Editor’s Note: This is the second of four stories previewing Marietta’s municipal election. A roundup of unopposed races also appears in today’s edition, while the preview of the Ward 1 race will be in Monday’s paper. A story about the 4th Ward race ran Friday.

Voters in Marietta’s 2nd Ward will choose between two familiar names in city politics this fall, as Janet Bond and Katie McGlynn each campaign on priorities ranging from historic preservation and water protection to downtown revitalization and public safety. Current 2nd Ward Councilman Bret Allphin is not running for reelection.

Janet Bond

Bond, 73, is a Marietta native and retired school psychologist. The Republican said her campaign is rooted in historical preservation and public safety.

“After moving back to Marietta, I noticed Front Street seemed to need repair,” she said. “Historical preservation programs do work. They save neighborhoods and towns from losing their architectural heritage.”

Bond also called for a halt to new hydraulic fracturing near the city’s water supply, citing environmental risks.

“No more fracking near our water supply,” she said.

Bond believes financial growth can come through tourism and downtown revitalization, including improvements to the bike path and more attractions for visitors. She said her background in psychology and social services makes her suited to respond to growing challenges.

“Marietta needs a strong police presence as crime increases, behavioral health challenges increase and the homeless population increases,” she said. “I am a good listener, easy to talk to, and I try to keep an open mind.”

Katie McGlynn

McGlynn, 78, a Democrat and former council member with 14 years of service, is seeking a return to city government. A lifelong Marietta resident, she said she has always enjoyed public service.

“I think we are a little bit at a crossroads here,” she said.

McGlynn, who chairs the city’s Planning Commission, said her focus includes water protection, housing and the upkeep of the city’s historic streets.

“Our brick streets are in need of care,” she said. “We have more brick streets in our city than any other city in the state of Ohio, and they need some help.”

She also pointed to demographic changes, with longtime residents leaving but new families moving in.

“We need younger people,” McGlynn said. “So many of them are working 24/7, but I have the experience, and I would like to continue to serve.”

Her community involvement includes service on the boards of United Way, the Betsey Mills Club and The Castle.