Newcomb wants to replace Distel

By MARK TODD - Staff Writer - mtodd@starbeacon.com
The Star Beacon

August 27, 2007 09:10 pm

— If things go Deborah Newcomb’s way, another Conneaut resident will serve as Ashtabula County’s state representative.
Newcomb, a veteran county commissioner, announced this weekend she will be a candidate for the 99th district seat in November 2008. The district includes all of Ashtabula County and a northern sliver of Trumbull County.
Incumbent George Distel of Conneaut cannot seek another term because of Ohio’s term limits restrictions.
“I did a lot of soul-searching” before reaching the decision,” Newcomb said Monday. “I had a number of meetings and decided this is what I want to do.”
According to a statement, Newcomb campaign’s will take aim at a number of issues, including the state’s school funding formula; developing alternative energy sources that capitalize on county resources; improve services for senior citizens, families and dependent children; and health care costs for businesses and government.
“I believe that my experience has provided me the necessary skills to set policies to represent the interests of the people and help create opportunities that improve the lives of our citizens,” Newcomb said in a statement.
The state position will help Newcomb have a greater impact on decisions made at home. “So much at the local level is affected by the state,” she said.
Newcomb, 53, is a Conneaut High School graduate who spent nine years as a Conneaut council member and council president. She was appointed commissioner in 1999, replacing Distel when he was appointed state representative.
She has served three terms on the Board of Commissioners, and serves on numerous committees. Newcomb and her husband, Jim, have two sons.

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