Joe Dike running for re-election

HURON — Joe Dike is running for re-election to the Huron city council after he was the highest vote-getter in 2015.Dike, a 1994 graduate of Huron High School and a 2000 graduate of BGSU, has chosen to raise his family and run his small business in his hometown. In 2015, he was elected to city council and knew immediately he'd run again."My No. 1 goal is to represent the citizens and do what is best for Huron," Dike said. "I feel, based off my actions both publicly and privately, I have demonstrated that."But instead of running for the seat he currently occupies, Dike is running against newcomer William Biddlecombe for the two years left in the term, which originally belonged to Brad Hartung, who resigned.Dike's decision to run for this seat was based on the fact five candidates were already running for the three full-term council seats and he believes it's important to allow Huron residents a choice in an election."I'm glad it worked out the way it did, and the voters of Huron will determine who they want in office on Nov. 5," Dike said. "I'm thrilled that multiple people have put forth their names to be on the ballot."If re-elected, Dike says he will use his experience from the last four years to continue to serve the community and make sure everyone's opinions are heard."I know voters have issues with various items within and amongst the city government, and I hear them loud and clear," Dike said. "When an issue is discussed and there is opposition on either side, I want to make sure everyone has a chance to provide their insight and opinions."He'd like to make it common practice for council members to come to the city hall 45 minutes before the first meeting of the month to allow members of the community to speak to them and ask questions."The results of this election are going to tell the remaining city council members and the city administration what the citizens of Huron want," Dike said.To him, that means people who transparent, willing to have open lines of communication with the public and leadership that provides clear direction toward goals that benefit everyone.There are several issues facing the city he hopes to be able to help address if re-elected, including ConAgra, an aquatic center, Oster Mobile Home Park, a railroad quiet zone, possible methods of reducing property tax and more.Reach reporter Michael Harrington at michaelharrington@sanduskyregister.com, follow the Register at Facebook.com/SanduskyRegisterJoe Dike gives an answer to a question during the Huron city council debate at Huron High School on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019.