Above, L-R) Paul Osborne, Bob Carder, Michelle Laubis, Daryl Flowers, Michael P. Kasler

By Alec Keller

On Tuesday, April 14, the Ada Rotary Club hosted five candidates who are competing for an open Hardin County Commission seat. Each was given an opportunity to outline qualifications and share their vision for the county’s future.

Republicans Bob Carder, Michael P. Kasler, Michelle Laubis and Paul Osborne are seeking the nomination in the primary election for a full term beginning Jan. 1, 2027. Daryl Flowers is running unopposed in the Democratic primary. Election Day is May 5.

THE CANDIDATES

Bob Carder worked for 15 years at Occidental Chemical Corporation and earned certifications as a journeyman electrician, steam engineer, hazmat specialist and HVAC certified. He also has a bachelor’s degree in social service management education, with a few classes away from obtaining his master’s degree in education. Carder has also served as an instructor for Ohio Hi-Point Career Center.

Daryl Flowers was an iron worker for Kenton & Ornamental Iron Works for 30 years. In 2010, he started volunteering for the Red Cross and works with the LAPC Emergency Planning Committee, which makes contingency plans for hazardous spills. He has served as a township trustee for 12 years and volunteers with the Kenton Lions Club. 

Michael P. Kasler, a former state trooper of 25 years, earned a law degree from Ohio Northern University. He owns and operates Kasler Oil & Gas Development, LLC, as well as the Kasler Family Farm. Kasler serves as a trustee for the Ohio Highway Patrol Retirement System and works as a tax delinquency title investigator for Hardin County. He also holds roles as a zoning and nuisance officer for Buck, Hale and Pleasant townships.

Michelle Laubis graduated from Ridgemont High School in 2000. She has worked as an administrative assistant for 10 years, where she managed projects for different employers. She manages a YouTube channel called “Hardin County Voice,” where she uploads videos covering local government meetings. 

Paul Osborne owned and operated a graphic design agency for 16 years. After 20 years of teaching Bible school, he became a pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church in Lima, Ohio. He previously served three terms as a township trustee and currently works as Alger Village administrator.

To view Republican and Democrat ballots for Ada precincts North and South, visit the ballot list display page https://lookup.boe.ohio.gov/vtrapp/hardin/ballotlist.aspx