Four candidates seek two Springfield Township trustee seats

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP — Four candidates are seeking to fill two open Springfield Township trustee seats in the Nov. 4 election, each promising to guide the community toward a bright future.

Trustees serve four-year terms with a salary around $26,882 per year, according to Fiscal Officer Anita Kochheiser.

Anita L. Kochheiser

Kochheiser, 60, is seeking election as a Springfield Township trustee.

She currently serves as Springfield Township Fiscal Officer, a position she has held since 2017, and previously served as Madison Township Fiscal Officer from 2002 to 2005.

With nearly 30 years of administrative experience at Richland County Prosecutor’s Office, Kochheiser said she is running to ensure Springfield Township continues to have strong, experienced leadership as the community grows.

“After sitting through hundreds of township meetings, I have seen many trustees come and go,” Kochheiser said. “Quality leadership is crucial, along with an understanding of the budget and a strong financial background.”

She said her long relationship with the fire chief and road superintendent ensures the community continues and improves the excellent services residents expect.

“With more than 11 years working alongside township trustees, I understand exactly what it takes to do this job well. I am committed to managing township finances responsibly and responding to resident concerns promptly,” she said.

The Springfield Township Trustee role is non-partisan, though Kochheiser said she is proud to identify as a Republican.

Kochheiser encourages residents to carefully consider their choices.

“Please select the two best candidates to represent you and your tax dollars,” she said.

For questions or more information, Kochheiser’s best contact is 419-571-1620.

James Komives

James Komives, 58, is now retired after 31 years with the Mansfield Fire Department. He said while he has never held elected office before, he is eager to bring fresh energy and ideas to township leadership.

“I do not want to see us stay in the stone ages,” he said. “I’m interested in moving forward with innovative ideas that can help our community grow—whether that’s solar, wind energy or other projects that promote progress.”

As a retired firefighter, Komives said he wants to focus on strengthening the township’s fire department.

“It needs some work,” he said. “It has gone downhill. Hopefully, I can help bring them the support they need.”

Komives added his firsthand experience in the field gives him a unique perspective on what it takes to maintain a fully equipped and prepared fire department.

Beyond public safety, he said he would like to see improvements in township roadways and tree services.

“Keeping things up to date and staying ahead of problems helps us avoid wasting money and having to fix mistakes later,” he said. “My approach is to keep it simple and do it right the first time.”

Komives can be reached at 419-610-8077.

Kenn Spencer

Spencer, 55, is a graduate of Temple Christian High School. He currently serves as the recreation director for the city of Ontario.

Spencer said he decided to run for trustee because he deeply loves Springfield Township and Ontario, even though he has not previously held an elected office.

“I believe that our local government should be a reflection of our shared values,” he said. “I want to ensure the township continues to be a place everyone is proud of calling home—a place where our kids and grandkids will someday call home.”

He emphasized his commitment to accessibility and open communication with residents.

“I am dedicated to fostering open dialogue and collaboration between the city and the township,” Spencer said. “I want to hear ideas, concerns and a vision for our township, and take advantage of every opportunity that benefits our community.”

Spencer added that a great trustee should be a true community leader who listens and is willing to make tough decisions.

“My focus will be on smart growth that protects the unique character of our neighborhoods while fostering economic vitality,” he said.

Spencer said he believes Springfield can achieve progress without sacrificing the qualities that make it such a special place to live, work and raise a family.

Spencer’s best contact is 419-566-8072 for additional questions or information.

Paul Gleisinger

Gleisinger, 67, is running for re-election for Springfield Township trustee.

He is a graduate of Ontario High School and retired in October of 2024 after 32 years of service for the city of Ontario.

Gleisinger has been a Springfield Township trustee for eight years and served as chairman for six of the eight years.

“I am seeking re-election to serve the community that my family has been rooted in for over four generations,” he said. “My focus remains clear—ensuring public safety and making sure Springfield Township remains an affordable place for families.”

Gleisinger said part of what sets him apart from his opponents is his experience and working relationships with the current Springfield Township leaders.

“Having the experience I do gives me a comprehensive understanding of the role’s needs, ensuring continuous service on safety and affordability,” he said.

He said he promises to maintain fiscal responsibility for Springfield Township residents.

“I am dedicated to getting the most value out of every budget decision, allowing us to fund essential services – like fire, EMS and road crews- at the high level our community requires,” Gleisinger added.

When asked if he had any other thoughts to share with the community, he said the township doesn’t need any new levies and that the fire fund already has a positive carryover.

“We achieved stability through smart, alternative funding – not tax hikes, using grants, hospital service agreements and efficiency in healthcare costs,” he said.

He promised to continue being a good steward of the community’s tax dollars.

For additional information or concerns, 419-565-3586 is Gleisinger’s best contact.

For more information about the Nov. 4 election, visit the Richland County Board of Elections website.