County Commissioner Peter Lawson Jones

Cuyahoga County Commissioner Peter Lawson Jones may be one of the most envied politicians in the region. He ran unopposed in the last election, which saw a bitter primary defeat of Tim McCormack by longtime NE Ohio politico Tim Hagan. Jones' solid base of support has allowed him to take on some of the most important issues of our times: health and human services, arts funding, challenges in fatherhood. Cool Cleveland caught up with the busy Commissioner a week or so ago at Ruthie & Moe's diner and discussed his political ambitions, race, his new play, and his opinion on the Cleveland Mayor's race.

Cool Cleveland: So who do you like for Mayor?
Peter Lawson Jones: This year, there are a lot of candidates who have a lot going for them. Jim Draper is an African-American clergy. Bob Triozzi is a Cleveland Municipal Judge. Dan Moore is going to try to see if he can do for Cleveland like [Los Angeles Mayor Richard] Reardon did for L.A., and [New York Mayor Michael] Bloomberg did for New York; he'll be well-funded.

Many people are saying the Cleveland Mayor's election is simply a matter of race. In Cool Cleveland a few weeks ago, County Treasurer Jim Rokakis said he didn't think a white male would be elected Mayor in his lifetime.
It's not that simple. Look, Gary, Indiana has a European-American Mayor in a predominantly black city. Race won't be the determinative. Everyone who's rich, poor, black or white feel we're doing poorly. This time around, ideas might be front and center. And since we're finding ourselves in a time of challenge, people may be looking for a message of hope.

What's going on with the State Legislature cutting the Local Government fund?
Pressure has to be brought to bear to retain the funding at its current level. They have proposed a 20% cut to Cuyahoga County, from current funding levels of $40 million, That's an $8 million cut, out of a $340 million general fund. Locally, you have to contact the Bob Spadas, the Sally Conway Kilbanes, the Jim Trakas'.

You are in an enviable and very secure position. What are your political ambitions?

I've been invited by the Democratic Party to speak at various functions in Ohio. I might consider Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, possibly Lieutenant Governor in 2006. I've accepted some offers.

You're not interested in running this year?

Two reasons: my son is a senior in high school, and I don't want to miss the last full year before he goes to college. Five things I've been focused on: One is economic development. Two is support for arts and culture; you know how I've been out front on that. Three is regionalism, both intra-county and statewide, to relieve costs and deliver services more efficiently. Four is our message on the fatherhood initiative. I want to talk more with you about our event coming up on June 16 to 18. It's a celebration where fathers can bring their own children. And finally, to level the playing field for contracts and employment so that diversity is served. Once these things are institutionalized, I'll be more willing to look elsewhere.

Many people aren't aware that you are also a playwright.
My play The Family Line received a staged reading at Karamu House and they will be producing it next season - this Fall. That's quite an experience sitting in the theatre and hearing the audience talk about your play. It was a great experience.

Interview and photos by Thomas Mulready (:divend:)