Pete Gerken has delivered tangible results for the residents of Lucas County for 20 years.
Now more than ever, Pete’s leadership will continue to break down barriers, foster a new level of service, and improve the quality of life for our community.
Pete has broken down barriers and helped to improve the quality of life in our community by promoting economic growth, jobs creation, improved public services, and other initiatives that have brought about lasting change in the region.
Community Development & Economic Growth
Pete has been instrumental in projects that are rejuvenating downtown Toledo and driving economic growth, tourism, and entertainment for residents.
Revitalization of the Glass City Center (along with Huntington Arena, Fifth Third Field, and new world-class hotels) will generate an estimated economic impact of more than $800 Million over the next two decades.
Creation and growth of Toledo Jeep Fest into one of the most well-attended Jeep events in the nation. The festival brings tourists from 40 states and will generate over $7.1 Million in economic impact for the county over the next decade.
Development and rehab of thousands of new, affordable housing units by allocating more than $10 Million+ to projects that provide housing to a variety of under served communities.
Environmental Protection
Pete has championed programs and services aimed at keeping the county beautiful by reducing risks to the environment from contaminants, hazardous materials and wastes.
Establishing a uniform contract for a high quality, sustainable water supply by leading our local municipalities to create the Regional Water Commission.
Advocating for clean water initiatives and successfully sued the US EPA to enforce the Clean Water Act, safeguarding Lake Erie and protecting the county’s waters.
Continuing to fight the US EPA to enforce the Clean Water Act – holding polluters accountable for the harmful algae that plagues Lake Erie and the Maumee River watershed each summer.
Spearheaded the development of the region’s first Materials Recovery Facility, enhancing recycling efficiency by keeping more than 35,000 tons of recyclables out of landfills, and reducing the carbon footprint in Lucas County by reducing the equivalent of more than 300 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
Caring for the Community
Pete has delivered stability by looking at the future with fresh ideas and new perspectives.
Served as a founding member of the Northwest Ohio Aggregation Coalition, which has contracted with energy suppliers for cost efficient pricing for county residents – resulting in $46 Million in savings for residential and $15 Million for small commercial electric customers.
Steered the TARTA Task force to transition from a declining property tax levy to a sales tax levy – allowing for a total system redesign, expanded services, and reinstatement of Sunday service.
Guided efforts in criminal justice reform – reducing local jail populations and racial disparities through the MacArthur Safety and Justice Challenge.
2020 Campaign Video