On Friday, February 9, 2007, Representative Kathleen Chandler (D-68), Representative Stephen Dyer (D-43), Representative Robert Otterman (D-45), Representative Vernon Sykes (D-44), and Representative Brian Williams (D-41) met with the Greater Akron Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee. The Representatives spoke about their goals for 2007 and upcoming legislation in Columbus.

All five Representatives agreed that education is one of their foremost concerns. They desire a smoother path from early education through post-secondary education stating that, ultimately, school funding is the responsibility of the State. They believe higher education should be more affordable and that an educated workforce will assist Ohio’s efforts to attract innovative and dynamic companies to the State. Affordable healthcare will also be a major priority in the coming year. Stating that the top priorities of both parties are probably the same, the Representatives are looking forward to working in collaboration with their Republican colleagues, the Ohio Senate, and the new Administration to advance the Greater Akron Region and the State of Ohio.

On Friday, March 9, 2007, Representative John Widowfield (R-42) and Representative William Batchelder (R-69) met with the Greater Akron Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee and spoke about their priorities for 2007.

The Representatives discussed the importance of education and efforts the State has made to improve the educational system in Ohio. Representative Widowfield and Representative Batchelder also spoke positively on the potential for bipartisan collaboration and compromise in the current political environment in Ohio. They feel confident that with bipartisan cooperation, many of the pressing issues of the State can be tackled.

The Greater Akron Chamber thanks Representatives Batchelder, Chandler, Dyer, Otterman, Sykes, Widowfield, and Williams for their continued support of the Greater Akron Chamber and for their efforts towards community improvement and economic development.