Candidate Guide - Hamilton Township Trustee - Darryl Cordrey

As you prepare to vote in this year's municipal elections, the Western Star compiled answers from candidates. Here are the responses as provided. All typos and grammar mistakes, if any, are in the original responses.

Headshot provided by candidate

Education: Master's Degree from Xavier University

Current employment: Franklin Township, Warren County Ohio

Office Sought: Hamilton Township Trustee

Why are you the best suited for this position? (150 words)

As Hamilton Township Trustee, I have worked hard to ensure our community continues to grow responsibly while preserving the values that make it special. I am committed to maintaining fiscal responsibility, strengthening public safety, and improving infrastructure to meet the needs of our residents. Over the past several years, I have helped guide major projects, supported our first responders, and built partnerships that bring resources and opportunities to Hamilton Township. I believe in listening to residents and making decisions that reflect the best interests of our community, both today and for the future.

What are your top three areas of focus for your position?

Fiscal Responsibility, Community Growth, Public Safety

What specifically are you going to do for each of your top three topics? (200 words)

Fiscal Responsibility – Maintaining balanced budgets while making strategic investments in infrastructure and essential community services. This included supporting the passage of levies in 2019 to improve our police and fire services, along with providing funds to repave our roads. In 2019, I made a commitment that if these levies passed, I would not approve another levy to be placed before the residents for 8–10 years. I’m happy to report we are well on our way to achieving that goal.

Community Growth – Supporting thoughtful development that reflects our values and preserves the unique charm of Hamilton Township. We have seen tremendous growth in our commercial corridor, highlighted by the new Hamilton Township Kroger. Several exciting new projects are also underway, including a new Aldi store at the corner of Grandin Road and State Route 48, scheduled to open in 2026.

Public Safety – Thanks to the support of residents through the passage of the 2019 levies, the Township has doubled the number of police officers patrolling each shift, increased our Fire and EMS staff so they can respond to two emergencies simultaneously, opened a new fire station, and built a new fire training tower. These investments have led to Hamilton Township being named the safest municipality with over 10,000 residents—and the 5th safest overall—in the state of Ohio this year.

If you are an incumbent, what is your best accomplishment?

If you are a challenger, what do you think needs to change from the current situation?

NOTE: He is an incumbent and serves as the President of the Board.

Hamilton Township in 2025 was named the safest municipality with over 10,000 residents in Ohio

What are your qualifications for this position? (150 words)

I am highly qualified to continue serving as a Hamilton Township Trustee because of my proven leadership, dedication, and results-driven approach. During my time in office, I have worked to ensure Hamilton Township remains a safe, thriving, and welcoming community. I have been a part of a team that has been instrumental in managing growth responsibly, strengthening township services, and maintaining fiscal responsibility. During my time as Trustee, I have built strong relationships with residents, local businesses, and regional partners to bring opportunities and resources to the community. My focus on infrastructure improvements, public safety, and smart development reflects his commitment to both current and future needs of the township and I understand the values and priorities of Hamilton Township families.

Property tax is one of the top issues for local residents. What are your thoughts on the current property tax issues? (150 words)

We have to get this under control, it has been nearly 30 years since the Ohio Supreme Court ruled that the way we fund schools is unconstitutional and nothing has been done since. This is the biggest issue because it is what makes up the bulk of our property taxes.

State laws often impact our county and the funding of local project depends on the state budget. What is your relationship with the local state representatives and senator? (100 words)

I have been in engaged with all of our local leaders that represent us at the State House.

How have you been involved in the community outside of politics?

I stay engaged by attending numerous community events, in the past I have coach baseball, and umpired youth baseball games locally.

Is there anything else you want the voters to know about you?

As someone deeply invested in our community’s future, I am committed to making thoughtful decisions that balance progress with preservation. It has been an honor to serve, and I am confident my proven record and passion for this community make me the best choice to continue leading as one of your Hamilton Township Trustees