Candidate Guide - Harlan Township Trustee - J.R Vearil

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: Little Miami High School

Current employment: Co-Owner of Bright Acres Learning Academy, Owner of Vearil Diesel and Fleet Service, Owner of OCD Outdoor Services

Office Sought: Harlan Township Trustee

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

I am deeply rooted in both business and community within our area, which makes me well-suited for this position. My professional background in fleet and diesel repair has allowed me to work closely with multiple companies, where I am trusted with millions of dollars’ worth of equipment and responsibilities. Through these experiences, I have built strong relationships and earned a reputation for dependability and integrity. Beyond business, I am known in the community for my ability to navigate difficult conversations with fairness and respect, ensuring productive outcomes even in challenging situations. Having been a lifelong resident of this community, I understand its values, its people, and its needs. Currently, through our work in childcare, my family and I are also focused on building a stronger foundation for the future of our community. Altogether, my experience, reputation, and commitment make me highly prepared to serve effectively in this role.

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

My top three areas of focus are strengthening unity between the community, township, and fire department; continuing to build a positive infrastructure with our building and road department; and increasing resident engagement in township meetings.

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

First, I strongly support the fire levy and, if passed, will work to ensure funds are distributed responsibly to meet the department’s most pressing needs. Our fire department already does an outstanding job, and I want to make certain they continue to have the right tools, training, and resources to serve and protect effectively.

Second, I will prioritize infrastructure by working closely with the building and road department to address immediate concerns and create long-term plans that benefit residents. They also are doing an amazing job and would love to continue that. A strong infrastructure not only improves daily life but also supports safety, growth, and pride in our township.

Finally, I want to increase resident involvement in township meetings. Using my social presence and community connections, I will encourage attendance, promote open conversations, and ensure residents know their voices matter. Everyone’s opinion and belief should be valued equally, and it is important people hear accurate information directly from the source. Together, these efforts will foster trust, growth, and stronger community partnerships.

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 a challenger.

As a challenger, I believe there is room to strengthen the connection between the township, the fire department, and the community. While each area is doing good work individually, stronger unity and collaboration will allow us to better serve residents and address needs more proactively. One key change I would like to see is greater consistency in resident participation at township meetings. These meetings are the foundation of open communication, and when more voices are present, we can better understand concerns and work toward shared solutions. My goal is to encourage involvement and create an atmosphere where discussions happen before problems arise, rather than after. By fostering this level of transparency and teamwork, we can build stronger trust, solve issues more effectively, and create a community where everyone feels valued and included.

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

My qualifications for this position begin with my ability to have honest and productive conversations, even when they are difficult. I value listening to both sides of an issue and finding solutions that serve the best interests of the community. I also bring practical problem-solving skills, including experience with outsourcing and outbidding jobs that the township may not be able to complete on its own. Because I personally know many of the local resources and businesses in our area, I would work to connect the township with these partners, keeping projects and investments local whenever possible. Most importantly, I bring a genuine passion for our community. I have lived here my entire life and am deeply rooted in the township. This is a simple, quiet, farm-based community, and I am committed to preserving its values while helping it grow responsibly for the future.

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

When it comes to property taxes, I recognize this is one of the most important issues facing our residents. Families are already stretched thin just trying to make ends meet and rising property taxes add another burden that can make it even harder to get by. I am in support of abolishing property taxes and working together to identify a fairer, more sustainable solution for funding the services and projects they currently cover. This will not be a simple change, and it will take everyone at the table: residents, township leaders, and state officials. My commitment is to be a strong voice for our residents in these conversations and to help find a solution that protects both families and the future of our community.

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)

While I do not currently have a direct relationship with our local state representatives or senator, I recognize the importance of those connections and am committed to building them. What I do have are strong relationships with residents and community members who are already engaged with our representatives and understand how to navigate those channels. By working alongside them, I can help ensure our township’s needs and priorities are clearly communicated. My goal is to foster open lines of communication with our state leaders so that funding opportunities and legislative decisions truly reflect the needs of our community.

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

I stay actively involved in our community through a variety of volunteer efforts. I volunteer with 9Lincoln, supporting their mission to give back and provide resources for local firefighters and their families as well as our local residents within Harlan Township. I also assist with Do Good, helping to strengthen community initiatives that make a positive impact on residents. In addition, I enjoy taking part in local events, such as helping with the Halloween Haunt at the MAC, where I dress up as Michael Myers to bring fun and excitement to the kids. These experiences allow me to stay connected, give back, and support the spirit of our community in meaningful ways.

Are you running as a slate or as a team with any of the other candidates? (Not required)

I am running independently, and not a team with other candidates. My personal beliefs, values, and strong relationships within the community are the foundation of my campaign, and I believe they are enough to stand on their own. That said, I respect the other candidates and recognize that each of them has something positive to contribute to the conversation. While I am not formally teaming up with anyone, I am committed to working collaboratively with all who are elected to ensure the best outcomes for our township and its residents.

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

The people who know me understand that I am a very busy person, deeply rooted in business and community life here in the township. Even with my full schedule, I am fully committed to dedicating the time and energy needed to serve effectively if elected. My passion for this community drives me to want to make a greater impact, and I believe I can bring a balanced perspective and a steady voice of reason to township matters. I truly care about the future of this community and would be honored to serve as a strong advocate for its residents.