tuesday night, fighting off a tough challenge from business owner Matt Lynch, unofficial results from the Montgomery County Board of Elections show.

With all 40 precincts reporting, the board of elections tally had Berry winning the contest with 6,641 votes to 6,404 for Lynch. The unofficial total is outside of the automatic recount margin.

MORE: ELECTION RESULTS: Big updates in Dayton, Trotwood, Beavercreek and other cities

Berry has been a trustee since 2009, and he also served as a member of the zoning commission. His experience has helped lead the township’s growth and development, he said.

Lynch based his campaign on his leadership experience, having over 30 years experience as a CEO, CFO, business owner, and board director for multiple companies.

Berry says some of the biggest problems facing the community surrounds development planning for vacant land.

“We need to plan for the best use of this remaining vacant land. Not only do I want to keep Washington Twp. the choice for people coming to our area, but I want to make sure that we offer housing opportunities and attractive amenities for our residents who decide to downsize or move to another residence within Washington Twp.,” he said.

He added that the trustees must continue to evaluate opportunities for the use of the land, which will include cooperation with surrounding communities and the entities within the community.

“We need to work with the state of Ohio to increase local government funding, continue to seeks grants, and continue to watch how funds are spent so that we continue to be good stewards of tax payer dollars,” Berry said.

MORE: Centerville school levy narrowly ahead with few precincts remaining

Lynch feels that Washington Twp. is attractive to development because of its open space community.

“We don’t have to compromise our standards to attract development. Our community rejected trustees’ decision to approve high-density homes on the Hithergreen property when last year over 70% of voters told the Trustees to protect our property values,” he said. “Yet again this year, trustees granted approval for a similar development on the south side of the township. I disagree with their approach, we can do better.”

About the Author