New Phila councilman elected commissioner to continue serving city in other capacities
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WJER) (Dec. 26, 2024) – City officials have been saying goodbye to the councilman moving on to a county-level position.
During Monday’s council meeting, Mayor Joel Day praised outgoing Ward 2 representative and commissioner-elect Mitch Pace.
“The county is gaining a young, enthusiastic leader who strives to improve our quality of life and champion pro-family and pro-business initiatives. I urge you, Commissioner Pace, to have the county government take a more leading role in economic development and land use planning here in Tuscarawas County. We need to see that leadership at the top.”
During his two years on council, Pace co-founded the Tuscora Park Trout Derby. He also oversaw the campaign to upgrade the city’s baseball fields, which Service Director Ron McAbier says have never looked better.
“I appreciate that, Mitch, and please don’t go far, especially when it comes to the Trout Derby.”
Pace is replacing retiring longtime Tuscarawas County Commissioner Chris Abbuhl. He says he’s looking forward to the opportunity but remains committed to his hometown.
“I’ll be right across the street. I’ve got a lot to learn but I’m looking forward to it and I’ll certainly be working hard for you. And I won’t be leaving the baseball [league] or the trout derby.”
The Tuscarawas County Republican Central Committee is seeking another party member from the city’s second ward to take over Pace’s council seat for the next year. For the application and additional details, visit tuscrepublicanparty.com.