Fran Wilson and Bruce Bolden Triumph in Democratic Primaries for Akron City Council Seats
The narrative has been refreshed with additional details.
A new member will join the Akron City Council in January following the outcome of the primary election held on May 6, which determined the candidates for two positions left vacant by winners from 2023.
The winner of the Ward 1 Democratic primary, Fran Wilson, will go up against independent candidate Acasia Reynolds in the upcoming November general election, as per the final, unofficial results reported by the Summit County Board of Elections.
Councilman Bruce Bolden emerged victorious in the Ward 8 Democratic primary, ensuring his continued control over a position he took over following James Hardy’s resignation in July 2024. Bolden faces no opposition for the upcoming November election.
The results indicated that Wilson was the clear winner in a three-way race in Ward 1, securing approximately 52% of the votes compared to the incumbent Sam DeShazier with about 30%, and Emily Durway with roughly 18%.
DeShazior was chosen by the City Council to represent Ward 1 following Nancy Holland's resignation mere days into her newly elected tenure in 2024.
Wilson led a community-driven campaign centered around empowering the public and ensuring governmental transparency—a platform he thinks resonated with Ward 1 voters as the message aligns with current needs.
"I think right now people in the city, and in our country and in our state, people are really hungry for no nonsense leadership that tackles actual problems," Wilson said May 7. "The reality is is our life affordability crisis here in Akron, and in our country, is a problem that needs to be addressed, and some of that is because of the lack of accountability in government."

In Ward 8, Bolden won 56% of the vote to hold off challenger N.J. Akbar.
Bolden said he believes his prior council experience appealed to voters. Bolden previously represented Ward 1 from 1991 to 1997.
The primary responsibility of a councilman is essentially managing various problems, handling different situations and issues as they arise," explained Bolden. "My capability to perform this role during the '90s – having accumulated six years of such experience – demonstrated to others that I possess the skills needed to keep addressing these challenges effectively. Additionally, I believe this background enables me to assist residents who encounter difficulties within the city and navigate through its often complex systems.
Up until May 5, it seemed like the candidate who won the primary would have a clear route to the general election. However, this scenario shifted after the Summit County Board of Elections disclosed that Reynolds had submitted his application to run as an independent prior to the due date.
What pushed Ward 1 voters to the primary day polls?

Rikki Vesy, who voted at the Highland Square Library polling location, said she voted for Wilson, "because Fran is a fellow local activist, someone I see quite often speaking out for the people of this city, speaking out and making sure that the voices of the everyday person is heard."
Vesy voted in favor of Issue 18, she said, because she believes funding local libraries is important. She said she routinely uses the Akron-Summit County Public Library's resources, its printing services and movie rentals, for example, calling the public libraries an underused asset.
Regarding state Question 2, she mentioned that she cast her vote in favor due to its effects on infrastructure and the fact that it does not introduce any new taxes.

Daisha Dominic also cast her vote for Wilson, stating that she appreciates his "for the people" attitude and enthusiasm.
Problem 18 received Dominic's approval.
“We simply require additional funds within our neighborhoods, from start to finish,” she stated. “Even if it entails paying an extra $100 each month in taxes, I would still be willing to do so.”
She mentioned that she also cast her vote for Issue 2, since she is strongly supportive of funding going into local areas.
Laurie Woodford cast her vote for Durway.
"From my observations, she appears to be the top contender," stated Woodford, further noting that Durway demonstrates the greatest capability to collaborate effectively with the existing members of the City Council.
Problem 2 received her support since she doesn't consider it problematic to use bond issuance for funding capital projects.
Woodford stated that she opposed the library levy vote as she feels the libraries could improve their situation using the resources they currently possess.
Ward 8 voters discuss their choices

Outside First Baptist Church of Akron, Michael Irby explained why he came to vote.
"My grandparents didn't have the right to vote," he said, "so I'm representing them every time I vote."
Irby said he voted for Akbar over Bolden.
"He's a hard-working individual; I know him well. I think he'll do a good job and work on council," Irby said.
Irby voted yes on Issue 18, he said, because of the library's importance to young people's growth and knowledge.

Akbar got Ryan Parrish's vote. Parrish said the primary factor in his decision was Akbar's championing of sustainability initiatives, something critical to Parrish's values and job with a local wastewater utility agent.
Parrish mentioned that he cast his vote for both Issue 18 and Issue 2.

Jimmie Esters cast his vote for Akbar.
The reason being? She explained, "I believe he will be fantastic for our local community" and added, "he brings fresh perspectives to this place. Plus, it’s about time we had him around."
She mentioned that the ward requires an individual capable of tackling community violence and one who can "extend a hand and make a difference within the community."
She remained undecided about Proposition 2 since she mentioned feeling uncertain regarding the specifics.
Esters cast her vote for Issue 18 due to the significance of the library’s services, notably its provision of internet access. While she herself has internet connectivity, she explained that numerous others lack this resource. This deficiency hampers individuals' capacity to secure employment or seek assistance when needed, as well as deprives children of a space where they can receive support with their studies.
Many individuals receiving various forms of aid sign up for these services by going to the library to use its internet connection; thus, this facility is essential. It’s crucial, absolutely necessary.
Reach out to journalist Derek Kreider via email at DKreider@Gannett.com or call him at 330-541-9413.
The article initially appeared in the Akron Beacon Journal. Fran Wilson and Bruce Bolden secure victory in theDemocratic primaries for Akron City Council ward contests.
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