BY STEVE KEMME
The Cincinnati Enquirer
HAMILTON -- Mike Fox and Jeffrey Kitchen bring sharply contrasting backgrounds and views to the race for one of two Butler County Commission seats in the Nov. 3 election.
Mr. Fox, the Republican incumbent, has 22 years' experience as a state representative and one year as commissioner.
Mr. Kitchen, a Democrat, has never held public office.
Mr. Kitchen, an electrical engineer who lives in Middletown, is using an aggressive door-to-door campaign to battle Mr. Fox's name-recognition advantage in a Republican-dominated county. He portrays himself as a voice for the concerns of common citizens. "I believe the common man has something to add to the system," Mr. Kitchen said. "We need ordinary citizens who don't spend their lives in politics to bring the values of the common people to government." Mr. Fox's name works against him in some circles, Mr. Kitchen said. "People in large parts of the county view Mike as someone who's tyrannical and forces his views on others," he said. "That hurts him a great deal."
But Mr. Fox, a Fairfield Township resident, said his extensive experience in state government and his willingness to tackle tough issues make him well-suited.
His campaign, he said, is based on showcasing his track record as a public official, not bashing Mr. Kitchen.
"The best campaigning in the world is good government and good public service," Mr. Fox said.
"I talk to voters through issues and let them know what I'm trying to do on their behalf."
He deplores what he calls the negative campaigning of Mr. Kitchen and other Butler County Democrats.
"The Democrats and Jeff view registering to run for office as a license to assassinate the character of their opponents," Mr. Fox said.
"I don't think that's what voters are looking for."
Both candidates will be busy during October expressing their views at public forums in various parts of the county.
Mr. Fox emphasizes the need for industrial and commercial development to create jobs, while Mr. Kitchen stresses the quality-of-life issues.
It's important to control development so that it doesn't outpace roads, schools and water and sewer lines, Mr. Kitchen said.
He worries about the preservation of farms in the more rural western half of Butler County.
"It maintains the livability of the whole region," he said. Mr. Fox said: "Funds for schools and social services depend on having a good economy. It's hard to have a good quality of life if you don't have a job."
Jeffrey Kitchen
