Troy voters decide council, bond issue

TROY — During the election Nov. 4, Troy City Council members Rebecca Chamberlain and David Hamilton were reelected, while Annalisa Bluhm won the third seat. Each available seat was for a four-year term. Meanwhile, a bond proposal by the city was rejected.

Of the 49,683 ballots cast, Chamberlain received support from 20.69% (10,277 votes) while Hamilton took 17.5% (8,697 votes) and Bluhm took 17.29% (8,588 votes).

Coming up short were Ed Ross at 13.71% (6,812 votes), followed by Sadek Rahman at 11.52% (5,725 votes), David Ross Kniffen at 9.56% (4,750 votes), and Ken Brodzinski at 9.5% (4,718 votes).

Unassigned write-ins accounted for 0.23% (116 votes). There were zero rejected write-ins.

As for the bond proposal, it was rejected by voters, with 55.17% voting no (11,019 votes) and 44.83% voting yes (8,953 votes). A total 19,972 votes weighed in on the matter.

If the bond had been approved, it would have levied an estimated average millage of 1.1329 mills each year for 20 years, raising $137 million for a new library building, road improvements, enhancements to parks and recreation facilities, and upgrades to city public safety services.

The city collects $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, multiplied by the millage rate. So, for a home with a taxable value of $100,000, the bond would have increased taxes by about $113 per year.

Reflecting on the race
“Congratulations to my council colleagues (Chamberlain) and (Hamilton), who were reelected to serve four more years on our Troy City Council,” said Troy Mayor Ethan Baker, in an email following the election. “I have worked with them both for many years and am thankful for their commitment to our city and true care for Troy and its people.

“Additional congratulations to (Bluhm), who will join us on council as the body’s newest member. Annalisa worked very hard through this campaign, and it is clear she is also dedicated and committed to a strong, safe and stable Troy. I welcome you, Annalisa!” Baker continued.

“To the four candidates who fought hard campaigns, but didn’t get elected this time, I thank you for your passion and willingness to put yourself in the arena,” he said. “I know that each of you will continue to stay actively involved and are an equally important part of our city’s future.”

Chamberlain thanked the people of Troy for granting her a second term. 

“This campaign was really about listening — listening to neighbors and residents who care deeply about our city, especially during uncertain times,” she said via email. “While Troy’s bond proposal didn’t pass, it sparked important conversations about our community’s priorities in an environment of economic uncertainty. I’m committed to keeping that dialogue going — to make sure every voice is heard as we identify new, creative ways to invest in the future Troy deserves.”

Bluhm expressed her excitement at being elected for the position.

“I think the results are a reflection of the passion and real care that I have for the community and putting my values in line with my campaign, but I think the real reward was really getting to meet with neighbors along the way to hear their stories and to see their passion for Troy, and trying my best to reflect that in my priorities as well,” Bluhm said. 

“I also think it says a lot to have such an impressive community that can provide seven candidates for consideration, and that is a true reflection of just how special Troy is,” she said. “So, I’m honored to have the trust of the Troy community, but I also think the race itself was very rewarding and there were a number of really strong candidates, of which it was an honor to be alongside them.”

Rahman thanked his supporters.

“While we did not win this election, I am grateful for everyone who supported our campaign and believed in our vision for Troy,” Rahman said via email. “Congratulations to the winning candidates. I wish them the very best as they serve our community. I remain committed to continuing the work of building a strong and inclusive future for our city.”

Brodzinski said the campaign was a good learning experience.

“I learned a lot about the process of getting on the ballot, campaigning, canvassing voters, advertising, and soliciting endorsements,” Brodzinski said via email. “I drove around to parts of Troy I never knew existed and met many good people along the way. I attended council meetings, studied the issues before the city, and met with city staff. All the work that went into my candidacy has made me a more informed voter, and quite frankly, a better person. 

“Thank you to all my supporters, to everyone who encouraged me along the way, and to the 4,718 voters that believed I could do the job,” he continued. “My slogan has been ‘I can’t WALK, but I can RUN for City Council.’ Now I can go back to just being a retired dad who likes to play pickleball.”

After the bond
Officials were also reflecting on the failure of the bond issue. 

Emily Dumas, the library director, said discussions will focus on what to do next.

“City and library staff will be evaluating how to move forward in addressing our capital needs without the proposed bond funding,” Dumas said via email.

Baker said he appreciates the input of the voters.

“As mayor, it is extremely gratifying to know the voters of Troy have spoken and will have their voices heard,” said Baker. “We are listening at City Hall! Residents have given us great insight and have demonstrated democracy in action. I am truly thankful for the thousands of Troy citizens who voted on the bond proposal. We now have a wonderful opportunity to work with our residents for the betterment of Troy.

“The capital needs still need to be addressed,” he continued. “I am looking forward to continuing this conversation with our City Council, city staff, and our residents to find the best solution for the city we all love!”