Leadership Should Listen, Not Silence

On April 29th, just one hour after the Pickaway County Commissioners voted 3–0 to deny the annexation of the Struckman property, I received a letter from the Village of Commercial Point’s attorneys.

The letter accused me of “threatening litigation” simply because I did what any engaged resident should do: ask questions, cite public records, and contact elected officials about a development that directly impacts our schools, roads, and neighborhoods.

What troubled me most was this line:

“All further communications from you, whether on behalf of your organization, Teays Valley Against Overgrowth, or in your individual capacity, and any communications from Teays Valley Against Overgrowth in general, should be addressed and directed to counsel.”
— Letter from the Village’s attorneys, April 29, 2025

In plain language: residents — even those who live and vote in Commercial Point — were told they should no longer contact their own elected officials directly.

That’s not how local government should work.

I’ve always believed leadership should welcome questions, not shut them down. Residents deserve transparency, honesty, and the ability to speak directly to those making decisions on their behalf. Using attorneys to block communication isn’t just disappointing — it undermines public trust.

I share this not to stir division, but to highlight what kind of leadership our community deserves moving forward. If elected Scioto Township Trustee, I will always:

• Keep communication open and respectful.

• Ensure residents can bring questions and concerns directly to their leaders.

• Support growth decisions that are transparent, accountable, and fair to taxpayers.

This letter may have been meant to discourage me, but it only strengthened my resolve. I’m not running to silence people. I’m running to make sure people are heard.