(Plain Press, December 2022)

To the Editor:

     When I decided to run for State Representative last January, the district maps were undecided and still being debated in Columbus. It appeared back then that there would be potentially four candidates, including myself, who would run in what was nominally considered to be House District 15.

     Over time, as various maps were proposed, the number was reduced to two candidates. Ultimately, the current map was decided by a federal court decision. My opponent withdrew from this race to run in another, then attempted to return, but was denied by the Ohio Supreme Court. Thereafter, a different write-in candidate filed, and the election proceeded.

     My opponent was well funded and had substantial backing from his supporters. I ran the same way as I always have in my previous eight campaigns for elected office, working hard, taking nothing for granted, visiting with as many residents as possible and making my case to help restore balance and bipartisanship in Columbus. My history in office over two decades reflects exactly that—finding ways to get things done for constituents by working with as many other officials as possible, regardless of political affiliation. I will continue with that same work ethic in the Ohio House of Representatives.

     Here are a few of the many issues that motivated me to run for this office. There is more information on my website. I want to look at greater workforce development in the trades and other necessary skills.  Perhaps we can do this through more public/private partnership training programs. Many of these jobs go unfilled, and not everyone wants a college degree.

     The Homestead Exemption should be increased to help seniors, disabled veterans and other homeowners meet their property taxes and remain in their homes.  We have many senior or disabled homeowners in our district who are lower income and whose taxes spiked dramatically with the last county assessment increase.

     We need to do more to support our police, our protection against chaos. Crime and drug abuse permeate every aspect of society. The state’s retraction several years ago of the Local Government Fund (originally created in the 1930’s with Ohio’s sales tax to help pay for operating expenses such as law enforcement), placed several local governments in tough financial circumstances. I saw that firsthand as Mayor of Seven Hills. The Fund should be restored as promised back then.

     Campaigning every day for eleven months in a district of 125,000 residents in seven cities and villages was hard work.  But I did it gladly because the stakes are so important. I acknowledge my opponent for helping me sharpen my message and stay focused on getting the job done. To my supporters, I say thank you and I will work hard to live up to your expectations, and to those who did not vote for me, please know that I hope to earn your support by working with everyone who will work with me for the benefit of all the residents of District 15.

     Now the real work begins, and I am ready to get started!

Richard Dell’Aquila

Ohio House Representative-Elect

District 15

website: rd4ohiohouse.com email: rd4ohiohouse@gmail.com