Stark Forum: Local Government - A New Era of Leadership - Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce

Stark Forum
Fri. 2/23
8 - 9:15 a.m.
Pro Football Hall of Fame - Nash Family Event & Conference Center

Join us for an engaging Stark Forum featuring a panel discussion with the newly elected mayors of Canton, Massillon, and Alliance, along with Stark County Commissioner, Janet Weir Creighton. This insightful session, moderated by the Canton Regional Chamber President Jeff Dafler, aims to explore the fresh perspectives and priorities brought forth by these new municipal administrations. Stark Forum provides a unique platform for community members, including small business owners, to connect, discuss, and shape the future of our vibrant region. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the exciting directions our local leadership across the region is headed.

Cost: $40 Chamber Members, $45 non-members

Panelists:

Janet Weir Creighton, Stark County Commissioners

BIO:

The Honorable Janet Weir Creighton was elected to the Board of Stark County Commissioners in 2010. As President of the Board, Commissioner Creighton brings the county more than 35 years of elected experience where she has cultivated a diverse background in government and public affairs.

Prior to returning to public service in Stark County, Janet was Deputy Assistant to The President of the United States and Director of Intergovernmental Affairs from January 2008 until January 2009 in Washington, D.C. As the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs, she was the direct liaison between The President and officials in all cities, counties and states.

From 2004 - 2007, Janet served as the only female Mayor of the City of Canton. Prior to serving as Mayor, she was the Stark County Auditor (1991-2003) and Stark County Recorder (1985- 1991).

Throughout her life, Janet has been selected to serve on many boards and commissions including a previous appointment to the Ohio Rail Commission, Public Director of the Federal Home Loan Bank Board for the 5th District, President of the Ohio County Auditors Association, Past Chairman of the Board for Arts in Stark. In June, 2022 Creighton was elected Chairman of the Stark County Republican Party.

She has received numerous awards during her career, including the 2023 Ralph Regula Award for Public Service, 2023 YWCA Women’s Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award, 2023 Ray Bliss Institute of Applied Politics Honorary Certificate Recipient, 2012 Athena Leadership Award, and 2007 Municipal Leader of the Year, by Municipal Leader Magazine.

Hailing from Canton, home of the National Professional Football Hall of Fame, Janet’s other passion in life is football. She volunteered for 30 years for the Football Hall of Fame and in 2000 her service culminated in her appointment as the General Chairman of the National Professional Football Hall of Fame Festival, a suiting role for a lifetime fan.

Janet is married to William Turnbow, has two adult children and two adult grandchildren.

Mayor Andrew Grove, City of Alliance

BIO:

I became Mayor of the City of Alliance on August 9, 2023. Prior to my public service to the City of Alliance, I was President of Brookside Country Club and also held other leadership and administrative positions with private clubs and the hospitality profession for 42 years, including chief executive officer, chief operating officer, general manager, clubhouse manager and general administrator.

I was appointed to Alliance City Council on June 1, 2018 through 2019. Elected in 2020 through 2021. I served on the Finance Committee as Chairman, served on Planning, Zoning & Housing Committee and Safety & Judiciary Committee. Then joined Mayor Alan Andreani as Assistant to the Mayor for ARPA fund and special finance projects.

Alliance is my hometown, I graduated from Alliance High School, attended the University of Pittsburgh and was very fortunate to enter the management training program at the Duquesne Club, in Pittsburgh, PA. It’s the oldest and number one private business club in the United States.

I am committed to doing what is best for the citizens of Alliance. I will serve this great city with honesty, integrity and gratitude. I believe my love for the City of Alliance combined with my many years of experience in business and government will contribute to its’ growth and prosperity. When making decisions in regard to providing the vital government services necessary for the well-being and quality of life of the citizens of Alliance, I will always be a Mayor for the People.

Mayor William V. Sherer II, City of Canton

BIO:

William V. Sherer II was elected Mayor of the City of Canton in 2023 and started his term on January 1, 2024. A lifelong resident of Stark County and having been born in Canton, Mayor Sherer graduated from McKinley High School in 1988 and the Ironworkers Local 550 Apprenticeship Training Program in 1992.

Since 1989, Mayor Sherer’s career began with the Ironworkers Local 550, where he served various elected and appointed positions, including Executive Training Director, Vice President, President, Business Agent, and Business Manager - the position he held until his election as Mayor. Prior to being elected Mayor, he also served the City of Canton as a member of the Income Tax Review Board, the Canton Community Improvement Corporation (CCIC) Board, and was the Canton City Council President from 2018 until his election as Mayor. Other positions held include serving as President of the Ohio Ironworkers Association, Board Member for the J. Babe Stearn Community Center, Vice Chairman of the Stark County Democratic Party, and Board Member of the Stark County United Way. He is also a member of the Jefferson Jackson Democratic Club and Canton Ex-Newsboys Association.

Mayor Sherer and his wife, Carrie, are proud of their three daughters and two grandchildren.

Mayor Jamie Slutz, City of Massillon

BIO:

Jamie Slutz, age 52, has lived in Massillon Ohio his whole life. He went to Washington High School where he played for the Tigers as quarterback. During a hotly contested game against McKinley in 1988, Slutz is credited for leading the Tiger's to a 10-7 victory over the Bulldogs. The win snapped a four-game losing streak against McKinley High School. Massillon head coach at the time, Lee Owens had this to say, “I won a state championship (at Galion in 1985), but this is bigger. This community has been down, and we needed it. This is just an unbelievable win.” Many people believe the win helped pass a levy to build a new high school.

After school Jamie continued to find ways to lift Massillon up. Dedicating his career to protect the city he loved, he became a police officer and served the community for 22 years. After retiring he was asked to serve the city again. Councilwoman Nancy Halter, R-at-large had resigned from her office. Jamie Slutz was selected as her replacement. He served in the position for 11 months before being on the ballot in the November 2021 election. Still new to campaigning, Slutz relied on his record as a councilman at large to retain his seat.
Now, Slutz has been elected to be the Mayor of Massillon. He is committed to prioritizing the downtown's infrastructure, public safety, and clean neighborhoods.

Panelists:

Janet Weir Creighton, Stark County Commissioners

Mayor Andrew Grove, City of Alliance

Mayor William V. Sherer II, City of Canton

Mayor Jamie Slutz, City of Massillon

Moderator:

Jeff Dafler, President & CEO, Canton Regional Chamber

Cultivating business. Cultivating community. Cultivating growth.