I am writing this email because I would like to spread the word about my campaign, as well as share some important and interesting facts about Macedonia, that could help voters gain a better understanding on current issues.
For a little background, I grew up in the city of Macedonia, Ohio, and graduated from Nordonia High School. I’m a published author, as well as a certified EMT and Firefighter. Aside from my careers in writing and public safety, I also have an interest in politics. I am currently a student at Kent State, studying politics, writing, and philosophy.
My interest in policies and public service was what inspired me to run for city council. And so, after weeks of going door-to-door and collecting signatures, I was officially able to become a candidate on the ballot! However, when I went to the Summit County Board of Elections (that is where you turn in your signatures to become a candidate) there was an issue on their end, which resulted in my signatures not being submitted. But having come this far, I did not want to give up and call the quits. So, I filed another statement of candidacy, this time as a write-in, and it was a success! Now I am officially a write-in candidate for Macedonia City Council!
What do I stand for?
As someone who has trained as a first responder, I know how important the emergency services are to a community. I have come to learn that it’s more than just helping people in need. It’s about comradery. It’s about working towards a greater good for everyone. This is why one of my main goals for Macedonia is to ensure our first responders get the training, equipment, and funding they need.
Furthermore, I also have goals to help improve Macedonia’s infrastructure, which will provide us with safer roads and reduced traffic. And thirdly, I have plans to increase the city’s economy, which will create new jobs and raise our property values. This could also lead to a city budget surplus, which could be used to help reduce local taxes!
Are write-in candidates viable?
Yes! As a matter in fact, an Ohio congressman named Charlie Wilson won Ohio District 6 with 66% of the vote in 2006. Like me, he had issues with his signatures, but he refused to give up, so he became a write-in. Write-in candidates are even more viable on the local level, since you’re dealing with a smaller amount of people, all in a specific area. So, if Charlie could do it, why can’t I?
Do you know anyone on the Council already?
I do, I know the President of the Council, Jessica. We both take Tai-Chi class together, at Two Tigers in Bedford. As she once put it: “We’re Kung-Fu buddies”
How can you vote for me?
The election is on November 4th. There will be an area where you can write-in the name of a candidate on the ballot. Although it is common practice to write a candidate’s full name, under Ohio law, you can only write the first name, and have it be counted. So, remember this: “Vote IN DevIN!”
Is the any useful information about Macedonia you want voters to know?
Here is a list of important facts that are worth knowing:
- The average property value of a house in Macedonia is around 3% less than national average. I plan to not only reach national average but surpass it by around 2026.
- Macedonia’s population is about 12,000. However, the city has had a slight population decline since 2022. Adding new businesses, jobs, and services could help bring the population back.
- Around 7% of Macedonia’s population are veterans. The most common are the Vietnam veterans, of which there are twice as many as the veterans of the Gulf War and War in Afghanistan.
- The position of city-council is a non-partisan position. That means it is neither democrat nor republican. The same is for the mayor as well.
How old are you?
19. For reference, you have to be at least 18 years old to run for Macedonia City Council or Mayor. Fun fact: In Ohio, the minimum age to run for Governor is also 18.
Aren’t you too young to do this?
Not at all! In fact, my youth is actually an advantage. Having grown up around computers and screens, I am very familiar with internet culture, which allows me to be in touch with people all around Macedonia. Secondly, being young means, I have a lot of energy – energy to get things done! Lastly, me being young provides the City Council with a fresh new perspective, which could be very helpful in tackling certain problems. After all, everybody’s got to start somewhere, and what better place to start than in the very city I grew up in?
Where can voters learn more about you, and reach out to you?
One of the best ways to learn more about me, as well as contact me, is visit my website, https://devinsethna.com/ there is a contact page there where you can type a message and reach out to me. Another way to reach out is to send me an email at devin.sethna@gmail.com
My door is always open, so don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m always willing to hear from you!
How can I support you?
The best way is undoubtedly by writing my name in the ballot. But for those who want to go the extra mile (which I appreciate very much), you can support me by simply spreading the word, and getting your friends, family, and neighbors to write me in as well!
Sincerely,
Devin Sethna
Paid for by Devin Sethna
