ASHLAND — Angela Woodward earned another term in office on Ashland City Council, according to final unofficial results, provided by the Ashland County Board of Elections.
Woodward, representing the 4th ward for the city, was first appointed in June 2019. The 54-year-old also serves as the executive director of the Ashland County Cancer Association.
The councilwoman earned 208 votes, a nearly 45% margin ahead of Zachery Casler, her opponent.
The city’s 4th ward was the only contested race in a field where three other elected seats expired this year.
Ashland Mayor Matt Miller, council people Jason Chio and Dennis Miller will serve additional terms starting Jan. 1, along with Woodward.
‘I love serving the city’
On Tuesday, she said she’s thankful for all who voted.
“I love serving the city,” she said, moments after reading the final unofficial results from the board of elections amid a small watch party at O’Bryan’s Pub.
This was the first time Woodward ran opposed. To Casler, her opponent, she wished him the best in his future endeavors.
“He did his best and job well done,” she said.
A total of 287 people cast ballots for this race, a number Woodward said is about right for the ward. Nevertheless, she’d like to see more people get out to vote. She encouraged voters to make their voice heard at the voting booth.
“Your voice is powerful. I’m thankful for those who came out to vote, but if you want change, you can’t do it if you don’t vote. It’s an important part of our (democratic) process,” she said.
Woodward has said her top priorities in office will be continuing to focus on job growth, infrastructure, housing and improving neighborhood pride.
She also wants to focus on initiatives such as the U.S. Route 250 walking path and to see diverse housing options.