Mary Siwierka

Candidate for Elyria City Council at Large Democrat gsiwierka@oh.rr.com 440-322-0016
Employment:
Current: Cleveland Clinic � Office of Patient Experience Regional Senior Director Previous positions: 2002 to 2008 Cleveland Clinic - Lorain Co Institute Administrator 1999-2002 Practice Manager Lakeland Eye Surgeons City of Elyria, Mayor�s Office; Asst. to Mayor Michael B. Keys 1985-1999 City of Elyria, Engineering Department 1983-1985 City of Elyria, Public Utilities Dept. 1978-1983 City of Elyria, Auditor's office 1974-1978
Education:
Elyria Catholic High School, 1974 Tiffin University-Bachelor of Science (cum laude) -Business Administration/Organizational Management Case Western Reserve University, Weatherhead School of Management Managing in a Health Care Environment � Certification, 2008 Masters Work, Health and Human Services, Youngstown State Univ
Community Involvement:
Board of Trustees, The Elyria Public Library 2006-2010, 1991-1998, President of the Board 1996-1997 Board of Trustees, Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, 2003-2006 City of Elyria, Civil Service Commission, 1999-2004 Board of Trustees, Park Place Child Care and Learning Center, 2002-2006 Leadership Lorain County, Class of 1987 Founding Trustee, The Linden School (Childcare) Numerous other community volunteer programs and projects including church and school activities
Family:
Husband of 31 years, Gary; one son, Evan, 18 college student Maiden name: Pronesti
Why would you like to be elected?
I have 25 years of solid municipal government experience built upon progressive management expertise. I understand how municipal government works and the challenges that it faces. I would bring a very different skill set to Council � as someone who has worked within multiple municipal departments. I have significant experience with governmental accounting practices. Much of work in the Engineering department was focused on contracts and the bidding process for projects. While in the Public Utilities department I processed utility bills working with thousands of residents. I have experience in the City�s payroll system and accounts payable systems. I have been on both sides of labor negotiations � as a former member and officer of the A.F.S.C.M.E. Local 277. My experience with labor contracts and negotiations is significant and would bring a depth of knowledge to City Council during contract talks and legislation. During my years with Mayor Keys� office � I worked with all departments/divisions as well as multiple regional entities. This work was not only day-to-day operational in nature it included strategic planning. I was very involved in the original Envision Elyria process and many other community projects. This work also linked me to many other neighboring communities and regional entities including R.I.T.A., N.O.A.C.A. and the National League of Cities.
What would you like to accomplish if elected?
Fiscal responsibility and the pursuit of new efficiencies. I bring a depth of experience in both the private and public sector unmatched by other candidates.
How do you think Internet technology will impact government services?
Technology has impacted all segments of our life - government, medicine, education. We have to keep up with technology by partnering with experts in the field. As the population ages, the next generation will rely more and more on the internet to gain information on their community.
What one bit of information do people not normally know about you?
I love to shop at vintage stores, rummage sales and flea markets!