The Delaware County Democratic Party held an Executive Committee meeting on October 16, 2025 at 7pm at Delaware Township Hall. Present at the meeting were 53 individuals, 34 of whom were members of the Executive Committee. Chair Peg Watkins called the meeting to order at 7:05pm. After establishing quorum, Julie Houston led the pledge of allegiance.

Old Business 

September meeting minutes were approved with corrections, motioned by Emma Mirles Jones, and 2nd by Chandler White. 

New Business 

Representative Allison Russo provided the Executive Committee with an update on her last term in the state house, as she is running for Secretary of State. Representative Russo spoke to the importance of electing a “pro voter” Secretary of State. More than two million Ohioans are eligible to vote but are unregistered, and more than 700,000 registered voters do not vote regularly. Also discussed was the redistricting committee, the Democratic proposed map is available for public viewing. A Republican map has not been produced yet.  

Treasurer Lisa Saponaro presented a Quarterly Treasurer Report. Joe Bjorkman made a motion to approve the Treasurer Report and John Schmarr seconded the motion. Following discussion covering party income, cyber security insurance, and fundraising, the Quarterly Treasurer Report was approved. The coverage for cyber security was tabled for further discussion as Chair Watkins is continuing research and speaking with other county parties. 

Board of Elections Deputy Director Brian Hester spoke on the importance of knowing and following campaign finance laws regarding independent expenditures. Poll works are still needed throughout Delaware County for the upcoming November election. Brian provided forms for anyone who wants to run for Central Committee in order to be on the ballot May 2026. 

Personnel changes-Jenny Yoder is stepping down from party secretary to take on the role of Field Organizer. The resignation of Jenny Yoder was gratefully accepted, and Emma Mirlas-Jones nominated Karen Lee as party secretary, 2nd by Chandler White.  The nomination was approved by the Executive Committee. Don Swartwout, current communications chair submitted his resignation and it was gratefully accepted by the Chair. Rebecca Roebuck was appointed by Chair Peg Watkins as the new Communications Committee chair, and the Executive Committee accepted the appointment. Mr. Swartwout is moving into the role of Email and Data Coordinator as appointed by Chair Watkins.

Petitions were circulated for Attorney General candidate, John Kulewicz, Ohio Equality of Rights Under the Law Amendment, and Jennifer Brunner candidate for Ohio Supreme Court. 

Katie Meisner from Olentangy For Kids spoke on the importance of the upcoming Olentangy School Levy.  

Tyler Frederick, candidate of Delaware County Municipal Clerk of Courts spoke on what help is needed for the final push in his campaign before the upcoming November election, as well as Ian Anderson, candidate for Orange Township Trustee discussed current support needed for his campaign. 

Local school board candidates spoke, requesting support from the party in their upcoming November elections. 

Tyler Frederick was nominated to the Delaware County Executive Committee by Jenny Yoder, and 2nd by Emma Mirales-Jones. 

A motion to adjourn was given by Steve Schottel and 2nd by Rayna Patton.

Respectfully submitted,
Karen Lee