Meet the Candidates, Westlake Ward 1: Duane Van Dyke

My name is Duane Van Dyke and I am running for Westlake City Council, Ward 1. I grew up in Ward 1 and returned 14 years ago to raise my family here because of the high quality of life Westlake has to offer.

I want to ensure that it stays that way. Across Ohio, we see once thriving communities that are now struggling to compete. We are fortunate that Westlake is currently in a strong position because of vision and sound planning. However, trends in where we work, what people want in a home, and how we shop are changing. We should consider updating our city’s master plan, with input from the community, so we remain competitive.

Implementing the recreation plan for the city will be an asset for current residents of all ages, as well as a tool for attracting new ones. Similarly, our freeway entrances could become landscaped gateways that would set a welcoming tone for our whole city – good for both residents and businesses.

About me: I graduated from the Westlake Schools and Miami University. I have been a small business owner for the past 19 years and a registered Architect for 30 years. I am on the Westlake Planning Commission and on the Board of Heritage Ohio, and I am a past board member of the Westlake Porter Public Library.

I would appreciate the opportunity to represent Ward 1 on Council, and to help Westlake remain a vibrant community now and into the future.