CANFIELD TOWNSHIP — On Tuesday, Canfield Township voters will be electing a trustee and a fiscal officer for the coming term. Both seats have one incumbent and one challenger.

For the trustee seat, incumbent Joe Paloski is looking to continue in the office he has held since 2016. His top three priorities for the office are dealing with infrastructure like paving projects, to build upon the existing housing and business developments planned around the township, and working with the ABC Water and Stormwater District in extending water lines down Turner Road.

“I am running for reelection to ensure Canfield Township continues to be a great place for families, seniors and businesses while having no additional tax levies for funding,” Paloski said. “Due to practical financial decisions these past eight years, there are no plans for any future operating tax levies in the township.”

Paloski’s challenger for the seat is Anthony Bettile, who is no stranger to the office. Bettile served as a township trustee from 2010 to 2013.

Bettile also placed a priority on working with the ABC Water and Stormwater District to expand water service in the township. He also places a priority on preventing annexation through the development of JEDDs (Joint Economic Development Districts), and in strengthening relationships with neighboring communities and governmental entities.

“As a former trustee, I know the time and energy it takes to be an effective representative,” he said, “Since I’m semi-retired I have the flexibility to meet with residents at their convenience, attend meetings during the day or in the evenings and spend the needed efforts this position demands.”

On the Canfield Township fiscal officer’s seat, the incumbent is Denise Joseph. She is wrapping up her first four-year term as fiscal officer. She said her top priorities are to maximize efficiencies and fulfill the duties and responsibility of the office, continue accountability and financial transparency of township spending, and to pursue all avenues that result in cost saving measures for the taxpayers and township while budgeting responsibly.

“I will continue to streamline and digitally transform the fiscal office and convert to electronic recordkeeping increasing productivity of accounts payable, payroll, record retention, budget, appropriation, investment and receipt processes,” Joseph said. “I enjoy upholding my civic responsibility in providing a service to my community.”

The challenger for the fiscal officer’s seat is Marijo Rischar. She has not held public office before, but feels she can do the job well.

“I have watched the township grow over the last 50-plus years, and want to see our township both remain tranquil and flourish,” Rischar said. “Keeping outside influences where they belong, outside; and making sure our budget is solid and adhered to. This is why I am running for the position of the fiscal officer.”

Rischar’s priorities include compiling and continouosly reviewing all financial records, keeping trustees informed regarding the township’s financial budgets, and creating an outline of all necessary spending including weighted importance and urgency of potential projects to better plan and create a township budget.

jtwhitehouse@vindy.com