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In Novi, voters on Nov. 8 will elect candidates for local, state and federal offices.
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
Six candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $159,300 plus benefits.
Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Age: 51
Occupation: I have served as Michigan’s 49th governor since 2019.
Municipality of residence: Lansing, Michigan
For how long: I have lived in Ingham County since 1989, after moving there from Kent County.
Online campaign information: www.gretchenwhitmer.com
Education: Michigan State University (BA, 1993), Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University (JD, 1998)
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have served as Michigan’s 49th Governor since 2019. I previously served as Ingham County Prosecutor in 2016, in the State Senate from 2006-2015, and in the State House of Representatives from 2001-2006.
Top goals: I am focused on the fundamentals: cutting costs for families, improving education, creating good-paying jobs, building resilient infrastructure, and supporting small businesses.
I will continue fighting to cut taxes for seniors and working families, grow our economy, and protect the fundamental rights of Michigan women.
Despite all the challenges of the past few years, we have brought people together to get things done, and I will build on that momentum to continue moving Michigan forward.
Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Age: 45
Occupation: Former steel sales executive and small business owner, mother of 4
Municipality of residence: Norton Shores, Muskegon County
For how long: 20+ years
Online campaign information: TudorDixon.com
Education: Psychology degree from University of Kentucky
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: I am running for governor to improve education after Gretchen Whitmer’s lockdowns set our students back. I am running to restore law and order and declare that we will not accept spiking crime and that we support our police. I am running to improve our economy and ease the burden of regulations. I have vowed to cut 40% of regulations in my first four years so businesses can grow and Michiganders can attain good-paying jobs.
Libertarian
Mary Buzuma
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired U.S. Navy after 26 years in Naval Intelligence
Municipality of residence: Grand Haven
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: electmarybuzuma.com
Education: BA, Political Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As the first Libertarian governor of Michigan I will work to roll back the state and restore the inalienable right to choose for all Michiganders. The right to choose how to educate their children, how to spend their hard earned money, how to best take care of their medical needs and most important how to live their lives.
U.S. Taxpayers
Donna Brandenburg
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Kevin Hogan
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired Published Research Biochemist (with an Avocation of Substitute Teacher)
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: No answer given
Online campaign information: Ballotpedia.org
Education: University of Michigan: Biochemistry, Western Governors University: Masters in Education (teach Chemistry)
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: Provide for Women’s Equality; LGBTQI(+) Equality, End The Gretchen Whitmer COVID19 (and its Variants) Pandemic, Fix Michigan’s broken Education System (only 10 states are worse in education than Michigan), Improve Everyone’s Standard of Living by Improving the Economy through Job Creation (including fixing the damn roads, bridges, and damns) and Ending the The Gretchen Whitmer Dictatorship (E-Cigarrettes off the market, COVID19 Lock Downs, Mask Mandates,...) and providing for Animal Rights.
Natural Law
Daryl M. Simpson
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Secretary of State
Five candidates are running for one four-year term. The secretary of state receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Jocelyn Benson
Age: 44 (at this writing)
Occupation: Michigan Secretary of State, election lawyer
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: www.votebenson.com
Education: A graduate of Wellesley College, Harvard Law School, Oxford University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Michigan Secretary of State; Wellesley, Massachusetts Town Council
Top goals: If reelected, my goal will be to continue the work we’ve done since 2018, namely continuing to improve services at the Secretary of State’s Office and protect our democracy so every voice is heard and every vote is counted for Republicans, Democrats and Independents, alike. We have modernized our office so branch office visits are 20 minutes or less, and in November 2020 I presided over the safest, most secure general election in Michigan history.
Republican
Kristina Elaine Karamo
Age: 37
Occupation: Professor at Wayne County Community College
Municipality of residence: Oak Park
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.KristinaKaramo.com
Education: BA from Oakland University in Communications, Master Degree in Christian Apologetics, Biola University in CA.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Ensure a politically neutral Department of State. Elections shall be operated per the rule-of-law. Car dealership and repair facility inspections along with fees and fines shall not be used to fund a bloated budget when less than 8% of what is currently generated by the SoS is needed to run the SoS. Ensure SOS branch office and vehicle related operations are customer focused, by ensuring local concerns are integral when improving administrative operations.
Libertarian
Gregory Scott Stempfle
Age: 45
Occupation: Medical Technologist, Henry Ford Hospital
Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: Since 2010
Online campaign information: www.stempfle4sos.org
Education: BS Clinical Laboratory Sciences – Wayne State, 2008; MS Molecular Medicine and Genetics - Wayne State, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I would like to streamline and automate services, when possible, without leaving those without access to technology behind. I will advocate for changes to the vehicle registration process so that car and truck owners can permanently register their vehicle rather than every year or two years. I will also advocate for changes to our election system to increase the participation of independent and third-party candidates such as ranked choice voting for state elections.
U.S. Taxpayers
Christine C. Schwartz
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Green
Larry James Hutchinson Jr.
Age: 49
Occupation: Artist and author
Municipality of residence: Lansing
For how long: 10 years.
Online campaign information: Facebook
Education: Associates of Arts in psychology, Mott Community College, and studied Anthropology and Political Science at University of Michigan - Flint
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals all fly under the umbrella of campaign finance reform. We need publicly funded elections and for election day to become a state holiday. I’d love to see 100 percent voter participation, but that is not likely. Publicly funded elections can. I sign the waiver and requested that any candidate that has taken money to please return it. Election day becoming a state holiday is a no brainer. Thx and Vote Green.
Attorney General
Four candidates are running for one four-year term. The attorney general receives a salary of $112,410.
Democrat
Dana Nessel
Age: 53
Occupation: Michigan Attorney General
Municipality of residence: Plymouth
For how long: I was elected in 2018.
Online campaign information: www.dananessel.com
Education: Graduated from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University law school.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Attorney General is my first elected office.
Top goals: I would like to continue the work of my first term, fighting for the rights of all Michiganders. I will continue prosecuting sexual assault and domestic violence. I will defend reproductive freedom and uphold the will of the voters. I will pursue consumer protection and go after price-gouging, including when special interests like Big Pharma charge exorbitant prices for life-saving medications. As the People’s Lawyer, I will defend the most vulnerable among us.
Republican
Matthew DePerno
Age: 52
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.depernoformi.com
Education: Undergrad from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 1994, and master’s degree in Taxation Law (LL.M.) from New York University School of Law in 1995.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goal is to restore Michigan to the great state it once was. I will fight to lower the skyrocketing crime, clean up government corruption and fight for parents rights in schools. Michigan was once a leader in business and education and a place we were proud to call home. I will fight to make this a reality again. I kindly ask for your support.
Libertarian
Joseph W. McHugh Jr.
Age: 44
Occupation: Financial Advisor & Fitness Coach
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Mid-2021
Online campaign information: LibertyStrikesBack.com
Education: BA Michigan State University, International Relations & Political Economy; MBA Babson College Entrepreneurship & Sustainability
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We will restore our liberty and justice by partnering with attorneys and the public to accomplish the following: transparent voting systems run on open source election software, voiding vague laws, terms of service and privacy policy agreements to comply with the 1926 Void for Vagueness doctrine and due process, and enforce a No Harm, No Crime standard to restore free action, release non-violent prisoners, expunge records immediately, and provide backpay for unjustly lost time.
U.S. Taxpayers
Gerald T. Van Sickle
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
U.S. House of Representatives District 6
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives receive a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Debbie Dingell
Age: 68
Occupation: Member of Congress
Municipality of residence: Moved to Ann Arbor this year following Congressional redistricting after more than 3 decades living in Dearborn
For how long: 1 year
Online campaign information: debbiedingellforcongress.com
Education: B.S.F.S. in Foreign Services and an M.S. in Liberal Studies from Georgetown University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am currently serving as United States Representative for the 12th Congressional District of Michigan. Additionally, from 2007-2014 I served on the board of Wayne State University.
Top goals: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is their cost of living, and that’s why I have worked every single day to lower their daily costs and deliver solutions to the problems that keep them up at night. As a member of the Energy & Commerce Committee, I have confronted oil companies directly about ending their corporate price gouging that is keeping prices high at the pump. And I have led efforts in Congress to lower health care costs.
Republican
Whittney Williams
Did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
U.S. House of Representatives District 11
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives receive a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Haley Stevens
Age: 39
Occupation: Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: Not given.
Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com
Education: B.A. in Social Policy and Philosophy and M.A. in Political Science and Philosophy from American University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am the current two term Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District.
Top goals: My top goals and why I am running for re-election in Michigan’s 11th District are protecting a woman’s right to choose, increasing opportunities for women, girls, and minorities in STEM education, and ending the gun violence epidemic that plagues our society.
Republican
Mark Ambrose
Age: 52
Occupation: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Regional Investment Manager
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 13 years - also raised in Bloomfield Twp. (additional 18 years)
Online campaign information: www.voteambrose.com
Education: Brother Rice High School, Bloomfield Twp.: 1984-1988; U.S. Military Academy, West Point, B.Sc. in Systems Engineering: 1988-1992; Columbia University, Master of International Affairs, Russian Studies: 1995-1998; Columbia Business School, MBA (Master of Business Administration), 1996-1998
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Reduce inflation and improve our economy through responsible and informed economic policies. 2. Security: Increase border security, reduce crime, and honor our police. 3. Strengthen our military, so that the United States will never be challenged. 4. Create jobs for Michigan and America through fair trade. Encourage business to invest, build and manufacture in the United States. 5. Cure Autism – dedicate resources to ending this disease.
State Senate District 13
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.
Democrat
Rosemary Bayer
Age: 63
Occupation: State Senator, long career in information technology, as a computer engineer, analyst, architect, and executive business leader, then owner of a small information technology company serving schools and non-profits.
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 8 months
Online campaign information: http://rosemarybayer.com
Education: BS Computer Science Central MI University, MBA Lawrence Technological University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently State Senator MI District 12.
Top goals: My goals for my second term are to
- provide adequate and equitable funding to public schools for ALL students, including physical and mental health services, resources for special needs, and teacher supports
- pass common sense gun safety legislation as well as legislation protecting reproductive freedom and voting rights.
- protect our environmental assets -- water, air and land -- with legislation to both protect and to make polluters pay for their messes, and invest in rebuilding inadequate infrastructure.
Republican
Jason Rhines
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State Senate District 23
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.
Democrat
Una Hepburn
Age: 65
Occupation: Tour Manager, Yoga Instructor
Municipality of residence: Springfield Township
For how long: 24+ years
Online campaign information: UnaHepburnforsenate23.com
Education: B.S. Political Science/ B.A. Business
Previously and currently held elected offices: No other offices held.
Top goals:
Womens Rights / Human Rights
Bodily Autonomy> We are NOT going back 50 years Equality> We are all Human
Voting Rights
Make it easy and accessible for everyone who wants to vote.
Gun Law Reform
Raise age to purchase. More thorough background checks, including mental health evaluations, & longer waiting periods.
Education
Stronger Public School systems where teachers are paid a decent salary & NOT restricted with conservative curriculums. More mental and social programs.
Republican
Jim Runestad
Age: 63
Occupation: Current State Senator
Municipality of residence: White Lake Charter Township
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: https://www.runwithrunestad.com/
Education: Bachelors in Education from Central Michigan University.
Previously and currently held elected offices: County Commissioner (6 Years), State Representative (4 years), State Senate (4 years, current)
Top goals: In my first term as state senator, I was pleased to see many of my bills signed into law to advance protections of our rights, including my constitutional amendment, with over 80% voter approval, to protect our electronic property rights from search and seizure without a warrant. My focus will continue to be on individual rights and liberties, championing parental rights in education, election integrity, and reducing the heavy burden of over-taxation on Michigan families.
State House of Representatives District 21
Three candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Kelly Breen
Age: 42
Occupation: Michigan State Representative, Democrat (current minority party): Insurance and Judiciary Committees
Municipality of residence: Novi, Michigan
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: https://kellybreen.com/
Education: 1) Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, James Madison School, and 2)
J.D. from Wayne State University Law School.
Previously and currently held elected offices:
· Novi City Council Member, 2017-2020
· (Current role) State Representative for Michigan House of Representatives, District #38
Top goals: “Healthy Michigan” includes our physical, mental & economic needs:
· Quality accessible affordable physical, mental, recovery, prescription, and reproductive healthcare.
· Protection from toxins in air and water.
· Freedom from gun violence through common-sense regulations and anti-violence programs.
· Quality equitable public education from pre-K through community college, trade schools, and apprentice programs.
· Good-paying “blue and green” jobs in clean energy, conservation, transportation, building, and sustainable agriculture.
· Supports giving small businesses competitive edges.
· Tax, judicial, and governance reforms.
Republican
David Staudt
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Libertarian
James K. Young
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: For 9 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: B.S. Business Management, Ferris State University
A.S Chemical Technology, Lawrence Technological University
B.S. Chemical Engineering, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Regarding my top three goals, first I would like to reduce taxes. These could include the Income Tax and the Retirement Tax. The more taxation is eliminated, the more money will be in the pockets of the citizens. Second, I would like to reform auto insurance. We did have some auto insurance reform, but it still needs more work. Third, I would like to find ways to make it easier to start businesses in Michigan.
State House of Representatives District 49
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Christina Kafkakis
Age: 46
Occupation: Small Business Owner — Portrait Photography
Municipality of residence: Brighton Township
For how long: Moved to this home in 2015; prior to that we lived in Genoa Township from 2001-2015.
Online campaign information: voteforchristinak.com
Education: BS from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: No previously held elected offices.
Top goals: I’m running to be your next State Rep in the newly drawn House District 49. I’m running in order to defend your privacy in healthcare decisions, protect our natural resources from polluters, invest in public education and skilled trades, build sustainable critical infrastructure, and ensure all worker’s rights to livable wages. It is my goal to represent the voters of my district in a way that collaborates rather than encourage divisiveness.
Republican
Ann Bollin
Age: No answer given
Occupation: State Representative, District 42
Municipality of Residence: Brighton Township
For how long: 29 years
Online campaign information: www.annbollin.com
Education: Central Michigan University
Harvard University — JFK School of Government, Senior Executives in State and Local Government, 2009 Taubman Fellow
Michigan State University, IPPSR —MI Political Leadership Program
Clerk’s Institute — Michigan State University – Three-year certification program accredited through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks
Previously and currently held elected offices:
Current — State Representative, District 42
Previously Held Offices — Clerk, Brighton Charter Township, 2003 thru 2018. Appointed 2002, Elected 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016
Top goals: My continued priorities include jobs and the economy; good educational opportunities with strong parental choices and involvement; a fiscally responsible state budget that fights inflation and puts more money back into the pockets of taxpayers; infrastructure; ethics reform; and fair, free, and secure elections.
Oakland County Board of
Commissioners District 14
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Ajay V. Raman
Age: 46
Occupation: Physician, Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Novi, Michigan
For how long: 11 years
Online campaign information: www.VoteAjayRaman.com
Education: Medical Doctor (D.O.), Bachelor of Science in Health Science (B.S.)
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My priorities for Oakland County include maintaining fiscal responsibility, supporting public safety, improving infrastructure, and bridging partisan divides. As a parent, I would also like to ensure a bright future for our next generations by protecting our environment and natural resources. I’m humbled to have received the endorsement of several elected leaders and over two dozen organizations, that share my vision to tirelessly advocate for the citizens in this new 14th District.
Republican
Robert Smiley
Age: 53
Occupation: Graphic Design/Marketing
Municipality of residence: Wixom
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: https://smileyforcommish.com/
Education: BFA, Center for Creative Studies, 1992
Previously and currently held elected offices: Wixom City Council, 2016-present
Top goals: My experience as a councilman has taught me to manage spending within a fluctuating budget and allowed me to lower tax rates while maintaining a balanced budget. Properly funding law enforcement has always been my top priority. I will work with municipalities to make sure they have the county services they require and to ensure policies benefit all residents. I have been a consistent voice for wise spending and living within our means.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 15
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Gwen Markham
Age: 69
Occupation: Retired Manufacturing Operations manager
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.gwenmarkham.com
Education: BS Chemistry Western Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Novi City Council, 2013-2018, Oakland County Commission 2019-2022
Top goals: Reduction of the County’s carbon footprint is a major goal of mine. Since I became a Commissioner, we have distributed over 7000 trees throughout the County. We have surveyed all County buildings and our fleet of vehicles for utilization and energy sources, to reduce the use of fossil fuels in our energy profile. We are repurposing older parks to enhance access to green space for all areas of the County.
Republican
Michelle DiNardo
Age: 54
Occupation: Financial Advisor
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 8 years, previously resided in West Bloomfield for over 20 years.
Online campaign information: electmichelledinardo.com
Education: BS Indiana University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Oakland County taxpayers cannot accept continuous higher tax rates! I would fight to lower tax rates which would offset the inflationary costs of gas, food, and energy.
Our tax dollars need to benefit our residents, not handed over to foreign entities such as THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM.
We must keep our schools open without forced mask or vaccine mandates.
We must fight to secure our borders.
Justice of Supreme Court
Five candidates are running for two eight-year terms. Justices
earn a salary of $165,000.
Richard Bernstein
Age: 48
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 23 years in Birmingham and lifelong resident of Michigan
Online campaign information: TheBlindJustice.com
Education: Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Michigan and earned juris doctor from Northwestern University School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Former member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors and current Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Top goals: The greatest need in Michigan’s justice system is increasing access to justice so all people have an opportunity to participate and navigate the justice system without getting left behind. The Michigan Supreme Court’s Justice For All Task Force is committed to working towards 100% access to justice in the civil system and I applaud the effort to make Michigan courts more accessible to all people statewide.
Kyra Harris Bolden
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Paul Hudson
Age: 40
Occupation: Lawyer
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.hudsonforjustice.com
Education: Cornell University, B.A. in Government and Philosophy, 2003; Georgetown University Law Center, J.D., cum laude, 2006
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a Supreme Court Justice, my top goal is to be the fiercely independent, nonpartisan, and fair-minded judicial umpire that Michigan voters deserve. A good judge, much like a good umpire, doesn’t make up the rules or change them mid-game. A good judge just calls balls and strikes, faithfully applying the rules as written - fairly, consistently, and without favoring one side or the other.
Kerry Lee Morgan
Age: 67
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Redford Township
For how long: 40years
Online campaign information: https://www.martindale.com/attorney/kerry-lee-morgan-2161158/
Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; Regent University, M.A.; Detroit College of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the law as written, not as it should be written in the mind of the Judge. The restoration of this purpose is my top goal.
Brian Zahra
Age: 62
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Northville Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: Zahra4Justice.com
Education: JD, University of Detroit School of Law (1987); BGS, Wayne State University (1984)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, January 14, 2011 to present. Elected in 2012, re-elected in 2014. Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeals, December, 1998 to January 13, 2011. Elected in 2000, re-elected in 2006. Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court, December 1994 to December 1998. Elected in 1996.
Top goals: Continue to be a voice for judicial restraint, an advocate for the separation of constitutional powers, and a defender of our state and federal constitutions. Administratively, I will continue my work as Co-Chair of the Access to Justice Commission. There is no right to a lawyer in civil cases. Nonetheless, these cases involve issues critically important to Michigan families. The legal profession must step up to provide guidance to those unable to obtain legal assistance.
Judge of Court of Appeals - 2nd District
One candidate is running for one six-year term. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Colleen A. O’Brien
Running unopposed.
Judge of Court of Appeals - 2nd District (Partial Term)
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Jan. 1, 2027. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Sima Patel
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Michael Warren
Age: 55
Occupation: Judge, Oakland Circuit Court
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.JudgeMichaelWarren.com
Education: Wayne State University, BA Honors History (1989); University of Michigan Law School, JD (1992)
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Board of Education (1999-2002); Judge, Oakland County Circuit Court (2002-present)
Top goals: For decades Judge Michael Warren has been tenaciously fighting for justice, the rule of law, fairness, and the Constitution. He has tried over 360 jury trials and was named Judge of the Decade. Endorsed by Sheriff Mike Bouchard (R), Sheriff Anthony Wickersham (D), and the Police Officers Association of Michigan; he co-founded Patriot Week with his then 10 year old daughter (www.PatriotWeek.org). His leadership and experience will strengthen Michigan’s Court of Appeals.
Novi Community School District Board of Education
Four candidates are running for two six-year terms.
Betsy Beaudoin
Age: 41
Occupation: Operations Support Specialist
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: I grew up in Novi from age 5 until I moved away to college. My husband and I returned to Novi in 2013 so our children would also benefit from a Novi education.
Online campaign information: betsy4ncsd.com
Education: I graduated from Novi High School in 1999 and Michigan State University in 2004 with a B.A. in Interior Design
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: By focusing on the building blocks of academic achievement, NCSD can support each child, each day.
Belonging: Belonging improves student engagement, behavior, and academics. I’ll support policies that ensure students see themselves represented AND learn about others.
Mental Health: I’ll bring innovative approaches to mental health support without cutting into funds for teachers.
Teacher Retention: I’ll work with teachers to ensure Novi remains an attractive professional environment where talented educators want to teach.
Chris Hollman
Age: 46
Occupation: Pharmacist / Employer Benefits Consultant
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: 15 Years
Online campaign information: www.chrishollman.com
Education: Doctor of Pharmacy — University of Illinois at Chicago
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: If elected, I will help restore trust in our school board by building a culture of transparency after a tumultuous two years. I will always put the academic and mental health needs of our students first, which has not always been the case during the COVID pandemic. I am also championing an investment of resources into students who may not be pursuing a college degree as their next step.
Latasha Keller
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Jason W. Michener
Age: 41
Occupation: Engineer
Municipality of residence: City of Novi
For how long: since 2004
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080179005025
Education: Dual Major in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering from Princeton University
Previously and currently held elected offices: none
Top goals: At the district level, I’d work towards smart investment of the 2019 Bond that adds immediate valve while unburdening our district’s General Fund and reducing the large and growing achievement gap that impacts our Novi students. At an individual board member level, it is my goal to always come fully prepared to each and every public forum, ready to discuss and debate the issues from a place of knowledge in service of our amazing community.
Walled Lake Consolidated School District Board of Education
Seven candidates are running for three six-year terms.
Susie Muzbeck Crafton
Age: 46
Occupation: Professional fundraiser and grant writer
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: 4 years and 4 months, but also grew up in Novi
Online campaign information: www.susiecrafton.com
Education: Master of Arts, Student Affairs Administration — Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education Department from Michigan State University; Bachelor of Arts, English, Emphasis in Education and Life Sciences from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The school board ensures that ALL students are prepared to thrive in their chosen future. The students of today will likely live in a world we cannot yet imagine. Every student must graduate prepared for that reality. This will likely mean investing in new courses that align to workforce needs, hands-on learning experiences, and ensuring that the district is serving the diverse learning needs of the community including special education and English learners.
Julie Fernandez
Age: 54
Occupation: Human Resources Consulting
Municipality of residence: White Lake
For how long: 17 years
Online campaign information: https://bit.ly/julie4wlschools
Education: Walled Lake Central graduate (class of 1986); Michigan State University (BA); Wayne State University (MBA)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None — I am not a politician.
Top goals: I am a business professional who has served for 12+ years on Boards, including businesses (North Oakland Credit Union), charities (Catholic Social Services, Oakland County), and public health (Blue Care Network). I will apply my experience to address the $7M budget deficit. In addition to creating a plan for our financial health, my top priorities are to make up for learning loss and to bring transparency and responsiveness to parents, teachers, and the community.
Shayna Levin
Age: 40
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information: www.ShaynaforWLCSD.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts in General Management from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I want to improve trust, transparency, & accountability in Walled Lake Schools. As a mother of two, I have been very involved in our school district for years. I have seen Walled Lake at its best and I have seen when things could be better. I want to make positive improvements in our district so parents, teachers, students, & staff have the support and resources they need to achieve academic success and overall satisfaction with our schools.
Becky Spagnuolo
Age: 33
Occupation: Parent
Municipality of residence: Wixom, MI
For how long: Since 2017
Online campaign information: https://becky4wlcsd.com/
Education: AA in Criminal Justice, Illinois Community College, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Preparing ALL students for the future, regardless of their chosen continuing education, training, or career paths, without discrimination due to their race, sexual/gender identity, or disability.
2. Providing educators with the resources and support needed to create and teach a high-quality curriculum focused on what best helps students learn and succeed.
3. Protecting the health and safety of students and staff with mental health support and common-sense disease and gun safety policies.
Christy Tice
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Christopher Titus
Age: 61
Occupation: Sales Department Installed Building Products IBP
Energy Compliance New Construction Homes
Municipality of residence: Commerce Township
For how long: 30 Years
Online campaign information: None
Education: BSBA from Central Michigan University
Major in Management Minor in Economics
Previously and currently held elected offices: Appointed and reelected to the Walled Lake Schools Board of Education January 2013
Top goals: To continue to advocate at both the State and Federal level for more consistent resources to support learning for all students and families in the community. To face the many new needs and challenges that our learners require to be successful in the future. Consistent funding is essential to allow the Superintendent to develop, staff, and monitor state of the art programs to keep Walled Lake Schools a leader in public education.
Nancy van Leuwen
Age: No answer given.
Occupation: Retired Teacher (Walled Lake)
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 45 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education from Central Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: current WLCSD Board of Education member
Top goals: I am a strong supporter of public education. I am a strong supporter of providing a quality education for all of our students regardless of race, ethnicity, ability, special need, gender, or gender identity. I will continue to lobby our Legislature in Lansing and at the federal level for fair and equitable funding for all of our districts.
Statewide proposals
Proposal 22-1
A proposal to amend the state constitution to require annual public financial disclosure reports by legislators and other state officers and change state legislator term limit to 12 total years in legislature.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Require members of legislature, governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and attorney general file annual public financial disclosure reports after 2023, including assets, liabilities, income sources, future employment agreements, gifts, travel reimbursements, and positions held in organizations except religious, social, and political organizations.
• Require legislature implement but not limit or restrict reporting requirements.
• Replace current term limits for state representatives and state senators with a 12-year total limit in any combination between house and senate, except a person elected to senate in 2022 may be elected the number of times allowed when that person became a candidate.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-2
A proposal to amend the state constitution to add provisions regarding elections.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Recognize fundamental right to vote without harassing conduct;
• Require military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by election day;
• Provide voter right to verify identity with photo ID or signed statement;
• Provide voter right to single application to vote absentee in all elections;
• Require state-funded absentee-ballot drop boxes, and postage for absentee applications and ballots;
• Provide that only election officials may conduct post-election audits;
• Require nine days of early in-person voting;
• Allow donations to fund elections, which must be disclosed;
• Require canvass boards certify election results based only on the official records of votes cast.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-3
A proposal to amend the state constitution to establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising established right. This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make and carry out all decisions about pregnancy, such as prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion, miscarriage management, and infertility;
• Allow state to regulate abortion after fetal viability, but not prohibit if medically needed to protect a patient’s life or physical or mental health;
• Forbid state discrimination in enforcement of this right; prohibit prosecution of an individual, or a person helping a pregnant individual, for exercising rights established by this amendment;
• Invalidate state laws conflicting with this amendment.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Oakland County Public Transportation Millage
A proposal to authorize Oakland County to levy a millage for the purpose of funding public transportation services in Oakland County, including operating, maintaining, improving, and expanding transit services, creating and expanding new fixed routes for bus service connecting local communities, expanding transportation services for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities, and providing transportation to get employees to jobs, patients to healthcare, students to colleges and universities, for the general public to have more transportation options, and for related purposes authorized by law.
This millage would be levied at a maximum rate of .95 mills (95 cents per $1,000 in taxable value) for a period of 10 years beginning in 2022 and ending in 2031.
This millage would replace an expiring millage levied by the Oakland County Public Transportation Authority supporting the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART), and fund replacement of other local public transportation millages.
If this new millage is approved and levied, revenue will be distributed to Oakland County, SMART, North Oakland Transportation Authority (NOTA), Older Persons’ Commission (OPC), and the Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA). It is estimated that $66,163,000 will be collected in the first year. Expenditure of revenue from the millage will be subject to oversight by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and to independent audits.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Walled Lake Consolidated School District building and site sinking fund tax renewal proposition
This proposal, if approved by the electors, will renew and restore the authority, last approved by the electors in 2012 and which expires with the 2022 levy, for the School District to levy a building and site sinking fund tax, the proceeds of which will be used to make improvements and repairs to the School District’s facilities. Pursuant to State Law, the expenditure of the building and site sinking fund tax proceeds must be audited, and the proceeds cannot be used for teacher, administrator or employee salaries, maintenance or other operating expenses.
Shall the Walled Lake Consolidated School District, County of Oakland, State of Michigan, be authorized to levy one-half (0.50) mill ($0.50 per $1,000 of taxable valuation), for a period of ten (10) years, being the years 2023 to 2032, inclusive, to create a building and site sinking fund to be used for the construction or repair of school buildings, school security improvements, the acquisition or upgrading of technology and other purposes, to the extent permitted by law? This millage would provide estimated revenues to the School District of approximately $3,034,496 during the 2023 calendar year, if approved and levied.
