Dodge retains seat, McDonald replaces Liberman on Montgomery Co. Commission

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — In the race for Montgomery County Commission — two seats were up for grabs.

Democratic incumbent Judy Dodge will hold onto her seat in the race against Republican Kate Baker. Former Trotwood Mayor Mary McDonald unseated Democratic incumbent Debbie Lieberman for the second seat.

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"We're just going to have to continue to basically look at the needs of our people here in Montgomery County," said Dodge.

Commissioner Judy Dodge says there are challenges to resolve, including the recent budget issues facing the Board of Developmental Disabilities Services.

"All of us work together to make sure that these vulnerable citizens are well taken care of, as well as get the resources that should be coming to them," said Dodge.

Dodge says another goal that remains at the top of her list is food equity in the county.

"We've just got to come up with some more great ideas to even get more nutritious food to our citizens, especially the seniors and the children," said Dodge.

Incoming Commissioner Mary McDonald wants to address transparency and meeting accessibility first.

"We should look for opportunities to be able to meet with people in the evening when people are available and they're able to come to meetings and share with us," said McDonald.

McDonald, who switched parties to Republican ahead of her campaign, says she will work alongside the other commissioners.

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"It was never about party to me. It's always been about the people. And so I plan on taking that same spirit down to the county commission," said McDonald.

She says in this role, she wants to be a voice for minorities in Montgomery County.

"Giving them the opportunity to see someone that looks like them at the table, I think it helps that in that we all need in terms of being a more inclusive community," said McDonald.

Dodge's term begins Jan. 2. McDonald's term begins the following day, Jan. 3.