To help our community members make informed choices in the upcoming election, we asked candidates running for important local, state, and national seats to participate in our Forum to help you get to know them better. Today, meet Valarie Cunningham.

With a passion for the community, Valarie Cunningham is seeking election for Kalamazoo County Commissioner to represent District 5. “I believe serving as a liaison between residents and the government is the most effective way to ensure the needs of both are met. For over 20 years, I have been a bridge builder, and I am a bridge between cultures, businesses, and religious institutions. So in my role as a liaison, I know how to bring clarity to residents surrounding existing and arising policies, expectations, and solutions.” As a County Commissioner, Valarie’s main focuses would include families, fiscal responsibility, and the future state of unity for Kalamazoo County residents. In addition to the policy-focused questions, Valarie also shared with us that her favorite food is fried chicken, pizza, and French fries, and that her favorite film is “The Bodyguard” with Whitney Houston. Meet Valarie Cunningham.

NAME
Valarie Cunningham

POSITION SEEKING
Kalamazoo County Commissioner

DISTRICT POSITION REPRESENTS
District 5

AFFILIATION
Republican

EMAIL
valarie4commissioner@gmail.com

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR RUNNING FOR OFFICE?
I am running to represent you in Kalamazoo for County Commissioner because I am passionate about our community and want to do my part to ensure it has a healthy future!

PLEASE LIST YOUR TOP PRIORITIES WITHIN THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS ELECTED OFFICE.
My top three priorities are families, fiscal responsibility, and the future state of unity for Kalamazoo County residents. Vibrant communities have healthy families who have support and stability which are key to their overall well-being. This includes educational equity, access to needed mental health services, and healing community trauma. Having 17 years of experience managing limited budgets, fundraising, and prioritizing necessities will position me to support the integrity of the current fiscal structure. Lastly, but equally important, is the future of our county, where I see people taking ownership of the dream of a unified community.

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO ACCOMPLISH THESE GOALS WITHIN THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESTRICTIONS OF THE OFFICE?
I believe serving as a liaison between residents and the government is the most effective way to ensure the needs of both are met. For over 20 years, I have been a bridge builder, and I am a bridge between cultures, businesses, and religious institutions. So in my role as a liaison, I know how to bring clarity to residents surrounding existing and arising policies, expectations, and solutions. It is important to foster an environment of unity and peace which is a role I am comfortable with. I anticipate providing support where needed by helping to decrease tensions between the residents and the government department and official.

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO SUPPORT THE GROWTH OF THE ECONOMY IF ELECTED?
Having 17 years of experience managing limited budgets, fundraising, and prioritizing necessities will position me to support the integrity of the current fiscal structure and support the economy within our community.

FAVORITE CAMPAIGN SONGS
Worship and inspirational songs.

FAVORITE BOOK
“The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Steven Covey.

FAVORITE MOVIE
Love drama and romance—“The Bodyguard” with Whitney Houston.

FAVORITE FOOD
Fried chicken, pizza, and French fries

The Primary will be held on August 4. The General Election will be held on November 3.  Valarie Cunningham is seeking this seat as a Republican.