Economic growth and how to achieve it are at the top of the platform for most candidates for government office — whether it be for local, state or national seats of representation. Regional economic catalyst, Southwest Michigan First, reached out to 2022 candidates for office to get their take on growing the economy. From now until the election, we’ll share the answers of those who responded to our questions. Let’s meet the candidates for the Kalamazoo County Commission (in alphabetical order by last name):
This content is sponsored by ITC.
NOTE: No response was received from Anthony Bates (D), Tom Graham (R), Jeff Heppler (R), Luke Howell (D), Nicole Sabel (R), Jen Strebs (D) or Abigail Wheeler (D).
Affiliation
Republican
District Position Represents
District 4
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
Business owner for over 30 years; worked in both the private and public sector; served on Kalamazoo Planning Commission (vice chair) – six years; Imagine Kalamazoo Steering Committee – three years; Community Development Act Advisory Committee (CDAAC)/Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) grant board (chair, vice chair) – nine years
What is your motivation for running for office?
Our county is in need of strong leadership and will be facing many difficult decisions resulting from the mismanagement and inexperience of the current commission; this coupled with the deepening recession and knock-on effects from the COVID problems requires strong and experienced leadership. We need to protect our citizens’ future.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Manage the current and future budget without increasing taxes. We are already over-taxed and need to better serve our vulnerable population while maintaining a healthy economic environment. We have serious challenges ahead of us.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Simply put, we need to tap the various resources within our county, perform a full and thorough audit of all departments and review current policies and procedures. Further, we need to re-establish achievable goals which will serve all the residents of our county.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
As someone who has worked since I was 12 years old and run my own businesses for over 30 years, I believe the most empowering aspect of one’s life is the ability to provide for one’s family or self. I am a person whose philosophy is to create opportunities and not manage outcomes. When we provide opportunity, people act in ways which benefit all.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
I will make it my primary goal to present Southwest Michigan (Kalamazoo County) as the place to bring your business. We have a great basket of assets, from skilled workers to our various existing companies and universities. We need to continue the path of innovation and provide an business and entrepreneur friendly environment.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
The biggest hurdle to most businesses is the regulatory environment. We can review and streamline the regulatory process and provide a healthy and enriching environment for people to live, work and play in our region.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
I believe that we have nearly eight billion special interest groups, everyone is an individual and has a unique story. Thus, I am opposed to barriers put in place which may change depending on who is in charge. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Imposing an artificial template of the focus de jour has shown to be extremely damaging in the past. If people mistreat others that should be dealt with on a one-on-one basis, broad strokes are counterproductive to the human creative spirit.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
No response
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I don’t believe in long-term political careers…I want to make changes to get the county back on track and return to the private sector.
Campaign Song
No response
Favorite Movie
No response
Favorite Book
No response
Favorite Food
No response
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position Represents
District 9
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I have been a public servant for over thirty-eight years and still employed as a law enforcement officer. I have owned my own small business in Oshtemo Township, and my wife is a previous small business owner in Oshtemo as well. I am a graduate of WMU where I earned a master’s degree in accounting.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I have witnessed some of the dysfunction on the current county board and have been asked by others to run for this office to bring some common sense and reasonableness to the board. I wish to continue to serve the citizens of Kalamazoo County in any way I can.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
To insure the health and wellbeing of the citizens of the county while being fiscally responsible. It is my desire to appropriate proper funding for all aspects of the criminal justice system. The tax payers money should be spent in a way that will serve the citizens in the most efficient and effective way.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Communication. Board members and citizens need to listen to the concerns of those requesting funding as well as those who are providing the funding — the citizens. Discussions need to be frank and to the point and not caring about political party lines.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
I am a big proponent of local jobs for local workers. I am aware of some possible large projects coming to our community, and I will do what I can to promote the use of local workers. Employing local workers benefits the entire community by keeping our tax dollars here. I believe in union jobs for our local unions as not only are they well-paying jobs, but many unions also have apprenticeship programs for those who wish to enter the trades.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
As stated, I will do everything in my power to have locals work on our projects throughout the county by enacting a responsible contractor ordinance.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Listen and learn. Open discussions involving citizens, other community leaders and members of the work force. There are many jurisdictions in Kalamazoo County, and there needs to be a way to bring all the leaders together for everyone’s input in order to move forward no matter which jurisdiction benefits.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Local government can have an impact on all these areas by focusing on changing systems that create inequities in the first place. We cannot be afraid to give opportunities to all people which in the end brings about a more fair and productive community.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
Open lines of communication. Fortunately in today’s world we can be reached by cell phone, email, Facebook, etc. It is my goal to listen to and respond to any citizen that reaches out to me. As a public servant, it is your duty to respond to all concerns.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I have never held a political office. I will study and learn as I go. If after my two-year term I feel I have served the citizens well, I may run again for the same position.
Campaign Song
No response
Favorite Movie
The Big Chill (showing my age)
Favorite Book
“No Angel” by Jay Dobyns and Nils Johnson-Shelton
Favorite Food
Salad
Affiliation
Republican
District Position Represents
District 6
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I’m completing my fifth term as a county commissioner. I also have an MBA in Finance. I’ve lived in Kalamazoo County for 45 years.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I desire to pay back the county for providing the environment in which my family grew and prospered since moving to Kalamazoo in 1971. Our two kids are educated and successful adults with families of their own. I want all county citizens to have the same opportunities we did.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
As a county, we need to PRIORITIZE our spending. We can no longer try to do EVERYTHING for EVERYONE ALL THE TIME!
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
A good start would be conduct a comprehensive survey of county citizens to determine THEIR priorities. The results of such a survey would guide us in spending taxpayer money intelligently.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
The best thing county government can do to promote economic development is stay out of the way. Help create a business environment that enables private sector non-profits like Southwest Michigan First and their profit-making customers to flourish. Instruments such as tax increment financing should be about it for government involvement.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
By keeping county government essentially out of the way, companies and their workers will prosper. Government should not attempt to pick winners and losers.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Government should cooperate with non-profits like Southwest Michigan First to help provide an educated, skilled workforce that meets the needs of existing businesses and potential newcomers alike.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Kalamazoo County now has a DEI department, Director and Citizens’ Advisory Committee. I’m reserving judgement concerning DEI. It has great potential for abuse. Until green energy is further developed, we will continue to rely on fossil fuels for most of our energy needs. Political and social policies must recognize that.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I attend the majority of township and village meetings in my district. In this way I learn what’s important to local constituents. I encourage constituents to communicate directly with me via phone, text and email.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
After a 40-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, I have no desire to go to Lansing or climb the political ladder. My goal is to be the best county commissioner I can possibly be…and that’s it!
Campaign Song
Don’t have one, but if I did, it would be “God Bless America” sung by Kate Smith
Favorite Movie
Amazon’s “Jack Reacher”
Favorite Book
Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell
Favorite Food
Anything chocolate
Affiliation
Republican
District Position Represents
District 8
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
Served 10 years as trustee on Texas Township Board, previously trustee on Board of Education, Portage Public Schools. Former administrative assistant for a financial advisor, private music teacher and small business owner. Southwest Michigan First Public Service Academy Accredited Partner Certification 2014.
What is your motivation for running for office?
Take the experience I have serving on these boards to the County Commission.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Crime/safety, mental health, budget, homeless
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Enforce laws. Prioritize Budget. Avoid unnecessary spending.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Improve the quality of life. Crime. Need a safe environment for businesses and citizens. Lower Taxes. Quality of Parks.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
I would promote fewer regulations, lower taxes and a safe environment.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Focus on the responsibilities of the county and not state and federal issues.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
I am a strong believer in diversity of thought. “Iron sharpens iron.”
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
Spending a great deal of time going door-to-door to meet my constituents and talk to them about their concerns.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I want to be the best public servant I can be at the county level.
Campaign Song
Proud to be an American
Favorite Movie
Top Gun
Favorite Book
Bible
Favorite Food
Chocolate
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position Represents
District 3
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
My years of service started in 2005 when I founded a non-profit organization that focuses on AIDS/HIV/STI awareness. That is followed by my experience in the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Kalamazoo Public Schools. Lastly, I’ve served the last year and a half as a commissioner on the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners and recently as vice-chair leading D&I policy.
What is your motivation for running for office?
Since my appointment, I’ve worked to advance the working conditions of Kalamazoo County, improve the availability of affordable housing and lead county-wide diversity and inclusion policy reform. As I reflect on the work that I’ve started in a short time, I’m encouraged by this opportunity to run and be elected by the residents of District 3.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
1) Affordable housing reform 2) Increase public safety funding 3) Expand environmental protections that lead to cleaner communities
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
As vice chair on the Board of Commissioners, I have mastered the art of collaboration and working in a bipartisan manner to ensure the best outcomes for Kalamazoo County residents. Therefore, I will continue that same behavior through legislative proposals, relationships with community stakeholders and business leaders and collaboration with partner municipalities.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Our region still has $1.9 million left in American Plan Rescue Act (ARPA) funds that serve in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and trade skills training and support entities that rely on county funding to meet the needs of Kalamazoo constituents. These investments will lead our county in advancing our workforce and overall economy.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
Ensuring that the Kalamazoo economy is able to provide opportunity for our residents to receive livable wages, have access to affordable healthcare and housing and build toward a diverse and inclusive workforce. I strongly support business development in our region and will continue to work with community partners to bring new opportunities.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
In my experience, I have found that the best outcomes have flourished when there is bipartisan partnership to achieve collective goals. I will continue to ensure the best for residents of Kalamazoo County by working with my colleagues around the board table and my counterparts at city council.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
I am a believer that through diversity, equity and inclusion we can make a stronger Kalamazoo and deliver more to our residents. If elected, I plan to make environmental justice reform a top priority. There have been environmental injustices that have made living situations in our county unbearable, and it’s time we address it.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I am very passionate about constituent services and their input in county business. I will be intentional about how I engage constituents and community stakeholders. Through townhalls, one-on-one conversations and community engagements, I will gain insight from the constituents of District 3 and the entire county of Kalamazoo.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
My long-term goal resides with the people of Kalamazoo, Michigan. I am a servant that believes in moving at the will of the people and what best serves their needs. If I am fortunate to keep the trust and faith of my constituents, I will continue serving as an elected official.
Campaign Song
“Golden” by Jill Scott
Favorite Movie
The Color Purple
Favorite Book
“Their Eyes are Watching God” by Zora Neal Hurston
Favorite Food
Arroz con habichuel as pollo (Puerto Rican rice & beans with chicken)
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position Represents
District 1
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
No response
What is your motivation for running for office?
I have worked with my neighbors on the ground organizing around the most pressing issues. I spend my days working to empower my community to advocate for themselves and using the power of a collective voice. I understand that our issues will only be resolved through effective, transparent and inclusive policy.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
My campaign is about inclusive, transparent and equitable actions. It is my goal to restore the trust between the County Commission and its residents. If re-elected, my top priorities will be the expansion of affordable housing and working to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce for county employees.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
I plan to accomplish these goals by working together with my colleagues as well as with other governmental departments and officials. Interagency collaboration is not only vital to our success, it also demonstrates our commitment to the people we serve. This can also be accomplished through the budget.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
No response
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
No response
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
No response
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
No response
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I periodically send emails to those who have joined my email list. I also host coffee hours and post on social media to gain input from constituents.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I plan to run for state representative in two years!
Campaign Song
I am not into music so much; I enjoy peace and quiet. If I had to choose, I would say, “God favored me, Brown skin girl” by Hezekiah Walker and The Love Fellowship Choir.
Favorite Movie
What’s Love Got to Do with It
Favorite Book
Picking one book is an exceedingly difficult task as I absolutely love books! The last book that I read was Queen Sugar by Natalie Baszile.
Favorite Food
Pizza (Bimbos) – pepperoni, double cheese!
Affiliation
Republican
District Position Represents
District 5
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
Served as a public servant in the City of Portage for over 40 years in different capacities: 16 years on the city council and 12 years as mayor. Presently president of the Portage Parks Foundation. Chamber recognized me the Public Servant of the Year in 2007.
What is your motivation for running for office?
Give back to the community and provide my skills to have the county commission work together in a professional manner. Find common ground and focus on a positive environment for jobs and housing.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Have the commissioners work together in a professional manner; set priorities with proper policies for administration to follow; use best practices to find efficiencies and best service models; and focus on jobs and housing.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Team building through honesty and trust with commissioners and the administration. Study and follow best practices for efficient service models. Collaborate with local units of government.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Align county and local government resources with Southwest Michigan First so all can focus on common policies and tactics to improve the community culture for importing good jobs to Southwest Michigan. A good job also requires adequate housing for the workforce so we must align resources to make change and improvements.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
With improvement to the business climate and alignment of resources, there will be a positive impact to the region’s workforce.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Working together and collaboration is key. The commission must set the example and not be the example. If the commission truly respects each other and is honest, even with differences, meaningful progress can be achieved. This can be replicated with local units of government in Southwest Michigan with Southwest Michigan First’s support and leadership.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
These are important characteristics in today’s society and business climate. They must be included in the discussions for a community that needs to grow its workforce.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
Constituent input is critical. Too many people in the county believe they are not being heard. Many don’t know the differences between local and county government responsibilities, so more education is needed. Coffee hours and mini townhall meetings are needed to improve citizen input.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I have no long-term political goals. I served as mayor for six terms and made progress in Portage. I just retired and have some gas left in the tank to help the county. If I can help the county, that is my end game.
Campaign Song
“Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac
Favorite Movie
Top Gun: Maverick
Favorite Book
“Lead with Purpose” by John Baldoni
Favorite Food
Steak with a Caesar salad
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position Represents
District 5
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I have served 14 years on the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners unanimously elected twice by members in both parties to serve as their chair. I have been a successful small business owner growing my company to over 60 employees in two years.
What is your motivation for running for office?
The county board needs leadership as it relates to the county budget and its policies. I believe I can put my experience back to work for the community.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
1) Restore the corporate council position reporting to the board, #2) Implement competitive wages to fill vacant positions and 3) Build an event center using local skilled labor
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
I will work toward five out of nine votes to implement policy and call for appropriate elections.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Within the scope of county government we can insist on local skilled labor for our large construction projects, good roads and affordable housing for employees. Fighting for federal dollars on large infrastructure projects.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
Whoever wins District 5 has a good chance of becoming chair of the commission, which is a good thing; my opponent is a good man who also possesses a wealth of local government experience. If Gretchen loses, Kalamazoo County Republicans could win the majority on county board.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Intellectual empathy and listening to each other is crucial; you don’t need to agree with someone to hear them. Respect at the county board should be given to everyone and partisan politics cast aside.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Every region in the county should be treated fairly and with respect. We need to listen to our DEI coordinator and create policy that can be gauged with metrics.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I have been and will continue to knock on doors and talk directly with resident; I also try to attend as many community events that I can.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I would like to create a structure in the county that can operate long after I am gone; as far as political goals, I would rather play golf.
Campaign Song
“Harmony Hall” by Vampire Weekend
Favorite Movie
Caddyshack
Favorite Book
“The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas
Favorite Food
Ribs
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position Represents
District 8
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I am a librarian. What I do is listen to the needs and wants of my community. This is how I make decisions on collection development, as well as programs and services we offer. I am currently serving on the Board of Education for Vicksburg Community Schools.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I care about the people of my community and the county at large. I want to ensure that the decisions being made on a county level will benefit all the residents and make for a stronger community.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Affordable housing/homelessness, public health, education/literacy, gun violence and clean water
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
At the July 26, 2022 budget retreat, the commissioners laid out their top three priorities: safety, attraction/retention and culture. I feel my priorities line up with the goals. My plan will be to work with the board and those most knowledgeable in these areas to ensure Kalamazoo County is a safe and desirable place to live and work.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
We need to support our unions because they can accomplish both well-paying jobs as well as build up a community in which one would want to live and support a family.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
For our economy to thrive, expansion of industry is crucial. We must concentrate on the survival of our small businesses through opportunities for growth and support visionaries to make their undertakings a reality.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
We all have different ideas and plans on what WE think is the best way. The best way to move forward is to listen to each other and our residents and come to consensus. We need to hear from those who are the experts in the field and bring their ideas to the table too.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Pollution, climate change and more have stripped the most basic needs like clean water, food, air and safe housing from our most vulnerable communities. We need to ensure that we are doing all that we can to create policies that will improve the way of life for all our residents.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I will have my email available for messaging as well as offering meet ups at local businesses. Constituent services is something I enjoy.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
Staying local is the goal. I currently serve on the Board of Education for Vicksburg Community Schools, and I am planning on running again at the end of my term. By winning a seat on the county commission, I can continue that call to serve locally and build up a community that we can all be proud of.
Campaign Song
More of a song to center myself, “It is Well” sung by Kristene DiMarco
Favorite Movie
Jurassic Park
Favorite Book
You are asking a librarian to pick ONE? “Firekeepers Daughter” by Angeline Boulley, “Searching for Sunday” by Rachel Held Evans, “The Last Cuentista” by Donna Barba Higuera and “New Kid” by Jerry Craft
Favorite Food
Chocolate
