FAIRFIELD — Road improvements, communications, community services and maintaining property values all contribute to improving what is already a business-friendly community, city council candidates said Thursday.

        The observations came as six of seven candidates on the Nov. 6 ballot discussed issues at a Fairfield City Council Debate sponsored by the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. The event, held at Receptions Conference and Convention Center on Boymel Drive, attracted about 30 citizens.

        “Probably the most important issue in the next four years will be reorganizing and dealing with Ohio 4,”' said incumbent Councilman Mark Scharringhausen.

        Mr. Scharringhausen is the lone incumbent among the candidates vying for three open at-large council seats. Robert Wolpert, outgoing mayor, is one of the other six trying to win the four-year terms. He did not attend the debate. The remaining slate includes two former city councilmen, Howard Dirksen and Donald Hassler, who sat out the past two years to comply with the term-limit requirement, and:

        • John “Les” Crothers, a former Fairfield police officer who says strong safety and other city services are most important.

        • Jill Kinder, a property appraiser who says maintenance of property values is key to Fairfield's image.

        • Charles M. Klosterman, who wants to see fresh faces on the city's Community Reinvestment Council to continue to attract new business and retain enterprise.

        Mr. Dirksen said “improving communications with businesses is needed.”

        Mr. Hassler said council needs to ensure that the connection and improvement of Symmes Road from Ohio 747 in West Chester Township through Fairfield attracts new business.

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