FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio -- Mayor Eileen Ann Patton’s retirement means Fairview Park will have a new city leader beginning next year. The race features Ward 5 Councilman Angelo Russo and political newcomer Patrick J. Cooney.
The election is Nov. 5. Early voting starts Oct. 8.
Here are profiles of the Fairview Park mayoral candidates:
Fairview Park Mayoral Candidate Patrick J. Cooney
Mayoral Candidate: Patrick J. Cooney
Age: 53
Address: 22450 Bard Ave.
Occupation: Attorney and Garfield Heights police prosecutor
Prior elected office or campaign: None
Education: Miami University, Bachelor of science in management; Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Juris Doctor.
Family: Wife, Sheila, with children Jimmy, Paddy and Maggie
Why are you running? “I want to keep Fairview Park a safe, thriving and vibrant city and use its assets to grow it for the benefit of all of our residents. I want to use Fairview Park’s proximity to Fairview Hospital, Cleveland Hopkins and NASA Glenn to grow and expand our tax base to provide resources for our schools and to maintain and improve our roads and sewers. I want to work with local organizations and schools to strengthen our community.
"I want to improve the Lorain Road, Center Ridge Road and Brookpark Road corridors for residents and local businesses. I want to support our first responders with needed services and training as they continue to keep us safe. I want to preserve the Gemini Center and our parks, as well as partner with the Metroparks to keep and attract people to our city.
"I have served on nonprofit boards and commissions, and as an attorney advised individuals as they invest in their communities. However, for the last six years as a police prosecutor, I realize public service is one of the most direct ways to impact one’s community and that is why I am running for mayor of Fairview Park.”
Candidate website: www.cooneyformayor.org
Fairview Park Mayoral Candidate Angelo Russo
Mayoral Candidate: Angelo Russo
Age: 46
Address: 21370 Queen Anns Way
Occupation: Attorney/business owner
Prior elected office or campaign: Fairview Park Ward 5 councilman (2014 to present)
Education: Cleveland State University, undergraduate degree; Cleveland Marshall College of Law, Juris Doctor.
Family: Wife, Karlie, with children Gianna and Nathan
Why are you running? “Fairview Park is my home. I feel an obligation to serve. I was asked to step up when a seat opened on council, and I am being asked to step up again.
"Fairview Park has a sense of community unlike anywhere else I’ve been. We look out for each other; we help each other out. I want to make sure this feeling is fostered, while also continuing to pursue growth. I know that the relationships I’ve built over the last 15 years with community groups, schools, neighbors, businesses and local property owners will allow me to keep all that makes Fairview Park a great place to live and work, while driving areas in need.
"I’m running to foster our city toward a robust and bright future. This city is experiencing many changes in leadership. Besides a new mayor, we have a major school board changeover, as well as five council seats up for election, with at least two guaranteed new representatives. I have demonstrated abilities to work with all individuals whether in business or the council. As mayor, my work will continue in the service of driving our great city forward.”
Candidate website: www.RussoForMayor.com
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