A note from John:
Growing up on Columbus' West Side in the 1960s and '70s, I can't remember anyone's parents who didn't have a job, or who feared losing their home.
But over the past two decades, we've seen companies leave and jobs disappear -- and our community has begun to struggle.  Foreclosure and vacancy rates have escalated to crippling levels, and absentee landlords who take no pride in our community are contributing to its downfall.
To rebound, we must grow jobs and improve the quality of life in our district. Â
In order to grow jobs, we need to both encourage existing businesses to expand or relocate here, and to attract small-business entrepreneurs to set up shop right here in the 25th district. Â We need to ensure that Ohio's tax policies are the best in the Midwest, and that our neighborhoods are known for quality schools and safe streets. Â The legislature must make it easier for communities to hold absentee landlords accountable, and the state must ensure stable, sustainable and equitable funding sources for our schools and police.Â
These are the priorities I will work to promote as your representative.
-John Sowers