Economic Development

Ohio’s 99th District has historically been defined by hard work. While industries have shifted over time, our current leadership has dropped the ball over the economic reality of our district. We need sensible, forward-thinking strategies that help businesses thrive, keep our workforce strong, and ensure long-term prosperity.

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED

Our local businesses and manufacturers face unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that stifle growth.

Lack of planning and coordination hinders the full potential of tourist hubs like Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ashtabula's Bridge Street, and Geauga County's Town Squares.

Our workforce needs greater access to vocational training to meet the demands of emerging industries.

Goals

Streamline administrative and permit processes to reduce the costs of opening and operating small businesses

Support prevailing wage legislation to ensure high-quality infrastructure and fair compensation that keeps money in our local economy

Implement practical, coordinated management of our lakefront to boost tourism and support entrepreneurship

To build a resilient local economy, we need to focus on the industries that form the backbone of Northeast Ohio:

Manufacturing: We must attract manufacturers back to our district , but by streamlining processes and supporting locally owned facilities that revitalize our industrial areas.
Workforce Development: As an educator, I understand the importance of creating direct pipelines between our high schools, local trade programs, and emergent industries. Investing in vocational training and fighting for prevailing wage legislation ensures our local tradesmen and first responders are equipped to build and protect our communities.
Travel & Hospitality: The revitalization of Ashtabula's Bridge Street proves what is possible when we support local entrepreneurs. By facilitating better communication between local governments and business owners, we can expand these successes.
Agriculture is a $2.1 billion-per-year industry in Geauga County, and Ashtabula County relies heavily on its over 1,000 farms and local wineries. We must protect local producers and ensure they have the support needed to operate for generations.
Healthcare: Residents frequently face the burden of traveling long distances to receive essential medical care. We must support the healthcare workers who serve our communities by demanding accountability from corporate middlemen and working to expand local, accessible care options so families aren't forced to leave the district for treatment.

Let's make Ohio a place where local businesses are supported, our workforce is valued, and our communities can build lasting prosperity.