In an emotional and closely watched vote, Merit Smith has been chosen by the Scioto County Republican Central Committee to fill the seat left vacant by the passing of Commissioner Cathy Coleman.
The vote took place Tuesday evening, July 29, at the New Boston Community Center, with Republican committee members casting secret ballots to select Coleman’s replacement. Smith, who currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Scioto County Republican Party, led from the first round of voting.
Final Four Candidates:
- Merit Smith
- Will Mault
- Kevin E. Johnson
- Yvonne Hale
Round 2 was down to
- Merit Smith –
- Will Mault –
With Smith the easy winner.
Smith had previously come close to being selected to replace the late Commissioner Mike Crabtree in 2020, a vote ultimately won by Scottie Powell, who now serves alongside Commissioner Bryan Davis.
Smith’s Promise to Serve
Following his win, Smith addressed the committee and attendees with heartfelt words:
“I’ll keep this short. I’d like to thank the committee for the opportunity to be here,” he said. “All the candidates were a good bunch of people with good qualifications. I promise to always try to do what’s right. I may make a mistake now and again, but I hope I won’t.”
Smith made it clear that while he’ll take over Cathy Coleman’s seat, he doesn’t intend to try to replace her.
“I’m here to replace Cathy, but I’ll never replace Cathy,” he said. “She cared about kids, disabled people—she cared about Scioto County. I hope I can step up and help people. I hope I can be half the commissioner that she was.”
He also expressed confidence in working with Powell and Davis moving forward.
“She had that passion for Scioto County. I know Scottie and Bryan, and I can work with them so we can move things ahead.”
Big Shoes to Fill
Cathy Coleman passed away on July 4 due to injuries from a May car accident. Known for her deep faith, compassion, and dedication to serving seniors and vulnerable residents, her legacy loomed large throughout the selection process.
Commissioner Scottie Powell, who once went through the same appointment process, recently offered words of advice to candidates:
“Focus on your vision. Focus on your experience. Lead with what you want to do for the county,” Powell said. “You’re going to be immediately thrust into a campaign—because you’ll have to run again in 2026.”
According to Ohio Revised Code 305.02, the committee is required to fill vacancies within 45 days. Smith will now serve as commissioner until a successor is elected in 2026 to complete the remainder of Coleman’s unexpired term.
What’s Next?
Smith will soon be sworn in and begin official duties as Scioto County Commissioner. With ongoing budget challenges and major community projects in the works, his leadership will be tested early.
But if Tuesday night’s vote and his words are any indication, Merit Smith is stepping into the role with humility, respect—and a promise to serve.
