Galion City residents had the opportunity to meet the candidates running for 12 positions in May under the new statutory form of government at a Town Hall Meeting Thursday at the Galion Public Library.

The candidates in attendance were Tom O'Leary, candidate for mayor; Roberta Wade, candidate for law director; Brian Treisch, candidate for auditor; Paula Durbin, candidate treasurer; Don Faulds, candidate for council president, Andy Daniels, First Ward candidate; Missy Harris, candidate for Second Ward; Mike Richards, candidate for Third Ward council; Matt Strickler, Fourth Ward council; and Shirley Clark, candidate for At-Large council member.

The candidates discussed their five goals they hope to accomplish in their seven months in office. The five goals included lowering utility rates, economic development, improving the city's finances, reducing crime and opiate addictions.
 

The candidates said they're answering the call of the community for the change in city govenment.

"The change is coming about because the community felt it no longer had a connection with city govenment under the city manager form of government," Faulds said.

"We've been under the city manager form of government for 26 years and over the years there has been a disconnect between city council and the community. What has happened is city council has relied on the city manager for their instruction and the community has had little to no input," Faulds said. 
 

Candidates will meet with residents again on Thursday, March  7 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Granny's Kitchen.