By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
Darnell Smith is not your typical politician. He isn’t polished by years of political maneuvering or softened by the comforts of establishment backing. Instead, he is forged from the streets of Toledo, where resilience is the currency of survival. He has walked paths familiar to many—some bright with opportunity, others shadowed by hardship—and now, he stands at the threshold of a new journey, one that leads straight to Toledo’s City Council.
“I don’t have to do this,” he says, his voice firm with conviction. “But I choose to—because the people deserve it. They need someone who can bridge divides, someone who sees beyond party lines and focuses on what truly matters—community, progress, and unity. We’re all in this together, and that’s the only way forward.”
Smith, a self-made entrepreneur and community advocate, recently submitted his signatures to secure a spot on the upcoming ballot. His campaign isn’t backed by party politics. He’s running as an independent, determined to stay loyal to the people rather than a political machine. “I don’t want to be a Democrat. I don’t want to be a Republican. I just want to work for the community,” he explains.
His life’s work has been about connection—whether through business, mentorship, or civic engagement. Now, he hopes to bridge the gap between government and the people who feel most unheard.
A Businessman With a Bigger Vision
Smith isn’t just a candidate; he’s a blueprint for what’s possible. A seasoned businessman, he has built multiple enterprises, all designed with the community in mind. His popular commercial space is a one-stop hub, offering a beauty salon, barbershop, daycare and car detailing service. “The concept was to save a person two or three hours out of their day,” he says. “The husband gets his hair cut, the wife gets her hair done, the kids are in the daycare, and the car is getting cleaned—all at the same time. So when you leave, it’s just family time.”
Beyond this, he owns rental properties across the city, making affordable housing accessible to families in need. Smith also owns and operates a car lot where he prioritizes financial literacy for his customers. “I tell young folks, don’t just hand me cash. What’s your credit look like? Let’s work on building that first. That’s how you set yourself up for homeownership.”
Darnell Smith’s commitment to economic empowerment doesn’t stop at his businesses. He is vocal about the need for minority dollars to circulate within our own communities. He stresses the importance of supporting small businesses,
particularly those led by black/brown entrepreneurs, women, and local families.
“Many people come into small businesses and often haggle,” he says. “Yet so many of us will happily pay full price at big-name stores without question. We need to shift our mindset and invest in our own communities.”
A Past That Fuels His Purpose
Smith’s strength lies in his authenticity and willingness to grow. Community members, civic leaders and local business CEOs alike admire his ability to acknowledge his past judicial matters and use them as a catalyst for positive change. His vulnerability in embracing the highs and lows of life, while correcting his course, has made him a relatable and respected figure—a true testament to his character, inspiring others to believe in second chances and continuous self-improvement.
“It’s not where you start, it’s how you finish,” he says.
For nearly three decades, Darnell Smith has dedicated himself to mentorship, business, and community service. He has given back to his alma mater, Scott High School, in ways that go far beyond financial donations. One of his most impactful contributions was personally funding the school’s workout facility, the Josephine Fitness Center, in honor of his late mother, who dedicated 30 years of service to the school.
Smith also helped secure new football field turf across Toledo, a resource that will impact generations of student-athletes.
“The kids see me in the hallways, in the cafeteria, and at their games. They know I’m still here for them.”
For Darnell Smith, running for City Council isn’t about politics—it’s about responsibility. “I was mentoring our young men, coaching football, telling them they could be anything they wanted,” he says. “But then I had to ask myself—am I showing them that with my own actions?”
Understanding the Council, Making It Work for the People
The process of getting on the ballot is just the first step. The real work begins once elected. But what does a City Council member actually do? Smith breaks it down simply:
City Council members act as the voice of the people. They propose and vote on laws, allocate city budgets, and advocate for changes that affect neighborhoods. They are the bridge between the community and the mayor’s office, bringing concerns directly to city leadership.
Smith wants to make sure that bridge is strong.
His vision? A team-based approach to civic engagement, much like a football team. “If you want to be on my team, you gotta be a registered voter,” he says. “You want to make the starting lineup? Come to community town hall meetings, bring ideas, get involved.”
His message is clear: input at City Hall shouldn’t be a mystery. The community should have a seat at the table.
The People’s Candidate
Smith isn’t waiting until election day to make a difference. He’s already registering voters, having tough conversations and challenging the status quo. “If nothing else, I win by getting more people to vote,” he says. “This week alone, I registered 20 people who have never voted before.”
He also wants to dispel myths that keep people from civic participation. “A lot of folks don’t know that you can vote with a felony,” he points out. “Even if you’re in jail, as long as it’s a misdemeanor, you can vote. We need to be educating people about the laws that affect them personally.”
Smith’s campaign isn’t about making promises—it’s about proving that change is possible, even when the odds seem stacked against you. “I didn’t plan this,” he admits. “But I want to show the next generation that if I can do it, they can too.”
With his name officially in the race, the next step is clear: rallying the community. His campaign is powered by the people, and he’s calling for volunteers who want to see real change. “I don’t need big money. I need good ideas, good people who care,” he says.
Stepping Up for Toledo: A Commitment to Real Change and Community Growth
Darnell’s story isn’t just one of resilience—it’s a testament to what’s possible when someone rises to the occasion. He has been the young man searching for direction, the successful entrepreneur, and now, the leader answering the call to serve.
He believes Toledo deserves representation from someone who has lived in every corner of the city, who understands the struggles of its people firsthand. “I know the community. I know the city. I can connect the dots,” he says with certainty.
To support the campaign, reach out to DarnellSmith2025@yahoo.com.