Mark Forrest | www.ccao.org
Mark Forrest | www.ccao.org
Mark Forrest, the incumbent member of the Madison County Board of County Commissioners, has announced his bid for re-election. The elections are scheduled to take place on March 19.
As per a sample ballot from Madison County, Ohio, Forrest is standing for re-election to the board of county commissioners representing the Republican party.
Forrest initially campaigned for election to the board of county commissioners in 2008. Speaking to the Columbus Messenger at that time, he revealed his background as a farmer and a five-term Jefferson Township trustee who had served as board chair multiple times during his tenure. He also mentioned owning and operating Forrest Auto Parts for over two decades, providing services to "all townships in Madison County including the private sector, local businesses, school systems and state agencies."
During his 2008 campaign, Forrest outlined his main issues to the Columbus Messenger. These included a Community Improvement Corporation, health and safety measures, and budget balancing. He expressed concern about ensuring that land-use and zoning regulations were reviewed and strictly adhered to, especially considering the construction of more megafarms.
In May 2023, Forrest voiced his support for the Oak Run Solar Project before the Ohio Power Siting Board. This project involves establishing a solar farm in Madison County. As reported by the Columbus Dispatch, Forrest stated that this would be an excellent source of revenue for the county to aid in road and bridge repairs. He also commended the idea of integrating farming into this project by saying that "This would give younger generations access to a new adventure in agriculture."
The Madison County Board of Commissioners' role is defined on the Madison County, Ohio website as being "the county government taxing, budgeting, appropriating and purchasing authority." The board consists of three commissioners who serve four-year terms; two are elected during presidential election years while one is elected during gubernatorial election years.
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