Shane Gunnoe, Zachary Wallick seek Dover council president post

DOVER — Two people are running in the Nov. 2 general election for the post of Dover council president. 

Council President Shane Gunnoe is being challenged by Zachary Wallick, who is a write-in candidate.

Here is a look at each candidate.

Name: Shane N. Gunnoe

Age: 39

Family: I have been married to my wife, Kelsie, for 7 years and we have two children, Brayden and Brystal.  

Occupation: Senior account specialist, Astro Food Equipment Inc.

Political party: Republican

Previous offices held: Dover city councilman (Ward 2) from 2008-2014, president of Dover City Council, 2014-present.

Why should the voters elect you as council president? 

I have provided strong, steady leadership to the city of Dover, and I have remained committed to fiscal responsibility, accountability and transparency in city government during difficult times. I continue to serve as an advocate within city government for important community projects like the construction of the riverfront park, improving our downtown area and the city’s previous COVID-19 economic relief projects.  

What is the top issue facing the city and what would you do about it?

I plan to keep our community moving forward by encouraging completion of the riverfront park, and supporting our downtown revitalization plans to expand small business opportunities. Dover City Council members also need to continue supporting new development of the north end of town to create additional good paying jobs within our community. Finally, I plan to work aggressively with my fellow city council members to resolve outstanding legal disputes with Dover Chemical in a way that is fair for all Dover residents.

Name: Zachary Wallick

Age: 41

Family: Adina (wife)

Occupation:  Warehouse technician at Daimler Trucks North America, Canton.

Political party:  Independent

Previous offices held: No previous political office held.

Why should the voters elect you as council president?

I will work collaboratively with fellow political, civic and business leaders to return transparency and accountability to the office of council president while encouraging council and the executive branch to settle disputes at the negotiating table, not the courtroom. I will preside over council with total impartiality and vow to not be unduly influenced, pressured or coerced by anyone who is not acting in the best interest of the citizens of Dover.

What is the top issue facing the city and what would you do about it?

Dover Chemical Corp. is the highest revenue generating customer for Dover Light & Power at a reported $2 million a year. Losing DCC as a power customer sends a terrible message about council’s commitment to promoting business in the city and could likely result in the raising of electric rates for all residential customers. It is imperative for council to retain DCC as a power customer.