October 5, 2025

Lori Sanders, who is completing her first term as Violet Township trustee, is seeking re-election this November. She said her primary focus continues to be improving the township without placing additional tax burdens on residents.

“The biggest issue facing our community is funding the things we want without using our operating dollars or asking for additional taxes,” Sanders said.

During her first term, Sanders said she and her fellow trustees have concentrated on building the township’s foundation for smart, sustainable growth.

“We have spent the last four years developing and updating the foundational plans we needed to move forward,” she said. “We’ve adopted a comprehensive land use plan and an active transportation plan through a grant from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). We’ve also built strong partnerships at the local, county, and regional levels.”

Accomplishments and Community Projects

Over the past four years, Sanders has been involved in numerous township projects focused on planning, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility.

Planning and Infrastructure

• Adoption of the township’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Development of an Active Transportation Plan mapping sidewalks, paths, and connectivity priorities
• Secured multiple grants through MORPC and ODOT, including pedestrian safety crossings on Harmon Road and a feasibility study for extending the Blacklick Trail across SR 256
• Worked collaboratively with the county, ODOT, and regional partners on improvements to Toll Gate, Milnor, and Basil Western roads, and on the upcoming Taylor Road interchange

Economic Development

• Oversaw more than 750,000 square feet of new commercial development
• Established Violet Township’s first two Joint Economic Development Districts (JEDDs) and its first New Community Authority (NCA), generating new revenue without raising taxes

Land Preservation

• Increased required green space in new developments to 30%
• Accepted a 20-acre land donation to remain preserved
• Began master planning township property to balance services, development, and parkland

Community Partnerships

• Secured a county land bank grant to assist the Pickerington Community Theatre
• Collaborated with state legislators on upgrades to the Violet Woods Event Center and township theatre
• Worked with the Pickerington Senior Center to streamline operations, increase membership, and add new programming, including a partnership with Fairfield County Meals on Wheels

Sanders serves on several boards and committees representing Violet Township, including the Fairfield County Land Bank Board, Fairfield 33 Development Alliance, MORPC’s transportation committees, and the Pickerington Senior Center liaison role.

Focus on Fiscal Stewardship

Sanders emphasizes fiscal efficiency and transparency as key priorities.

“Financial oversight is a primary responsibility that requires a conservative spending approach,” she said. “I’ve spent my career focusing on efficiency and accountability.”

Fairfield County Auditor Dr. Carri Brown described Sanders as “a thoughtful steward who leads with integrity, transparency, and a deep sense of ethical responsibility.”

Community Leadership and Service

A lifelong public servant, Sanders previously served 24 years on the Pickerington Local Schools Board of Education and remains active in local organizations including the Pickerington Lions Club, Violet Township Women’s League, Pickerington Education Foundation, and the Pickerington Chamber of Commerce.

She has received the endorsement of the Fairfield County Republican Club. Other local leaders have also voiced their support.

“Lori listens to residents, addresses concerns thoughtfully, and works tirelessly to improve local infrastructure, programs, and services,” said Branden Meyer, Fairfield County Clerk of Courts.

“She asks great questions, gathers information on all sides, and makes decisions that are best for the community,” added Fairfield County Commissioner Jeff Fix.

Personal and Professional Background

Sanders grew up in a military family, moving frequently before settling in Central Ohio in the 1970s. She and her husband, Mike, have lived in Pickerington for nearly 40 years and raised three children, all graduates of Pickerington Local Schools.

A graduate of The Ohio State University, Sanders operates a small business providing occupational and physical therapy services. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, walking, reading, and volunteering.

Goals for the Next Term

If re-elected, Sanders said she plans to:

1. Generate additional revenue through grants and partnerships rather than new taxes
2. Continue operating efficiently and recognizing township staff for their dedication
3. Balance residential and commercial growth
4. Develop a formal land preservation plan and expand trail connectivity
5. Strengthen partnerships with local, county, regional, and state entities

“We’re just getting started, but I believe the next four years will bring significant improvement,” Sanders said. “When we all work toward the same goal, great things happen.”

To learn more about Lori Sanders and her campaign for Violet Township trustee, visit lorisandersforviolet.com or follow her on Facebook.