Meet Jessica Epstein.
Tallmadge Councilwoman At-Large
Raised in Green, Ohio, Jessica and her husband bought their first home in Tallmadge 10 years ago and have loved being a part of the Tallmadge community ever since.
About
Jessica grew up in Green, Ohio and studied Merchandising & Marketing at Kent State University. After interning with the then Cleveland Indians she met her husband, Collin. Eventually Collin and Jessica purchased their first home in Tallmadge shortly after Collin began teaching physical education, health and coaching basketball for Tallmadge City Schools.
Jessica began her career as a property manager where she addressed resident concerns and managed a multi-million-dollar property budget. Jessica transitioned into a more technical role within the multi-family housing industry, supporting other property managers on an IT help desk. Today she works as an IT Project Manager implementing strategic software initiatives. Jessica's favorite part of the job is identifying areas of struggle within the business and finding creative solutions to improve end user experience with software and technology.
Jessica also serves as a co-chair of an employee resource group called the Women's Inclusion Network. As co-chair she’s hosted events such as Rock the Vote which helped increase access to voting for low-income and/or disabled senior residents in the community. Additionally, after listening to stories from co-workers of serious medical complications after miscarriage she advocated for (and received) paid leave for any employee experiencing pregnancy loss from miscarriage or stillbirth.
In her free time, you’ll find Jessica practicing yoga, spending time with her husband and two children or tending to the family's 4 chickens. Having been given so much from Tallmadge, Jessica believes in giving back to the community and is committed to the dedication of time and energy required to serve the public interest first.
Jessica is looking forward to working with the rest of City Council to do just that!
Upcoming Events
- Sat, Oct 21Dunkin' DonutsOct 21, 2023, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMDunkin' Donuts, 196 Tallmadge Cir, Tallmadge, OH 44278, USA
- Sun, Sep 24Tallmadge Branch LibrarySep 24, 2023, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PMTallmadge Branch Library, 90 Community Rd, Tallmadge, OH 44278, USA
- Sat, Sep 16Dunkin' DonutsSep 16, 2023, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMDunkin' Donuts, 196 Tallmadge Cir, Tallmadge, OH 44278, USA
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are you running for elected office?
I am running for elected office because I am deeply passionate about my community and its well-being. The city's comprehensive plan in 2017 highlighted the residents' top priorities of maintaining quiet, safe neighborhoods and strong school systems while addressing concerns over smaller home sizes. Advocating alongside many community members when the city reconsidered its zoning code, I witnessed the power of community engagement and the positive impact it can have on shaping policies that align with the residents' needs.
My desire to run for office stems from my commitment to continuing this advocacy and community empowerment. I believe that public service offers a unique opportunity to engage with the community, listen to their concerns, and amplify their voices in the decision-making process.
I aim to contribute to a strong, vibrant community through community-centered leadership in order to address the residents’ top priorities.
What experiences have prepared you for the position you are seeking?
I believe two key experiences have equipped me with valuable skills and insights that will be instrumental in fulfilling the responsibilities required on city council. This includes my time as a multi-family community manager and volunteering for local grassroots organizations within the community.
During my time as a community manager in multi-family housing, I gained valuable hands-on experience in dealing with diverse groups of people, managing community resources, and addressing various issues that affect residents' daily lives. This role allowed me to develop essential leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial in understanding and effectively addressing the needs and concerns of the community.
Additionally, I believe one of the crucial aspects to maintaining a thriving community is increasing voter registration and engagement. As a volunteer with grassroots organizations, I have actively worked on voter registration drives and initiatives, encouraging more people to participate in the democratic process.
What key things would you like to accomplish when you win this campaign and sit in office?
Once in office, one of my top priorities is to promote transparent and accountable governance while strengthening community engagement and participation. I will encourage active citizen engagement in local government affairs by organizing regular town hall meetings, community forums, and initiatives to gather public input on city projects and policies.