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Editor’s Note: Responses are listed in the order they were received, with basic editing.
WORTHINGTON — Running in the election for Worthington’s first ward, incumbent Larry Janssen will face off against Cristiana Adame come Nov. 8.
Janssen has served on City Council for eight years, and is looking to net his third term this election. Adame is an engineer at Highland Manufacturing, and, while a newcomer to Worthington’s politics, currently serves on multiple boards within Worthington and Nobles County.
The Globe to reached out to candidates with questions about their priorities and plans, should they be elected. Here are their responses.
Why are you seeking office?
Adame: As I am involved in many community projects in Worthington, I have gotten the opportunity to see the wonderful future we are heading towards. This beautiful city has the strongest community I’ve ever seen, and I want to be part of its growth and development to keep moving forward, better and stronger. I want to be the representation of Worthington’s future.
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Janssen: This is my third term. I feel I have a lot to offer.
What strategies would you advocate for to address current workforce shortages?
Adame: I want to work directly with the schools and local businesses. The youth are the future of this city, and we must support them with growth opportunities and helping them achieve their goals. Graduates are often tempted by opportunities outside of Worthington; therefore, I want to work hard on helping Worthington’s graduates find the opportunities they look for in this strong community.
As I mentioned, I also want to work closely with Worthington’s businesses. Worthington is a city of hard-working, dedicated people, so helping them grow professionally is a key for the development of our city.
Janssen: Your shortage is due to an aging population.
How do you intend to reach and serve Worthington’s diverse constituency?
Adame: I will be there for you, for him, and for every single person that wants to be heard. One of the strongest factors that Worthington has is its diversity. No matter where you are from or what your views are, you can rest assured that I will be in constant support of our community and that your concerns will be heard. I want to show difference by actions, and constant participation and involvement within the community will be one of my main priorities to make sure I get to hear as many voices as possible.
Janssen: Hire more diversity and get more involved in the hiring process.
How do you think the city should work to address the current childcare needs in Worthington?
Adame: There are many resources available, but it is up to us and Worthington’s businesses to provide said resources to those who need it. I will work hard alongside businesses, independently of the size, to ensure the community is being guided in the correct direction to fulfill every individual’s child care needs.
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Janssen: The child care in this city and others — the regulations are too stiff.
What role should the city have in spurring economic development, particularly in regard to supporting current or new amenities and businesses?
Adame: Development is based on businesses. Growth is based on development. One thing affects the other, like a domino effect, so informing our community about the importance that local businesses have on our future is key for our sustainability.
The city and the Chamber of Commerce have to own the role of leaders in this community and provide individuals with an easier path for them to achieve one of the greatest dreams, to open a new business. In addition, constant support must be provided to the businesses already established. They are our development, they support our economy, so having constant communication between city and business is a “must” for success.
Janssen: Have less. Meetings on who would like to locate in Worthington.
What investments would you like to see made in Worthington’s future?
Adame: When it comes to investments, everything counts. Every detail must be carefully studied to take the best decision for our community. For example, Worthington is located in the crossroads of I-90 and I-60, surrounded by several small satellite towns that require their residents to travel either to work or to seek recreational activities. We should be working on providing these resources to them. The development of new businesses that can bring foreign and current residents more opportunities for recreation and work will help Worthington in fantastic ways. Once again, the more we help our community develop their goals, the more we grow as a city, as a community, and as a team.
Janssen: Get the streets done, it's the first thing visitors see.
