Editor’s note: All 12 candidates for Hillsboro City Council were contacted by The Times-Gazette and asked to provide some basic background information, along with answers to five specific questions, and an opportunity to make additional comments. Candidates were given no specific word limits, but were asked to avoid overly-lengthy answers.

Most candidates answered all the questions, but some did not. If information is missing it is because it was not provided despite multiple efforts, including the involvement of the respective party chairs, to give candidates the opportunity to answer all questions.

In some cases their responses have been edited for grammar, to make an answer clearer or for excessive length. Today we present the responses from candidates for Ward 4, featuring Democratic Party candidate Mary Stanforth and Republican Party candidate Jason Grove.

JASON GROVE

Age: 36

Family: No reply

Party: Republican

Education, work and public office experience: No reply.

Q. In general, why are you seeking election to this office?

A. I am seeking election to city council to continue my service. Since I was 18 I have served in some form, first as a Marine, then with Highland County Community Action. Being elected to city council would allow me to continue to serve.

Q. Why are you a good choice for this office?

A. I am a good choice because with my experience, I’m not afraid of making the tough decisions. In my opinion, there are still tough decisions that will need to be made.

Q. What do you see as the top two or three issues facing the city of Hillsboro?

A. The drug problem has been an issue and continues to be, economic development is something else we need to focus on.

Q. Since council must work with the mayor, please share your own thoughts about Mayor Hastings.

A. I do see an issue with what Mayor Hastings has published on social media. I do not condone or believe in his previous posts online. What he says there is not a reflection of my values or beliefs. As for working with Mayor Hastings, that is something I could do without an issue. There has to be a working relationship in all we do to move the city forward.

Q. What accomplishments are you most proud of, either in public service, the private sector, or your personal life?

A. Earning the title of United States Marine.

MARY STANFORTH

Age: 68

Family: Widow, 2 children, 5 grandchildren.

Party: Democrat

Education, work and public office experience: Masters in Educational Leadership from Wright State. BA – Wilmington. Retired in 2008 from public education after 35 years. Administrator at St. Mary Catholic School for 7 years. Total 42 years in education.

Q. In general, why are you seeking election to this office?

A. I am seeking election for Ward 4 City Council because I want our city to continue to grow and be a community where citizens feel safe and are respected by all.

Q. Why are you a good choice for this office?

A. I have worked in both the public and private sector for many years. I am a good listener. I am fair and respect others’ opinions. I have lived in Ward 4 since 1969 and pledge to represent the interests and concerns of all of my neighbors.

Q. What do you see as the top 2 or 3 issues facing the city of Hillsboro?

A. The issues I see facing Hillsboro at this time are drugs, vacant properties, and lack of activities for teens.

Q. Since council must work with the mayor, please share your own thoughts about Mayor Hastings.

A. Mayor Hastings has made many improvements to our city. It has been my experience when working with the public, one should consider carefully what is said on social media. Posts on Facebook or Twitter are open to many interpretations as we have learned through the national and local media. Elected officials, on any level, need to remember that they have been elected to represent our citizens and what they post has a direct effect on our community and how it is perceived throughout the region.

Q. What accomplishments are you most proud of, either in public service, the private sector, or your personal life?

My family is my greatest accomplishment. My children and grandchildren are caring, compassionate, thoughtful, and of course talented! I am also very proud of my 42 years in education. I have taught amazing students and made lasting friendships with them and their parents.