John Van Doorn for Columbus

For the upcoming runoff, I recommend Cathy Cook for Council as the better choice among the two remaining candidates. Because she, like me, is a Columbus native and active in the broader community, she is better informed as to the needs and wants of our citizens than the current appointee, and, I believe, committed to addressing those concerns. I hope that she will also listen to those who are deeply concerned about the data center and technology overlay as currently proposed and possibly push for a referendum on the fall ballot on these key issues. If she wins the special election runoff as well, she would be almost immediately on Council, and in a position to do a lot of good on that issue, as well as the current budget.

Warmest greetings to all of those who supported our campaign. While we’re disappointed with the results, we can take pride in a campaign that was positive, professional, policy-focused and listened to the public voice. It was truly grass-roots and people-powered.

First, I would like to acknowledge the herculean efforts of our team. By knocking on thousands of doors and staying responsive on social media, we listened to the citizens.

I would also like to thank our donors. Ours was a highly efficient campaign, in which every dollar invested was applied to field operations and advertisements on radio and social media. I can assure our donors that no dollars were wasted on frivolous and self-indulgent items. Every dollar was precious and much appreciated!

While campaigning, my greatest joy was meeting people at their doors and being able to interact with them on issues of real importance to our city. I saw a great reception, even hunger, among voters to restore trust in city government through responsive and ethical leadership that actually listens to voters, a great need for affordability in housing, utilities and everyday expenses, sustainable job growth, a holistic model of public safety, and yes, grave concern about the likely effects of the data center as proposed, and the lack of public input into that process. Those issues deserve to be heard and addressed in the future by whomever is on council and by the Mayor.

As I mull my own plans about the future, I ask my supporters not to lose faith in the importance of the issues we raised, and in politics in general to help ensure a brighter future for all of us in our shared destiny in Columbus and beyond. As for me, I hope to continue to be an advocate for Vision, Integrity and Competence in city government!

Today’s Election Day! Vote Van Doorn - the only District 9 city-wide candidate who opposes the high-cost, low-benefit data center as currently proposed.

As an elder in my church and an Eagle Scout, good stewardship is a value that I hold dear. On every issue - from the data center to city budgeting to transparency - I will approach public service with rationality, a steady vision, and a commitment to good stewardship. "Those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." - 1 Corinthians 4:2

John Van Doorn for Columbus

I am proposing an enterprise fund to help local small business owners and entrepreneurs build and keep momentum. This could be voluntary and self-funded with minimal investment from the city.

It has been a joy to meet people from all parts of Columbus - from South Columbus to Upatoi. We share a vision for a healthier, happier, safer, and more abundant Columbus. And we also honor that every person brings a unique perspective. Every neighborhood has needs worth hearing. Every resident deserves a voice in shaping where we go from here. 🚲