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John Coyne and Jim Shields emphasize continuity and safety in Medina mayoral campaigns
Summary
At a Kiwanis candidates night, longtime Council President John Coyne and former council member Jim Shields presented competing visions prioritizing fiscal planning, public-safety programs and coalition-building ahead of the Nov. 4 mayoral election.
John Coyne and Jim Shields each spoke to Kiwanis Club members about their records and priorities as they seek the mayoralty of Medina.
John Coyne highlighted his 27 years on Medina City Council — including 13 years as council president — and credited his leadership for budget practices he said helped the city accumulate carry-forward funds. “Last year, over the 20 years we've had this in place, we carry forward 13,400,000 so that's available and have already been set aside for the department,” Coyne said, describing the policy that allows department budgets to preserve unspent funds for future projects. Coyne emphasized public-safety concerns that he said include roadway safety, crosswalks and a high number of deer–vehicle collisions; he cited about 142 deer struck last year and an estimate of about 180 expected for the current year.
Jim Shields framed his candidacy around service and coalition-building, saying Medina has been on an “incredible trajectory” and that the next mayor should maintain momentum by bringing residents, businesses and service clubs together. Shields said he would listen first and represent all Medina residents, reflecting long involvement in local organizations including Kiwanis.
Both candidates acknowledged that the mayor’s job is a full‑time position and said they would manage transitions from their current employment to assume office if elected. Coyne and Shields asked members to consider them when voting on Nov. 4.
