Avon Lake Council President, Martin O’Donnell announced that he will be seeking re-election to the Council-At-Large position in the November General Election.
“I am running on a record of accomplishment and in passing legislation by Council that that meets the needs of the residents and businesses,” O’Donnell said. “It’s important that we work together to get positive results for Avon Lake. We must always focus on sensible growth, new jobs, and efficient and effective government.”
Earlier this month, O’Donnell was named Public Official of the Year by the Cleveland State University Leadership Academy.
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Earlier this year, at-large councilman Dan Bucci announced plans to run again. All three council at-large seats will be decided in the November General Election.
John Shondel, who replaced Greg Zilka when Zilka was elected mayor, had not yet announced whether or not he will seek re-election. Shondel was appointed in January 2012.
O'Donnell has been involved in several Avon Lake advancements including Council’s passage of economic development legislation dealing with the Jobs Growth Program and the development of the Small Business Loan Program in Avon Lake.
He has also been involved in the renewable energy policy for business, continued expansion of the CodeRED system which notifies residents of emergency situations in the community and pushing the city to go to the Regional Fire Dispatch 911 in Lorain County.
During his tenure has was also involved with the creation of the Avon Lake Dog Park at Weiss Field. He restructured the composition of the Avon Lake Parks and Recreation Board by having each ward represented and added the Avon Lake Schools.
Three years ago, he founded the Avon Lake Community Council, which allowed 22 civic organizations work together in sharing resources and supporting each other’s objectives in helping the community. The organization also started the itizen/Project of the Year Award and the “March Away Hunger Drive” in conjunction with CRS to provide food for families in need.
O’Donnell and Council are working with the mayor in the City’s reorganization of Departments.“I would like to see residents and businesses being able to “one stop shop” in one building to resolve their needs.” O’Donnell said. “This system would be cost effective and save residents and businesses time.”
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The councilman said he would like to see more funding in the Street Program over the next few years and would like to see expertise brought in to deal with the environmental and economic development transition with the Genon plant. He also supports the continuation having a police school resource officer at Avon Lake High School.
O’Donnell has served on numerous city council committees and has served as the mayor’s appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission for the last 11 years.
Previously, O’Donnell, who is retired, served as the Deputy Director of the Cuyahoga County Child Support Enforcement Agency. He is a graduate of The Ohio State University and The Cleveland State University Levin Leadership Academy.
His wife, Holly is employed by Avon Lake City Schools. They have three daughters, Stephanie, Allison and Connie.
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