Candidate for County Commissioner
Republican
www.ritacanfield.com
ritacanfield@hotmail.com
(440) 355-5888
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| Employment: |
| 2000 - Current Lorain County Community College Board of Trustees: Twice appointed by the Governor of Ohio to serve on the board of this most important academic institution. An active member of the board, which sets the direction and management of the premier community college of Ohio. My participation in local levy campaigns, and training for College Board members, has enhanced my skills and knowledge in this field.
1998 - Current Community Foundation of Greater Lorain County: I am in my second year as Chairperson for our Board, and have assisted in the implementation of the Governance format during that time. I have participated in the Grants, Investment, Development, and Governance committees. Since 1998 this Foundation has grown from 57 million,to our current 64 million in assets.
1998 - Current Trustee, LaGrange Township: I have served as Chairperson for several years. This position requires management of our Fire, EMS, and Road Departments, as well as interacting with the general public, and other governmental entities. This is an elected position that requires the support of a majority of my community. Responsible for all levels of planning for our township, as well as the legal issues related to operating this level of government.
2000 - 2001 Payroll Manager - David Garland & Company: Payroll data for accounting firm clients, including filing of withholdings and other business accounting as needed. This was a part time position.
1984 - Current Tomstead Farms: Family farm operation consisting of about 2000 acres, and milking about 100 Holstein cows. Deal with environmental compliance, and other farm operations, and family management issues. |
| Education: |
| 1983 Series 7 Registered Investment Advisor License; New York Stock Exchange
1982 Certificated Consumer Counselor; Institute of Financial Education
1978 B.S. in Elementary Education; Bowling Green State University
1974 Graduate; Keystone High School, LaGrange, OH |
| Community Involvement: |
| Member: Community Foundation of Greater Lorain County.
Member: Lorain County Association of Township Trustees and Clerks.
Member: Old Glory Grange
Member: Keystone High School Levey Committee that passed a construction levy for a new facility in 2003. Construction began in July 2004.
Member: Lorain County Farm Bureau Inc. Past member of Board of Trustees, served from 1990-1999, acted as President, Secretary, Chair of the Public Relations Committee, Policy Development, and membership committees.
Member: Lorain-Medina Community Based Correctional Facility Citizens Committee. Appointed by Judge Tom Janas to advise on construction, and operation, of the correctional unit. This facility is currently preparing to expand with construction of a woman's unit.
Member: Lorain County 2020 Board
Member: Build Up Lorain County Executive Committee, organization of business leaders, and elected officials, to assess our county infrastructure needs. |
| Family: |
| Married for 20 years to Stephen Canfield. Parents of two sons, Stephen (18) and Patrick (16). |
| Why would
you like to be elected? |
| I am not only well qualified for this position, but bring experience in countywide representation to the office. I have been involved in many organizations dealing with countywide issues and problems. My experience and attitude toward conflict resolution will be valuable, as this county deals with decreased funds and increased need. My nonpartisan background has prepared me to work with "PEOPLE, NOT PARTY," and is essential to our future. |
| What
would you like to accomplish if elected? |
| To provide professional county management, without seeking personal gain. To provide fair and equal representation to all communities, and responsible management of public monies. To open discussions on issues, and make the information publicly available. |
| How do
you think Internet technology will impact government services? |
| As people become more skilled and comfortable using home computers, and the internet, I think they will use it to keep elected officials better included on local issues and problems. It is an easy, convenient way to communicate with anyone and everyone. It should increase understanding of more complex issues, since the information needed is available 24/7. Communication between citizens and government should improve. |
| What
one bit of information do people not normally know about you? |
| I seek out the chance to interact with my sons. I even enjoy the opportunity to roller blade with my youngest. |
