“I’m just hoping to be able to bring a different voice to the table, and maybe a different approach. And people seem to be open and accepting of that,” McDonald said.
The Montgomery County commission is a three-person panel of leaders tasked with overseeing the administration and operation of Montgomery County, which included passing a more than $1 billion budget for 2025. The commission has the power to appoint members of the local boards, committees and other commissions that make decisions for communities.
The Montgomery County commission — now consisting of Judy Dodge, Carolyn Rice and newcomer McDonald — reconvened for the new year on Tuesday.
The Montgomery County commission in 2019 became the first all-female commission in the county’s history and is still women-led.
“I really appreciate all the help that I have received from the staff and the administration. It’s been a really good experience,” McDonald told Dayton Daily News on Tuesday. “The commissioners have been really welcoming and supportive.”
McDonald was a Democrat for years, but she switched parties last year. This followed the Montgomery County Democratic Party endorsing her opponent, Yvette Page, in the 2023 race for Trotwood mayor. Page, who was the city’s vice mayor, unseated McDonald.
McDonald unseated longtime commissioner Debbie Lieberman in the Nov. 5 general election. Lieberman had been a commissioner since 2004.
“We’re excited to welcome Commissioner Mary A. McDonald to our team! Today marked her first Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting, and we’re looking forward to the positive impact she’ll bring to our community,” the Montgomery County commission shared on social media on Tuesday. “We’re eager to work alongside her to build a stronger, more vibrant future for all. Please join us in welcoming Commissioner McDonald!”
We’re excited to welcome Commissioner Mary A. McDonald to our team! Today marked her first Board of County Commissioners...
Posted by Montgomery County, Ohio on Tuesday, January 7, 2025
McDonald has said her election win builds on the achievement of Sarah Harris, who served as the first African American appointed to the Montgomery County commission.
McDonald said her first weeks in the commission will be spent visiting county departments to meet with staff and learn more about that agency’s functions and finding ways to best support them.
McDonald also said she wants to prioritize community outreach. As she was campaigning, she said she met many residents who were unsure how their local government is organized and who has oversight over issues they face.
“I do plan on spending time in the community, educating others,” she said. “And as I grow and learn more, I’m going to be able to share those things with them.”
McDonald said she also looks forward to working with her fellow commissioners.
“I’m coming there to be a part of the team,” she said.
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