I believe our tax dollars need to work for us first. The first is applying lessons learned from COVID-19 into the post-pandemic world. What are the top three priority issues that Oakland County faces and what actions would you, as commissioner, take regarding each of them? But many in our government have forgotten this. Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Central Michigan University. As a citizen activist, I have already been doing the job of a commissioner, without the elected title. (Crystal A. Proxmire, Sept. 12, 2022) Oakland County, MI - In the race for Oakland Community College (OCC) Trustee, there are several candidates vying for just three seats. When elected I will work to cut funding to any created or bureaucratic office that does not demonstrate usable services of our district. This means assuring not only that students at Oakland University are prepared for the challenges of the world ahead, but how can the county leverage programs like Michigan Works! Why are you running again for county commission and why should voters re-elect you? The pandemic identified many areas to county officials that needed more attention. I will always support initiatives that protect and beautify our natural environment, and make parks and recreation areas safer, more accessible and inclusive for all residents. Share this: Tags: Prev post. I find it satisfying to solve problems for constituents. The actions that I will take would be to not spend taxpayer dollars foolishly as what is being done at this time. County government needs to return to serving the people of the county, not bullying them or making them dependent. Education: I earned a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Wayne State University, and I completed board certification (behavior analyst) from Florida Institute of Technology. We need to provide services that are needed with a focus on public safety. Economic recovery for families and small businesses I would find ways to trim waste in the budget and reallocate those funds to programs that assist families in need as they recover. The heart of our communities lies in our homes, churches, businesses and schools. GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The Michigan Republican Party has picked its endorsements for statewide races like attorney general, secretary of state, state board of education and more ahead of the 2022 . I am also a student of history and know the threat posed by a government unrestrained by constitutional limits and free, but secure, elections. OUSD teachers and staff survived 2023-24 budget cuts for now. Through those two actions, a new Board of Commissioners will go a long way toward realizing a third priority, which is restoring responsible management to Oakland Countys government. Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin for Congress, District 8. Each year Oakland County Times gives candidates for any office an opportunity to do a video interview. Their future success will depend on detailed recovery plans that address these challenges. What are the top three priority issues that Oakland County faces and what actions would you, as commissioner, take regarding each of them? I have been a commissioner 10-plus years and truly enjoy public service, giving back to the community and I want to keep Oakland County one of the best places to live, work, play and prosper. I will review policy and proposals with an environmental benefit perspective including LEED and EGLE standards. Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack for MI Supreme Court. I also am a strong supporter of Detroit City FC and all species of bees. As a sitting member of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners since 2018, I currently serve as the Majority Caucus Chair, Chair of the Legislative Affairs and Government Operations Committee, Chair of the Healthy Aging Ad Hoc Committee, and I am a member of the Public Health and Safety Committee. Get to know the candidates running for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. I will continue to work to find alternatives and inventive ways to continue to entice employers into our area. Hes been active in the community for many years, providing his abilities as a designer, football coach, and councilman. I also understand the liberating nature of individual responsibility and seek to encourage it for others. I did not take the decision to run for county commissioner lightly, nor the decision of running against an incumbent of my party, but after much thought and encouragement, I committed to running for this office. Donovan is a former 2014 Republican candidate for District 63 of the New York . Member of County pandemic response team during initial phase of COVID -19 pandemic. Entrepreneurs and small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and especially our local economy here in Oakland County as they drive employment, pay taxes, increase GDP, and are valued members in any community. Roads, water and sewer systems need to be maintained. Approved funding through our Local Road Improvement Program (LRIP) for repairs and improvements to roads. He was elected to the Peralta Board of Trustees in 2020, . Providing leadership in trying times such as the 2008 great recession and foreclosure crisis, establishing the Great Lakes Water Authority to protect access to water as well as preserving the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Detroit Zoo. We need to address the affordable housing situation. What are your accomplishments as commissioner? Board Formal Session Location: Oakland Center, Banquet Room A. December 4, 2023, 2:00 p.m. - Board Formal Session Location: Oakland Center, Banquet Room A (248) 370-2100; The Oakland Township Board of Trustees meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 p.m. at the Township Hall 4393 Collins Road, Rochester MI 48306. I am running to emphasize the need for empathy in our community and to expand racial, social, economic and environmental justice. We must also use these funds to support our local businesses and continue to bring employers to Oakland County. For 15 years, I worked as a paralegal, specializing in construction and surety law. CHEYENNE - The Laramie County School District 1 at-large trustees race is hotly contested, as five candidates vie for one seat on the board. Oakland University is governed by an eight-member Board of Trustees appointed by the governor to serve eight-year terms. I voted to lower the tax rate every year since 2011 protecting property values while maintaining quality services. As District 4s commissioner, I will bring my leadership experience of six years as a City Council Member and eight years as mayor to the county commission. . Terms of Use | Online Privacy Policy. Married with two elementary school-aged children. Working with the Executive branch, our current budget is structurally balanced, and includes a 25% Rainy Day Fund and a 5% Emergency Fund. Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: Rob is a husband and father of three amazing boys. Transparency, spending, infrastructure. I am running for re-election in order to continue to serve the community and help others. Why are you running for the Board of Commissioners? Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: I am a lifelong resident of White Lake Township. Education: I graduated from Clarkston High School here in northern Oakland County. I believe the marketplace, not politicians and bureaucrats, should determine which jobs are essential and which are not. We must be good stewards of our communities by first taking care of the infrastructure we have: police, fire, roads, water and schools. Yet they will spend millions on their personal pet projects and that is absolutely unacceptable. I am a graduate of Avondale High School and earned a bachelors degree in business, with a concentration in information technology from Oakland University, which is also located in District 4. They must be addressed responsibly without negatively labeling people. Mental health resources and easier accessibility The Board of County Commissioners just passed a huge investment with matching grants for Oakland County Schools to provide grants to increase mental health professionals and increased accessibility in our schools. Why are you running again for county commission and why should voters re-elect you? Boyd Farnam. St. QIC 22103 Oakland, CA 94602 (510) 967-3825. The incumbent, Aimee Eng, is stepping down after 8 years. Oakland Community College is governed by a seven-person Board of Trustees. As a Precinct Delegate, I get to work closely with voters in my precinct, understand the issues that are most important to them, and keep them updated with important voting and candidate information. Through years of thoughtful investment and infrastructure, including the massive Baldwin Corridor Revitalization Project, Lake Orion now boasts some of the best restaurants, shops and businesses in Oakland County. Abraham also . 0. by admin in Uncategorized. My background and professional training is in diplomacy and national security, and I have previously worked for the U.S. State Department in Madrid and for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin. Gained approval from the BOC for $500,000 to support co-pays to Oxford School district for mental health support after the Nov. 30, 2021 incident. Part of that rebuilding would also include training and funding for individuals who want to enter into skilled trades and other important job sectors that dont require a college degree. Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: Im a lifelong Oakland County resident, born and raised in the District I represent. First and foremost, we need to restore transparency to county government. Last year, Oakland County officials approved a new plan that set new boundaries for county commission districts, reducing the amount of districts from 21 to 19. Oakland County officials approved a new plan, new boundaries for county commission districts, the commissions vote to spend $3 million, Auburn Hills City Council voting to opt out of SMART. I am extremely supportive of our countys efforts to grow our regions talent pipeline through our Oakland80 commitment. County government is not supposed to be about power, its supposed to be about responsibility. The need for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) leadership is to examine the conditions of the work environment and actively work to remove barriers that hinder residents and employees in the county. Parts of Oakland are represented in Areas 3, 5 and 7 Responsibilities: I will seek to improve the delivery and availability of these community based services. I hear from people almost every day who need public transit for jobs, education, etc. Education: BS Chemistry, Western Michigan University. This is my home and I want to give back to my community and fight to be their voice. As an energetic leader, passionate problem solver and forward thinker, I am running for re-election to further pursue my commitment in representing the diverse voices in District 10 while advocating for solutions to the issues they care most about. As county commissioner, I voted for our local road improvement and our Tri-Party Road Programs making millions of dollars available to improve local roads. The focus of our team is to build: Thriving communities, happy and healthy people, and smart business. It specifies the benefits that the developer will bring to our community. I believe the marketplace, not politicians and bureaucrats, should determine which jobs are essential and which are not. 2 Year Term Petitions or Fees Filing Date Withdrawal Date Dem Samantha Steckloff. I am a wife and mother of two amazing daughters and work within my community on various endeavors to ensure local government works for everyone and that those who are often overlooked have a voice. Board of Trustees. During most of that time, Oakland County was the envy of the nation for its competent, business-like management. Public health and safety. If you have any questions, contact the Oakland County Board of Elections at . Currently, I am employed in the public sector while also running a small woodworking business. As county commissioner, I voted for our local road improvement and our Tri-Party Road Programs making millions of dollars available to improve local roads. Affidavit of Identity Write in Candidate Declaration of Intent Family is what ultimately fuels Robs passion to maintain and improve his community. I have been in the auto industry for over 30 years and during the day I continue to work for a Tier 1 automotive supplier as an executive global director of engineering where I manage programs and resources in multiple countries around the world. I have lived in Oakland County for most of my life and I want to continue to make sure the county remains one of the best counties in the Country. Some of my proudest accomplishments are bringing more money to provide more mental health services to all residents. My vote on the new county commission will join others to open the process to the light of day so the people can watch and judge our actions. (248) 370-4287. Im in my third decade now in Oakland County. I stepped up in the past and served as an elected Walled Lake School Board Member from 2010-2013. I am an honest, hardworking commissioner that prioritizes the concerns of my constituents. Through those two actions, a new Board of Commissioners will go a long way toward realizing a third priority, which is restoring responsible management to Oakland Countys government. As someone who is dedicated to my local community and our county, I believe I can be that strong and sound voice that we need to represent District 12 and honor the will of the people that I would serve. I am currently an elected precinct delegate, trustee on the Holly Township Library Board, community volunteer, and co-founder of Holly ACTS, a community action network. With the exception of one year teaching English to high school . We gained even more appreciation for our parks and recreation areas during the pandemic, when they became a safe place to gather together and experience the sense of community that we all needed. I currently work at the Michigan State House of Representatives where I am the Chief of Staff for Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills). When the commission voted to appropriate $3 million to create a hub for the World Economic Forum in Oakland County, the decision was solidified to run. $1.5 million of those funds would have helped our Oakland Countys Sheriffs Department that saw its budget sliced by $1.5 million. After talking to many parents in our community, I realized many in our county are unaware of what the commission actually does, and how they spend our money. It is about time we stop the fleecing of Oakland County without stopping to be compassionate. Many people see this trend as a wasteful spending. EMAIL OCRP 248 - 499 - 7288 FOLLOW OCRP DONATE. Current job: Owner of Thoughtful Threads in Holly. Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: I am a social worker who has worked in policymaking, municipal finance and community organizing. Im a graduate of Cass Technical High School. I have been appointed to Oxford Township Planning Commission since 2014. ? I was elected to the County Commission in 2018, re-elected in 2020. I have participated in committees to understand and address seniors needs and will continue to advocate for those needs. In local government, one has the opportunity to work with people on local issues that affect us all. Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: I am a lifelong Oakland County resident and live in Orion Township with my husband and four children. With ensuing inflation we must maintain our multiyear balanced budget and continue to find ways to save cost within government. He's also president of the California Association of Black School Educators and he previously was a member of the Alameda County Public Health Commission.. We need to take immediate action in reversing county governments intrusion into peoples lives. Jan. 24The Oakland Community College (OCC) Board of Trustees recently welcomed newly elected trustee, Edward D. Callaghan of Royal Oak, and also elected new officers at the first board meeting . Our natural environment became even more essential for our mental and emotional health. Current job: Oakland County Commissioner, District 16, Clinical Supervisor, Easter Seals, Education: Masters Degree in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. The members of the board are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis by voters living within the college district, an area that generally coincides with the boundaries of Oakland County. I believe in regional cooperation among municipalities and counties, because our problems are often the same and overlap across jurisdictions. Occupation: HR Trainer Analyst II, Oakland County; (Retired . Oakland County, Michigan / Board of Commissioners. I have also received the 40 under 40 award from Oakland County and the Michigan Chronicle. The board are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis by voters living within the college district, of Oakland County. #2 Protect our AAA bond rating to keep our financial outlook positive, which will keep both residential and commercial property taxes low, bring business to our county and make it cheaper for us to borrow money, if needed. Young people and others struggle to find affordable homes and apartments. Robert Wittenberg, Trustee. I have shown the willingness to work across the aisle and stand up to issues that would not benefit our community. Each Trustee is elected by Area. Clerk - Karen Reilly. Why are you running for the Board of Commissioners? - General Manager, Operations, RCO Aerospace and RCO Engineering - Board of Directors, Treasurer, Aerospace Industry Association of . There are several options to address this issue, at the individual level, at the community level, and with local developers. I am also a mom to four young daughters. Tell us about yourself in 200 words or less: Oakland County Commissioner, Elected in 2018 and 2020, Mayor, City of Clawson, 2007-2017; Council Person, City of Clawson 2003-2007; Clawson Youth Assistance Chair; Clawson Chamber of Commerce Board Member; Area Agency on Aging 1 B Board Member; Clawson Farmers Market Co-Organizer, 2009 to present; Boy Scout Troop 1627 Secretary; Employed at Easter Seals since 2002. Ricky Donovan, Sr. ( Republican Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent New York's 26th Congressional District. In addition, I stay in touch with local units of government to try and assist them to help all residents. Our youth are the future of our communities, and we need to have incentives to retain them in Oakland County. Supporting policies that protect our drinking water and recreational waterways, preserving community green spaces, parks, and enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities. Our mission is to elect Republicans to all levels of government, from local school. I am running for county commission because we need strong leadership in South Oakland County. I am committed to serving the district, keeping taxes low, improving roads and infrastructure and preserving property values. Working hands-on as a special education teacher and a behavior analyst have instilled the values of persistence, compassion and problem solving, and I will continue to put that spirit to work for constituents. I am in the process now of administering assistance through the American recovery funds to schools, nonprofits, residents and businesses. 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