Residents of Athens and surrounding areas challenged candidates Debbie Phillips (D) and Jill Thompson (R) to help repair the ailing economy in yesterday's candidate debate, held by the League of Women Voters at the Athens Public Library.
Both candidates, running for the 92nd seat in the Ohio House of Representatives, stated that the economy needs changes, but disputed on methods.
Ohio deserves a better job market
great schools and a thriving economy said County Auditor and candidate Thompson, adding that jobs are leaving Ohio and taking the youth with them.
She said that students should be able to get a good career in Athens after they graduate, but efforts in the past to draw businesses have been unsuccessful.
Small businesses have about an 80 percent rate of failure, she said, adding that she wants to strengthen them to bolster the economy and bring new jobs.
Councilwoman and candidate Debbie Phillips said that promoting energy efficiency and preserving the environment would create sustainable jobs.
This is not about jobs versus the environment Phillips said. The beauty of the area is one of the most marketable assets.
She said that she supports clean coal because it brings jobs, but she will always push for new, cleaner alternatives.
Cooperation between counties and businesses is important as well, Phillips said, adding that Athens and Meigs County worked together to bring American Hydrogen Corporation to the area.
Focusing on public education is another means of improving the economy, Phillips said, adding that as a state representative she would try to increase funding from the state while reducing property taxes that normally pay for public education.
Our school systems are unconstitutional
she said. Rapid changes are needed.
Thompson also said that public education needs improvement, and that teachers should show students at a young age how to manage their money so they do not face poverty or foreclosure as adults.
I have three little boys that are ambitious
and as I watch them grow
they should be able to get their education here and stay here
she said.
The two candidates also differed on health care options throughout the debate.
No one should have to choose between medicine and food
Phillips said, adding that she had just met with a southeastern Ohioan who said she would rather die at home than wake up in the hospital with huge debts.
Phillips proposed-
17
Archives
