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BENWOOD - Long-time Benwood City Councilman Walter Yates has filed to become the next mayor of the city of Benwood.
After 30 years serving on council, Yates believes he has the knowledge, wisdom and energy to serve the citizens of Benwood in the capacity of mayor.
Yates was born and reared in Benwood. He spent his entire life living in South Benwood.
Yates is a 1962 graduate of Union High School. After graduation, Yates began his career working for the B&O Railroad, now known as CSX Transportation, in the Benwood yard. During his time at CSX, he worked hard and was promoted to the position of train master.
After 38 years with CSX, Yates retired but continued to serve Benwood.
He was first elected to council in 1990. During his 30 years as a city councilman, he was appointed to serve on many committees, including the Finance Committee. Yates is the current chairman of the committee, and has been for many years.
Over the past 30 years, he has been proud of his many accomplishments and proud of the way he helped make Benwood a financially stable community.
He has been successful in helping to remove many dilapidated homes throughout the city, improving public utilities and keeping Benwood's streets cleaned and paved.
Yates has always been a strong supporter of the city's annual Christmas and Halloween parties. Recreation for the community has been a priority for him, and he also has supported improvements made at all the parks and playgrounds in Benwood.
Yates believes his 30 years of city government experience has prepared him to lead Benwood in the future. He is committed to improving the lives of Benwood residents at all times, improving technology, and keeping an open-door policy.
If elected, Yates said he will continue to work hard for the citizens of Benwood and represent the city and its residents with the upmost respect. He believes that for Benwood to move forward, the mayor must continue to be respected by local, state and federal leaders.
Yates and his wife of 55 years, Rose Corvino, raised their four children in Benwood. They are the parents of Walter Jr., Lisa, Mike and Michelle.