FeedsElections heat up as filing deadline nears
It’s beginning to look like a crowded ballot in Canton Township this year.
With less than a week to go before the May 13 filing deadline for Canton Township offices, virtually every seat will be contested, according to Township Clerk Terry Bennett.
As of Tuesday afternoon, six candidates had filed for the four open trustee spots and those seeking the treasurer and supervisor spots faced opponents, as well.
Among the field of candidates for the trustee spots are Michael Andro, John Anthony, Fred Bolden, Todd Caccamo, Patrick Williams and Karl Zarbo. Caccamo and Zarbo are incumbents.
“There are other people out there circulating petitions, too,” Bennett said.
Current Trustee Melissa McLaughlin is seeking the treasurer post, along with long-time head of the Canton Community Foundation, Joan Noricks. Bennett has filed for re-election, too, and is unopposed so far.
Former Trustee Phil LaJoy, who will be term-limited out of his seat in the State House of Representatives, is seeking the supervisor spot against David Marsh. Marsh has retuned his petitions, but they haven’t been verified yet, according to Bennett.
“We’re checking them now,” she said.
Canton voters will also vote on library board members. Greg Snow, Alfredo Cordero, James Gillig, Dan Turner and Colleen Vanaunkan have already filed for the six-person board.
“We’re not to the filing deadline yet,” Bennett said. “There could be more (candidates) out there.”
In order to have their names placed on the ballot, residents have to have petitions signed by between 200-400 registered township voters.
Bennett said the next four years would be important for the community. The board will see new members since incumbent Supervisor Tom Yack is retiring and incumbent trustee Todd LaJoy is seeking the 20th District House of Representatives seat. He’s opposed by Canton resident Dian Slavens in that contest.
“We’re going to have to make sure we continue to maintain what we have,” said Bennett, referring to township facilities, services and quality of life. “Canton still—even in this economy—is a desirable place to live. That’s good for all of us.”
