Editor’s note: Following is a release from Austin French announcing his candidacy for Perry Township Trustee:

I have filed to run for the position of Perry Township trustee, as I have been a resident for the past twenty years.

I believe that a resident should be on the board since the three present trustees are all Salem City residents.

I believe that a person from the township would have more involvement and concern for the township. I believe the current trustees are doing a great job, but I offer a fresh set of eyes that have the lens of a resident.

My residency in Perry Township gives me insights on the budget and land of the township that would be more helpful. I have attended many meetings throughout the years, and have attended budget meetings.

I was on the zoning board, and when I got off the board, I became the chairman.

As the saying goes, I am someone with some skin in the game. I use the utilities of the Township, Police, Fire, and Road. I also share the 50% surcharge on the water bill, and I want to make sure it is following the Ohio Revised Code and if possible, negotiate a lower percentage I will be requesting a copy of the last two years from the township clerk to see where there is opportunity of improvement.

I would like to take a look at the police department to see how we can get officers hired and to stay, using some in house benefits if possible.

I would also try to make sure the roads in the winter are salted and plowed for early morning traffic, and to help the road crew get out earlier by helping them be notified in a timely manner. They have lost one man and are now working with two instead of three.

I want to also work on keeping township land in the township. I want to be involved with a possible Joint Economic Development District as already reported in the paper, if appointed. I want to make sure the township benefits from the venture.

I would like to have meetings online through some type of media (Zoom, FB Live, etc.) so those unable to leave their homes can be involved in the township’s decisions.

Many are in nursing homes or just can’t get out. I would like have meetings in between the two scheduled meeting times so people would be able to come in and discuss their concerns if they can’t make it to the regular meetings.

I am glad to see others from the township wanting to get involved with the politics of the township. I will do my best to represent all of the residents of the township. I am a retired officer and would be available when ever needed.