As an Ohio University graduate and current graduate student, I know the issues that are important to students. I was the only member of council to critically question proposed changes to the noise and nuisance party laws that I felt were unfair.
It is not enough to just criticize, so I have been working on solutions to these controversial issues that can unite our community instead of divide it. I am actively involved in forging a compromise on noise, working with the Athens Police chief and students to find a solution that works for both students and long-term residents.
As chair of the Environment Committee, I have worked for the last three years to create a cleaner and healthier environment by reducing energy use in the city and promoting clean, renewable energy. As two examples, the city is investing more than $747,000 in energy efficiency, and last fall, I flipped the switch to turn on Ohio’s largest municipal solar array, a project I spearheaded.
I have also worked with other members of council to advance a bike and pedestrian master plan, which prioritizes infrastructure improvements that will make transportation easier for community members. I believe in leading by example, and so when council was considering pay raises for elected officials in tough economic times, I was the only council member to vote against the pay increases.
For a balanced and progressive City Council, I ask for your support in the Democratic primary.
Elahu Gosney is an at-large member of Athens City Council.
