Matt Erney – City Council Candidate

What motivated you to run at this moment in Westerville’s development?
I love this city and want to help protect what makes it special. Westerville is at an important point of growth, and I want to make sure we grow in a way that keeps our small-town charm, strong community values, and fiscal discipline intact. I am always looking for ways to create impact and serve a purpose beyond myself. I was inspired by Mike Heyeck who is retiring this year after 32 years on council.

What have you heard from residents that’s challenged or reshaped how you view the city’s priorities?
Many residents have shared real concerns about the rising cost of living, especially property taxes and school funding needs. It’s eye-opening to hear how some families worry about whether they can afford to stay here. It reinforces for me how important it is that the city continues to prioritize excellence with our own electric and water utilities, which save residents roughly 20 cents on the dollar compared to our neighbors. We will continue to focus on excellence in safety services.

What do you believe Westerville needs to hold onto as it continues to grow?
We need to hold onto our “city within a park” feel, our family-friendly culture, and our small-town character. These values are what people love about Westerville, and they should be the lens we use when we make decisions about growth. Also, I believe we should focus on belonging, finding ways to bring all people closer to each other by focusing on the things that unite us.

How do you approach decisions that create winners and losers, like development projects that benefit one part of the city over another?
I try to look at the bigger picture – what strengthens the city as a whole. It’s about balancing the needs of residents with opportunities for business growth while making sure every part of Westerville feels supported.

What does a balanced approach to growth look like to you?
To me, balanced growth means keeping Westerville affordable while still moving forward. Smart budgeting, steady business growth, and efficient city services help keep income taxes steady and protect residents from added costs. Growth should make our community stronger without making it harder to live here.

When you think about the East of Africa project, what’s your biggest hope and your biggest concern?
My biggest hope is that this 88-acre opportunity becomes a place where businesses thrive and residents can enjoy new trails, park features, and entertainment options. My main concern is making sure we plan carefully for traffic and keep the area accessible and enjoyable for everyone, not just large companies.

How do you respond to residents who feel that older neighborhoods are being left behind?
We need to invest in them. That means reinvesting in infrastructure, improving connectivity, and maintaining what already makes those neighborhoods great. I’d love to see continued progress in expanding fiber optic access and moving aerial utilities underground to enhance the beauty of our city.

What’s one way you would bring more public insight or influence into large-scale planning decisions?
I’d focus on better communication and active follow-up. Being available to residents, listening to concerns, and closing the loop builds trust and helps shape better, more transparent decisions.

How do you see the city’s current zoning code affecting the range of housing types available, including for first-time buyers and renters?
Zoning plays a big role in keeping housing balanced. I support infill development, mixed-use spaces, and the new ADU ordinance that gives homeowners more flexibility. These options help young families and residents find a place that fits their needs.

How should city leaders weigh resident identity and neighborhood character against financial returns?
Financial responsibility matters, but identity and character should always lead the way. We can be smart with money and still make decisions that preserve the heart of Westerville.

What kind of partnership should exist between council and residents, not just legally, but in spirit?
It should be a true partnership built on respect and communication. Council should listen first, respond clearly, and follow through. That’s how trust is built and how residents know they’re heard.

What would success look like for you as a council member, in both policy and relationships?
Success means trust in city leadership, smart and steady growth, and strong relationships with residents and staff. It’s about protecting and enhancing the Westerville brand so our families are proud to call it home for generations.

What do you want future residents to thank this council for?
For keeping Westerville’s charm and values alive while preparing the city for what’s next. For growing wisely, spending responsibly, and keeping Westerville a safe, beautiful, and affordable place to live.

What was not asked in this questionnaire that needs to be answered?
There are concerns about bringing divisive national and state politics into the forefront of our city. I do not believe Westerville should become a political theater for activism tied to state or national issues. We also need to be mindful of the dangers of a theatrical and vocal minority driving priorities for our city. This starts with city council recognizing what truly matters to residents and separating that from personal agendas or issues that do not reflect the majority will of the people.