WHIZ Hosts Mayoral Candidates Debate

The race for Zanesville Mayor made a stop at WHIZ on Thursday night.

The three candidates – republican Rob Sharrer, democrat Jeff Tilton and independent Randy Case – took part in a question and answer session.  The city’s budget was a hot topic during the debate.  Sharrer said his business experience will help him manage tax dollars.

"That’s more than just an annual city budget," said Sharrer.  "It’s having a 3 year, a 5 year, a 10 year plan.  Most politicians don’t want to put together an extended plan, because they don’t know if they’re going to be in office that long."

Tilton said his focus is on costly projects that the city will tackle in the near future.

"We have eight sewer storm water separation projects that we have to do in the next five years," said Tilton.  "They’re mandated by the EPA, which will cost us several million dollars to complete."

Case said he’s concerned about the number of police officers on staff.

"We have a very bad crime problem in Zanesville, and that is tied to the budget," said Case.  "Our police department is short seven officers, and four of those aren’t even mandated in the budget to be replaced."

The candidates also talked about changes to key city positions, Secrest Auditorium and Issue 2.  Voters will head to the polls on November 8th.