Fourth Ward primary Dem candidates debate housing, environment, local economy

The League of Women Voters of Athens County held a virtual forum Tuesday for the Democratic primary candidates running for the Fourth Ward seat on Athens City Council.

Forum participants included incumbent Councilmember Chris Fahl and challenger Alan Swank. Fahl and Swank gave perspectives on a variety of issues affecting Athens, including affordable housing, the environment and the economy. 

Both Fahl and Swank cited affordable housing as one of their top priorities for the city. 

“One of the things I have heard from many people is that we need to provide affordable, quality housing for all,” Swank said. “And in particular, some of our senior citizens.”

Fahl cited the American Rescue Plan as a way to help with housing issues. 

“There’s a lot of opportunities with the money coming directly to the city to really identify the issues such as housing,” Fahl said.

Fahl and Swank were asked about adding source of income as a protected class from housing discrimination for the city of Athens.

“It should not matter, as long as you have the money to pay the rent,” Swank said. “Of course, that does not mean that you rent a place you want just because you have the money. Everyone should still be expected to offer credit checks, references and stuff like that.”

Fahl said the city should look at biases within the code.

“Then go forward with what makes the most sense for equity and justice across everybody in Athens,” she said.

The candidates were also asked about initiatives to protect the city’s environment, including a single-use plastics ban and reducing Athens’ carbon footprint. 

Both candidates support a single-use plastic ban, although the statewide prohibition on plastic bans could bring potential legal issues.

“I would push the city to be plastic free by 2023 and zero waste by 2030,” Fahl said. “That’s totally doable with the systems we currently have. It will create jobs in our community, it will reduce the amount of money we spend on those types of things and it will help to reduce our carbon footprint.”

Swank spoke in favor of free public transport and a composting program within the city.

The candidates were also asked about diversifying Athens’ economy as Ohio University’s enrollment continues to decline. 

Both candidates cited expanding broadband as a way to encourage businesses to come to Athens, in addition to investing in healthcare and recreational services.

“This might be a great opportunity for Athens,” Swank said. “Perhaps convert some of those rental properties further away from campus, yet still in the city, into single-family homes … We need to diversify. One way we can diversify is to create an environment where businesses are not reluctant to come to Athens.”

Early voting for the primary election for the Fourth Ward seat will begin on April 6. Election Day will take place on May 4 at the Athens County Board of Elections.