Rochester Post | Published July 13, 2022
ROCHESTER/ROCHESTER HILLS/OAKLAND TOWNSHIP — In the Post’s coverage area, voters will decide various state, county and local primary races Aug. 2. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim. Profile forms were not sent to candidates who are running unopposed.
Governor of Michigan
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and six candidates, including a write-in candidate, are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The salary for the position is $159,300.
Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Running unopposed.
Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Ryan D. Kelley
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Ralph Rebandt
Age: 64
Occupation: Retired Pastor
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: ralphrebandtforgovernor.com
Education: B.R.E., M.A.R., M.Div.
Previously and currently held elected offices: No
Top goals: We are in a social and moral crisis. My goal is to bring back our Jude’s-Christian values, and together with truth, transparency, and accountability: ensure constitutional protections; make Michigan an open record state; secure election integrity; provide school choice; reduce taxes and budget; eliminate corporate welfare and reduce government agencies by involving faith based organization’s; and establish a Citizens Round Table.
Republican
Kevin Rinke
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Hills
For how long: Michigan born and raised. I built my home in Oakland County, was raised in Wayne County and worked in Macomb County.
Online campaign information: https://rinkeformichigan.com/
Education: Bachelor’s in Advertising with a minor in Statistics from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: As governor, I aim to make Michigan the best state in America. To do so, we must emulate what other successful states have done. I have called for the elimination of the state income tax by January 1, 2024. I want to create an economic climate that incentivizes businesses and workers to come to Michigan. I want to fix our education system, add vocational training to the common curriculum and get Michigan back on track.
Republican
Garrett Soldano
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
James Craig (Write-in)
Age: 65
Occupation: Served as Chief of Police in Portland, ME; Cincinnati, OH; and Detroit, MI. After eight years as Chief of Police in his hometown of Detroit and 44 years as a dedicated public servant, Craig retired in June 2021. After twenty-eight years with Los Angeles Police Department, the Chief rose through the ranks to Captain Three. 2 1/2 years as a Detroit Police Officer before being laid off.
Municipality of residence: Detroit, Michigan
For how long: Professional experience 44 years
Online campaign information: www.chiefjamescraig.com
Education: Craig graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1977, Obtained an undergraduate degree from West Coast University BS in Business and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in Public Administration, James Craig, started coursework in a Doctorate program UOP; however, he had to stop the program when appointed Police Chief in the city of Detroit.
Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE.
Top goals: James Craig is running for Governor of Michigan with a commitment to fix leadership in state government and institute an effective administration that fosters a collaborative environment to drive the vibrancy of the state’s economy, education, public safety, and communities. I will work to WIN as a write-in candidate.
U.S. House of Representatives District 10
Five candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. U.S. representatives earn a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Huwaida Arraf
Age: 46
Occupation: Civil Rights Attorney
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 3 years
Online campaign information: huwaidaforcongress.com
Education: Juris Doctor
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Getting big money out of politics so that we can make this government and economy work for the masses, not just the wealthy, well-connected few. I will fight to keep abortion legal, pass gun safety laws to protect our communities, guarantee health care, create good jobs that pay a living wage, expand social security, provide a quality education to every child, and make corporate polluters pay to clean our air and water.
Democrat
Carl J. Marlinga
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired Circuit Court Judge
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: www.marlinga4congress.com
Education: Graduate University of Michigan Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney, 1985 – 2004; Macomb County Probate Judge, 2013-2016; Macomb County Circuit Court Judge, 2017 – February, 2022
Top goals: We must seriously address the price of gasoline and its affect upon overall inflation. We do this in the short term by authorizing a ceiling on profits that oil companies can make; but we also must move the economy to cheaper and cleaner forms of energy, harvesting the power of sun, wind, tides, and geothermal. We can create good paying union jobs by manufacturing the energy efficient products that will save our environment and provide cheap energy.
Democrat
Rhonda Powell
Age: 52
Occupation: Director of Operations
Municipality of residence: Mount Clemens
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: www.RhondaPowellforCongress.com
Education: MS Community Service, BA in Human Service
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Rhonda Powell is a 4th generation resident of Macomb County, a proven leader and advocate for the marginalized and vulnerable people Washington continues to leave behind. She will fight to ensure pre-K for all children, combat climate change, government accountability, protect reproductive and voting rights, and help working families not just get by, but get ahead.Rhonda Powell is a native of the 10th District that will represent the interest of fellow residents.
Democrat
Angela Rogensues
Age: 41
Occupation: Warren City Council, At Large Member
Municipality of residence: Warren, Michigan
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.angelaforuscongress.com
Education: Angela holds a Bachelor of Science in Health studies and Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Educating Adults from DePaul University.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Warren City Council, At Large Member
Top goals: Angela will fight Republican efforts to limit contraception and other essential reproductive healthcare access. Work to bring good-paying, union manufacturing jobs to the district by rebuilding American supply chains and making more products in Michigan. Angela will also prioritize lowering the cost of prescription drugs under Medicare and expanding benefits to cover vision, hearing, and dental. Stand up to special interests and Republicans trying to cut Social Security and Medicare Benefits.
Democrat
Henry Yanez
Age: 64
Occupation: retired
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 14 years
Online campaign information: Website - henryyanezforcongress.com, FB Page - facebook.com/citi zenyanez, Twitter - @CitizenYanez
Education: AAS in Fire Science and General Studies from Oakland Community College
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am currently a City Councilman for the City of Sterling Heights. Previously I held the position of State Representative for House District 25, Sterling Heights and Warren, for three terms.
Top goals:
1 – I’ll work for an economy that is fair for everyone by lowering the cost of health care and prescriptions, hold corporations accountable for price gouging during tough economic times and make education more affordable to alleviate student debt.
2 – Affordable healthcare for all is a must, people shouldn’t go bankrupt for getting sick.
3 – Protecting our environment to make sure we leave a healthy, productive planet for future generations.
Republican
John James
Age: 41
Occupation: President, James Group
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, Michigan
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: JohnJamesMI.com
Education: United States Military Academy, BS; University of Michigan, MBA; Pennsylvania State University, MS Supply Chain Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Tackling rising prices, promoting clean water and quality education, repatriating manufacturing.
I will help stop reckless policies in Washington that cause more expensive gas, food and essentials. We must stop relying on foreign goods and bring our critical supply chains back to the U.S. I will prioritize investment in our futures by keeping our water clean and protecting a parent’s right to educate their children where they will be safest and most successful.
Republican
Tony Marcinkewciz
Age: 27
Occupation: Software Engineer
Municipality of residence: Macomb County
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: tonyformi10.com
Education: Bachelors Of Science in Information Technology Concentrations in Web and Database Development
Minor in Political Science.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: - Build Back American Small Business
- Lockdown Accountability Hearings
- Stop Inflation
- Lower Gas Prices
- Defund DC
U.S. House of Representatives District 9
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. The salary for a state senator is $71,685.
Democrat
Brain Jaye
Running unopposed.
Republican
Michelle R. E. Donovan
Age: 53 years old
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: New Baltimore
For how long: My family moved to New Baltimore in 1971.
Online campaign information: www.michelledonovanforcongress.com
Education: University of Detroit -B.A. -English; Thomas M Cooley Law School J.D. Admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan, State of Texas and U.S. Supreme Court
Previously and currently held elected offices: No prior or currently held elected offices
Top goals: I believe in transparency informing the constituents of all pending legislation before a vote or discussions occur – not after. Similar to my clients that I’ve represented for over 20 years, the constituents vote matters not mine. The constituents’ input is what drives any legislation. Keeping the constituents informed on a weekly basis and receiving their input is the most important goal. No decisions should be made without discussions with the constituents of the 9th District.
Republican
Lisa McClain
Age: 56
Occupation: U.S. Representative
Municipality of residence: Romeo
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: https://lisamcclainforcongress.com/
Education: Earned a BBA in Business from Northwood University
Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. House of Representatives
Top goals: We need to save this country. I am committed to reigniting our economy, securing the border, strengthening our military, protecting your Constitutional rights, and standing up against big government tyranny. We cannot sustain the current path our nation is heading down. I am fighting to change course and bring common sense back to Washington, D.C.
State Senate District 9
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The salary for a state senator is $71,685.
Democrat
Padma Kuppa
Running unopposed.
Republican
Michael Webber
Running unopposed.
State Senate District 24
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The salary for a state senator is $71,685.
Democrat
Theresa J. Fougnie
Running unopposed.
Republican
Ruth Johnson
Running unopposed.
State House of Representatives District 54
Three Democrats and two Republicans are running to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary
of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Stephanie Fakih
Age: 34
Occupation: Attorney and Bloomfield Township Trustee
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: stephaniefakih.com
Education: Cranbrook Kingswood High School, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, B.A., Fordham University School of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected to Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees in 2020
Top goals: When elected my top goal will be to attract business and people to Michigan through investments in education and infrastructure. If we invest in Michigan public schools and boost our workforce, businesses and people will begin to look at Michigan as a destintation state for our quality of life, affordability and business opportunity.
Democrat
Gary Gerson
Age: 59
Occupation: Retired Teacher and Current Educational Consultant; Transportation; Author
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: gersonmirep.org
Education: BS (Geology/Earth Sciences) Vanderbilt University 1985; M.Ed. (Educational Technology and Curriculum) Grand Canyon University 2005
Previously and currently held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: I have wide experience in advanced education, specialized education, IEP’s, learning challenges, curriculum development, private schools, public schools, science education, scientific inquiry, global warming and the greenhouse effect, foster care, adoption subsidies, Children’s Special Health, business development, the gig economy, world travel, textbook development, being an author, graphs and data, religious studies, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, AIDS education, the Arts, and youth sports, and I want to use it all to make Michigan better for everyone.
Democrat
Shadia Martini
Age: 56
Occupation: Realtor and Builder
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 1 year, resident of Southeast Michigan for 30 years.
Online campaign information: https:// martini2022.com/
Education: BS Architectural Engineering University of Aleppo, MBA University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: In Lansing, I’ll fight to enact common-sense gun violence prevention legislation and ensure that our reproductive rights are protected. Keeping our great lakes clean, our healthcare affordable, and our public schools strong are also top priorities. I’m honored to be endorsed by #VOTEPROCHOICE, Emgage, AFSCME Council 25, AMPAC, Planned Parenthood, and LGBT Detroit Mobilization for my commitment to advocate for the interests of our community.
Republican
Sandy Kiesel
Age: 59
Occupation: Currently the Executive Director of the Election Integrity Fund and Force non-profit, non-partisan organization focused on unifying the United States through transparent and trusted elections. Previously, I owned and ran a consulting company helping organizations in diverse industries improve their performance and worked as a leader at both suppliers and OEM’s in the auto industry.
Municipality of residence: Orion Township, Oakland County
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: sandykiesel.com
Education: Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering, Trine University, Masters Business Administration, The Eli Broad School of Business at Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: I will be a warrior for freedom and choice focused on parental rights, school of choice, 2nd amendment rights, and medical choice. I will continue to lead the fight for trusted and transparent elections through mandatory Voter ID, accurate voter roles, and elimination of unsecure drop boxes. I will push a Michigan First agenda that ensures a fiscally conservative small government, lower taxes, reduced regulation, support for small businesses, energy independence and inflation lowering measures.
Republican
Donni Steele
Age: 57
Occupation: Treasurer of Charter Township of Orion
Municipality of residence: Orion Township
For how long: Lived in Orion area entire life, went to Orion schools
Online campaign information: http://donnisteele.com
Education: BBA, business management degree Western Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Orion Township Trustee 2012-2016; Orion Township Treasurer 2016-present
Top goals: The current economy is a concern. We have inflation and supply chain issues yet the state has an abundance surplus revenue. The current State budget is on track for a record high $70+ billion- spending in 2023, I’m concerned these funds will be utilized to create unsustainable government funding of additional and/or enlarging governmental departments. This type of spending should be discouraged and encourage legislators to pay off debt; reduce unfunded state liabilities; increase the “rainy day fund” (...)
State House of Representatives District 55
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete in November for a two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Patricia Bernard
Age: 63
Occupation: CEO of Semi-truck company; Retired U.S. Dept of Army Civilian GS-15
Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills, MI
For how long: 28 years
Online campaign information: drpatbernard.com
Education: Ph.D. Strategic Leadership School of Education
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:
Education:
Ensure public tax dollars go to Rochester Schools to maintain quality education and none to private schools
Increase teacher pay
Provide Incentives to maintain teachers
Provide mental health counseling in school - K-12
Healthcare:
Equal access to quality healthcare for seniors and others
Support women’s reproductive rights
Provide mental health services for all
Affordable prescription drugs
Environment:
Maintain Michigan’s Great Lakes
Provide safe drinking water
Combat climate change
Explore renewable and clean energy
Democrat
Neil R. Oza
Age: 26
Occupation: Community Organizer
Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills
For how long: 26 years
Online campaign information: https://www.neilformi.com/
Education: BA Supply Chain Management from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: I got into this race because I believe we need a legislature that will protect abortion access and champion reproductive freedom. It’s now more important than ever that we work to keep abortion safe and legal here in Michigan. I promise that on day 1, I’ll demand we pass a bill to overturn Michigan’s abortion ban and codify the right to choose into state law. I promise to fight like hell to get this done.
Republican
Mark Tisdel
Running unopposed.
State House of Representatives District 66
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and five candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Emily C. Busch
Running unopposed.
Republican
Andrew Arendoski
Age: 36
Occupation: Self Employed/ Small Business Consultant
Municipality of Residence: Village of Romeo
For how long: 11 Years
Online Campaign Information: andrewforstate.com
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from University of Detroit Mercy
Previously and currently held elected offices: Republican Party Precinct Delegate
Top goals: My primary goal as your state representative is to increase your economic prosperity and personal freedom. I will call for the elimination of the state income tax by 2024, which can be done responsibly over 2 years. I will fight government induced inflation. I’ll fight for secure and transparent elections. I will call for an investigation into top government officials who may have profited from pandemic related policies. I want an efficient and transparent government.
Republican
Mary Berlingieri
Age: 52
Occupation: Financial Controller/ Project Manager
Municipality of residence: Washington Township, Macomb County
For how long: lifelong Macomb County resident
Online campaign information: www.maryberlingieri.com
Education: University of Detroit Mercy, Ford Motor, Macomb Community College
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My goals include: improve election integrity (integrate voter registration on every driver’s license and state ID), ensure veterans receive the benefits they deserve and are treated with dignity (MI ranks near the bottom for federal VA funding), higher quality education, support legislation that protects our constitutional rights from government overreach, increase government transparency (MI ranks 50th in the nation), and raise the concerns of the community in a meaningful and constructive way to promote change.
Republican
Jacob E. Newby
Age: 24
Occupation: Business Owner Juliet Chocolates-Chocolatier
Municipality of residence: Addison Township
For how long: 22 Years
Online campaign information: Jacobnewby.com
Education: Studied Political Science and Public Administration at Oakland University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Addison Township Trustee
Top goals: As I have done in Addison Township, I plan to prioritize Local Infrastructure and advocate for our communities at the State level. I will cut wasteful State spending and ensure fiscal responsibility. I want to defend my long-held principles of less government intervention in our lives by advocating for our freedom, as I have done with my business and education. I additionally plan to address election integrity and work towards an election audit.
Republican
Josh Schriver
Age: 30
Occupation: Autism Clinic Supervisor [Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)]
Municipality of residence: Oxford
For how long: 2 years
Online campaign information: josh4you.com
Education: De La Salle Collegiate High School (Warren, MI), Michigan State University - Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities, Capella University - Master’s Degree in Psychology
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate (since 2018)
Top goals:
-Reduce taxes
-Reduce government interference
-Reduce fraud, waste and abuse
+Increase election integrity
+Increase law and order
+Increase transparency, accountability, and transparency
Republican
Charles Shelton
Age: 48
Occupation: Full-Time Educator/ Part-Time Military Reserve Officer
Municipality of residence: Bruce Township
For how long: 4.5 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/char lieshelton66
Education: Bachelor Degree in History & Spanish
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals:
• Michigan’s Military: Michigan was the ‘Arsenal of Democracy.’ Michigan needs to lead the nation in 21st century military matters as global threats emerge.
• Michigan’s Mental Health: Michigan faces a crisis at many levels. Addressing quality of life for those suffering from disabilities is necessary when we are committed to “neighbors helping neighbors.”
• Michigan’s Modernization: If elected, I will form a non-partisan ‘MICaucus25’ to make a 25 year plan for businesses and citizens of our state.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 4
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November.Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Marilyn Bonucci
Age: 69
Occupation: retired teacher
Municipality of residence: Auburn Hills
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: BA University of California
Previously and currently held elected offices: none
Top goals: I would like to enact a local minimum wage.
The commission could assist Oakland’s gun sellers to enforce the laws to control guns.
I will do all I can to support deliverance of mental health treatment, especially for organizations that provide services for low income people. I will support conditions under which business can thrive. I will do my best to represent the interests of constituents. I will always listen to public input.
Democrat
Brendan Johnson
Age: 28
Occupation: Legislative Director, Michigan House of Representatives
Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills
For how long: I’ve lived in the Rochester area for 24 years.
Online campaign information: www.BrendanForOakland.com
Education: BA International Relations from Michigan State University, MS Foreign Service from Georgetown University
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: I have three main priorities. The first is applying lessons learned from Covid into the post-pandemic world and administering holistic healthcare (from mental to physical to reproductive) from Holly to Ferndale to Novi. The second is making sure our economy continues to thrive by leveraging programs like Oakland County Michigan Works! to connect workers and jobs. Third, I am committed to bringing a unified regional transit system to Metro Detroit.
Republican
Kevin R. McDaniel
Age: 43
Occupation: Biotech Reimbursement and Contracts Lead
Municipality of residence: Auburn Hills, MI
For how long: Life-long
Online campaign information: kevinmcdaniel.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business - Management Information Systems
Previously and currently held elected offices: Mayor for the City of Auburn Hills (In my 9th year); Auburn Hills City Council (14 Years)
Top goals:
MAINTAINING OUR HOMETOWN VALUES - common-sense decisions must be made locally from the input of those who live in the community and who will feel the impacts of those decisions.
RESOURCES FOR OUR SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT – ensuring our Deputies have the tools to keep our communities safe and that the safety of our children is paramount.
FISCALLY CONSERVATIVE - Return the County to responsible spending and good government. Focusing on our community, not special interest groups.
Republican
Wilbur C. Sims III
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 5
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Justin Willcock
Running unopposed.
Republican
Michael Spisz
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 6
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Sarah B. Pounds
Running unopposed.
Republican
Michael J. Gingell
Age: 50
Occupation: Chief Operating Officer - FordDirect
Municipality of residence: Orion Township
For how long: 45 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/votemikegingell
Education: Bachelor of Science, Oakland University; Master of Business Administration, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices:
Orion Township Board of Trustees - 6 years
Oakland County Commissioner - 16 years
Top goals: My top priority is to embed financial responsibility and accountability in County spending and the voice of common sense in policy decisions. We need to provide services that are needed with a focus on public safety. We need to support economic development and our business community to maintain our tax base and demand for housing.
Republican
Heather Smiley
Age: 42
Occupation: Retired Homemaker, current position Conservationist
Municipality of residence: Lake Orion
For how long: 22yrs
Online campaign information: electsmiley.com
Education: No answer given.
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals:
Stop wasteful spending, stop paying other counties bills and supporting foreign companies before our local businesses.
Ensure county tax money does not fund illegals/ refugees medical care or housing, while our citizens struggle to support their families.
Stop the division that D.E.I brings. We are all created in God’s likeness, all citizens have equal rights under the Bill of Rights.
Protect our children from indoctrination and unhealthy mandates.
Fund our Police and support our Veterans.
Oakland Township Parks Commissioner
Two candidates are running for one term ending Nov. 20, 2024. Commissioners earn a stipend per meeting attended. The value of the stipend was not available
at press time.
Republican
Matthew Peklo
Age: 29
Occupation: Principal Marketing Analyst
Municipality of residence: Oakland Township
For how long: 25 Years
Online campaign information: www.pekloforparks.com
Education: Magna Cum Laude Bachelor of Science from Grand Valley State University with a double major in Natural Resources Management and Economics
Previously and currently held elected offices: No previous or currently held elected offices
Top goals: If elected, my main goal is to continue protecting and restoring the parks that make Oakland Township a great place to live. I’d like to preserve our township’s rural character while continuing to seek community input to ensure what is being done is in line with what residents want. I’m committed to a family friendly park system where all of our residents - and especially our children - can learn, play, and enjoy nature.
Republican
Judy Workings
Age: 63
Occupation: Parks and Recreation Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Oakland Township
For how long: 33 years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: BA Communications, Minor Biology from Oakland University, Advanced Master Gardener, Township Governance Accreditation through Michigan Township Association
Previously and currently held elected offices: Charter Township of Oakland Clerk, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Oakland Township
Top goals: Oakland Township’s Park and Recreation Commission has done an exemplary job in creating family friendly parks; including resident’s in the decision making process; obtaining grants for land purchases; and I intend to keep supporting this effort. If elected, I would focus on deer monitoring, vernal pool data collection, invasive plant removal, native plant restoration and John Muir’s vision of natural parkland preservation for future generations to enjoy. Also, create educational and volunteer opportunities for residents.