Three candidates for Miami Township trustee present priorities to North Bend council

Three candidates for Miami Township trustee addressed the Village of North Bend council on Oct. 27, outlining their priorities ahead of the Nov. 4 election.

Patrick Cagney described his background in real estate and local land-use committee service and said he would prioritize public safety, schools and transparent stewardship of tax dollars. He told council he wanted more resident engagement on township decisions.

Dan Blanton, identified in the meeting as the incumbent township trustee, summarized his 12 years in the role and detailed projects completed during his tenure, including new water lines for several roads, an East Miami River Road fire station and the development of West Park. Blanton said public safety remains his top priority and described efforts to secure grant-funded signage and a multi-deputy sheriff’s contract for the township.

Mike Robison described investments in public safety and modernizing township operations during his term, including hiring a township administrator, expanding deputy coverage in the sheriff’s contract and obtaining equipment such as FLOCK cameras. Robison emphasized fiscal caution, noting increased project costs on some park work and expressing concern about potential shifts to property tax funding.

Council allowed candidates to take questions from trustees and to explain how they would work with the three villages inside Miami Township if elected. Candidates discussed cooperation on parks, roads and emergency services and described their endorsements and community ties. No formal action or vote resulted from the presentations; the remarks were part of the meeting’s regular agenda.