BELLVILLE, Ohio – Bellville Mayor Darrell Banks announced his intention to run for Richland County Commissioner in the Republican primary next March for a term beginning Jan. 2, 2017.
Banks told supporters at a press conference Monday morning that he wants to address the county’s financial issues and to implement “efficient and effective government.” Banks said he believes he can meet the challenges faced by Richland County, citing his experiences as a mayor, businessman, and vocational teacher as skills that qualify him for the position.
Banks was re-elected last week to his third term as Bellville’s mayor. He said when elected to his first term in 2007 he “inherited a $2.1 million budget with only a $10,000 carryover in the general fund.” He cited working with council members and staff to increase the carryover to $140,000 through “sound fiscal management.”
Supporters speaking on his behalf acknowledged his ability to work together with other groups. They point to his efforts working with both the public and private sector to accomplish infrastructure projects in Bellville. The mayor also noted his role in addressing flooding issues in southern Richland County.
While he says his goal is to bring Richland County’s budget “under control,” Banks believes his skills can benefit all of Richland County’s citizens. Commissioner Marilyn John said that as mayor of Shelby she found Banks to be “a strong leader” who was willing to work with other jurisdictions.
Speaking at the press conference, State Rep. Mark Romanchuk said he believes Banks can address issues faced by the county.
“I have observed his efforts in Bellville and found he knows how to work together with other groups to get the job done and is always prepared on the issues,” Romanchuk said.
He noted that Banks is currently serving as President of the Mayors Association of Ohio, which Romanchuk says recognizes Bank’s leadership ability.
Romanchuk also said he believes a business background is beneficial for those in local government. Bank’s parents founded the San-Dar Smorgasbord in Bellville, a business that he took over in its later years.
“I think for Bellville to reach its full potential it needs a better county government,” Banks said. While he will remain the mayor of Bellville for 2016, if he were elected Banks says the “president pro tem” of the council would be the mayor in 2017. Voters would choose their next Bellville mayor in the fall of 2017.
