Mission Statement

 On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, local pastor, and community leader Dwayne Redding officially filed his nomination papers to run for Elyria City Council at Large in the upcoming primary election on May 6, 2025.

"After much prayer, reflection, and encouragement from countless local residents, I am honored to announce my candidacy for Elyria City Council at Large," said Redding. "Elyria’s City Council has made impressive strides in recent years, achieving many milestones for our community. But there is still much more potential for positive change, and I am committed to ensuring our city continues to grow and thrive."

Redding believes that positive change starts with a deep commitment to listening to the community. "When we make the needs and voices of our citizens the focus of government, and work tirelessly to meet those needs, the entire city benefits," he said. "I look forward to bringing fresh perspectives and a renewed sense of purpose to the Council table."

In the coming months, Redding will spend time meeting with Elyria residents, listening to their concerns, and engaging in conversations about the future of the city. "I want to hear from every corner of our community—what’s working, what’s not, and how we can move forward together," he said. "I will continue to gather ideas, concerns, and solutions as we build a platform that reflects the priorities of all Elyrians."

Redding’s comprehensive platform, set to be unveiled before the May primary, will focus on several key priorities, including:

• Life Skills Education for Youth: Empowering young people through education and skill-building initiatives.
• Effective Local Government: Ensuring responsive and transparent leadership that works for all citizens.
• Partnerships in Business, Education, and Job Development: Strengthening collaboration between the private sector, educational institutions, and local government to create jobs and foster economic growth.
• Greater Opportunities for All Elyria Citizens: Promoting equal access to opportunities for all members of the community.
• Community Strengthening: Fostering unity and pride through engagement, outreach, and support for local initiatives.
• Youth-Friendly Community Development: Designing spaces and programs that encourage youth involvement and community engagement.
• Enhancing Support for First Responders: Providing first responders with the tools and resources they need to effectively serve and protect the community.

"Elyria stands at a pivotal moment in its history," Redding said. "We have an incredible opportunity to build a model city that reflects our shared values of unity, growth, and opportunity. To navigate the changes ahead, we need a balance of experience and fresh ideas on City Council—ideas that will benefit everyone."

Redding’s campaign will continue to engage with residents as he prepares for the May 6 primary.