BAZETTA — An incumbent trustee and three political newcomers are seeking to fill two seats on the Bazetta Township trustee board.

Incumbent Mike Hovis is being challenged by John Barhoover III, Joel Davis and Ben Moody. Trustee Mike Morelli has chosen not to seek re-election.

JOHN BARHOOVER

Barhoover said he would like to promote Mosquito Lake more since it’s the second-largest lake in Ohio and bring additional items to the township park.

He said he would look into getting pickleball and bocce courts for the park, as well as a small amphitheater that could be used for local music concerts and food trucks.

Barhoover said he would also look at more walking trails at the township park.

He said a boat launch also could be an addition for park visitors.

Barhoover said with Mosquito Lake being a popular tourist attraction, he would like to see a hotel built in the township, which would have people staying locally and going to local restaurants and other businesses.

He said a hotel in the township also would attract other businesses to locate in Bazetta and keep more taxes in the community.

Barhoover said the township needs a comprehensive road plan to prioritize which roads need work and possibly do two to three roads each year.

JOEL DAVIS

Davis, who ran for trustee in 2021 and has been an IT consultant for the township, said fiscal responsibility and budget management will be key priorities in maintaining a stable and sustainable township budget.

He said there needs to be careful review of expenditures, exploring cost-saving partnerships with neighboring communities, and looking into outside funding sources as practical ways to stretch taxpayer dollars while protecting essential services.

Davis said it is important to have strong roads, parks and public services, which are essential for quality of life in Bazetta.

He said he will focus on clear planning, safety improvements and thoughtful upgrades to public spaces to ensure that township resources are directed where they are most needed. Davis said he also will focus on community engagement and accountability, saying open and responsive communication is central to good government.

Davis said he will create opportunities for residents to share input, improve access to township information, and encourage transparency in decision-making to help build trust and strengthen the connection between officials and the community.

“With a background in small business and technology, I bring practical experience, ideas, and a strong commitment to accountability in local government. Listening to residents will be at the heart of my leadership. Your concerns deserve to be heard and acted upon,” he said.

Davis said smart financial decisions made today will determine the strength of the community tomorrow.

MIKE HOVIS

Hovis, who has served as a trustee for the past four years and is a retired Bazetta police officer, said paving of township roads will be a main priority. He said the township will continue to pave as many roads as possible using Ohio Public Works Commission funding.

Hovis said this funding will be used along with general fund money to replace aging road infrastructure. “The replacement of infrastructure is key to a successful fiscally sound community,” Hovis said.

He said he will look at residential and commercial growth, noting there is a major shortage of residential homes in Bazetta. Hovis said several housing developments are slated to begin construction.

He said more housing will increase property tax value, which will alleviate the tax burden from current homeowners. Hovis said commercial growth like the Amazon warehouse project soon will be in the forefront to grow the community and increase the tax base for Bazetta and Lakeview schools.

Hovis said grant funding will be a priority, with Capital Budget Ask, Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and any other grant funding that becomes available being pursued.

He said he will continue with upgrades for police, fire, road, cemetery, zoning and parks.

“These are all services that our residents and all that visit us are accustomed to having. It is important that we continue to provide these professional services with highly trained and equipped employees,” Hovis said.

BEN MOODY

Moody did not return a Tribune Chronicle questionnaire or return several calls seeking comment.