Flannery, Keller win GOP race for Franklin Co. commissioner; 24-year incumbent out

A restaurant owner with a well-known name won the most votes in the Republican primary Tuesday night in the race for Franklin County commissioner. 

John Flannery won 28.9% of the four-way vote. Incumbent Dave Keller secured the second nomination with 26.9%. 

Bob Thomas, who has served as county commissioner since 1995, fell out of the running in third place. He won 321 fewer votes than Keller. 

Julia Lehman, the county's communications coordinator, came in fourth. 

An owner and operator of four local businesses over the past 14 years, Flannery pointed to his experience managing his establishments as proof he has what it takes to lead the county.

"I want to bring that fiscal conservatism and good deal making back to county government,"' he said. 

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Flannery said he does not support the cost of the $67.8 million Court Facility Improvement Project, saying the money for the "Palace of Justice" would have been better spent on other services.

He pledged to serve no more than two terms as commissioner. 

Keller, who has served as county commissioner  for 12 years, identified the need for the facility improvement project as the county's biggest concern. 

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"It is critical that the facilities project be completed on time and on budget. Doing so will require the focus and constant attention of the commissioners and our staff," he said. "At the same time, all the other vitally important services that the county provides must continue to be provided without fail. 911 dispatch, child protective services, veterans services, elder abuse investigations, help for individuals with developmental disabilities, substance abuse treatment, and many others.  Regardless of the service, there is no room for error." 

Commissioners serve four-year terms. The three-person board is the chief governing body of the county. The commissioners oversee a wide range of county offices and services, manage the budget and approve county projects, among other things. 

Flannery and Keller will face the two Democrats, incumbent Bob Ziobrowski and Sheri Morgan in the general election in May. Three will win seats.