The Milan News-Leader
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Mayoral race could get crowded
By Brian Cox, Staff Writer
PUBLISHED: March 29, 2007
Weeks remain until the May 15 filing deadline for mayoral and City Council candidates, but many are already jockeying to gauge the political landscape for what some see as one of the more important races in Milan history.
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At stake in November are three four-year seats on council and the mayor's chair, which could lead to a radical transformation in the dynamics of Milan's elected leadership at a time when the city confronts significant financial challenges.
"It looks like our city is coming up with a lot of decisions to make," said Mayor Owen Diaz, who is completing his second two-year term and has not yet decided whether to run for a third. "I think we should continue our efficiencies and avoid taxes. That is what keeps pulling me."
Diaz said a decision whether to run again would be easier if a candidate emerged he felt he could back. He said he expects to make up his mind soon.
Even as Diaz mulls it over, several council members have pondered mayoral campaigns.
"I think the times dictate that this is a pretty important election," said Council Trustee Brett Moyer, who said he considered running for mayor but decided that his work schedule precluded a bid this year. "I think it's going to be imperative that we get fiscally smart people making decisions."
Michael Armitage and Martha Churchill also have given a bid for mayor some thought.
"This mayoral race is of particular importance to me," said Armitage, who would have to step down from his council seat after only two years to run for mayor. "Whoever is mayor must have a firm understanding of the budget. It's going to be vital the person has knowledge of how the city operates."
Armitage said his decision to run for mayor would hinge on the field of candidates.
"The city can't afford to have someone come in that isn't up to speed," he said.
Churchill, who is the mayor pro tem, said she believes the city needs a responsible leader who is not impulsive, but she is likely not going to run for the seat.
"I've got enough going on," she said. "Where am I going to find the time and money to run for mayor?"
Churchill does plan to seek a second four-year term on the council, however.
"I feel I've done a good job as a council member," she said.
It is not only sitting council members interested in the center chair at the big table. Former councilman Rod Hill, who served two years before losing his seat in the 2005 election, has announced plans to run for mayor.
Council Trustee Tim Gibelyou, who recently retired from the school district, said he does not plan to run for a second term, citing business and family commitments.
"It has been fun," he said. "I've served through a very exciting time, but it's time for me to do something different. I'll find other ways to serve."
Gibelyou said he was pleased that during his tenure on council the city has gone from a "no-growth posture to one embracing managed growth."
Council Trustee Jim Latham, who wraps up his first term in December, said he is still considering whether to run again.
"I do think it's pretty important to have some experienced leadership on council right now," he said, adding he would likely decide in the next few weeks.
"I think it's going to be a pretty intense election cycle," Moyer said.
Staff Writer Brian Cox can be reached at 429-7380 or bcox@heritage.com.
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