News

The Athens Public Library hosted the meeting between Democrat Bill Bias and challenger Libertarian Ohio University student Abe Alassaf, who are each running for the Athens County treasurer's seat in the General Election.

 

Bias says his experience as Athens City Council president and treasurer qualifies him for the position.

 

 "At any given time the treasurer is responsible for as much as $50 million in deposits and, as of Monday, there was $33 million in investments.  All of these have to be reconciled to the reports that are produced to the auditor's office then have to be reconciled to all the different fund balance reports.  It's a lot to do.  I will recall upon my experience as Athens City Treasurer to make sure this role is done effectively," said Bias.

 

Alassaf, who calls himself the "other option", says he knows he is not as qualified as his opponent, but says his honesty and ability to learn quick sets him apart.

 

"If elected I will be a government watchdog.  I will be cashing checks and making note of income and if I see something questionable I'm going to say something about it.  I'm not going to sit by and let things go as usual in any locality," said Alassaf.

 

Alassaf says if elected he plans to create a county treasury website, so property taxes can be paid online.

 

Bias says if he is elected he pledges to do the job with honesty, integrity, and hard work.