Two candidates with numbers backgrounds are competing for position five on the Medina City Council.

Vying for the spot are Janie Lee and Roger Ngouenet, both of whom boast experience in finance and a dedication to volunteering for the community and local schools.

Acting councilmember Drew Blazey is not seeking re-election for the seat.

Lee is a 20 year resident of Medina who has spent the last two decades working as a financial and accounting professional in the private business sector, according to her release. She also participated in the 2009 Medina Citizen Ad Hoc Group for Strategic Planning.

“I believe my experience will bring much needed fiscal oversight to our city budget as well as a keen insight ensuring that our local government is working efficiently and effectively,” she said.

Lee noted that the city is facing a search for a new finance director, and also tackling issues related to budget constraints, environmental impacts of the Highway 520 Bridge construction project, increased traffic flow, and the need for a long-term capital improvement plan.

“With these impending issues, it is vital that Medina has a strong and cohesive city council dedicated to working with its citizens to accomplish the goals and needs of the community,” she said.

Ngouenet, a 7-year Medina resident and business owner, is the former chairman of the city park board. He has a doctorate in applied mathematics and statistics, as well as a background in finance and data mining analytics, according to his web site.

“The city is advertising for a new finance director,” he told the Reporter. “You really want someone who can double check what they’re saying.”

Among the issues listed as priorities on Ngouenet’s web site are Highway 520, local traffic, public safety, facilities and infrastructure, and land use.

Ngounet made an unsuccessful bid to unseat five-term councilmember Pete Vall-Spinosa in 2007.