Three candidates vie for two Monroe Township Board of Trustee seats

Three candidates have filed for two seats on the Monroe Township Board of Trustees.

The race will be determined in the November general election. Candidates include incumbent Michael “Mike” Flora, along with local businessman Rodney Martino and high school teacher Luke Zerkle. Each candidate was asked to answer the same series of questions.

Flora, a businessman, was appointed to the board four years ago to take the seat of Martin English. He was then elected as trustee two years ago. Martino, who runs Miami Valley Wine, is making his first bid for public office. Zerkle, also making his first bid for public office, is a social studies teacher at Tippecanoe High School.

Flora has been married for 35 years to Diane Flora (Franck). They have three grown children (Sydney, Bailey and Joey), plus two granddaughters. He, Diane and their children all graduated from Tipp City. Martino said he is a second-generation lifelong Tipp City resident, a family man and a local business owner. Like his children, he went through the Tipp City school system. Zerkle and Cassie, his wife for 11 years, have two daughters.

The candidates were asked to answer a series of questions.

Among their answers:

WHY ARE YOU SEEKING THIS OFFICE?

Flora: “I’m running again for office because of my belief in acting in the best interests of the community while being fiscally responsible. I have a very strong belief in providing the basic service of Fire/EMS, road maintenance, zoning, and managing our five cemeteries.”

Martino: “I'm seeking the office of Monroe Township Trustee to bring my 30 years of business experience in Tipp City to the role, guiding the township with fiscal responsibility while serving the needs of our community.”

Zerkle: “Monroe Township has always been home, and I’m passionate about serving the community that’s given me so much. When news of a trustee vacancy arose, many neighbors encouraged me to step forward. With my deep knowledge of our township and a proven record of volunteer service, I’m ready to help Monroe Township thrive—making it an even better place to live, work, and play.”

WHERE CAN PEOPLE LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR CAMPAIGN?

Flora: “The best way for people to learn about my beliefs and campaign is to either attend a township meeting which are on the first and third Monday of each month or by email (mflora65@gmail.com).”

Martino: “If you would like to learn more about my campaign or have any questions, please email me at Rod4Trustee@gmail.com.”

Zerkle: “The best way to learn more about my campaign is to reach out directly. You can email me anytime at lucaszerkle@gmail.com or follow my Facebook page, ‘Vote Luke Zerkle for Monroe Township Trustee,’ for updates and information.”

WHAT ARE THE TOP ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? HOW WOULD YOU ADDRESS THEM?

Flora: “I believe the number one issue in our township is how to maintain our roads. We are responsible for over 28 miles of roadway in the township. The price to resurface a mile of road has increased from around $150K four years ago to $350K today. Being fiscally conservative with our township money and applying for grants is the one way to combat today’s road expenses. In the last few years, our township employees have learned to do some repairs that would have been contracted at a higher expense in the past.”

Martino: “After speaking with Monroe township residents, I understand that one of the biggest needs is taking care of our roads. As trustee, one of my top priorities would be securing funding to keep them in excellent condition for a township we can all be proud of. Another key issue facing Monroe Township is balancing growth. I believe it's important that new development is managed carefully so it fits the character of our township.”

Zerkle: “Road maintenance – Several township roads are aging and need attention. I will work closely with the other trustees to continue prioritizing repairs and improvements, so our infrastructure keeps up with community needs. Increased heavy vehicle/semi traffic – The growth in large truck traffic affects safety and road conditions. I will support efforts already under way to address and look for practical ways to protect our roads and neighborhoods. Communication and transparency – Residents want clearer, more timely information about what’s happening in the township. With my knowledge of the area and experience using social media and other communication tools, I will work to improve how the township shares news and updates, so everyone feels informed and included.”

WHAT MAKES OR WOULD MAKE YOU A GOOD TRUSTEE

Flora: “I believe that I would continue to be a good Trustee because of the contacts that I have made at all levels of government thru the years, my background in owning and running a business, background in construction and my years of living in (55 years) and knowing this community. I’m at a point in my life that I have the time and knowledge to give, in being a trustee (meetings, talking to residence, attending conferences, scheduling and meeting contractors, etc.). Experience matters.”

Martino: “I believe I'd make a good trustee because I've spent 30 years as a local businessman, working with people in our community every day. That experience taught me the value of listening, being accountable, and finding practical solutions. I know how to manage resources wisely and will bring that same commitment to serving Monroe Township and keeping it a great place to live.”

Zerkle: “I’m deeply invested in Monroe Township and the people who call it home. My experience in ministry, non-profit leadership and education has allowed me to build strong, trusted relationships across our community. I’m a problem-solver who listens first and works collaboratively to find practical solutions. My goal is simple: to help Monroe Township thrive as a safe, welcoming and vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family.”