Former Celina City Council President Sophia Rodriguez has announced she is running as a Democrat this year for the Council Presidency. Rodriguez discusses why is running:

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If she wins the nomination, Rodriguez would face Republican Incumbent Jason King in November. King was first elected in 2009. This race would be a rematch, as King defeated Rodriguez in that election.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sophia Announces Candidacy for City Council President

Celina, OH – Local community leader and advocate Sophia Rodriguez is proud to announce her candidacy for City Council President. A graduate of Celina Schools, with a BA in Spanish from Ohio University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Wright State University, Rodriguez is a high school Spanish teacher in Coldwater School and co-manager of her family restaurant of 41 years in Celina. She has served on the Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Ohio Education Association Board of Directors, National Education Association Board of Directors, President of the Western Ohio Education Association, President of the Coldwater Teachers’ Organization, Chair of the Ohio Education Association Hispanic Caucus, President of Celina City Council, and as an educational adjunct at the Wright State University Lake Campus. 

With a vision for inclusive leadership and a commitment to progress, Sophia is ready to bring a fresh perspective to Celina’s City Council.

“Leadership shouldn’t be about personal ideology,” Rodriguez stated. “It should be about representing the entire community and working together to create a brighter future for everyone. I am running for City Council to ensure all voices in Celina are heard and represented.”

Rodriguez’s campaign is rooted in the belief that every resident deserves a voice in shaping Celina's future. She is passionate about fostering collaboration and listening to all perspectives.

One of her top priorities is ensuring that Celina’s safety services are fully funded and supported. “Our first responders are the backbone of our community. They work tirelessly to keep us safe, and we must do everything we can to provide them with the resources they need to serve effectively,” Rodriguez said.

Sophia brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and problem-solving as a long-time educator, small business owner, and daughter of migrant workers who became successful entrepreneurs. Her dedication to building connections and finding common ground has earned her the trust and respect of people from all walks of life. She believes in transparent communication, accountable leadership, and making decisions that serve the best interests of all residents.

“I love this city and the people who call it home,” Sophia added. “Together, we can build a City Council that represents everyone and ensures that Celina remains a thriving, inclusive, and safe place for generations to come.”

Sophia invites all residents to join her campaign and share their ideas and priorities for the future of Celina. For more information about Sophia’s vision and platform, visit www.electsophia.com or follow her on Facebook.