Pataskala council interviews five Ward 1 candidates, approves executive session to appoint a public official

The Pataskala City Council interviewed five candidates to fill the Ward 1 vacancy and then voted to enter an executive session to discuss an appointment.

The council called candidates to the podium and asked each to state their name, address and why they wanted the seat. Silas Ortiz (speaker 7) said he has lived in Pataskala City most of his life and prioritized sidewalks, safe routes to school, parks and inclusion for immigrant communities: "I would like kids to have that experience of a small town being able to walk to school." Bradley Ramsey (speaker 8) described a focus on controlled growth and transparent cooperation with residents. Judy Hebshire (speaker 2), who described seven years of council service after an initial appointment, said she would continue ongoing work and address local priorities. Rob Platt (speaker 6) highlighted long experience in local government and said he supports "good and smart development" that generates revenue to reduce tax burdens. Daniel Graves (speaker 9) said his priorities include responsible growth and direct outreach to neighbors.

After the interviews, the council approved a motion to enter executive session to discuss the appointment of a public official under the Revised Code citation referenced in the meeting. The motion was made on the floor, seconded and passed by roll call; the council announced the executive session would begin at 7:50 p.m.

What happens next: The council moved into executive session at the time stated and did not announce a public appointment during the open meeting. The transcript does not record a public vote appointing a specific candidate during the open session.