Garrett Westhoven

political party: Democratic

Office wanted: Geauga County Commissioner

Age: 42

city ​​of residence:Chesterland

List campaign websites and/or campaign social media accounts: www.garrettwesthoven.com, x.com/tteragnoj, www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555916670409

Job: Web software engineer

employer: Dealer Tire

Selected office experience (Office must have taken part in public vote): none

Unchosen experience (boards, organizations, etc.): Laurel Music Camp, Microsoft TEALS, Youth sports coach, BW Men’s Chorus

Education: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Notre Dame

What are three specific areas you would like to change, address, improve, or do further research if elected, and how specifically would you like to go in this regard?: The first area I want to focus on is communication within the district administration. Lack of communication often forces various segments of state government to self-sue and waste taxpayer dollars on outside lawyers. The second area I want to focus on is transparency. I want to stream all commissioners’ meetings online, so those who can’t be there in person at 9 a.m. can watch the recordings later when their schedules allow. The third issue I want to focus on is housing. We must ensure that affordable housing is available, but we must also preserve the rural nature of our county.

Why should voters choose you, for your past accomplishments or future goals?: I have almost 20 years of experience as a software engineer. As an engineer, it’s my job to solve problems, and I want to bring that problem-solving ability to the commissioner’s office.