| Voters decide local races
Voters in the Beacon’s coverage area have a full slate of candidates to choose from Nov. 4. West Bloomfield residents will decide their township board, while Keego Harbor, Orchard Lake and Sylvan Lake voters will choose city council members. The school board election in West Bloomfield seems already decided, with two candidates for two positions, but residents of the Walled Lake Consolidated Schools have a contested election. And voters in Sylvan Lake have the added responsibility of deciding whether or not they support a millage increase. Following are the verbatim profiles candidates submitted. They were limited to 150 words, and if they exceeded the limit, (…) replaced the rest of their answer. An (I) indicates an incumbent.
West Bloomfield Township Supervisor
West Bloomfield Township Clerk
West Bloomfield Township Treasurer
West Bloomfield Township Trustee
West Bloomfield Township Parks and Recreation Commission
West Bloomfield Township Library Board of Directors
West Bloomfield School District Board of Education
Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Board of Education
Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Board of Education
Keego Harbor City Council
Keego Harbor City Council
Orchard Lake City Council
Sylvan Lake City Council
Sylvan Lake millage proposal ballot language
West Bloomfield Township Supervisor
There are two candidates vying for a four-year term.
Republican
Jeff Matte
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Michele Economou
Age: 40
Occupation: Business Owner and Business System Consultant
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township
For how long: 7 years
Education: Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Political Science, Master’s Degree in Public Administration, 1996
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: I will utilize my business system expertise to build a High Performance Township that is run as an efficient business enterprise. When there becomes a scarcity of resources, it is imperative to migrate proven business tools into the public sector. I will work hard to reduce internal bureaucratic waste, free up capital, create a new culture to capture the voice-of-the-customer and streamline processes (including the lengthy and costly building permit process that has discouraged developers from doing business in West Bloomfield.) I will support re-development by attracting, promoting and showcasing locally owned businesses. I am results-oriented and will implement a robust green initiative to generate revenue, while maintaining the unique character of our community. My proven and extensive leadership experience includes building strategic alliances and partnerships. I will successfully lobby the Oakland County Road Commission on behalf of our residents and businesses.
West Bloomfield Township Clerk
There is one candidate seeking a four-year term.
Democrat
Cathy Shaughnessy
Age: 51
Occupation: Community Activist/ Volunteer and Homemaker
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield, MI
For how long: Over 20 years
Education: Wayne State University – 2 years
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
SMART DEVELOPMENT
• Small businesses need support of the community
• Our downtown should be a friendly place where people can walk AND drive
• Form a leadership council to develop workable recommendations to revitalize Orchard Lake corridor
• Protect value of residences and assure that redevelopment does too
• Seniors, young people thrive in housing for people of all ages; Intergenerational housing should be explored
ROADS
• Thoroughly re-evaluate the Northwestern Connector project
• Construct Orchard Lake Road Boulevard NOW so our vision for a new downtown can proceed
• Review need for further roundabouts AND widening of Maple
• Advocate for competitive bid process for road improvements
• Support efforts for public transportation alternatives
• Strengthen our voice at county level to accomplish our transportation plans
BUDGET
• Develop long-term financial plan
• Seek alternative ways to reduce expenses NOW
• Won’t tighten bottom line off backs of taxpayers
• Review current high legal fees; examine carefully the cost of “hiring out” services
West Bloomfield Township Treasurer
There are two candidates competing for a four-year term.
Republican
Jason Feld
Age: 38
Occupation: Corporate Controller at The Farbman Group
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 6 years
Education: Masters in Accounting From Walsh College; Bachelor in Business Administration from Western Michigan University
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
1) Maintain West Bloomfield ’s Financial Stability. Our Treasurer, Denise Hammond is retiring after 20 years serving our residents, it is critical that we elect someone who has the experience we can count on. I have 16 years of financial and accounting experience, managing millions of dollars in assets for some of the most respected companies in Michigan. West Bloomfield can count on me to serve with competency, efficiency and dedication to our community.
2) Increase Efficiency, Decrease Costs and Focus on Customer Service through the use of technological advancements such as Electronic Banking. I will always look for ways to reduce the size, scope and cost of our township government.
3) As a member of our township board I will never vote to increase taxes. Many of us have had to learn how to make ends meet with less; it’s time government at all levels does the same.
Democrat
Teri Adelberg Weingarden
Age: 39
Occupation: (Former) Pricing Coordinator in Finance Department for UNISYS & extensive consulting experience with EDS and Andersen Consulting (Accenture) including North American Knowledge Manager for all Automotive and Industrial Equipment clients
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 30 years
Education: Masters, Industrial Relations, Concentration in Labor Relations and Management — 1995, Wayne State University
Bachelor of Arts, Dual degrees in Organizational Psychology and International Relations — 1991, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: First and foremost, I will protect the financial well being of West Bloomfield Township by making sound and safe investments. I will ensure that all investments are in safe local banking institutions. I will create a detailed investment plan that continually invests our finances in the most rewarding way, while carefully following state investment guidelines.
I will investigate creative ways to save township money to offset the decrease in revenues. Instead of raising taxes, I will work hard to improve processes and build economies of scale. I will initiate alliances with other township departments and neighboring communities to lower costs while improving service.
Our roads are currently crumbling beneath our wheels. I will support safe and maintained roadways. I will stand up to Oakland County Road Commission and fight for the repaving of Orchard Lake road and other West Bloomfield projects.
West Bloomfield Township Trustee
There are five candidates seeking one of four, four-year terms.
Republican
John Cyrus Mohyi
Age: 20
Occupation: Student; day trader
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield TWP
For how long: Since 2002
Education: Graduate of Andover High School. Student of Economics and Psychology at WSU
Previously held elected offices: 6th Precinct Delegate
Top goals: As a trustee in the Township of West Bloomfield I will use my common sense, sense of fairness, and technological insight to increase the overall standard of living in West Bloomfield. I plan to eliminate abusive practices such as unfair taxing via over estimated property values and absurd restrictions which stifle progress. In addition I will adopt technologies such as cloud computing which could potentially cut over 1 Million dollars from the township budget while increasing productivity and overall efficiency. For more information visit www.JohnMohyi.com.
Democrat
Larry Brown
Age: 63
Occupation: Retired CPA with over 30 years in the profession
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Township
For how long: 22 years
Education: Graduated Wayne State University with a B.S. Degree in Business Administration with an Accounting Major
Previously held elected offices: No elected offices
Top goals: First, the disrespect the residents receive when presenting issues to the Township Board needs to change. As an elected official I would encourage residents to come before the Board and be allowed to express their opinions and would set a time each month to meet with the residents individually.
Second, some roads are currently in poor condition and the plans for the upcoming roundabouts are a concern. I would continue to have dialogue with the County officials and try to modify the Maple and Orchard Lake Road intersection to multiple turn lanes rather than the roundabout and to encourage the overdue completion of the Orchard Lake Boulevard.
Third, the budget and the shrinking dollars from the State is a problem. I would set up a 3 to 5 year projected budget so that the level of services being provided can stay at a safe level to serve the residents.
Democrat
Gene Farber
Age: 61
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 33 years
Education: BA and JD- University of Michigan
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
#1. Promoting economic growth in the township. Most government efforts to enhance economic growth come from the state and federal governments. But West Bloomfield can make a contribution to its own economic health and it should. I would establish a Downtown Development Authority to help redevelop the Orchard Lake-Maple area under the new ordinance drafted by the Planning Commission and approved by the Township Board.
#2. The Township must continue to provide necessary serves in an era of decreasing state and federal revenue. I would carefully review any proposed budget to insure that money was not being spent on projects that were unnecessary. This could involve ending long standing programs that are no longer prudent.
#3. Communication. I would meet with township employees to insure that we are all working together for the citizens of the Township
Democrat
Steven Kaplan
Age: 54
Occupation: Assistant Prosecuting Attorney; and Adjunct Law Professor, M.S.U. College of Law
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 13 years
Education: B.A. Oakland University (1975); J.D., Detroit College of Law (1981)
Previously held elected offices: Township Trustee, West Bloomfield, 2000-2004; School Board Trustee, Southfield Public Schools Board of Education, 1987-1995
Top goals:
1. Improve the quality of the board meetings: Meetings should be conducted in a business-like manner, without trustees engaging in petty, disruptive discussions with one another. The township’s reputation is based partly on the quality of televised meetings. Board members should treat one another and the public courteously and respectfully.
2. Gain quicker, longer lasting repairs of the township’s main roads: The township should petition the county road commission to accelerate the schedule for repairing Orchard Lake Road and other major roads. Visitors judge the township partly by the quality of its roads. Orchard Lake Road businesses are economically affected by the condition of the road.
3. Find tenants to occupy vacant retail establishments and restaurants in the township: The township should attempt to attract national restaurants such as P.F. Changs to locate to the township. Township residents and visitors thereby would patronize more local restaurants, providing economic benefits to other retail stores.
Democrat
Howard Rosenberg
Age: 56
Occupation: Chiropractor, w/ expertise in risk management and insurance pooling
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 24 years
Education: D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic), Palmer College, 1980
Previously held elected offices: Commissioner, West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation
Top goals: The township is facing budget, property values and environmental issues.
In order to balance the need to continue providing necessary services, maintain safe neighborhoods, retain strong staff and control legacy costs I will examine every budget line item. All elected officials should support elimination of duplicate services and consider collaboration with surrounding communities.
To maintain property values I will advocate for: upgrades to the infrastructure, fast track permitting, an economic development person to promote new & existing businesses, improved cooperation with schools, parks and library administrations.
Each vote I cast will consider current and future impact to our environment. I will propose and support programs that will reduce both the township and residents carbon footprint. Decisions made that promote a more livable township will create a feeling of community and homes that hold their value.
West Bloomfield Township Parks and Recreation Commission
There are seven candidates for seven four-year terms.
Democrat
Mervin Aronoff
Age: 62
Occupation: Health and Life Insurance Producer
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield Twp.
For how long: 22 years
Education: Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering, Wayne State University.
Previously held elected offices: No previously held elected offices.
Top goals: My goal as West Bloomfield Township Parks and Recreation Commissioner is to accommodate the wishes and needs of the community. In the five year master plan (2007-2011) there are requests by residents indicating that elements in our activity programs and park facilities should have additions or be improved. The three most important requests that I would like to take action on are: 1) a teen drop-in center, which I would advocate strongly and seek allowance in the budget to be established, 2) added and diverse senior activities, which I would research from other communities and listen to suggestions so they can be incorporated into our programs, and 3) addition of fishing piers, beaches and waterfront access for swimming at various locations. I would propose these improvements and request state grants for land acquisions and development of these expansions.
Democrat
Maxine Brickner
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Margie Fiszman-Kirsch
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Carol Hack (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Larry Horowitz
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Adam S. Littman
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Democrat
Gerald J. Sukenic (I)
Age: 72
Occupation: Real Estate Broker, Michigan & Arizona; Licensed Michigan Residential Builder; Licensed EMT-Emergency Medical Technician; Substitute District Teacher: Birmingham Public Schools 1-12, Scottsdale Unified School district 6-12.
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 30 ys.
Education: Wayne State University, BIS. Major, Humanities, Accounting. Walsh Institute: Accounting & Business Administration. Mumford High School-Detroit.
Previously held elected offices: Elected to Parks & Recreation Commission 2000; Re-elected 2004
Top goals: Our park sites exist and are extremely well maintained and Improved. Our recreation programs are very broad in scope. Now I would like to focus on bringing amenities to the park Sites in the form of public art objects such as indigenous Animals and multi media sculptures … How to accomplish this .. Annual contest of submissions from local artists with a Financial award.
Another project that could utilize the Schulak Farm barn As the site for summer theatre presentations and local Artists presentations and workshops. This project has Been reviewed by our recreation supervisor.
Contract for services with absolute liability to have off Road safety paths cleared and maintained during the winter Months so citizens who wish to recreate, walk, jog, run would Be able to safely use them.
West Bloomfield Township Library Board of Directors
There are seven candidates for six four-year terms.
Salma Marougy Ajo
Age: Not given
Occupation: Psychologist/Seminars trainer
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 28 years
Education: Ph.D. (Majoring in Clinical Psychology and Education); BS in Human Resource development (majoring in Training and design)
Previously held elected offices: West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commissioner (4 years)
Top goals: Running for the Library board is derived from my passion to education and promoting new programs and implement them. Some of the things that I wish to accomplish are:
1. Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with staff and with community leaders throughout the state by:
_get involved and become more visible with the community and attend all possible functions.
2. Assist on the strategic planning, budget preparation designing and managing change, library technology, grant writing and fund digital projects by:
_work very closely with the director on these issues since I have the experience to accomplish this task for been involved with other non profit organization
3. Employ productive, creative and service-oriented by:
_increasing programs geared toward youth, children and seniors.
4. Assist in “reasonable” modifications to buildings and activities to provide that all residents, including those who have special needs and challenges physically and mentally.
_essentially have the same rights to access (…)
Arlene Bordman (I)
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired office manager
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 38 years
Education: B.A. and post graduate from MSU
Previously held elected offices: Currently serving on W. Bloomfield Library Board
Top goals:
1. Work to pass the library mileage renewal, so the library can continue to provide excellent service.
2. Expand library services to reflect the diverse population of West Bloomfield.
3. Keep the library a welcoming place to go for all ages.
Judith A. Holtz (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Carol A. Kravetz (I)
Age: 60
Occupation: Teacher
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 30 years
Education: B.S. in Education — Wayne State University; Masters in Education — Marygrove University
Previously held elected offices: Library Board of Trustees, Precinct delegate
Top goals: First, in a diverse community such as ours, I believe we need to continue to offer the highest quality materials, programs and services that can be provided to English as well as non-English speaking patrons.
Second, as we seek to better understand the needs of our community, we are continuously engaged in patron surveys. We are currently initiating a phone survey to reach out to community members who may have been missed by in-house surveys. Our future Strategic Plan will reflect what we learn from these surveys.
Third, my priority is to continue to maintain our library as the extra-ordinary facility that it has become. As the true center of the community, we want to continue to provide services that enrich the lives of all of our patrons, in what we believe is a comfortable, attractive, stimulating state-of-the-art facility, while being fiscally responsible.
Ken Macon (I)
Age: 65
Occupation: Partner in a personnel placement firm
Municipality of residence: W. Bloomfield
For how long: 24 years
Education: BS Chemistry University of Missouri
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
• Maintain the high level of customer satisfaction that the Library has with the patron base by supporting the continued patron interface by the staff personnel, such having personnel available in the lobby area to help with directions and checkout.
• Support an aggressive outreach program with emphasis on reading programs for K-5 grades.
• Continue to support improvements in technological innovations such as increased “Online” programming and computer-use training for senior citizens.
Thomas Meyer (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Wendy B. Osthaus (I)
Age: 61
Occupation: Adjunct Professor of American History, Henry Ford Community College
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 27 years
Education: BA, MA Oakland University, Rochester MI
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
1. I will work to maintain fiscal responsibility for the West Bloomfield Township Public Library. Although the Headlee Rollback law means that we will not experience financial crisis in the immediate future, we must continue to conserve funds for to keep our library in optimum condition while maintaining the quality standards our patrons have come to expect.
2. I will continue to support collection development so that West Bloomfield’s diverse population will find the books, CDs, DVDs, and programs to fill their personal and professional needs. In addition, I will continue volunteering in the library which allows me to meet the patrons and staff on a daily basis.
3. I will support the library director’s policy of employing the finest staff possible to assist our patrons with their needs.
West Bloomfield School District Board of Education
There are two candidates for two six-year terms.
David Einstandig (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Bruce Tobin (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Board of Education
There are four candidates vying for two six-year terms.
William Balestrino (I)
Age: 51
Occupation: Aesthetic and Personal Dentist
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: Commerce Twp resident for 23 years
Education: Public High School Graduate; Pharmacy degree from Ohio State University, 1981; Dental degree from Ohio State University, 1985
Previously held elected offices: I presently serve as Treasurer of the Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Board of Education.
Top goals:
1. Union Negotiations; Encourage the shared vision of our district in working toward excellence. Present solutions that do not punish our great employees and teachers and yet still gives the district some breathing room with the budget through shared sacrifice.
2. Current funding shortfall; In addition to requesting help from our employees during negotiations, I would press for more department budget cutting and improved efficiencies. Although other districts have privatized certain departments and services, it should only be as a last resort. All the district’s employees have shown dedication to our schools and students. Thanking them by eliminated their position is just wrong. It cannot be stressed enough that additional educational program cuts or their elimination can only be considered in the most desperate of situations.
3. Meeting educational needs/state requirements in the current fiscal situation; maintaining the programs that our children benefit most from and minimizing cuts that directly effect students.
Mathew Cornish
Age: 35
Occupation: Operations Manager
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: 6.5 years
Education: B.S. Economics – Grand Valley State University; Masters in Public Administration – Western Michigan University; Masters in Accounting – Walsh College
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: The most important issue facing the District is navigating the changed financial landscape while preserving the educational quality for which Walled Lake has become known. The District must make difficult decisions in allocating funding across its many educational priorities. We must focus on core fundamentals such as appropriate class size and providing proper instructional resources to ensure the highest quality education.
We do not have the luxury of funding programs that may provide value but do not directly support the most important priorities. Further, the District must be proactive. The District must not make decisions as a response to surrounding school districts. Schools today must compete for every dollar of funding. A reactive district is an uncompetitive district. An uncompetitive district risks further erosion in enrollment and subsequently reduced funding.
Greg Janicki
Age: 43
Occupation: Chief Operating Officer, CSM Worldwide
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: Nine years
Education: BA, Michigan State University, Double Major: Communication and Psychology
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
• Support curriculum that creates student leaders
• Deliver effective resources to ensure a safe, high-performing district
• Establish clear measures of success in all areas
To achieve these goals, I will recommend decisions that serve the best interest of district students. I will also endeavor to provide the district team with the resources necessary to deliver curriculum and services to achieve student success. Additionally, I believe the district must emphasize community involvement, encouraging parental support in and out of the classroom. Also, I would encourage all areas to closely examine their impact on the achievement of the district’s mission and ensure that every member of the district team knows that they have a positive influence on district success.
Kathy J. Lyall (I)
Age: 39
Occupation: For the last ten years I have been home with my children and dedicated to volunteer work in my community. Prior to this, my professional experiences were with Ancor, EDS and Ford Motor Company.
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: Nine years
Education: Institute for Local Government at University of Michigan-Dearborn (2008). BA in Political Science, Business and Communications from the University of Michigan-Dearborn (1992).
Previously held elected offices: Appointed to board of education in February 2008.
Top goals: I am dedicated to minimizing the impact of budget reductions in areas directly affecting our student’s ability to achieve. I believe our highest priority is student achievement. I take responsibility for budget decisions and work diligently to reduce the effect on programs, staff and students. It is critical to reach these decisions through collaboratively working and communicating with our staff and community.
I believe our district must provide every student a first-rate education, regardless of academic and social challenges. I support interventions such as Reading Recovery, Reading/Math Essentials, Project Rise, and Community High School. In addition, I believe we need to maintain support systems to ensure every student is successful.
Our district needs to remain focused on continuing to improve student achievement, reflective in benchmark and state assessments, and improved graduation rates. I support giving our staff more collaborative time to analyze individual student’s data and implement best practices.
Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Board of Education
There is one candidate seeking a partial term ending Jan. 1, 2013.
Peggy Casagrande
Age: 41
Occupation: Self-Employed: PSC Consulting & Writing Services
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 10 years
Education: BA in Journalism from Michigan State University (1988); AA in Arts from Delta College (1986)
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: Our school district should continue to request that our state legislators adequately fund public education; continue to foster effective communication from the school board to the community, parents and teachers; and develop curriculum that helps us meet the more vigorous high school graduation requirements.
As a school board member, I will continue to contact legislators to ensure increased per pupil funding that helps us address ever rising costs. For example, I will continue to request that districts be allowed to use sinking fund dollars for transportation and computer leases. This would free up money from our operational budget and allow us to re-instate programs.
As a parent in the district I want to be informed; therefore, I will promote effective and timely communication from the school board.
Finally, I will encourage programs and curriculum that allow our students to meet and/or exceed Michigan’s new high school graduation requirements.
Keego Harbor City Council
There are four candidates competing for two three-year terms.
Robert Kalman (I)
Age: 40
Occupation: President and owner of Michigan Technology Services, a successful computer training and consulting business.
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: Purchased property five years ago and built new home
Education: Master of Business Administration, Michigan State University, East Lansing. Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Previously held elected offices: Current Keego Harbor councilman. Elected in November of 2007 to a one year term.
Top goals: When I am re-elected I will use common sense and sound business practices to focus our attention on fiscal stability and sustainability.
1) Most people agree that the roads in Keego Harbor are in bad shape and need to be fixed.
I have been actively working with the council over the past year to bring costs inline and find affordable solutions to our city road problems, and will continue to do so when re-elected.
2) Fact: You can’t operate efficiently without a financial plan.
Over the past year I have used my business experience to work with the council and together we will continue to develop a sound long term financial plan..
3) When I’m re-elected I will push for a greater sense of community. I will encourage active participation of all residents in our cultural and recreational activities. We need to be respectful of each other.
Please visit www.KalmanForKeegoHarbor.com for more info.
Barbara J. Kline
Age: 60
Occupation: Accounting/Grant financials, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Oakland University
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: over 40 years
Education: Oakland University; Pontiac Business Institute
Previously held elected offices: 3 terms on Keego Harbor City Council (9 years), (Served as councilwoman, Mayor Pro Tem 2003-2005 and Mayor 2005-2007)
Top goals: Residents continue saying the CITY STREETS have drainage problems and are deplorable. Roads impact all businesses and residents. When elected I will immediately start working for a city-wide solution to our road and drainage issues. I believe the residents should have the final vote on funding any road project.
Blight and code enforcement continue to be a challenge. My recommendation for a “free spring permit program” continues today which encourages home repairs and improvements. When elected I will offer suggestions for reviewing codes and ordinances, including the enforcement process for both residential and business districts.
Finances continue as a priority. When elected I will continue bringing suggestions and recommendations on financial issues including long-term financial planning. I have had several financial recommendations implemented, which included monthly financial reports, financial planning (long term and specific projects), capital improvement funding and the recruitment of a Financial Director.
Glenn T. Rogers
Age: 59
Occupation: Retired U.S. Air Force 21 years; Welding and Fabricating Business Self Employed 30 years; Aircraft Maintenance and repair self employed 12 years
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 59 years
Education: High School, Aerospace Technology, Computer Technology
Previously held elected offices: 4 Years on Keego Harbor City Council
Top goals: The repair of our city roads and storm drains by the most cost effective means possible.
Maintain a secure grip on the city’s financial situation while avoiding any tax increases, without the direction of the residents by their vote at regularly scheduled elections.
Evaluate and establish a fair and comprehensive Blight control program.
Sidney Rubin (I)
Age: Not given
Occupation: Investor
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: Eight years
Education: College. Lawrence Institute and Wayne State University
Previously held elected offices: Keego Harbor Council; first elected in 2005
Top goals: Continued development of an ongoing financial plan
With the threat of diminishing state revenues, a long term financial plan enables proactive management of the city’s finances, rather than reactive responses to financial crises as they occur.
Improving the roads and solving the drainage issues
The City Engineer and the DPW employees would identify the roads that need attention making its recommendations to the City Council annually. A drainage and re-pavement program would allow the city to budget costs in advance as part of its normal annual expenses beginning Spring, 2009. This is possible without taxpayers coming up with more tax money.
Shared community services
Like many other cities, Keego Harbor’s largest expense is public safety and welfare. Current economic conditions mandate that every community find creative ways to reduce costs by sharing services with neighboring communities. Snow plowing, DPW services, policing, fuel costs and purchasing of equipment are potential areas.
Keego Harbor City Council
There are two candidates vying for a one-year term.
Eric Gubka
Age: 34
Occupation: Software Trainer
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 8 years
Education: Bachelors Degree in Business Management
Previously held elected offices: No previous elected offices.
Top goals:
Roads — I fully support an approach that does not create an additional tax burden, yet offers us a high quality product, with minimal maintenance and a long life cycle. A long term plan for road maintenance and repair is needed.
Long Term Financial Plan — Sound, tested and thorough budget forecasting and planning make sense and is vital in these unpredictable economic times. I fully support a long term financial plan to assist our city. We need a financial plan to know where we are headed.
Sense of Community — Petty politics, unsubstantiated rumors, selfish agendas have no place in our town. We are a stronger community when we are unified. My passion, my integrity and my character on council will be that change in action. We all share in Keego Harbor’s success and a happy, unified community, where all are represented, is why I am running.
Francoise Moreau
Age: 35
Occupation: Police Officer
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: Eleven years
Education: Two degrees in Criminal Justice; Associates of Science Degree from Ashworth College, GA and Bachelors of Science from Kaplan University, IA
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
1) Roads and Drainage Repair
*review all data gathered since 2003 regarding possible solutions for current road and drainage status.
*present repair options and costs to the taxpayers for discussion
*develop and include plan and costs for maintenance
*implement course of action for repair which most benefits the community
2) Police Department
*create and implement a Community Policing Program
*review costs and criminal offense data against comparable communities
*review and update current police policies and ordinances
*Hire a qualified working police chief
3) Develop Community Programs and Properly Utilize Current Committees
*review other communities’ resident programs for at risk residents
*develop a positive community outlook
*Keego Harbor has qualified committees which are not being used to the fullest benefit of the community. Review other cities practices and apply those best suited to the needs of Keego Harbor residents.
Orchard Lake City Council
There are three candidates competing for two three-year terms.
Steven R. Briggs
Age: 49
Occupation: Senior Financial Advisor for Merrill Lynch
Municipality of residence: Orchard Lake
For how long: 15 years
Education: Culver Military Academy graduate — HS; Vanderbilt University — BA — Economics
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: I believe that the three priority issues facing Orchard Lake Village today and in the coming years concern the budget, residential and commercial zoning issues, and the development of bike and pedestrian paths. First, the budget issues will be more challenging than in the past due to the declining real estate values. The Council will need to be creative and prudent with how the tax revenue is spent for the important city services and ongoing maintenance. My financial background will be useful in this endeavor. Secondly, sensitivity to the uniqueness of each property, the setting and the architecture need to be considered as zoning issues come before the council. And lastly, we have one of the most beautiful communities in the United States. Let’s come together as a community and get serious about building recreational paths throughout our city for walkers and bicyclists to enjoy.
Ann O. Hartzell
Age: Not given
Occupation: home maker
Municipality of residence: Orchard Lake
For how long: 32 years
Education: BA from the University of Michigan
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: To encourage citizens to recycle, protect our lakes and local environment and maintain a consistent and fair interpretation of the zoning regulations and codes. I would also encourage the City to be fiscally responsible.
Jim Talpos (I)
Age: 57
Occupation: Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Orchard Lake Village
For how long: 19 years
Education: BA from MSU, with a major in Accounting
Previously held elected offices: Mayor & City Councilman, 11/2007-10/2008; City Councilman, 11/2006-10/2007; Mayor-Pro-Tem & City Councilman, 11/2005-10/2006; Mayor-Pro-Tem & City Councilman, 11/2002-10/2004; City Councilman, 11/2001-10/2002; City Councilman, 11/1998-10/2001; Mayor-Pro-Tem & City Councilman, 11/1993-10/1994; City Councilman, 11/1991-10/1993
Top goals:
1) Since Orchard Lake Village (OLV), with its lakes, trees and Nature Sanctuary, is one of the most beautiful and pristine suburban cities in the entire United States, I will continue to govern in a manner that will protect and preserve our natural environment by observing our building code and Master Plan.
2) I will strive to keep the General Fund property tax millage as one of the lowest, if not the lowest, in Oakland County.
3) I will continue to look for ways to improve the traffic congestion in OLV via transit technology and NOT by road widening.
4) I will continue to develop common sense, main stream ideas and solutions to the many challenges that face local governments day in and day out.
5) I will continue to strive for ways to improve the work environment for our tremendous employees without adding significant costs to our operating budget.
Sylvan Lake City Council
There are three candidates running for one three-year term.
Justin Hatch
Age: 24
Occupation: Business Owner, Hatch Distribution, LLC
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 24 years
Education: Senior at Lawrence Technological University, Majoring in Electrical Engineering, Minor in Communications with Entrepreneurial Certificate
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
• Establishing a cost-effective, efficient General Funds budget. In doing this, I will assure the city government’s budget runs efficiently so that tax payers’ money is spent wisely. This includes exploring the option of combining city services and operations.
• Making sure that the quality of living standards in the city is maintained and blight issues, both commercial and residential, are addressed and taken care of.
• Developing and beautifying the Orchard Lake corridor and Whitfield Property if tax advantage is greater than cost. In beautifying this high-traffic section of the city, I would manage the changes to ensure key characteristics of our city are not lost in the new developments and improvements.
With all the issues that I may face if elected, I strongly encourage community input in governing the city and resolving citizen’s concerns.
Paul Hungerman (I)
Did not respond to questionnaire.
Michael Zubrzycki
Age: 42
Occupation: Manager at Chrysler
Municipality of residence: Sylvan Lake
For how long: 13 years
Education: MBA in Finance from Wayne State; BSBA from Central Michigan University
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals:
1. Build the public trust in city leadership: In these tough economic times, residents want to know exactly how their tax dollars are being spent. I want to prepare a long term capital spending plan making it, and other public information, more easily accessible to residents.
2. Preserve and improve our parks, open spaces and shorelines: I hope to improve the quality of our city’s most important assets by establishing a plan for repairing the seawalls, refurbishing the tennis courts and supporting the enforcement of a neat, clean and quiet neighborhood.
3. Ensure the health, safety and welfare of all residents: I want to partner with neighboring municipalities to share best practices in setting public policy and reducing operating costs while maintaining the highest level of quality services.
Sylvan Lake millage proposal ballot language
Proposed amendment of Section 13.5 of Article 13 of the Charter of the City of Sylvan Lake
This amendment will authorize the levy of new additional millage in the amount of not to exceed two and one-half (2.5) mills for 10 years, 2009 through 2018, inclusive, for municipal purposes. It is estimated that if levied, 2.5 mills would raise approximately $263,154.15 when first levied in 2009.
Shall the proposed amendment be adopted? |