Torres resigns school board post and plans move to Canton

2/11/2008

Robert Torres, the vice president of the Toledo Board of Education, announced Monday he is resigning that position and is leaving his job with the city s department of development.

Mr. Torres, 45, who has lived in Toledo for 19 years, has accepted the position of director of development for the city of Canton.

His resignation from the school board and as development specialist with the city will be effective Feb. 20. His first day on the job in Canton will be Feb. 25.

I leave the board confident much was accomplished in a short period of time, Mr. Torres said.

He was elected to the school board in the November, 2005 election. He and fellow board member Darlene Fisher and candidate Christopher Myers campaigned under the 3 for Change slogan.

Mr. Torres said he s proud of the change he has seen in the last two years, including more transparency in school board action and increased fiscal responsibility.

He is also proud the board hired a superintendent and a treasurer, and of the commitment to include minority and female contractors in Toledo Public Schools $620 million Building for Success construction campaign.

Mr. Torres has suggested to the Lucas County Democratic Party and to his fellow board members that Bob Vasquez should join the board in his place.

Mr. Vasquez, director of special projects for The Twelve Inc., in Massillon, Ohio, has run twice for Toledo City Council.

Mr. Torres said Mr. Vasquez knowledge of the issues, experience on several city committees, and dedication to the Toledo community would make him a good fit.

Mr. Vasquez joining the board also would ensure diversity, Mr. Torres said.

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