The City Legislature is the municipality's governing body, responsible for voting on ordinances and policies, and often is in charge of hiring a city manager.
Term Length
4 years
Election Date
Nov 4, 2025
About Me
Party
Independent
Occupation
Marketing
Fun Fact
When I’m not working, my favorite moments are with my family. My husband Jay and I have raised our two sons in Dublin, and like so many parents, we’ve cheered from the sidelines, navigated busy school years, and now watch with pride as they pave their own paths at college. We’re happily learning what it’s like to be ‘empty nesters’ — though our dogs make sure the house is never quiet! We love getting outside on the trails and waterways our city and state have to offer, but are equally as happy cheering on our beloved Buckeyes and Browns from the couch.
Past Experience
I have worked in science, manufacturing and technology my entire career. My professional background as a product manager has prepared me well to serve on Dublin City Council. In that role, I bring people together, listen closely to different perspectives, and make thoughtful decisions about how to use limited resources to achieve the greatest benefit. Just like managing a product, serving on Council means balancing competing priorities, setting a clear vision, and ensuring follow-through on commitments. I know how to communicate transparently, weigh trade-offs, and keep projects moving forward — skills that translate directly into making smart, accountable, and community-focused decisions for Dublin’s future.
In short, a product manager builds better products for people, while a City Council representative builds a better community for residents. The tools are different, but the mindset — listening, prioritizing, collaborating, and delivering results — is very much the same.
My Top Issues
Attracting and retaining businesses
Dublin’s future depends on strong job growth and a stable tax base. We are fortunate to have land available for expansion, but success depends on thoughtful agreements—not just incentives to lure businesses, but long-term partnerships that encourage companies to plant roots here. Performance-based agreements and clear zoning can help us ensure incentives deliver lasting jobs, not short-term deals.
Balance development with neighborhood preservation
Dublin’s strength lies in its vibrant neighborhoods and sense of belonging. I will prioritize thoughtful planning that protects the character, safety, and property values of established communities while addressing traffic and infrastructure needs before new development moves forward.
By ensuring residents remain central to decision-making and by fostering open dialogue with community groups, we can guide growth in a way that keeps Dublin a place families are proud to call home.
Community involvement in decision-making
Dublin thrives when residents of every age and background feel heard and connected. I will champion meaningful engagement—through neighborhood forums, youth and senior councils, and digital outreach—to ensure community voices shape our city’s future.
By investing in public spaces, technology, and programs that build inclusion, we can create a city where people live, work, and play together in ways that honor our shared values.
Who I'm Running Against
Joy Lagunzad Kouns Lewis (Republican Party)
Dr. Joy is the Founder and CEO of The Joy of Coaching and currently is the Senior Director in Human Resources for Children’s Hunger Alliance. She specializes in Career and Executive Coaching, Diversity, and Human Resources Management programs. She is a frequent speaker in Human Resources and Diversity Conferences globally. She has been an annual supporter of the Ohio Diversity Conference speaker and panelist. She has worked for the public and private sector as Human Resource Executive. She was most recent Chief Human Resource Officer for the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority and is currently an adjunct faculty for the Undergraduate and Graduate Programs for Strayer University (Verizon Campus), Excelsior College, Davenport University and Keller School of Management. She chaired the Ohio Asian Awards and currently is the Vice President and Board Member of the Asian American Commerce Group and President of the Progressive Speaking Toastmasters Club Columbus.
Joy Kouns-Lewis earned her doctorate degree in Organization and Management with a specialization in Human Resources Management from Capella University. She has a lifetime certification as Senior Human Resources Professional (SPHR) and is a Registered Corporate Coach and is SHRM Senior Competent Professional Certified. She was Vice President of Membership for the Human Resources Association of Central Ohio, Chairperson of Career Fair for the Asian Festival, and Board Member of the Ballantrae Association in Dublin, Ohio.
Dr. Joy Kouns-Lewis is married with a son and a step son. She and her family reside in Dublin, Ohio.
Jean Philemond (Independent)
Lawyer, soccer coach. Current President of Llewellyn Farms HOA in Dublin, Ohio.
Haitian descent.
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