JON PODA - LEADERSHIP BY EXAMPLE

In today's political and economic environment, people are demanding more from their leaders. And they should. You don't have to look far to see examples of politicians using their office to advance some ideological agenda or to enhance their own personal gain. This is especially disappointing when so many of our citizens are looking for work, or trying to make ends meet in these tough times, and when city and county budgets are under strain.

That's precisely why Jon Poda turned down the extra $6,200 that came with the job as County Council President. He knew that local governments were being forced to lay off workers, trim budgets and cut programs.

But beyond that, he believes that voters deserve more from the people they elect. Jon believes it's an honor to serve the community, and that it's important for those in public office to show their commitment by making sacrifices, taking on challenges, and getting down to the business of getting things done.

METH AWARENESS: PROTECTING FAMILIES, PRESERVING THE COMMUNITY

During his time in office, Jon Poda has worked hard to mobilize law enforcement and the community to focus on the methamphetamine problem and provide resources that can increase knowledge and help preserve property values throughout Summit County.

As author of the Summit County Methamphetamine Property Awareness Task Force, Jon recognized how this serious problem can not only affect our families and friends, but also affect real estate values in areas where meth labs have been located. In 2008, Jon introduced the legislation that made the Task Force a reality.

To this end, the Methamphetamine Property Awareness Website was developed in concert with the Summit County Sheriff's Office to provide useful resources, including links to property searches that you may find useful. The website was designed to assist residents in determining if a property has been affected by the use or production of meth, and also serve to deliver other useful information on this dangerous drug.


Beyond the affects of the drug on those who use it, Meth is a serious problem, causing environmental harm because of the hazardous wastes that are generated. The chemicals used to make meth are toxic, and the meth lab operators have been known to dump their production waste in houses, backyards, fields, sewage systems and other unsecured locations. It puts children at risk...suffering from neglect after living with parents who “cook” meth in their homes, or who is a meth user.

Working together, we can help eliminate this problem and make our neighborhoods a safer, healthier place for all. Visit the Task force website here.

JON PODA - A SOLID CAREER OF SERVICE. A STRONG COMMITMENT TO LEADERSHIP.

Jon Poda is serving his first term as an At-Large Member on Summit County Council.  He was elected President of Council for 2010. Previously in his term, Mr. Poda served as Council Vice President, Chair of Health and Human Services, and Chair of Public Works. Currently, Mr. Poda serves as a member of Public Works, Rules, Planning and Economic Development, and the Long-Term Planning Committees. As Council President, Mr. Poda also serves on the Investment Advisory Board and the Internal Audit Committee.

In 2008, Mr. Poda sponsored legislation forming the Methamphetamine Property Awareness Task Force, also serving as chairman, which resulted in coordination between law enforcement agencies throughout the county to make information available to homeowners and renters concerning real estate affected by meth labs via the website link http://www.co.summit.oh.us/SCMA.htm . In 2009, Jon authored legislation that banned texting while driving, which resulted in Summit County being the first county in the state of Ohio to pass such a law making the roads safer for travelers.

Council Member Poda is a lifelong resident of Summit County.  He graduated from Garfield High School in 1975, where he was the recipient of the Chrysler Youth Award, and attended the University of Akron.

He was a small business owner for over 20 years and has more than 30 years in professional marketing experience in both the wholesale and retail industries, and currently works in the Office of Sales Management for the Ohio Lottery. 

Jon also holds real estate and appraiser licenses, is a former member of the Summit County Board of Building Appeals, Home Builders Association and various realtor organizations.  In addition, he has been a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Association for 10 years, and has served on the Board of Directors for the Summit County Historical Society.

Jon and his wife, Marjorie, live in Green.  They have three children and two grandchildren.