Election 2019: City Council candidates see value in city’s partnerships

The city of Columbus partners with other local and state agencies along with private companies for many projects and programs including emergency dispatchers, the railroad overpass being built downtown and the purchase of Fair Oaks Mall.

We asked candidates for Columbus City Council for their thoughts on the city partnering with other local governments in projects that help the larger community.

Frank Miller, the incumbent Republican in City Council District 4 is running for re-election against Democrat Michael Schoumacher.

Miller said that Columbus and Bartholomew County could work together more.

Schoumacher says that quality partnerships are good for everyone involved.

In City Council District 5, incumbent Republican Tim Shuffett is facing Ross Thomas, a Democrat.

Shuffett says that Columbus is known for working together with others.

Thomas says the city must engage in partnerships where it makes sense.

In the four-way race for the two at-large seats on the council, incumbent Republican Laurie Booher and Democrat Tom Dell are running against Republican Josh Burnett and Democrat Grace Kestler.

Dell said that city has a reputation for quality partnerships.

Burnett said that public safety benefits from good partnerships.

Booher says Columbus has had some great partnerships, but noted that it is important to keep seeking them out.

Kestler agrees that it’s important to always look for quality partnerships.

The race in City Council District 1 pits incumbent Republican Dascal Bunch against Democrat Jerone Wood and independent Michael Kinder.

Wood said that partnerships are great if they make sense.

Bunch said it makes sense for Columbus and Bartholomew County to work together.

Kinder said partnerships are important, especially for major projects.

Elaine Wagner, the incumbent Democrat in City Council District 2 is running for re-election against Republican Jim Hartsook.

Wagner said that Columbus has a spirit of partnership.

Hartsook says partnerships are possible with the county, as well as other city governments.

In City Council District 3, incumbent Republican Dave Bush is facing Democrat Katea Ravega.

Bush says the city has a history of partnership and cooperation.

Ravega said Columbus is in a good spot, geographically and financially, to partner with others.

The election is Tuesday. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.