“I think this is indicative of a lot of people who want change and I think I can do that,” Vore said. “We’re ready to roll.”
The victory pits Vore against Democratic incumbent Commissioner Judy Dodge in November. Dodge is running for commission for the second time. Commissioner Deborah Lieberman, also a Democrat and seeking re-election this fall, faces opposition from Kettering City Council member Ashley Webb, a Republican. There was no primary in that race.
Republicans controlled the county commission from 1992 until Democrats took the majority in 2006, when Dodge was elected to finish a retiring commissioner’s term. In November, voters decide if the Democratic trio that also includes Commissioner Dan Foley will continue, or if Republican leadership will be added to the mix.
“My campaign is going to be about listening to the ideas of regular folks who are working every day to pay their bills,” Vore said.
“I’m going to take the information they give me to create a solid future, new enthusiasm and a new direction for Montgomery County — one that is not mired in crime or despair.”
Vore believes the county needs a bipartisan commission so those ideas not only have a chance to be heard, but “are given consideration.”
Dodge said economic development has been a priority for the County Commission during her tenure resulting in location of a Payless Shoe distribution center in Brookville, Caterpillar in Clayton and the Wilmer Hale law firm in Kettering.
“Jobs are my priority and my passion is social services,” Dodge said.
Dodge has co-chaired two successful Montgomery County Human Services Levy campaigns, worked to expand food access and security by establishing a local Food Policy Coalition, and she co-developed a regional sustainability center, which is focused on energy reduction and green practices in business, government and residential sectors.
“Regardless of who wins the primary, I believe I am the best leader to move this county forward,” Dodge said.
Montgomery County Commissioners earn $87,074 annually — a figure that is set by Ohio Revised Code based on population.
Contact this reporter at (937)225-2362 or josmith@DaytonDaily News.com.
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