GENERAL ELECTION • NOVEMBER 4, 2008

VOTER GUIDE

Milford / Highland / White Lake / Waterford Publication of Spinal Column Newsweekly PAGE 2/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ CANDIDATE FOR ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ HITE AKE ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ OWNSHIP ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ RUSTEE ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ MICHAEL E. LONG ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ A Vote For Michael E. Long is a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Vote for Experience, ★ ★ ★ ★ Commitment and Vision ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ •14 Years Planning Commission Experience ★ ★ ★ ★ •12 Years Zoning Board of Appeals Member ★ ★ ★ ★ •Former Building Inspector ★ ★ ★ ★ •Resident of Township 44 Years ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ VOTE NOVEMBER 4th! ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Remember your vote counts and ★ ★ ★ ★ It’s your right and privilege! ★ ★ Paid for by the Committee to Elect Michael E. Long, Dem. ★ ★ 1209 Pinecrest, White Lake, MI 48386 ★ ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 3/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Orchard Lake, Waterford, West Bloomfield U.S. Congress/9th Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Joe defeating the terrorists who attacked us, least 18 months, but the Iraqis must Knollenberg is being challenged by and who would do us harm. take responsibility for their own country, Democrat Gary Peters in the Tuesday, FINANCIAL CRISIS: This crisis never and we need to start the process imme- Nov. 4 general election. Members of should have happened, and we must act diately so that we can refocus our Congress serve two-year terms and are now to stabilize the economy, ensure liq- efforts on defeating the terrorists in currently paid $165,200 annually. uidity in the credit and banking system, Afghanistan. The following are questions our staff and help families stay in their homes. In WHY YOU? My family has been here in recently posed to Peters, and his Washington, I will use my background in Oakland County for five generations, and responses to those questions. business and finance to take action to I understand the challenges we’re facing. Knollenberg didn’t respond to our can- protect taxpayers, and to fight for more I have the unique mix of experience and didate questionnaire. accountability over Wall Street to ensure skill that will allow me to tackle these IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN: Despite progress this kind of disaster can never happen challenges head-on, starting on day one. in Iraq, there are still many calling for again. In the Michigan Senate, I had a rapid withdrawal of U.S. forces. How Rather than eliminating the safe- proven record of bipartisan leadership, should the nation handle the situation guards, as Mr. Knollenberg has voted having more of my bills signed into law in Iraq, and why? State why you are or repeatedly to do, I believe we must have than any other Democratic senator. At aren’t satisfied with the level of troop a 21st century regulatory system that the Lottery, I generated record revenues deployment and the nature of our pres- will protect taxpayers while encouraging to invest in our classrooms, and did it ence in Afghanistan. growth. Gary Peters served two terms in the under budget every year. I spent more FINANCIAL CRISIS: America has been I was frustrated that Congress didn’t Michigan Senate before becoming than 20 years in the investment sector, rocked by the recent collapse of banks take action on these issues in the bailout commissioner of the Michigan Lottery. and will use that experience to provide and financial firms. What’s your vision bill passed earlier this month. While I He is a former Lieutenant Comman- leadership in responding the financial cri- for helping the economy rebound in the supported the effort to get liquidity into der in the Navy Reserve. Peters sis. worked for 20 years as a vice presi- short term, especially given the credit the market as quickly as possible, the I know Michigan is ready to take the dent at Merrill Lynch and UBS/ crisis that threatens to cripple the econ- job is far from done. lead in education, research, and new PaineWebber. omy? What would you like done to HEALTH CARE: Affordable, quality industries that will create the vehicles implement long-term structural changes health care should be the right of every and energy sources of the future — and that ensure a strong economy? Do you American, and in Congress, I will work world, and we are ready to take the lead that’s what I will work to do in support the economic recovery plan pro- to make this a reality. The health care in the next generation of alternative Congress. ❏ posed by President Bush? situation is both a moral crisis and an energy technologies that will create jobs HEALTH CARE: Where do you stand on economic crisis. and bring new investment to Michigan. the notion of implementing some kind Today, American businesses are put TOP ISSUES: First and foremost, I will of universal health care or somehow at a severe competitive disadvantage take action to reinvest in Michigan’s reforming the existing system? compared to other countries because of economy to create jobs by investing in ENERGY/OIL DEPENDENCY: What alter- our outrageous health care premiums. our auto industry and new industries like native fuels and energies do you believe Small businesses that want to hire more alternative energy. the nation should be pursuing? Please employees are unable to do so because Second, I will work to ensure all tell us where you stand on proposals to of the cost of health insurance. Americans have access to quality, afford- open up the Arctic National Wildlife We must allow Medicare to negotiate able health care. Spiraling health care Refuge to oil drilling, or expanding off- for lower prescription drug prices for premiums are hurting families and place shore drilling. senior citizens — just like the VA already a terrible burden on American business- TOP ISSUES: What are the three most does. We also must provide children es. We are the only developed nation in important issues for the district, and access to quality, affordable health care. which all citizens don’t have access to how do you propose to address them? The SCHIP program (known as MIChild affordable health care, and our business- WHY YOU? Why should voters choose here in Michigan) works, but on the fed- es are forced to bear that extra burden. you over your opponent? eral level President Bush and my oppo- Finally, as a former Lt. Commander in nent have blocked this important legisla- the Navy Reserve, I will work towards a GARY PETERS tion. responsible end of the war in Iraq. Any IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN: As a former Lt. ENERGY/OIL DEPENDENCY: High ener- responsible redeployment will take at Commander in the Navy Reserve, I gy prices are crippling Michigan’s auto- Election results on believe we must immediately begin motive industry and hurting families, redeploying troops from Iraq, so we can and our dependence on foreign oil places CORRECTION OF ORIGINAL NOTICE election night, from the respond to other serious threats. I our national security in jeopardy. We CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE don’t support a “rapid withdrawal,” but must take immediate action to reduce Spinal Column a responsible and safe redeployment the price of fuel, and to make a serious PUBLIC NOTICE Newsweekly that protects our troops and military investment in alternative energy research NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Accuracy materiel while providing stability. While and development. Although I oppose Test of the M-100 Optical Scan Equipment used for starting at 10:30 p.m. we are spending $10 billion a month, drilling in the Great Lakes and in the the General Election to be held on Tuesday, Iraq has a surplus of over $79 billion. Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, I support November 4, 2008, will be conducted on Thursday, Turn to our website It’s time for the Iraqi government to domestic drilling as part of a compre- October 30, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at the White Lake take responsibility for the security of Township Hall, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI www.spinalcolumnonline.com hensive energy policy that includes wind 48383. Iraq. and solar energy, advanced vehicles, and biofuels. The public Accuracy Test is conducted to determine The Bush Administration’s single- that the program and the computer being used to Website election results minded focus on Iraq, which my oppo- The challenges of global climate tabulate the results of the election counts the votes nent has supported, has allowed al- change and reducing our dependence on in the manner as prescribed by law. updated every Qaeda to become stronger than it has foreign oil present an enormous oppor- Carol J. Burkard, Clerk half hour. been since 2001. This can’t continue, tunity for Michigan’s economy. We have White Lake Township and I will support policies to refocus our the best engineers, researchers, work- SC: 10-22-08 military effort on finding, capturing, and ers, and universities anywhere in the PAGE 4/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Commerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Waterford, White Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake U.S. Congress/11th Democrat Joseph Larkin is challeng- cess on the ground which, at present, ing incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. is steadily progressing. Thaddeus McCotter in the Tuesday, FINANCIAL CRISIS: My fellow residents Nov. 4 general election. Members of of the 11th District didn’t elect me to Congress serve two-year terms and are abet American socialism. Thus, I currently paid $165,200 annually. opposed both of the Bush administra- The following are questions our tion’s taxpayer-funded, trillion-dollar staff recently posed to the candidates, Wall Street bailouts; and, alternatively, I and their responses to those ques- proposed a pro-taxpayer, free market, tions. private recapitalization plan for the IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN: Despite progress banking system. Unfortunately, the in Iraq, there are still many calling for $800 billion Wall Street bailout was rapid withdrawal of U.S. forces. How Joseph Larkin is the owner of Larkin Legal Thaddeus McCotter has represented the passed by the Democratically-con- should the nation handle the situation Services. He is a member of Catholic 11th District for the past six years. He trolled Congress. The bill remains in Iraq, and why? State why you are or Lawyers Society of Michigan, the Michigan served in the Michigan Senate from 1999 intrinsically unfair to the American peo- aren’t satisfied with the level of troop Association for Justice, and the Livonia Bar to 2002. Prior to that, McCotter was a ple; didn’t properly address the short- deployment and the nature of our Association. practicing attorney who served as a Wayne County Commissioner from 1993 to term financial issues it purported to presence in Afghanistan. solve; and didn’t even begin to address FINANCIAL CRISIS: 1998 and on the Schoolcraft College America has been Board of Trustees from 1989 to 1992. the deeper economic dysfunctions in rocked by the recent collapse of banks American and global markets. and financial firms. What’s your vision ENERGY/OIL DEPENDENCY: There are vote created a real loss on Sept. 29 of our markets and creating accountability for helping the economy rebound in three key elements to America’s energy $1.2 trillion in the Dow Jones alone. provisions to assure this doesn’t happen the short term, especially given the situation: production, conservation and I would be fighting for reforms, par- again. credit crisis that threatens to cripple innovation. It’s crucial we do all we can ticularly to help homeowners stay in No. 2 is Iraq. We should responsibly the economy? What would you like to lower gas prices and energy costs their homes to help increase the value of re-deploy from Iraq to save $100 billion done to implement long-term structur- by increasing domestic production, the rest of our homes, and for accounta- or more per year. al changes that ensure a strong econo- promoting conservation and encourag- bility provisions to assure a financial cri- my? Do you support the economic No. 3 is expanding health care to ing free market innovation of clean sis doesn’t happen again. I would have recovery plan proposed by President cover as many Americans as possible. alternative fuels. We need to unleash voted for the best bill available before WHY YOU? Bush? Thaddeus McCotter has been our natural resources, while supporting adjourning. McCotter instead voted for ENERGY/OIL DEPENDENCY: What a foot soldier for George Bush, voting the aforementioned “all of the above” his ideology at the sacrifice of your alternative fuels and energies do you how Bush leads without question. approach. money, investments, and economy. McCotter will continue to follow Bush’s believe the nation should be pursuing? TOP ISSUES: We must lower gas ENERGY/OIL DEPENDENCY: My No. 1 erroneous policies on the Iraq war, econ- Please tell us where you stand on pro- prices by increasing domestic produc- initiative to break dependence on foreign omy, energy policy, credit crunch, health posals to open up the Arctic National tion, promoting conservation and oil, fight high gas prices, and create care, etc., all of which are severely harm- Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling, or encouraging free market innovations of American jobs is to pass a law akin to cre- ing America’s middle class, jobs, and expanding off-shore drilling. clean alternative fuels. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most ating a modern day “Manhattan Project.” I businesses. McCotter is not a “represen- would put together our best scientific tative.” He votes first and foremost We must lower our taxes and reduce important issues for the district, and the size of government. It’s critical we how do you propose to address them? minds to make all types of alternative along party lines rather than what is best energy sources a practical reality and for his constituents. preserve and promote Michigan’s econo- WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- my and set the conditions necessary for ers choose you over your opponent? refine traditional energy sources (e.g. the I will act as a leader, not a follower. I hydrogen fuel cell; cars powered by lithi- will reach across the aisle to work with entrepreneurs to create new jobs. We JOSEPH LARKIN um batteries or other electrical alterna- members of both parties on policies that must fight to stop unfair trade agree- IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN: Rep. McCotter tives such as hybrids; renewable energy will best solve our country’s problems in ments and level the world’s economic believes in continued occupation for such as wind, solar, biomass, geothermal the economy, energy, and Iraq war. playing field for American manufactur- years to come at a cost of more and hydropower; clean coal technologies; ing, businesses and workers. American blood and over $100 billion nuclear power; etc.). I advocate research THADDEUS McCOTTER And, finally, it’s paramount to dollars per year, which could be spent and implementation of all alternative ener- IRAQ/AFGHANISTAN: If the United States American sovereignty we stop any to shore up our own shaky economy or gy sources; conservation; and increased is defeated in Iraq and this fledgling amnesty for illegal aliens. to balance our budget. My position is to fuel efficiency. We must take all logical, democracy is abandoned, its instability WHY YOU? I’m seeking re-election to leave the country as soon as practical, cost-effective, and environmentally-sound will coalesce into an epicenter of terrorist continue fighting against the powerful but only as soon as prudent. Specific alternatives to produce American-made attacks upon our country; the state for my fellow residents and address security goals, military goals, etc., must energy that will help to prevent global cli- sponsor of terror Iran will develop a our community’s critical concerns. I be set for Iraq, with specific hard time mate changes. nuclear weapon, and dominate and have matched my words with my lines and appropriate reduction of TOP ISSUES: The biggest issue is the destabilize the region; Syria and Iran deeds and worked for and with my troops being made based upon economy, with four subset issues: A) through their proxy Hezbollah will con- constituents to reach our shared goal American military leaders’ decisions, not Energy Crisis: solved by aggressive tinue to undermine Lebanon’s peaceful of improving the quality of life in our on politicians’ decisions. This should be investment in alternative energy; B) Cedar Revolution; Hamas will escalate its community, our state and our country. accomplished in less than two years, Decline in Housing Values: solved by violence against Israel and the Palestinian I will continue to fully, honorably and hopefully closer to one year. aggressively combating home foreclo- Authority’s Fatah party; the U.S. allies of effectively work for the sovereign citi- FINANCIAL CRISIS: The “bailout” is sures to increase housing values, penaliz- Pakistan, Jordan and Egypt will face zens of the 11th District. not a bailout; it’s a rescue bill. It’s ing predatory lending, and taking all renewed efforts to undermine their gov- Equally, as a husband and a father effectively a loan to save our economy, responsible measures to keep families in ernments; and, having proven successful of three children, I live and share the get the flow of credit going again, pro- their homes. C) Loss of American Jobs: in Iraq, the insurgents and terrorists will same daily burdens and countless tect jobs, and protect our investments. solved by creating and maintaining utilize the same tactics to force an allied blessings as everyone in our communi- We can get money back, possibly make American jobs in every way possible, e.g. withdrawal from the struggling democra- ty; and, I’m personally committed to a profit, and save our economy from renegotiate trade agreements like NAFTA cy in Afghanistan. ensure we succeed in moving forward tanking. The first version of the bill and focusing on fair trade. D) Financial Future troop removals from the Iraqi and keeping America the greatest had many inadequacies, but the “no” crisis: solved by responsibly supporting theater will continue, based upon suc- country in the world. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 5/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford, West Bloomfield State House/43rd Republican Gail Haines and ple to sell houses, and you need to allow Democrat Scott Hudson will compete in people to move into a home for the first the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election time. By reducing the pop up tax that race for the state’s 43rd House District occurs when a house is sold, you start seat. State representatives serve two- dealing with true market rates which are year terms and are currently paid declining, but you at least get some kind $79,650 annually. of cash flow going instead of defaults The following are questions our and bankruptcy. Proposal A will probably staff recently posed to the candidates, always need to be adjusted, and it’s and their responses to those ques- extremely important right now to adjust tions. it. BUDGET: Please explain what state TOP ISSUES: Right now people need spending reductions, if any, you would jobs, and energy is an important aspect like to see in the future. What revenue Gail Haines, a former teacher, is a Lake Scott Hudson has served on the Waterford of how we can reinvent Michigan. enhancements, if any, do you advocate? Angelus city councilwoman. She has Schools Board of Education since 2005, Education is probably to single most served as community liaison for state Rep. Finally, state why you believe the budg- and on the Waterford Planning Commis- important economic development Fran Amos and a precinct delegate. She is sion from 1998 to 2006. He has been a et can be balanced by addressing only a member of the Oakland County real estate broker and agent, and owner engine we have. one side of the ledger or the other, or Republican Party Executive Committee of Scott Hudson Developments, Inc. since What’s going on in Michigan with why both spending cuts and increased and the North Oakland Republican Club. 1995. Hudson served on the Cherryland the energy package that was just revenues are the solution. Electric Cooperative Board of Directors passed is a huge mistake. What it does BUSINESS TAXES: The Legislature dur- from 1982 to 1990. is end competition and give back ing this last session had an opportunity monopolies to Edison and Consumer’s. to rewrite the business tax structure in In other states they are looking at a sim- the SBT was replaced by the MBT, was a One of the terrible things happening in Michigan, replacing the Single Business ple percentage of retail value. Perhaps net increase in taxes and that’s got to be the U.S. when they try to get involved Tax (SBT). Are you satisfied with the that is something that we might want to the most backward way of thinking I’ve in wind turbine energy is they import new business tax or is more work take a look at. Or, we might want to take ever seen. What happened with the film technology from Denmark. It’s not even needed? built in the U.S. If we change the PROPOSAL A REFORMS: a look at further tweaking Proposal A. I industry, as far as giving tax credits — The economic do believe that it needs to be adjusted the writing is on the wall. By reducing investment to encourage competition hardships of the past few years have but I would be very careful about chang- those taxes you encourage people to and create new high-tech jobs in brought attention to several of ing the equation and the per-pupil fund- come and create business and jobs in Michigan, and if you take those funds Proposal A’s shortcomings. Which of ing for public education. Michigan. The last thing you want to do and put them into renewable resources Proposal A’s unintended and unexpect- TOP ISSUES: When I announced my can- is increase taxes. There are other ways you can still have a base load capacity ed negative consequences do you didacy I was running on the three E’s: you can reduce the need for money and that’s clean energy and controlled so believe need immediate attention, and the economy, education and the environ- revenue. In Waterford, at the school dis- people have reliable sources. how should they be resolved? ment/energy. Education and the environ- trict where I’m a member of the school From a job standpoint we should TOP ISSUES: What are the three most ment are still very important to me, but board, we just replaced the insurance for- have tax credits and encourage busi- important issues for the Legislature, as I knocked doors I found it’s all about mally held by MESSA with another group nesses. and how do you propose to address the economy. If people don’t have jobs, so that the school board is the policy In education we should be focusing them? aren’t able to make ends meet, and are holder. We are giving the teachers and on the emerging technologies including WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should loosing their homes, than nothing else the employees essentially the same insur- alternative energy in Michigan. We need voters choose you over your opponent? really matters. I’m very excited about the ance, Blue Cross Blue Shield, which to manufacture what we can, deal with GAIL HAINES (recently adopted) energy package. There they’ve had to date. The school district is emerging sectors and focus on renew- BUDGET: In Michigan we have the are parts of it I like; there are parts of it going to save anywhere from $2 million able energy. 14th highest tax burden in the country. that I don’t like. It has been written in a to $4 million a year. If 552 districts WHY YOU? It has to do with experi- We must stop taxing our citizens. We manner that we’ll be able to go back and statewide did this that could amount to ence. I’ve been involved with alternative need to lower taxes, we need to reduce look at it for change as we go along. The $400 million saved at the state level. energies for over 31 years. I’ve been the size of state government and we package now tells the other states that That’s the approach the Legislature involved with the electric utility busi- need to reform and restructure state we’re on board. needs to take. You don’t simply raise ness for eight years. I was on the government. There are many areas in WHY YOU? I firmly believe I can make a taxes, you adjust and you refine your board of directors of electric utilities in which we can do that and that is what difference. I want to take common sense business pattern. northern Michigan, perusing alternative I would support. leadership to Lansing. My experience in BUSINESS TAXES: I agree the MBT needs energies. I’ve been on the planning BUSINESS TAXES: No, I’m not satisfied city government and commitment to all of to be revisited. I know the people in the commission in Waterford for nine years. with the new business tax structure. the community groups that I have been Department of Treasury are still trying to I understand how state and local regu- The MBT (Michigan Business Tax) was involved with led me to state govern- figure out just what is what and how to lation need to mesh and work together a deal that was made in the middle of ment. I posses the knowledge, the ability interpret different aspects of the MBT. In for savings so you don’t duplicate the night. It was all but slammed down and the energy to do this job and I will be times that are terribly tough, the last efforts. I have demonstrated the leader- our throats and I firmly believe that we ready to do it on day one. I have been a thing you want to do is make things ship it takes to go against the grain, to need to go back and revisit the MBT wife, a mother, a teacher, a community more complicated and more burdensome. reinvent how you fund insurance, pro- and do away with the 21.9 percent activist and an elected official. The MBT needs change. tect the teachers, and open up new surcharge that was added. This was a Most importantly while I do believe PROPOSAL A REFORMS: Proposal A did a aspects of education with all-day job-killing move. that we need to work in a bipartisan lot of things and it did some less than kindergarten. I’m a business man of PROPOSAL A REFORMS: In 1994 level, I’m partisan. In 2007 every single good things. It did help to equalize school more than 20 years. I know how to when Proposal A was instituted it did Michigan (Democratic) representative funding on a statewide basis. At the same come up with a budget and make it exactly what it was supposed to do. It voted for a tax increase. I have signed a time, the property taxes which have the work. I’ve dealt with budgets over reduced property taxes and it also pro- pledge not to raise taxes. I’m the only various caps to them and pop up aspects $100 million. I am a family man. I have vided per-pupil funding for education. It candidate in this race who has signed with market value and state equalized a daughter and there is nothing more worked well but that was during those that pledge and I will stand by that. value and cost of living — it’s not in tune important than the family unit. I know economic times. We are here now in SCOTT HUDSON with what’s going on in 2008. You need to how to make win-win situations. I’m 2008 and the economy isn’t the same. BUDGET: What happened last year, when spur the economy, you need to allow peo- not partisan. ❏ PAGE 6/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Highland, White Lake State House/44th Republican Eileen Kowall and government regulations. Michigan is not Democrat Mark Venie will face off in just loosing jobs to India, we’re loosing the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for them to Indiana. Let’s look at the states the state’s 44th House District seat. that are successful and do likewise. State representatives serve two-year We need a vision for where we see terms and are currently paid an annual Michigan five, 10 and 25 years from salary of $79,650. now and a plan to get us there. We The following are questions our staff must encourage emerging sectors busi- recently posed to the candidates, and nesses and entrepreneurs to locate their responses to those questions. here, as well as develop an BUDGET: Please explain what state educated/retrained workforce to sup- spending reductions, if any, you would port these businesses. like to see in the future. What revenue Eileen Kowall has been an Oakland Mark Venie WHY YOU? I’m currently an Oakland enhancements, if any, do you advocate? County commissioner since 2003. She County commissioner, elected in 2002. State why you believe the budget can is vice-chairwoman of the board's I have served on many committees, be balanced by addressing only one finance committee and chairwoman commissions, task forces and study side of the ledger or the other, or why of the county board's Republican groups, and I’m currently vice-chair of both spending cuts and increased rev- Caucus. She is part-owner of Accurate the Finance Committee and chair of the enues are the solution. Woodworking. Republican Commissioners Caucus. I BUSINESS TAXES: The Legislature dur- would bring the experience, knowledge ing this last session had an opportunity and skills I have acquired as a county increases and I’m opposed to any tax and knowledge. Creativity, ideas and inno- to rewrite the business tax structure in commissioner with me to state govern- increases. Without immediate steps to vation must also be stressed. the state, replacing the Single Business ment. curb spending and taxation, Michigan will We must get more money (at least 65 Tax (SBT). Are you satisfied with the As part-owner of a small business, continue to lead in unemployment. percent) to the classroom — more educa- new business tax structure or is more Accurate Woodworking, I have gained a BUSINESS TAXES: I wasn’t satisfied with tion for our dollars, not more dollars for work needed? real-world business perspective. I know the MBT (Michigan Business Tax) and our education. PROPOSAL A REFORMS: The economic what it’s like to sign both sides of a definitely not the MBT surcharge. I have Uneducated and undereducated people hardships of the past few years have paycheck and how difficult it is for a spoken to many business owners who will be left behind and unable to survive brought attention to several of business to survive tough economic have seen 500 to 1,500 percent increas- in our future economy. We must increase Proposal A’s shortcomings. Which, if conditions. es in their business taxes. high school graduation rates and also any, of Proposal A’s unintended and Michigan has one of the worst job make higher education more affordable. We MARK VENIE unexpected negative consequences do markets in the nation. According to the can help accomplish both goals by involv- BUDGET: There is no one single step you believe need immediate attention, Chief Executives Magazine, Michigan ing community colleges with high school that will solve our budget problems. It and how should they be resolved? rates an “F” grade when it comes to education and by promoting the use of will take a combination of spending EDUCATION: What do you see as the taxes and regulations. We definitely need community colleges towards college cuts and revenue enhancements. Last most important education issues in the a complete business tax reform with a degrees. There should be much more inte- year the House Democrats cut $433 state, and how should they be more fair and broad-based approach — gration of secondary and higher education. million from the state budget, including addressed? one that will make job creation a priority STEM CELLS: I don’t support the use of a cut on lawmakers’ salaries, eliminat- STEM CELLS: Michigan voters will be instead of aiming to fill the coffers of embryonic stem cells for research. ing life-time health care for lawmakers asked on Nov. 4 to amend the state bureaucrats. Researchers have been able to successful- and eliminating double-dipping by Constitution to allow research on stem PROPOSAL A REFORMS: When Proposal ly reprogram adult skin cells to function retired state employees. Now we must cells. State why you do or don’t sup- A was drafted and adopted, no one fore- almost identically to human embryonic attract new businesses and encourage port the amendment. saw home sales and property values stem cells. Thus, stem cells that are a entrepreneurs to increase revenue. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most falling off the cliff like they have been. perfect match for the patient can now be BUSINESS TAXES: The Michigan important issues for the Legislature, and The purpose of Proposal A was to protect created without destroying embryos. Business Tax does need more work, how do you propose to address them? homeowners by keeping property taxes Also, Dr. James Thompson of Wisconsin and especially the service tax should be WHY YOU? Why should voters choose from escalating rapidly in an up market. (who first extracted human embryonic repealed. you over your opponent? This same mechanism has kept property stem cells) says that cures from embry- PROPOSAL A REFORMS: The assess- EILEEN KOWALL taxes from falling correspondingly with onic stem cells would be decades away ment values should be more closer BUDGET: We need to reduce the size the decline in property values. Two-year and he is now focusing his efforts on related to property values, so that and scope of state government. The comparison studies of home sales and adult cell reprogramming. There is cur- when values go down, the assessment state should let the private sector take values are slow to reflect the actual mar- rently a four-bill package in the state goes down also. over non-essential state services and ket. Local governments have the option house that would offer various tax incen- EDUCATION: We need to invest in early functions. There are savings that could of using either two-year or one-year stud- tives to those willing to come to Michigan education for our children; work for be realized in corrections, better man- ies to determine the equalized values of and invest in this “emerging sector” field. modifications of No Child Left Behind; agement of Medicaid costs, changes in homes. One-year comparison studies in a These emerging sector and technology and make sure our schools are fully welfare benefits, realigning state down market should be mandatory in jobs are vital to our economy and to the funded and staffed with qualified teach- employee benefits to more accurately order to more accurately reflect actual future of Michigan. ers. reflect private sector benefits, reform- real estate values and provide tax relief TOP ISSUES: My top three priorities are STEM CELLS: I support the amend- ing the Wayne County Mental Health sooner. If the market value goes down, jobs and the economy, taxes, and the ment. By allowing stem cell research Authority, and so on. Zero-based budg- property taxes shouldn’t go up. future of Michigan. we can find cures for diseases and eting should be done periodically so all EDUCATION: Education and investment in The business and overall tax structure bring high-tech bio-medical jobs to expenditures would have to be justi- our human potential is critical to in Michigan needs to be overhauled. State Michigan. fied. We should budget according to Michigan’s future. We are in a global government needs to live within its TOP ISSUES: The top issues are creat- needs and priorities. I also support the economy and being quickly outpaced by means and realize that raising taxes will ing jobs, increasing access to quality efforts of state Sen. John Pappageorge hard-working and determined emerging only delay our economic recovery. We health care for all Michigan families, to adopt the state budget based on 96 countries. If Michigan is to be economi- need to create a business-friendly envi- and providing fixed-rate mortgages to percent of estimated revenues. cally relevant in the future, emphasis ronment, not only in regards to taxes, families facing foreclosure. Revenue enhancements equal tax must be placed on science, technology but by eliminating overly burdensome WHY YOU? (No response) ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 7/MHW,WAT Endorsed by Michigan Chamber of Commerce

Endorsed by County Executive Brooks Patterson

Eileen • Livingston County Board of Commissioners since 1998 and Board Chairman 2006-2008 Kowall • Livingston County Small Business and Technological FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVE Development Center Board • Past Chairman of the REPUBLICAN Infrastructure/Development Sub- Committee • Livingston County Economic Endorsed by the Michigan Education Association Development Council, Executive Paid for by Friends of Eileen Kowall • 2333 Cumberland Dr • White Lake, MI 48383 Board Member • Small Business Owner since 1989 Endorsements Include: State Senator Nancy Cassis It’s no secret, Michigan is in trouble… House Republican Leader Craig DeRoche People are losing their jobs. Oakland County Executive Families are losing their homes. L. Brooks Patterson Our local schools are not getting their fair share of Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard funding. Oakland County Prosecutor Our children are being forced to leave the state to find David Gorcyca Oakland County Treasurer jobs. Patrick Dohany Oakland County Drain Comm. Bill has the leadership and Experience we need… John P. McCulloch Bill’s top priorities are fixing Michigan’s economy, Oakland County BOC Chairman bringing back jobs, and balancing the state’s budget. Bill Bullard, Jr. Lyon Township Treasurer, Bill will oppose new taxes and fee increases, and will Patricia Carcone work to reduce wasteful government spending. Northville Mayor Chris Johnson Novi Mayor David B. Landry Bill will work to eliminate the inequities in South Lyon City Councilwoman, Michigan’s current school funding formula, giving an Patti Maida equal opportunity to all of our children. South Lyon School Board, Douglas Curry Bill will propose a reduced work week for non- Walled Lake City Councilwoman, essential state employees. Angie Maher Bill will support alternative forms of energy and work REPUBLICAN Wixom City Councilman, for State Representative - 38th District Richard Ziegler to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. Wixom Planning Commissioner, 248-349-5079 Nick Kennedy e-mail: [email protected] National Rifle Association Vote BILL ROGERS For a more complete list of endorsements and Right to Life of Michigan th additional information, please visit my website at: November 4 Paid for by the Friends of Hugh D. Crawford, P.O. Box 11, Novi, MI 48376 Paid for by Bill Rogers For State Representative | 4878 Pine Eagles Ct. | Brighton, MI 48116 PAGE 8/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Milford State House/66th Democrat Donna G. Anderson and have been a tax increase. Our budget Republican Bill Rogers will square off in has become out of sight. If you have a the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for buck, you don’t spend a buck-fifty. the state’s 66th House District seat. BUSINESS TAXES: It’s absolutely absurd State representatives serve two-year what they did up there. It was like alph- terms and are currently paid an annual abet soup: Changing an “S” to an “M” salary of $79,650. did not accomplish anything. The sur- The following are questions our staff charge has got to go. What we did was recently posed to the candidates, and send a message, unfortunately, that their responses to those questions. Michigan is not in business to be in busi- BUDGET: Explain what state spending ness. A lot of work needs to be done. reductions you would like to see. What PROPOSAL A REFORMS: Unfortunately revenue enhancements, if any, do you Prop A was not designed for declining advocate? State why you believe the markets. We took the benefit on the budget can be balanced by addressing front end and we were satisfied. Now only one side of the ledger or the we’re seeing the reverse. I’m not so other, or why both spending cuts and Donna G. Anderson is a former high school Bill Rogers is currently chairman of the sure we can overcompensate for that. increased revenues are the solution. social studies teacher. She has also worked Livingston County Board of Commissioners. Equity (in school) funding is totally BUSINESS TAXES: The Legislature dur- for Michigan Bell, AT&T, and Ameritech He has been a Livingston County commis- appropriate. We’re running into a prob- ing this last session had an opportunity Publishing in numerous marketing and net- sioner since 1999. Rogers is a co-owner of lem with stability. We run into that with work management capacities. Anderson to rewrite the business tax structure in E.B.I, Inc., a home building company. He a number of programs in state govern- established the client Service Department has been a residential home builder since the state, replacing the single business for GoTo, Inc., a Pasadena, Calif. compa- 1989. ment. We need to find a way to stabi- tax. Are you satisfied with the new ny. She eventually retired from the position lize the state funding (for schools). It’s business tax structure or is more work of director of search quality. tragic that a school system basically needed on the new taxes? has no clue until the last minute what PROPOSAL A REFORMS: The economic charge came up was because they had dren. I’ve not been pleased so far with their budget might be and then they’re hardships of the past few years have done this service tax in an awkward and the kind of world we have. If have to supposed to act accordingly. Equity def- brought attention to several of stupid way in the eleventh hour. It was leave a better world, so I’m going to initely has to come into play. Proposal A’s shortcomings. Which, if TOP ISSUES: the chamber of commerce which came work really hard for the citizens of It’s the economy, it’s the any, of Proposal A’s unintended and and said, “Let’s be sensible. The service Livingston and Oakland counties, as well economy, it’s the economy. Without unexpected negative consequences do tax is not going to work so we’ll have to as the whole state. I have fresh, new, cre- employers you won’t have employees, you believe need immediate attention, do this surcharge.” We need to look at ative ideas. I will be able to work with and we won’t be able to recover as a and how should they be resolved? how the new tax structure is working others in a bipartisan manner and work state. Until we fix the economy, other TOP ISSUES: What are the three most before we go changing it. We need that with the governor to bring these good things will have to be put on hold. We important issues for the Legislature, and money in Michigan. We have to have a things about for Michigan. have our tax structure with that deba- how do you propose to address them? balanced budget. I have not only the teaching experience, cle related to the economy. The only WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should PROPOSAL A REFORMS: The immediate but a number of experiences in business. two growth industries in our state voters choose you over your opponent? thing is that all school districts are not I’ve managed and supervised people. My today are the health industry and gov- DONNA G. ANDERSON receiving funds equally under Proposal A. last job was for an Internet company, a ernment. When one one of those is BUDGET: There is very little in the We should be looking at all children search engine, a successful dot-com that government, you’re in trouble. budget we can affect, and that’s only equally. Where they live shouldn’t make was eventually bought by Yahoo. When I WHY YOU? Leadership and experience. the general fund, which is 20 percent of any difference at all. I think that needs to started with that company I was the 30th I’ve been in the state for over 50 years. the budget. The rest of it is set up by be taken care of. There is a program to employee and we had $7 million. When I I’ve been in our community for over 40. law and you can’t change that. Under do that over the next 10 years, but I left the company four years later, we were I’ve been a county commissioner for 10 that 20 percent are the social services, don’t know if our children can wait 10 worth $4 billion and had 1,000 employees. years and board chairman for the last police services, corrections, schools, etc. years. It should happen immediately. We That was exciting and I learned a lot. three. I’m already doing the things that We need to look at that area and not also need to take a look at where else we the state needs to do. I’ve been making necessarily cut funding, but see if we are spending money. Can we transfer BILL ROGERS tough decisions because we’ve had to BUDGET: can switch some of those funds around. some of that money to our schools? We do have a spending prob- for several years. That’s why people One area that takes up a huge part TOP ISSUES: My three issues are jobs, lem. The method that the state uses for come to the Livingston and Oakland of the budget is corrections. Over the education, and the environment. In order budgeting is they have a revenue projec- counties of the world, because of what last 10 years, it’s almost doubled. to bring jobs to Michigan, we need an tions. They tend to budget to that rev- we are doing and what we’re active in Michigan has largest incarceration rate educated, skilled workforce. We also need enue projection. That’s totally absurd and day-to-day. Cuts and adjustments are of any state. Every person in prison to have a good environment and infra- inexcusable, because those revenue pro- made. We lack leadership in the state costs the state between $30,000 and structure. We have 20 percent of the jections have been misguided and not cal- and it has become a debacle. Many peo- 35,000 a year. We spend more on world’s fresh water in the Great lakes. culated appropriately. From the county ple have encouraged me to run. incarceration than we do on education. We better take care of it because it’s perspective, we are using a five-year I’m a small business owner. For 20 We need to balance spending and going to be really important for our econ- budget process and forecasting out and years I’ve gotten the feeling I’m not cutting. We may have to eventually omy and the future. I’m very much for adjusting now. welcome here anymore. We can give tax raise taxes. We did it last year — it bringing alternative energies to the state. Budget cuts will have to be made. breaks to out-of-town companies, but was the first time in a long time and I believe in educating people from birth to There’s probably a lot of fluff in any busi- what does that say about us? Six of the we had to do it to balance the budget. death. If we use what we have and put in ness and in any government. automobile companies haven’t located I don’t want to raise taxes but I’m will- efforts to diversify, to bring in alternative At this point, more taxes are not the to the auto capital of the world. I ask ing to do it if we have to. I would look energies and have a clean environment answer. We can’t tax ourselves to pros- door-to-door, “Where did they go?” at every area to get more revenue with- and skilled workforce, what employer perity. I can’t afford more taxes in the They say overseas. My response is out raising taxes. Raising taxes would wouldn’t want to come here? small business I own. More taxes will only Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. I be the last thing I would do. WHY YOU? My heart is with the people drive more businesses out of the state. would fly down on my dime to ask why BUSINESS TAXES: The reason why the of Michigan and some of those people We should have frozen the budget for they went there and not here, so we Michigan Business Tax (MBT) and sur- happen to be my children and grandchil- the last three years. There never should don’t make the same mistake again. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 9/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Oakland County Executive

Democrat Brenda Lawrence and They asked for a subsidy. The people incumbent Republican L. Brooks said “Nope, we’re not going to subsi- Patterson are competing in the dize that.” So they closed the lines and Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for the sold it. So when we had it, when there Oakland County executive position. The were more people going to and from county executive serves a four-year the city, it couldn’t sustain itself and term and is currently paid $178,869 a the public wasn’t willing to subsidize it. year. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: The following are questions our Automation Alley started out with 43 staff recently posed to the candidates, businesses in 1999. Today we have and their responses to those ques- 940. The other program we started in tions. 2003 is called Emerging Sectors. We BUDGET: What changes in county researched the sectors we think are budgeting priorities or processes do Brenda Lawrence has served as the mayor L. Brooks Patterson has served as the going to be the future growth indus- you advocate to deal with new budget- of Southfield since 2001. Prior to that she Oakland County executive for over 15 tries and that’s what we want — the ary challenges? Are there other major served on the Southfield City Council for years. Prior to that he served as the high-tech sectors, chemical technology, five years, and on the Southfield Schools Oakland County prosecutor for 16 years. cost savings efforts that can be under- Board of Education for five years. biotechnology, information technology, taken if the situation worsens in the homeland security, alternative energy, next couple of years? health care, finance. We’ve brought in REGIONAL ISSUES: What do you see How long do we need to talk about an with 16 years experience as a school 90 companies that have invested $1.85 as the most critical regional issues at expansion of Cobo Hall? When you have board member, as a city council member billion and created 13,000 jobs. We’ve this time, and what should Oakland varying interests, various levels of passion, and twice as a mayor. become the financial center of the County’s role be in addressing them? you’ve got to roll up your sleeves, go to state. All those businesses come here the table and keep working until you reach L. BROOKS PATTERSON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: What BUDGET: and pay taxes. the goal. Being a leader is making a com- We have a two-year rolling budg- TOP ISSUES: new service, incentives, or marketing et. We are in balance for the current fiscal The economy is clearly programs would you implement to mitment to getting the job done. No. 1. We’ve talked about Emerging ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: year 2008 and we’re in a line item budget If we can Sectors and Automation Alley. I think attract new enterprises and retain balanced for 2009 and 2010. We’re now keep the businesses we have, we’re one economic development and our pro- existing businesses? working on fiscal year 2011, which isn’t TOP ISSUES: step ahead of the game. I keep my thumb grams can and will create jobs in this What are the three most going to be a pretty year. We’re already on the pulse of the business community. county. We have to go beyond the important issues for the county at this starting to make decisions about employee We have some wonderful programs. The county and tackle the MBT in hopes of time, and how do you propose to incentive reductions, hiring freezes, and Emerging Sectors is a great program. getting a better chance to develop address them? other programs we’ll have to totally WHY YOU? When we hear of a company that has instead of going sideways from a tax Why should voters choose deplete. Some of them we’ll implement merged or you read they file for Chapter increase. you over your opponent? right now, which minimizes the challenge 11 or they’re downsizing, we immediately No. 2 would be roads. They’re in when we get to 2011. BRENDA LAWRENCE call that person and say “What do you terrible condition. The road commission BUDGET: I’m the mayor of Southfield, need? Where are you going? Can we It’s not so much savings as offsetting doesn’t work for the county govern- the third largest city in Oakland County. meet with your leadership?” They don’t the loses with new property taxpayers. ment. It’s an independent agency. They We have confronted the same chal- always come to you. You have to go to As those property values slide, you cut as get their money from gas taxes. People lenges concerning our budget and state them. we’re doing and go out and find more aren’t driving and the distribution of revenue. We have a substantial fund TOP ISSUES: One of the issues is foreclo- businesses to come here, open up shop the revenue is based on miles of roads balance. When shortfalls are coming, sures. We have been taxed all across the and their new taxes make up for some of rather than the number of cars driven we’re able to take money from that. country as government leaders to main- the loss. on the roads. We are getting the short We implemented a five-year plan to tain properties that people have walked REGIONAL ISSUES: Lack of information end of the stick. take less out of our fund balance. away from. In Southfield, we won’t allow on Cobo Hall (expansion) has been an I’m concerned about education, You look at every aspect of opera- blight to happen. We actually pay staff to issue. (Oakland County Deputy Executive although it’s not under my purview. My tions. You look at your manpower. cut the lawns and do the shrubberies, to Robert) Daddow keeps saying “Send me Mandarin Chinese program is right on We’re going to have to start looking at do the trash and whatever we can to the finance information, the operational target. There’s more English spoken in where we can cut. We’re going to have keep things up. It’s a service that we costs.” We’ve been waiting for four years China than Mandarin spoken in to reduce some departments and con- don’t have in Oakland County. to get the basics. I wasn’t going to enter America. They’re going to be the solidate. You have your Health Another is declining property values. into an agreement without knowing the biggest economy by 2020. If they’re Department and others that you have It’s frustrating when you try to explain to costs. going to be that dominant and their to look at; instead of a five-day opera- taxpayers that we’re taxing you at a cer- The economy, if not a regional issue, is kids are learning English so they can tion it could possibly be a three-day tain value but you can’t sell you’re house definitely a statewide issue. With the compete, we have to get our kids ready operation. We can’t continue to do at that level. passing of the new Michigan Business for the competition. That’s why I intro- business as usual. The other one is how we’re going to Tax (MBT), businesses are being taxed duced the concept of teaching REGIONAL ISSUES: Three things that continue to do business with less money. out of here. I would bring in analysts to Mandarin, and to Oakland Schools’ come to mind are water, Cobo, and Oakland County has always had the look at Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, West credit, they jumped on it. mass transit. checkbook and we could just write Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, WHY YOU? I’ve brought strong leader- The current administration has said checks. That’s not the case anymore. and what is it about those tax codes that ship. Oakland County is considered the no one wants mass transit and we WHY YOU? The Oakland County that makes them so appealing. Then we could premier county when it comes to facing tried in the ‘70s and no one rode it. elected my opponent is not the Oakland adapt that and bring them back here. economic issues. The fact that we’re There are federal dollars available for County we have now. We have so much I know an issue my opponent will one of the few AAA bond rated coun- mass transit but you have to show you that doesn’t require the type of leader- touch on is mass transit. I’m for mass ties in America shows that in this have a regional plan. I will sit down at ship that is stuck in the past. When I say transit, but how much is it going to cost financial time, we pass all the Wall the table and develop and solidify a we have to do things differently I mean and who’s going to pay for it? I don’t Street analysis. Our fund balance is regional mass transit plan. we have to embrace new technology. think my opponent knows her history. We exactly where Wall Street says it should The water belongs to all of us. We When you have leadership that will only had mass transit in Oakland County. It be, at 15 percent. Wall Street says pay for it. That’s a regional issue that talk to a certain group of people and went from the Pontiac Transpo Center to Oakland County is a benchmark when we can’t wait until there is an issue make decisions based on that, that’s not Birmingham down to Royal Oak, and they look at other counties. They say if and start fighting about it. We need respectful and that will never move this down to the Renaissance Center. In the you want to be good, look at what updates and reports on a regular basis. county forward. I’m coming to the table 1980s, ridership fell below 500 people. Oakland County is doing. ❏ PAGE 10/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY Law Enforcement Leaders Endorse DAVID LAW

Attorney General Mike Cox Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #128 Oakland County Executive Lake Orion Police Officers Association L. Brooks Patterson Lathrup Village Police Officers Association Oakland County Prosecutor Novi Lieutenants and Sergeants Police Association David Gorcyca Southfield Command Officers Oakland County Sheriff Southfield Police Officers Association Michael Bouchard Walled Lake Police Officers Association Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) Wixom Command Officers Association David Law will: Deputy Sheriffs Association of Michigan Wolverine Lake Police Officers Association ;Continue tough, no plea West Bloomfield Police Chief Ronald Cronin Fmr. Oakland County MADD Director Michele Compton bargain policy Oakland Former Farmington Hills Police Chief William Dwyer County is famous for Retired Circuit Court Judge Gene Schnelz ;Create Cyber Crime Unit to Detroit Metro Airport Police Chief Edward Glomb prosecute internet criminals Southeast Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police preying on kids, stealing identities Oakland County Association of Chiefs of Police Bloomfield Township Police Officers Association ;Prosecute those committing Farmington Hills Police Officers Association Paid for by Citizens for David Law mortgage fraud 8627 Cooley Lake Road, Suite 308, Commerce Twp., MI 48382 OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 11/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Oakland County Prosecutor Democrat Jessica Cooper and where money is being spent and whether Republican David Law are competing in it’s being spent well. the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for PLEA-BARGAINING: Oakland County the Oakland County prosecutor posi- has been well-served in the past having tion. The county prosecutor serves a a well-known stance that we’re going four-year term and is currently paid to be tough on plea-bargaining. We $154,583 annually. shouldn’t just be dealing cases. Some The following are questions our staff counties do this. They have a large recently posed to the candidates, and amount of cases and in order to keep their responses to those questions. up on the day-to-day operations, a lot LEADERSHIP: Describe your manage- of cases are worked out. That doesn’t ment style and what kind of leader you mean justice is being done. If justice would be for the office. What do you Jessica Cooper has 28 years of experience David Law has been a state representative dictates that we look at some kind of see as an appropriate role for assistant as a judge, first at the district court, then since 2005. Prior to that he was an plea arrangement, then that needs to prosecutors in decision-making and the circuit court level before serving on the Oakland County assistant prosecutor for be looked at. setting office policies. state Court of Appeals. She has been a over six years. TOP ISSUES: Cyber crime is one. I would BUDGET: Like all departments and law professor at Michigan State University implement a Cyber Crimes Division look- offices in the county government, the and the University of Michigan. ing to protect children from Internet Prosecutor’s Office will continue to face predators, address identity theft, senior budget challenges in the next few gaining and being smart about it. If you cyber cases. I’ve put people away. In addi- citizens, and mortgage fraud. years. What spending reductions or have a good warrant, and have good tion, you have to be smart to allocate Second is recidivism. It’s important changes resulting in greater efficiency proofs and you’ve got someone you need resources. I’ve got that background. that the prosecutor’s office work with would you implement? What, if any- to put away, hang tough, because that’s You have to learn to work across the the judiciary and community groups thing, should the office do to gain addi- what you need to do. When there is a aisle. That’s the mediative skills I’ve and coalitions to give offenders, partic- tional funding? greater good to be served, particularly in learned to use during the year I’ve been ularly habitual offenders, the skills PLEA-BARGAINING: What’s your the area of law enforcement, then some- off the bench and the years I’ve been a needed to be productive members of stance on the value of plea bargaining? times you have to be able to listen to trial judge — working with police officers, society. There’s also drug, mental TOP ISSUES: What are the three most your police. Sometimes that plea-bargain working with the probation department. health, and alcohol issues. We must important issues for the prosecutor’s for the greater good is purposeful so that I’m someone who has been very active in make sure they’re getting help with office, and how do you propose to (we take out) the guy who’s sitting in this community and active in the preven- those so they don’t go back out into address them? Bloomfield Hills with no visible means of tion of crime. society and reoffend. WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should support and laughing at us while we put DAVID LAW The budget is a big deal. The prose- voters select you over your opponent? a ton of mules in prison. We need to get LEADERSHIP: My leadership style is one cutor has to make sure the decisions he that person to take care of the drug situ- or she makes don’t affect public safety. JESSICA COOPER of honesty and being up front with peo- ation in this county. ple. I never liked working in a setting There will be tough decisions that will LEADERSHIP: TOP ISSUES: I gained leadership expe- The first thing is whether where I didn’t know, particularly from the have to be made but I have the inde- rience when I was in the 46th District we are going to have a political or profes- top down, what was expected of me. pendence to make those. I would Court. I was the chief judge. We had a sional office. We need professionals based That is one thing I can promise the citi- review the budget from top to bottom, massive budget. I was manager of my on their academics and not on the basis zens of Oakland County and members of line by line, to decide what’s working temple — it was a large temple with a of their political connections. We need to the prosecutor’s office, that as the next and what’s not, what’s efficient and large budget; but more importantly I’ve have an office that has training. We need prosecutor, they will know where they what’s not, what division is working managed a courtroom for many years. to recognize who the good prosecutors stand, they will know what’s expected, and what’s not, what prosecutors are I’m a soft-spoken person and I lead on are, and who is working. Most effective and they will know the guidelines. working or not, and make tough deci- the basis of my experience. You lead prosecutors can try 25 to 30 cases a year. I think the assistant prosecutors’ role sions based on objective facts. because people have respect for you That’s a demand that we need to have. is large. They’re the attorneys trained to WHY YOU? I’ve spent six and a half and you earn that respect. We need to revamp the Warrants handle certain types of cases. No one in years in the prosecutor’s office. I found I would want to give assistant pros- Division. We don’t need 10 to 12 people the prosecutor’s office knows that case it tremendously rewarding to be in ecutors that same respect back, to give there. It’s not a training ground for new better than they do, so they would have a court everyday protecting victims of them the opportunity to make deci- prosecutors. I want to see trial prosecu- large role. If there’s an issue with a case, crime. As a state representative for the sions within the guidelines that are tors alternated in there, bringing two I would listen to their opinion on how last four years, a number of bills I intro- established by our leadership. extra trial prosecutors up from district they should ultimately handle that case. duced reflected that passion. From BUDGET: I don’t know why the pres- court and alternating them into the divi- BUDGET: The budget issue is one of the “Jessica’s Law,” a Medicaid fraud bill, to ent prosecutor has chose to disband sion so when we’re talking to the more largest things the prosecutor is going to an airport security bill, I felt that pro- the forfeiture unit. That’s the unit by experience police officers, we’re having a have to deal with in the near future. tecting children, senior citizens, and which ill-gotten gains are reallocated dialogue. We’re going to make certain the Thankfully, Oakland County looks ahead. society as a whole was particularly into law enforcement. There’s a small people who write the warrants are ones Brooks Patterson and Dave Gorcyca has rewarding. I want to take that passion percentage (of forfeiture dollars) that who will be trying them. — they’ve been working on the budget back to the prosecutor’s office. Having goes to the prosecutor’s office but the We need to be working in the commu- projections, which look awful down the spent time there, having protected soci- rest of it goes to law enforcement. nity and with the community coalitions line, and doing some front-end fixes to ety there, and having served county We have to reallocate some on drug prevention and reinstitution of alleviate some of that problem. Still, there residents as an assistant prosecutor resources. There are 10 to 12 people in the forfeiture unit. It’s not just a matter are tough decisions that will have to be and going into court is extremely the Warrants Division, and in Macomb of money but a matter of the drug hous- made. Whatever decisions I make won’t important. I’ve been an attorney in pri- county they have three people in war- es and shutting them down. be at the expense of public safety. vate practice, I’ve been an assistant rants. We can reallocate those resources WHY YOU? There’s an extreme difference Efficiency is key. In Lansing I co-spon- prosecutor where I’ve tried cases — and there are income sources and in credentials. It’s nice he’s been in the sored bills on government efficiency, look- actually tried cases. That’s a very resources from closing down drug hous- prosecutor’s office, but I want to talk ing at what state government is doing important distinction. It’s one thing to es. I’m not really worried about those about my 30 years on the bench. I have right and wrong, what we should be pur- have presided over a case, it’s quite budget changes because there is a great presided over just about every type of suing, what we shouldn’t, where money is another to get in court in an adversarial deal of trimming that can be done within case. I’m tough on crime, but very effi- being wasted, and where money is being setting on the side of the crime victim that budget. cient. He has tried some very low-level spent well. The same can be used at the and protect them the best you can PLEA-BARGAINING: There’s a differ- felonies. I have tried those child sexual prosecutor’s office. I’ll go in from day one, alongside law enforcement. That’s a ence between being tough on plea-bar- assault cases, those murder cases and review from top to bottom, line by line, very key difference in this race. ❏ PAGE 12/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Oakland County Sheriff

Incumbent Republican Michael CONTRACTED SERVICES: The depart- Bouchard is being challenged by ment’s Records Division works hard to Democrat Jane Boudreau in the keep accurate records and compile sta- Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election. The tistics, which need to be reviewed and county sheriff serves a four-year term compared to national standards in and is currently paid $137,623 a year. order to determine whether the The following are questions our staff department is doing its job and, if so, recently posed to the candidates, and how well. Citizens in communities their responses to those questions. where we serve need to be consulted JAIL: The Oakland County Jail has to determine whether they feel they experienced chronic inmate overcrowd- are getting their money’s worth. ing, leading to the early release of non- Uniformity in our substations would violent prisoners. At what point, if promote efficiency and lower operating ever, would you support a tax hike to expenses almost immediately. Shared pay for a new jail facility? What alter- Michael Bouchard has served as Oakland Jane Boudreau is a police officer for the Holly County sheriff since 1999. He was a state sen- Police Department. She is a former sergeant supervision should be explored to avoid natives would you support to deal with ator from 1991 to 1999, and served in the in the Oakland County Sheriff's Department. duplication of efforts. Each communi- jail overcrowding? state House of Representatives for a year prior Boudreau is a past president of the DARE ty’s contract should be reviewed DEPARTMENT BUDGET: What to that. Bouchard was a member of the Officers Association of Michigan, and mem- toward eliminating unwanted services changes in department budgeting pri- Beverly Hills Village Council from 1986 to ber of the National DARE Officers Association and inordinate costs. orities or processes do you advocate to 1990. He has 21 years of law enforcement and Women's Police Officers Association. MARINE DIVISION: The Marine experience, is syndicate director for Leader- deal with budget challenges? Division, like any other service we pro- CONTRACTED SERVICES: ship in Counterterrorism, a member of the The depart- National Sheriff's Association Congressional vide, must be measured. We need to ment is contracted by Commerce and Affairs Committee, and chairman of the determine how many calls for service Highland townships — among others Michigan Citizens Corps Council. are received; the number of reported — to provide police services. How many accidents, injuries and deaths; and on deputies do you feel are needed to safe- alternatives to deal with jail overcrowding. which lakes incidents occur. We need ly and adequately patrol Commerce and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel and fleet costs. I’ve saved hundreds to examine deployment to determine if Highland? What changes, if any, are JANE BOUDREAU it’s justified. Some say current deploy- of thousands of dollars more in pharma- JAIL: As the Oakland County sheriff I will necessary in the department’s contracts ments are made for political, not sta- ceutical and medical care costs. I’ve research best practices being utilized with individual municipalities, or the tistical reasons. Assignments should brought in millions of dollars by billing throughout the United States. Programs services that are provided? made based on need and not want. inmates for their time in my jail. I will such as community service, behavioral MARINE DIVISION: Explain why you The department’s Dive Team will continue to look for ways to provide nec- programming, work release, boot camp, do or don’t believe the department’s continue to operate as it does today. I essary services, including the use of drug intensive supervision, community correc- Marine Division is adequately staffed support the redistribution of assigned forfeiture funds, so taxpayers don’t have tions, mental health services, alternative and equipped. If you believe the divi- emergency vehicles for members of the to pay for expensive but needed tools. education opportunities, electronic moni- sion is in need of more staff or equip- Dive Team. The majority of the Dive We will devote the remaining resources toring and residential substance abuse ment, please be specific about what Team responds to search, rescue and to programs that affect the safety of the treatment are the types of programs that additions are necessary and how you recovery operations in personal vehi- majority of the county residents. can be used to reduce recidivism and would pay for them. cles, which places the county and tax- CONTRACTED SERVICES: We currently alleviate jail overcrowding. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most paying citizens in a position of liability have 29 deputies in Commerce and 20 With the current economic climate, a important issues for the department at should an accident occur. deputies in Highland. Any changes need- tax increase should be considered only this time, and how do you propose to TOP ISSUES: Jail overcrowding: This address them? ed or desired by contracted areas have to after all other alternatives are exhausted. be approved and supported by residents I support the concept of a task force will be a continuous problem unless MICHAEL BOUCHARD in those municipalities. Since, in effect, of members of the community, prosecu- the sheriff, prosecutor and judges cre- JAIL: Given the strain on our taxpay- we are their local police department, we tors and judges to examine existing pro- ate a plan for alternatives to incarcera- ers, adding to their burden is absolute- encourage and suggest what we feel is grams and grants in an effort to develop tion. Programs that have alleviated jail ly out of the question. prudent, but ultimately it’s a local deci- a community-based plan for alternatives overcrowding in the past, such as the We have undertaken many proactive sion. to incarceration. I would wholly support highly successful “Sheriff’s Boot steps on the front end. Our active par- MARINE DIVISION: The Marine Division a plan that included preventative meas- Camp,” should be reinstated. No longer ticipation in successful programs, such is very important to our operations and ures, as well. will successful programs be sacrificed as Oakland County’s Youth Assistance is a significant expenditure in our budget. DEPARTMENT BUDGET: I will find ways for political reasons. programs, help encourage positive While I would like to add to this effort, to eliminate superfluous expenditures, The budget: I intend to be an ally of behavior and works to deter young given the current budget cuts that have such as “take home vehicles.” These tools county commissioners, not an adver- people from a life of crime. Another been handed to the sheriff’s office by can serve a legitimate purpose; however, sary. An audit of expenditures has to program we established is called U- county commissioners, an increase isn’t they are not essential in every circum- be made to develop an assessment of Turn, which allows young people to possible. stance. In stronger economic times, law where cuts can be made without com- experience jail first-hand and see the Over the last few years we have enforcement agencies were able to provide promising safety. consequences of criminal behavior. We added some very important technology, employees with cell phones, Blackberries Hiring, retention and discipline: I also just started an aggressive tether including side scan sonar. and cars to use, even when not on duty or will investigate disciplinary procedures program which offers great promise With grants and other leveraging on-call. However, in times of economic and the failure to use progressive disci- for non-violent offenders, and a strong actions, we have greatly updated the strife such as this, all non-essential items pline. When considering the most system for the diversion of mental Marine Division abilities without asking must be evaluated. recent 11 employee terminations, 90 health offenders. for new tax dollars. The same is true for personnel assign- percent were returned to their jobs by I will continue to aggressively pursue TOP ISSUES: I will continue to squeeze ments. Core functions of the sheriff’s an arbitrator. Reinstated employees innovative cost-effective alternatives. efficiencies out of this budget to ensure office must be adequately staffed and received compensation for lost earn- DEPARTMENT BUDGET: I will contin- that in these tough economic times, the equipped. Beyond that, we need to take ings, overtime, benefits, and more. ue to look for innovative ways to oper- public’s safety needs are being met. This a hard look at where our officers are Some filed lawsuits and received addi- ate my budget more efficiently. For includes creating more response capabi- deployed and what effect that has for the tional compensation. This unnecessary example, I have already saved $1.6 lities as our duties in homeland security citizens. Serious consideration must be and wasteful practice costs the taxpay- million annually by changing the way expand. We will also continue to aggres- given to all avenues where federal, state ers money that could have been more we feed inmates. I’ve found ways to sively pursue innovative and cost-effective and local funding is available. wisely spent. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 13/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Oakland County Clerk

Incumbent Republican Ruth closures are expected in Oakland Johnson is being challenged by County alone this year. We deal with Democrat Sheila Smith in the Tuesday, challenges in several ways, from rec- Nov. 4 general election race for the ognized better business practices to Oakland County clerk/register of deeds cross-training and the advantage of position. The county clerk serves a our numerous online programs, which four-year term and is currently paid allow us to have better workload man- $137,623 annually. agement/distribution throughout the The following are questions our day. staff recently posed to Johnson, and CLERK’S ROLE: While our office is her responses to those questions. dedicated to paperwork, my job is Smith didn’t respond to our candidate really about people — getting them questionnaire. access to public records easily, effi- RECORDS: What’s the state of the ciently and at as low a cost as possi- county’s current record-keeping sys- ble. In the last four years, we have tem? Is the clerk’s office current with advocated for people on important record-keeping work? What changes issues — keeping them safe from or upgrades, if any, are needed in the identity theft; educating homeowners, way records are kept or stored in the Ruth Johnson was elected Oakland especially seniors about property county? County clerk/register of deeds in fraud; fighting government waste; and ELECTIONS: What, if anything, can November 2004. She was a state repre- cutting our own budget by $700,000 the clerk’s office do to improve the sentative from 1999-2004, and served as annually as an example of what can be election process across the county, an Oakland County Commissioner for 10 done. We have advocated for positive years, including six as vice chairperson. and prevent problems from occurring change — consolidated elections. in the future? How, if at all, should TOP ISSUES: On our priority list are the clerk help municipal clerks deal to provide those records at the lowest several projects. We are working with with problems related to new voting possible cost. legislators to change foreclosure laws, machines obtained under the federal One recent change has to do with the which now prevent county clerks from Help America Vote Act (HAVA)? release of court copies. Our office, providing foreclosure redemption CLERK’S OFFICE: Could there be a despite state guidelines to the contrary, amounts. Some investors are refusing reduction in the number of employees now blacks out or removes Social to provide those to homeowners, in the clerk/register of deeds office at Security numbers from every standard basically stealing their last opportuni- this time? Why or why not? If so, court copy issued by our office to fight ty to redeem/recover their home. We where do you propose to make cuts identity theft. are asking the state to allow us to or consolidations? ELECTIONS: While the Help America provide that basic calculation to CLERK’S ROLE: Aside from the Vote Act (HAVA) to promote standard- homeowners so they can save their You have the record-keeping and election responsi- ized voting was well-intentioned, what home. bilities handled by the county’s turned out to the be one of the largest Other top issues include the fight clerk/register of deeds, what do you reform efforts in this country has had against identity theft. We are fighting right to vote. see as the position’s role in county some unintended consequences — criminals who would mine public doc- government? including quickly built machines that uments for private information. We TOP ISSUES: What are the top three have serious design and performance are working with the state on several You have the most important issues for the county flaws. While local communities own the projects, including the simple change clerk/register of deeds at this time, equipment, our office has advocated for of some forms so Social Security num- responsibility and how do you propose to address local clerks in several ways, including bers aren’t placed on public docu- them? pressuring federal and state officials to ments in the first place. It hasn’t been to vote. WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should hold vendors’ feet to the fire so local easy. We formed an Identity Protection voters select you over your opponent? communities don’t have to bear Task Force more than a year ago, with repair/warranty costs for what was members of the bench, the bar, coun- RUTH JOHNSON offered as “state of the art” equipment. ty attorneys, the county’s IT Make sure you RECORDS: In the last four years, our Our office, in the last four years, has Department and others to push for office has streamlined access to many surveyed local clerks after elections to change. exercise your public records, including online access measure performance problems with the Thirdly, given current economic to court records with Court Explorer, new equipment and provided that data struggles, the state and federal gov- which saves the public from having to to officials to help push for change. In ernment will be looking for new right to vote, drive to our office to make copies. We addition, we have asked that laws be sources of income. I believe the have placed political contribution changed to give the county legal stand- clerk/register of deeds will have to like a responsible (campaign finance) records online, as ing to help us push for needed changes protect the public from “new” fees for well, to promote transparency and — something state-vendor contracts public records, which essentially citizen, on Tuesday, accountability in government. Our new currently don’t allow. amount to tax increases. One proposal FRAUDCHECK system, put in to fight CLERK’S OFFICE: Thanks to the vision included a 700-percent increase in the property fraud, allows homeowners to of county leaders, who are meeting cost of land record copies. That’s November 4th. go online, for free, to make sure there Michigan’s economic situation head-on, unfair and can’t be tolerated. We suc- has been no unauthorized activity our office staff has been reduced cessfully pushed for defeat of this pro- recorded against their names. Other through the county’s early-out retire- posal. improvements include a new index to ment incentive program. We closely WHY YOU? Experience, commitment provide access to 40 years’ worth of monitor work-to-staff ratios and invite to fighting government waste while land records. Public records belong to regular performance audits. Our depart- promoting accountability and the the public and should be available to ments are busy, from our Elections demonstrated ability to save citizens them. We successfully fought a pro- Division which has assumed many addi- time and money through innovation posed 700-percent increase in the tional responsibilities, to our Register of and technology. It’s more than just cost of land record copies. Our goal is Deeds Office. Unfortunately, 10,000 fore- paperwork — it’s people. ❏ PAGE 14/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide County Drain Commissioner

Incumbent Republican John P. ty issues, health concerns and reliabil- McCulloch is being challenged by ity. We all remember the inconvenience Democrat Brett Nicholson in the when that power outage of 2003 Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election race caused significant disruption of our for the Oakland County drain commis- water supply facilities. An alternative sioner position. The drain commis- system with redundant capabilities sioner serves a four-year term and is would have addressed that challenge. currently paid an annual salary of Communities in the region are $137,623. embarking on this road because they The following are questions our realize that they need options for their staff recently posed to McCulloch, and long-term strategy. A redundant sys- his responses. Nicholson didn’t tem is not an either-or system. We respond to our candidate need to partner with Detroit in a questionnaire. cooperative venture where both the LAKE LEVELS: What’s the status on city and her suburban neighbors the condition of the dams and aug- would benefit. mentation wells that help control TOP ISSUES: No. 1: Ensure that John P. McCulloch has served as Oakland some county lake levels, and where County Drain Commissioner since 2001. He drinking water is available for the do you anticipate the need to replace is a former chairman of the Oakland future and that it is safe and reliable. existing structures and facilities? County Board of Commissioners, and was We can accomplish reliability by pro- What changes, if any, are needed in employed as an attorney and certified viding a redundant system and work- the way the drain office handles lake public accountant prior to being elected ing cooperatively throughout the level monitoring and control? drain commissioner. McCulloch is a mem- region. We can provide safe drinking COUNTY DRAINS: Which county ber of the Oakland County Parks and water by maintaining high standards drains should be a priority for the Recreation Commission. He is also presi- and being vigilant about water quality. dent of the Michigan Association of No. 2: Escalating water rates is a drain commissioner, and what needs Counties Service Corp. to be done there? Where do you major issue. Operational costs are anticipate having to replace entire escalating; capital improvement costs lakes have had SCADA (Supervisory existing drains, or construct new will continue to burden ratepayers. We Control and Data Acquisition) installed, infrastructure where none currently must find innovative ways to maximize which allows my staff to read the lake exists? our resources and pool our efforts to level remotely. No other changes in mon- WATER SYSTEM: Oakland County address this pressing problem. itoring or controlling lake levels are pro- officials recently agreed to team up No. 3: Controlling pollutants that posed at this time. Out of town with Genesee County and contribute enter our natural waterways is a pri- COUNTY DRAINS: The oldest drains $125,000 toward a joint study to ority. Education is key to ensuring operated and maintained by my office that the waters of the state remain on election day? determine the economic feasibility of were constructed in the late 1800s and constructing a water system that free of contaminants. We’ve developed early 1900s to drain farmers’ fields. a multi-faceted approach through a could serve much of the county. Tell Many of these drains are not able to Then call your us why you agree or disagree with dedicated environmental team that accommodate the large quantities of teaches children and adults how their the need for such a study. What’s storm water runoff from developed local clerk’s office your stance on the need for another habits impact waterways. Additionally, areas. it is important to work cooperatively water system? Drains that are a priority for repair TOP ISSUES: with other agencies such as the road for an What are the three are those most at risk for causing prop- most important issues for the drain commission. erty damage due to flooding. In some WHY YOU? ABSENTEE BALLOT office at this time, and how do you I have been the Oakland cases, local municipalities will ask me to County Drain Commissioner for nearly propose to address them? construct a new county drain to replace WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should eight years. I have dealt with the day- and information the existing drain. The construction of to-day operational issues as well as voters choose you over your oppo- new infrastructure, where none currently being in the forefront of initiatives nent? on how to exists, typically is done at the request of designed to save money for the JOHN P. McCULLOCH local units of government to provide ratepayers and improve efficiency. VOTE BY MAIL. LAKE LEVELS: I have the delegated drainage for developing areas of their I spearheaded the first countywide authority to maintain 36 lake level community. master plan to assist Oakland commu- control structures and eight lake level In some instances, local ordinances nities. I also instituted ISO 9000 and It’s the easiest augmentation pumps. The structures have been adopted requiring developers ISO 14000 standards for the office. I are operated to maintain a normal of subdivisions or condominiums to created the position of community liai- way to be part level on 54 lakes. These structures establish the drainage facilities as county son to improve relations with the pub- are repaired or replaced as necessary drains under the jurisdiction of this lic. I also am the host of an award- of the November 4 as they reach the end of their design office. Currently, approximately 150 winning cable television show life, which could be as long as 50 drains have been established as county designed to inform residents about election process. years. The control structure for White drains for this purpose. water issues. Lake was constructed in 1948. Our WATER SYSTEM: Communities in I am committed to protecting envi- most recent dam replacement was at Oakland, Macomb and Genesee counties ronmental resources. I formed an Watkins Lake to replace a dam built in have joined together to study the feasi- environmental team to help communi- 1961. bility of providing an alternative water ties meet Clean Water Act mandates. We are looking at replacing the supply. I support that effort and have As a CPA and an attorney, I am lake level control structure on Upper taken a leadership role to help the com- uniquely suited to address complex Straits Lake in West Bloomfield munities in this important undertaking. negotiations and I bring more than 18 Township. Lake level augmentation An alternative water supply would pro- years of public service experience in wells and pumps are inspected twice vide much needed redundancy which is both legislative and elected adminis- a year. Within the last 10 years, 21 essential in addressing homeland securi- trative roles. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 15/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Oakland County Treasurer

Incumbent Republican Pat Dohany you want to be prudent. When you’re and Democrat Andy Meisner will square investing the county’s money, you have off in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general elec- to be especially careful. We have to tion for the Oakland County treasurer draw back a little bit, kick the tires a position. The county treasurer serves a little on what we’re making invest- four-year term and is currently paid ments with, and make sure we are $137,623 a year. mindful of the watch list that banks go The following are questions our on and look at some of their risk. staff recently posed to the candidates, TOP ISSUES: My three issues are pro- and their responses. tecting property values, preventing fore- QUALIFICATIONS: What are your spe- closures, and bringing the office of the cific qualifications for holding the post county treasurer into the 21st century. of treasurer? As early as January (Dohany) was CDARS PROPOSAL: Michigan lawmak- Pat Dohany has been Oakland County's Andy Meisner has served as state represen- quoted in a newspaper saying he sup- ers have been asked to consider a treasurer since 2003, after serving 10 years tative since 2003. He is a former congres- ports a landbank, and that he was sub- Certificate of Deposit Account Registry as the county's deputy treasurer. He served sional aide, vice president of marketing as Commerce Township's treasurer from and communications for a non-profit mitting paper work to the county com- Service (CDARS) bill to make changes 1976-93. Dohany is the immediate past organization, and corporate communica- mission to initiate a landbank within a in the way public funds are spread president of the Association of Public Treas- tions director for the Farbman Group. month or two, which hasn’t happened. around depositories. What’s your take urers of the United States and Canada. While there are no taxes paid while a on the need for changes in that sys- property is in the landbank, you put it tem, and on the CDARS proposal itself? nice, again under the CDARS program, to person has lost their home to tax foreclo- in the landbank and you leverage feder- FINANCIAL CRISIS: What impact does al dollars. The federal government just the recent economic turmoil at the put more money in community banks sure under my administration. Not a because that money will stay here in penny of investment earnings has been passed a $4 billion appropriation for national level involving banking and local governments to purchase mort- investment bailouts have on Oakland Oakland County but will be protected by lost in the 30 years I’ve been collecting FDIC insurance at each of the institutions. taxes and investing money for the resi- gaged foreclosed properties. Instead of County investments? having these properties that are neg- TOP ISSUES: TOP ISSUES: First and foremost is the dents. The interest has been put back What are the three most lected and abandoned, by putting them important issues for the treasurer’s length of service and experience I have. into public use. Is it really time for I’ve spent 31 years collecting property change? Oakland County has a AAA bond in the landbank you can rehab them office, and will you address them? and get families in a 30-year fixed WHY YOU? taxes, which are key to keeping police, rating. We have a balanced budget for the Why should voters choose mortgage into these homes. you over your opponent? firefighters, and teachers on the job. next two years. Now go to Lansing where There’s 500,000 pieces of property in the my opponent, a term-limited state repre- (Dohany’s) website says county PAT DOHANY county and in the last cycle we collected sentative, would like you to believe that treasurers have nothing to do with QUALIFICATIONS: I was the treasurer on all but 292 of those. Of those 292, he’s done a great job, but he’s voted for mortgage foreclosures. We can go to in Commerce Township for 16 years. In none were owner-occupied. The other the highest income tax increase in the Washtenaw County where Catherine 1993 I went on to Oakland County as part is investing public funds. I’ve never state’s history — Michigan Business Tax McClary is doing a lot of work on mort- the chief deputy treasurer until 2003 lost a dollar. I’ve earned hundreds of mil- that added a 22 percent surcharge. gage foreclosure prevention. We can go when I was appointed to the treasurer lions of dollars in interest. You can have a 30-year veteran who to Ingham County where Eric job, and then was elected in 2004. I’ve The second area is this notion of the will continue to do the job, or you can Schertzing won an award for his mort- got lots of experience in public treasury county being in the landbank business. have a term-limited state representative gage foreclosure prevention strategy. I management. It’s pretty much what I’m opposed to a landbank for mortgaged that’s looking for a place to hang his hat would follow up on protecting property I’ve done most of my adult life, invest- foreclosed properties. It does nothing to until he can run for something else. values and preventing foreclosures by ing billions of dollars and earning hun- keep a person in their home and takes implementing the best practices that dreds of millions of dollars in interest, mortgaged foreclosed properties off the ANDY MEISNER are established around the country. and collecting taxes which are impor- tax roll. You’re going to cost the taxpay- QUALIFICATIONS: Out of college I worked It’s important for officials to be in tant to keep police and firefighters and ers revenue of $39 million. Once property on Capitol Hill for five years as an aide for the community and accessible. I’ve got teachers on the job. goes into the landbank, it’s obligated to Congressman David Obey, who was the a cell phone number, 421-ANDY, that I CDARS PROPOSAL: Absolutely I support pay for maintenance of the property. House Appropriations Committee chair, give to every constituent and person I it. What it does is take a community That’s another $21 million. That’s a $60 and worked for Congressman Sandy meet. I’ve got a toll-free number at bank where I would normally put million bailout for mortgage companies. Levin. My responsibility was working on 877-RepAndy. I do office hours called $100,000 and allows me to, say, put $1 The landbank Mr. Meisner is talking the federal budget that dwarfs our county Mondays with Meisner to make myself million in that bank and it takes 10 about that Genesee County has been suc- budget. I learned a lot about the appro- available to constituents so if they’ve pieces of $100,000 and spreads it cessful with is for tax foreclosed proper- priations process and public finance. After got an issue, we can talk about it. across banks across the country. You ties. There’s 4,000 of them in Genesee that I was vice president of a national WHY YOU? I’m not going to leave any can designate one to stay here at a local County and 46 in Oakland County. You non-profit organization where I was a tools on the sideline. I’m going to take bank. All the certificates of deposit are don’t need a landbank for 46 properties. department head and managed the the landbank, take the aggressive kept safely at a third party location and, With the mortgaged foreclosed properties department budget and staff. For the last mortgage foreclosure prevention, and because they’re all under $100,000, you’re going to have to buy them to put six years I’ve been a state representative. take investing Oakland County dollars they’re backed by the FDIC. It gives you them into the landbank. That’s $2.3 bil- I had a chance to work on the state into county institutions so we get the the opportunity to invest in our local lion to buy properties and $60 million a budget as a member of the House Tax return on it so and people get benefit community and take a small community year to maintain them. I don’t think the Policy Committee. I’m also an attorney from this office. The incumbent wants bank where we’d normally limit our people want to give up their police, fire- educated in fiduciary relationships. us to stay the course and say every- deposits to under $100,000 and give fighter services and teachers for that CDARS PROPOSAL: Opening up the thing is roses. That’s what Mr. Dohany them $1 million that they can put into when the banks that own the properties opportunity for investment in more is asking us to do by re-electing him. productive use in Oakland County. have a vested interest in them. Michigan banks and especially Oakland I have a proven track record. As a FINANCIAL CRISIS: It’s made it harder The third is the county’s AAA bond County banks is probably the best part of legislator, I’ve left some big marks on to place the money and feel secure rating. We have to maintain it so we can it. We need to use our tax dollars wisely the state. I sponsored the motion pic- with the financial institutions, so we borrow money for projects that keep the and ideally invest those locally where we ture legislation that’s brought $370 are monitoring the banks we use. county a nice place to live, work and play. can insure safety, liquidity, and return. I million to Michigan in the five months We’re investing in CDs daily. You have WHY YOU? I don’t think my opponent support the proposal. since the bill was signed into law. I’m FINANCIAL CRISIS: to limit what you’re going to put into understands what the job is about. It’s When you’re taking somebody that’s going to be making those community banks. It would be about collection of property taxes. No the taxpayer dollars and investing those moves and utilize best practices. ❏ PAGE 16/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Highland County Board/2nd Incumbent Republican Bill Bullard, Jr. PAY RAISES: County commissioners fairest way to fund our road needs. is being challenged by Democrat Ryan recently were asked to consider approval PAY RAISES: I support cost-of-living pay King in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general elec- of pay raises for county employees, raises for county officials and elected tion contest for the Oakland County including county commissioners and the officials when appropriate. In the recently Board of Commissioners 2nd District four year, countywide elected executive enacted budget I supported a 1 percent seat. County commissioners serve two- officials. Please state why you do or raise for employees and county-wide year terms and are currently paid about don’t support pay increases for the elected officials and a two-year freeze for $33,000 a year. elected county officials? If you believe county commissioners. The following are questions our staff some positions need a pay increase and NIGHT MEETINGS: I don’t support night recently posed to Bullard, and his respons- others don’t, please state which posi- meetings for regular business. Currently es to those questions. King did not tions deserve increases and which don’t, several night meetings are held each year respond to our candidate questionnaire. and explain why. for special guests or subjects such as the NIGHT MEETINGS: BUDGET: Please explain what spending Explain why you do annual budget address by County Execu- reductions, if any, you would like to see or don’t believe the county board should tive L. Brooks Patterson. Constituents in the future. What revenue enhance- ill Bullard Jr. was elected an Oakland periodically hold evening sessions. State can communicate with their elected ments, if any, do you advocate? State County commissioner in 2002, and has why you would or won’t be willing to county commissioners by letter, phone, why you believe the budget can be bal- served as commission chairman for the consider holding all board meetings in personal meetings, faxes, e-mails, etc. In past four years. He previously served in the the evening. six years as a county commissioner I anced by addressing only one side of the state Legislature from 1982 to 2002, first in TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: ledger or the other, or why both spend- County have yet to have a constituent request a the House of Representatives and then in night meeting to communicate with me ing cuts and increased revenues are the officials have tightened down on a policy the Senate. Before serving in Lansing, related to the use of tax increment or the county commission as a group. solution. Bullard served as Highland Township financing (TIF) included in local corridor TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: I agree ROAD FUNDING: Several bills were trustee from 1978 to 1980 and township supervisor from 1980 to 1982. improvement authority (CIA) plans. with the new policy provisions on TIFs. recently introduced to give counties the Explain why you do or don’t agree with However, these provisions are only ability to seek voter approval of new the new policy provisions. What guidelines. I reserve the right to support taxes and/or fees that would create rev- for Oakland officials to consider putting changes, if any, would you advocate. or oppose TIF capture of county taxes enue for road construction and mainte- such a question before voters. If you do, CIRCUIT COURT: After receiving the based on an analysis of whether or not nance in that county. State why you do what’s your take on Oakland County state’s authorization, county officials the proposed capture will result in or don’t support such legislation. If it’s partnering with one or more of its previously considered creating new cir- increased economic activity in a given approved, state why you believe it’s time neighbors to raise money for roads? cuit court bench seats. Explain why you community and in Oakland County. do or don’t think it’s important for the CIRCUIT COURT: I support addition of a county to create one or more new bench judge to the Oakland Circuit Court bench. seats. Realistically, when do you expect The addition of a judge is well warranted CHRIS it to be feasible to add a new judge? based on present and future case loads. REGIONAL ISSUES: What do you see as However, I didn’t support addition of a the most critical regional issues at this Circuit Court judge this year because of time, and what should Oakland County’s budgetary restraints. role be in addressing those issue? What REGIONAL ISSUES: I believe that the regional issues aren’t feasible at this issue of a Cobo Hall expansion may be time from a practical or political stand- resolved by the end of the year, as long LONG point, and why? as Gov. Jennifer Granholm fulfills her TOP ISSUES: What are the three most promise to actively seek a consensus on YOUR important issues for the county, and a plan among regional leaders. We can how do you propose to address them? depend on County Executive L. Brooks WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- Patterson in representing Oakland OAKLAND COUNTY ers choose you over your opponent? County’s interest on this issue. TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is balancing the BILL BULLARD, JR. budget without raising taxes. This can be BUDGET: Oakland County recently accomplished by continuing a policy of COMMISSIONER adopted a two-year balanced budget prudent fiscal management. without raising taxes. With property tax No. 2 is creating new jobs in Oakland revenues declining we have no choice County. I support programs such as Proprietor, Long Family Orchard & Farm but to cut spending to balance the budg- Emerging Sectors which have resulted in et. Oakland County achieved its balanced new jobs and over $1 billion in new Strong Community Ties, Available budget without laying off employees, in investment in Oakland County. contrast to actions being taken by sur- No. 3 is addressing jail overcrowding rounding counties. Prudent fiscal man- without raising taxes to build a new jail. Baccalaureate Degree, Michigan State University agement on a year-round daily basis is Innovative programs such as releasing the key to Oakland County’s success in low-risk inmates on tethers is helping to this area. successfully manage the jail population. Non-Passive, Hard Working ROAD FUNDING: I don’t support legisla- WHY YOU? I have a 30-year track record tion or voter approval of county tax of faithfully representing the best inter- Conscientious Representation, Perfect Attendance increases to pay for roads. Michigan is ests of my constituents in public office. historically a high spending state for edu- My colleagues on the county commission cation and social services but low spend- have unanimously elected me twice to Solid Grasp Of County Issues ing for roads. This is why our road infra- serve two-year terms as chairman of the structure is deteriorating. I would support board. I have a 100 percent attendance an increase in the state gasoline tax when record at Board of Commissioners meet- Paid for by Chris Long’s Friends the economy gets better and gasoline ings and if re-elected will continue to 1342 E. Commerce Rd., Commerce, MI 48382 prices drop from their current high levels. serve my constituents in the same faith- The gasoline tax is a user fee which is the ful manner. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 17/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford County Board/4th

Democrat Donald Bortz is challeng- that the county will use for each ing incumbent Republican County request to participate in a TIF is, “Will Commissioner Tom Middleton in the it bring jobs to Oakland County?” Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for the Buried utility lines, constructing munici- Oakland County Board of Commission- pal facilities or buildings or acquiring ers 4th District seat. County commis- land doesn’t meet the test. sioners serve two-year terms and are REGIONAL ISSUES: Cobo Hall, Detroit currently paid about $33,000 a year. sewer and water and regional transit The following are questions our staff are regional issues needing solutions. recently posed to the candidates, and The biggest problem comes when their responses to those questions. Oakland County is asked to pay a large BUDGET: Please explain what county part of the cost, using Oakland County spending reductions, if any, you would taxpayers’ dollars, and then not giving like to see in the future. What revenue Donald Bortz is a veteran of Operation Tom Middleton has served on the Oakland Oakland County fair representation on enhancements, if any, do you advocate? Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi County Board of Commissioners since the authorizing body that determines Finally, state why you believe the budg- Freedom. He serves on the Oakland 2002. He's also worked as a consultant for how the money is spent. Detroit has a et can be balanced by addressing only County Democratic Party and Waterford the Michigan State University Cooperative new mayor and Macomb County will one side of the ledger or the other, or Democratic Club executive committees. Extension. Middleton served on the Oxford have a new form of county government. Bortz is a chief steward for the Security Schools Board of Education from 1982 to why both spending cuts and increased During these changing times the stars Police and Fire Professionals of America, a 1990, and was a member of the Michigan revenues are the solution. in heaven may align and deals may sur- ROAD FUNDING: union for security workers. House of Representatives from 1990 to Several bills were 1998. face that will work for all parties. recently introduced to give counties the TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is maintain county ability to seek voter approval of new services with fewer employees. With taxes and/or fees that would create vide services to the community, and avoid financial success. We should also create 152 employees taking advantage of the revenue for road construction and raising taxes. We need to increase rev- an “Oakland Promise” program to get retirement incentive, the county will maintenance in that county. State why enue by creating more jobs and increas- students into college. save over $10 million a year by 2010. you do or don’t support such legisla- ing our property values by keeping our No. 3 is supporting veterans. As a vet- All employees will need to work a little neighborhoods safe and looking beautiful. eran of both Operation Enduring Freedom harder, and we need to do things to tion. If it’s approved, state why you ROAD FUNDING: believe it’s time for Oakland officials to The recent vote on the and Operation Iraqi Freedom, I know keep employee moral up. The county is consider putting such a question before tax to keep The Detroit Zoo functioning is what it’s like to feel like your government conducting a pilot program with four voters. If you do, what’s your take on an example of how people can be willing hasn’t lived up to the promises they 10-hour work days. This needs to Oakland County partnering with one or to make good choices with their tax dol- made to you. Many of my Army buddies become permanent policy. more of its neighbors to raise money lars when they know where the money is came back from Iraq and couldn’t even No. 2 is the county needs to stay for roads? going. I strongly support giving people find a job. So if elected, I will create a focused on a solid fiscal plan to main- TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: County the freedom to make the choice on program that will allow all veterans of the tain our AAA credit rating. This excel- officials have tightened down on a poli- whether or not they would like to give a global war on terror to go to Oakland lent bond rating helps all units of gov- cy related to the use of tax increment little more to improve our roads and Community College free of charge. ernment in Oakland County save tax- financing (TIF) included in local corri- enhance their communities. It’s the peo- WHY YOU? I’m one of you. I’m a member payers’ dollars. dor improvement authority (CIA) plans. ple’s money, and they should get a say in of the working class who works hard for No. 3 is prison overcrowding. I rec- Under the policy change, the county how it’s spent. Because many of my dis- a paycheck. I know what it’s like to be ommend reducing overcrowding “may not support” plans that involve trict’s citizens have discussed the need to struggling, because I’m right there strug- through expansion of community cor- use of TIF revenues to bury utility lines, fix their roads, I would be open to putting gling with you. We just want to be paid a rections, video arraignments and sobri- construct municipal facilities or build- the question before voters. I would only decent wage for working an honest job. ety courts. The 35 beds gained in the ings, or to acquire land. Explain why partner with Oakland’s neighbors if it That’s the American dream, and I’ll work jail renovation just being completed are you do or don’t agree with the new would be in a way that could benefit us. hard to make sure you can achieve it. mainly for jail operation efficiency and TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: TIF is policy provisions. What changes, if any, TOM MIDDLETON safety, not to solve overcrowding. The would you advocate. designed to help improve our communi- county needs to study other options. BUDGET: The budget just passed for WHY YOU? REGIONAL ISSUES: Southeast ties by attracting businesses to our area. I have been a lifelong resi- 2008-09 and 2009-10 reduces spending Michigan governments and officials are It should not be used to make routine dent of north Oakland County, have and is balanced, reflecting the reduced sometimes criticized for slow or no repairs or be used for municipal build- farmed and had my businesses here tax income and state revenue over the progress on several issues involving ings. and have been involved with local com- REGIONAL ISSUES: next two years. We have reduced county the entire region. What do you see as The main issue we munities. full-time employees by 152 persons by the most critical regional issues at this need to address with regionalism is mass As a past member of the state offering a retirement incentive, saving time, and what should Oakland transit. We have an opportunity to create House Appropriations Committee in the $10.2 million a year. It will take two County’s role be in addressing those hundreds, if not thousands of new jobs if early 1990s, I had hands-on experience years for all of the savings to be realized. issues? What regional issues aren’t fea- we can bring a mass transit system to with cutting the state budget and With the economy in the state as it is, sible at this time from a practical or Michigan, and have Oakland County in the reducing taxes. citizens of this county would rather have political standpoint, and why? middle of it. It would also help those of I understand the workings of state county services delivered a little slower TOP ISSUES: What are the three most us who are feeling the pain at the pump government and still have a network of every time we go to the gas station, and than have a tax increase. contacts. This would be helpful in get- important issues for the county, and ROAD FUNDING: how do you propose to address them? help senior citizens and others who sim- My first solution to road ting as many of our tax dollars back to WHY YOU? ply cannot afford a car. revenue is to get some of the sales tax on Oakland County as possible. Why, specifically, should TOP ISSUES: voters choose you over your opponent? No. 1 is the economy. We gas to the Highway Fund. My formula I have experience working with the need to look for ways to create new, would be leave the sales tax on the first two-year budgeting used in Oakland DONALD BORTZ high-paying jobs, particularly ones that $2 per gallon, then 6 percent on any County and understand the importance BUDGET: The County has their biannu- cannot be outsourced. amount over $2 would go to the Highway of this process. al budget and it was a balanced budget No. 2 is education. I propose creating Fund. At $4 per gallon that would be I have a record of listening to voters through Fiscal Year 2010. The chal- a “scared smart” program to help teach $.12 per gallon. With that we would not and implementing their concerns in lenge that we have now is being able middle and high school students the cor- need to have a local gas tax. government decisions that affect their keep our county budget balanced, pro- relation between a strong education and TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: The test lives. ❏ PAGE 18/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Waterford, West Bloomfield County Board/5th Incumbent Republican John Scott is we are going for. being challenged by Democrat Nicole NICOLE T. STALLWORTH T. Stallworth in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 BUDGET: I propose redirecting a por- general election for the Oakland tion of the funding from business County Board of Commissioners 5th attraction, i.e. the Emerging Sectors District seat. County commissioners Initiative, to business stability and serve two-year terms and are current- retention via investment in a Master ly paid about $33,000 a year. Plan for commercial, retail and office The following are questions our space use. In addition, the county staff posed to the candidates, and should be investing in the identifica- their responses to those questions. tion of resource partners capable of BUDGET: What changes in county identifying buyers with a three-year budgeting priorities or processes do soft second forgiveness provision (pro- you advocate to deal with budget chal- vided by the county or its partners) of lenges? John Scott, a sales engineer with Nicole T. Stallworth is chief of staff for State purchasing homes headed to auction WATER STUDY: Oakland County officials McMasters Koss Co, has been an Oakland Rep. John Espinoza (D-Croswell). County commissioner since 2003. He is a at full market value, thus reducing the recently agreed to team up with Gen- member of the county board's Personnel uncontrollable property value decline. esee County and contribute $125,000 Committee and vice chairman of the Lastly, to reduce the annual increasing toward a study to determine the feasi- Public Services Committee. utility costs, the county should retrofit bility of constructing an alternative or all lighting systems with either LED or backup water system to serve much of WATER STUDY: We need an alternative, If we were to do anything with regard induction lamps. the county. Tell us why you agree or backup system. For most of Oakland to a new jail, I would like to see some- WATER STUDY: Any studies of this disagree with the need for such a study. County, water comes from the Detroit thing more along the lines of an “Up type should be paid for with state What’s your stance on the need for an water system. As we saw when we had North” version of what is done in grants and not paid for with county alternative or backup system? a power failure (a few years ago), there Arizona. We could build a facility for our general fund dollars. The people of BOARD APPOINTMENTS: Some was no water service. Had we had a non-violent people, a low-budget type Oakland County don’t need a backup Democratic commissioners assailed backup system, that possibly would have facility, and not give them all the perks water system; they need governance last year’s appointment of new Board been different. they have right now. But it’s like the representation on the Detroit Water of Road Commissioners and Parks and Secondly, Detroit needs competition. movie “Field of Dreams” — if you build and Sewerage Board. Recreation Commission members They fought us on putting a member it, they will come. If we build a jail, no BOARD APPOINTMENTS: As an without interviewing all applicants for that we want on their water board. They matter how big it is, we’ll fill it up. employer, I don’t interview every appli- the available positions. State why you pick the representative for Oakland I could possibly approve having the cant who contacts my office for a job. do or don’t believe all applicants for County. Basically, that whole group has voters speak on it. Someday, something So no, I do not think interviewing is board-appointed positions should be been ram-rodding their price increases is going to have to be done. Our popula- mandatory if requisite credentials can’t interviewed before the board votes to through to our Oakland County resi- tion is growing, and the crime rate is be met. I do, however, feel the unnec- fill appointed positions? dents, mainly to fund non-water depart- going up. When all other options are essary partisan activity which creates JAIL: The Oakland County Jail has ment projects in Detroit. exhausted I would approve putting it on inefficiencies and fosters poor deci- experienced chronic inmate over- We are looking to work with Genesee, the ballot. sion-making needs to come to an crowding in recent months, leading to but I think it’s going to be expanded TOP ISSUES: We talked about one abrupt halt; and I’m dedicated to the the early release of scores of non-vio- beyond there. We can study it, but I already, our jail overcrowding. We need introduction of bi-partisan civility in lent prisoners. A citizen survey indi- don’t think there’s ever going to any the state to belly up to the bar and start the commission chambers. cated overwhelming opposition to a money to bring a new system into the taking some of their prisoners. We are JAIL: I say transport the felons in our tax increase to pay for a new jail. At county. We would have to take federal housing the people pre-trial. We’ve got county jail that should be in state pris- what point, if ever, would you support money, and I don’t know where that’s to solve that problem. ons to the governor’s doorstep. If the a tax hike to pay for a new jail facility? going to come from. Let’s see what it is, No. 2 is our budget. Our budget is state were living up to its responsibili- What, if any, alternatives would you find out what it costs, and maybe one balanced going into 2008-09, and ty, we wouldn’t have such a mess. In support to deal with the jail over- day we can find federal money for an because we do the rolling budget, we addition, if the county were to crowding issue? alternative system. know we are in good shape for 2009- enhance foster care incentives to TOP ISSUES: What are the three most BOARD APPOINTMENTS: We started 10. We’ve already lost revenue, and we reduce the cost of caring for, and pro- important issues for the county at this compiling qualified candidate lists after are going to lose more. The property val- viding residences for wards of the time, and how do you propose to January 2007. We receive all the applica- ues are dropping, and it’s going to affect court, we would have more resources address them? tions, we go through them, find the top our revenue. We are making all the to redirect to jail support services. JOHN SCOTT 10 people or so that are qualified, and efforts we can to find ways to be cre- TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is stabilize resi- BUDGET: We’ve made significant cuts. conduct interviews. If you interview ative to balance the budget. dential property values via introduction In fact, our 2008-09 budget was, at everybody that fills out a form online, The third issue is bringing jobs into of a public-private neighborhood stabi- one point, at about $5 million in the you wouldn’t get anything else done at the county. Fortunately, since 2003, lization plan focused on the market hole. As of right now, we are in good the county. Our appointments now have we’ve had the Emerging Sectors pro- price purchase of residential properties shape, but one of the things we are all been done after interviews. gram. We brought in just under $1 bil- headed to auction. looking at is getting all the cost sav- JAIL: We’ve been doing a lot of things. lion in revenue. We’ve got about 9,000 No. 2 is business retention via ings we can. Of course, our four-day, We have done some jail diversion pro- jobs that have come in just from the introduction of a countywide master 10-hour (per day) work week will help grams. We have taken many people that Emerging Sectors program. Those are commercial, retail and office space use a bit. really don’t belong in jail and put them dynamic, non-automotive jobs. I’m going plan. For 2009-10, we are OK. I talked in other programs. The second thing to be working with the administration, No. 3 is job creation through intro- to staff, (County Executive L. Brooks that we’ve done is get a new tether sys- once again, on Emerging Sectors, and of duction of an national energy trades Patterson), and the administration, and tem on board. We’ve got a lot of jail course on Automation Alley, which is institute to train certified electric line- we are balanced, but it’s going to be overcrowding because some judges are another great feature. We have to get men, line clearance professionals, tight. Getting rid of some of the frivo- putting people in jail who are non-violent non-automotive work here. It won’t alternative and energy efficiency pro- lous spending is what’s going to be offenders. First-time impaired DUI make us recession-proof, but it will make fessionals to address the known labor taking place in the next budget year. offenders are really filling the jail up. us recession-resistant, and that’s what shortage within this skill-set. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 19/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford, White Lake County Board/6th Republican Jim Runestad and hold off spending the money on a new Democrat Susan Wachsberg will terminal in Waterford. square off in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 gen- JAIL: I can honestly say that I would eral election for the Oakland County never, if I had the power to do so, Board of Commissioners 6th District have a tax increase (for a new jail) seat. County commissioners serve because I think our system of incarcer- two-year terms and are currently paid ation is wrong and irresponsible right about $33,000 a year. now. I think this crackdown on crime The following are questions our in the 1980s made a balloon out of staff recently posed to the candidates, our system. If we could just adjust our and their responses to those ques- system a little bit, like the Deep South tions. does ... even today they have chain BUDGET: What changes in county gangs. For non-violent, first-time budgeting priorities or processes do offenders, they are given a choice of you advocate to deal with budget chal- Jim Runestad is the owner of Runestand Susan Wachsberg has worked as an inde- working and cleaning up in the county lenges? Financial Associates and president of the pendent real estate appraiser, freelance in exchange for no record and not NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL: Oakland North Oakland Republican Club. He has journalist in television and print media, being incarcerated, and it’s saving served on the Oakland County Friend of and was a manager in marketing and County has accepted a $200,000 the Court Citizens Advisory Committee. research for the Detroit Free Press. them a lot of money. I say there is state grant to design a new terminal plenty of room to find money in the for the Oakland County International system as it is now. comes to increasing taxes or having Jobs are the second issue. I think Airport in Waterford Township. Please BOARD APPOINTMENTS: Of course, municipal golf, that’s an area I’d take a people would agree with the Emerging state why you do or don’t believe the they should all be interviewed. (Not look at. Sectors initiative. Automation Alley I airport needs a new terminal. If you interviewing all applicants is) like get- NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL: I’m certainly believe went from 44 companies to 876 support such a project, where does a in favor of accepting the money to companies in about four years, adding ting a single bid on a project. (That) new airport terminal project fit in your design it. My initial inclination is that it’s about $1 billion in new investment. doesn’t encourage integrity. priorities for county capital improve- TOP ISSUES: a good thing. The No. 1 issue is fiscal ment projects? The third issue is regional initiatives. JAIL: The citizens are not in a mood to responsibility because of the $19-mil- JAIL: A recent citizen survey indicated If the Board of Commissioners loses its pony up large amounts of tax dollars to lion shortage they think we are going overwhelming opposition to a tax Republican majority, I believe that there build a new jail. You have to look at to have by 2010. The county has increase to pay for a new jail. At what will be incredible pressures put on the some alternatives. The county is now always budgeted very well; they have a point, if ever, would you support a tax commission to accept one after the utilizing a tether program that sounds AAA bond (rating). I think we’ve done hike to pay for a new jail facility? other regional initiative without con- like it’s pretty effective and efficient. The an excellent job, but I don’t think What, if any, alternatives would you straints on direction, amount or cost, prosecutor, courts, and judges seem to Oakland County has ever faced what support to deal with the jail over- and without consideration of long-term be convinced that, for non-violent they are going to be facing with the crowding issue? impact for the people of Oakland County. offenders, this is a way of knowing housing market and decline in rev- BOARD APPOINTMENTS: Some I want to make sure anything done on a where they are at — at all times — enues. One of the things I really would Democratic commissioners assailed regional basis is thoroughly looked at for tracking them, allowing them to get to work very hard at is not to put any last year’s appointment of new Board Oakland County’s benefit. work and pay some of the bills for the more burden on the over-burdened of Road Commissioners and Parks and cost of their care. Also, they are working SUSAN WACHSBERG taxpayers. I think there is some fat we Recreation Commission members more closely with the medical system to BUDGET: There are two that I can think have to locate and some tough deci- without interviewing all applicants for identify those that have medical needs. of off the top of my head. The first is sions to make in Oakland County on the available positions. Please state Before, they were simply warehoused in that we have to deal with sentencing employees and programs. why you do or don’t believe all appli- the jail, and now they are trying to move guidelines. We decided in the 1980s to The second is a very big issue of cants for board-appointed positions some of them to the medical system for get tough on crime, so we built (more) mine. We have to protect our natural should be interviewed before the treatment. prisons and now, even non-violent resources. We are growing in White board votes to fill appointed posi- If it gets to the point that we are offenders are sentenced and labeled. It’s Lake. You blink and open your eyes (in tions? going to turn even one violent offender the wrong system in the first place. If White Lake) and there is a new build- TOP ISSUES: What are the three most loose onto the citizenry, we have to look we can cut back with those sentencing ing there. So many places build first important issues for the county at this at building a new jail. Then I would be in guidelines, we can eliminate and grab a and think later about how it has an time, and how do you propose to favor of asking on a ballot, “Do the big part of that budget back. impact on our inland lakes, streams, address them? Oakland County residents want us to Secondly, we have to look at the size and water resources. We have to plan JIM RUNESTAD create a jail millage to put on the ballot of the budget in the first place and the to protect the most valuable thing we BUDGET: There are bound to be some for you to vote on in the next election?” number of people and the benefits we have, our natural resources. areas that can be cut out of the budg- BOARD APPOINTMENTS: I absolutely have. The county commission (in the We have to step up to the plate and et. The citizens have been overbur- believe that every applicant needs to be past gave itself raises), and they’re also get a proposal that will fly so we can dened with tax increases, so whatever interviewed. I’ve sat through a lot of getting newspapers and club member- get matching federal funds for a mass is to be done has to be on the basis of those board meetings, and just when ships paid for. We have to lead by exam- transit system. We are in the dark reductions in either services or pro- you think you’ve heard the best, some- ple. We can save a lot of money just by ages, compared to other cities with grams. I know the commissioners are one else comes along who is as good, or looking at all the little fringe benefits mass transit. Roger Penske is doing using the Gosselin Amendment (call- better. To stop at some point and say that county employees get and cut back some private funding in downtown ing for positions or programs paid for we’ve heard enough, to me that’s not on those, at least until better times. Detroit and that’s just the beginning with grants to remain vacant or the way you conduct business. NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL: At this time, of what a separate group is working unfunded after the grant funds are TOP ISSUES: The budget is the primary I would say it’s not a priority because on for the greater Detroit area. If we spent), and I think that’s an effective responsibility of the county commission. we have a lot of things that are more get this together, the way that some way of eliminating some programs My approach, as a small business owner, pressing. And although Flint Bishop very, very strong leaders are trying to that, if they were continued, could is looking at what’s the investment on International Airport is not in Oakland do and not have people block the cost the county a lot of money. A final every program and service. Are all the County, they are begging for more traffic effort, we can get matching funds area that could be looked at is munici- services and programs needed? Which up there right now. I think that, for the from the federal government and get pal golf. It’s a great program, but if it ones can be reduced or eliminated? 40 minutes it takes to get there, we can something in here. ❏ PAGE 20/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Commerce, Milford, Wolverine Lake County Board/7th Democrat Pam Jackson is challeng- by a vote of those that will pay for it … ing incumbent Republican Chirstine A. the taxpayers. In my personal opinion, I Long in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general do not support increases in taxes or election for the Oakland County Board fees. Perhaps legislation could be draft- of Commissioners 7th District seat. ed facilitating equitable federal and County commissioners serve two-year state road funds coming back to the terms and are currently paid about county. Currently, Oakland County does- $33,000 a year. n’t receive it’s fair share of funding, The following are questions our thus contributing to the county’s donor staff recently posed to the candidates, status. and their responses to those ques- TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: I support tions. economic growth in Oakland County. TIF BUDGET: Please explain what county and Corridor Improvement Authorities spending reductions, if any, you would are vehicles used to promote this eco- like to see in the future. What revenue Pam Jackson is a mathematics, construc- Christine Long is an owner and operator of nomic growth for cities, villages, and enhancements, if any, do you advocate? tion management and concrete construc- the Long Family Orchard and Farm in tion management professor at Oakland Commerce Township. She has served on townships. The Board of Commissioners Finally, state why you believe the budg- Community College. She is the former the Oakland County Board of Commis- have established the TIF District Review et can be balanced by addressing only owner of Elite Building and Construction sioners and as a Southeast Michigan Policy Ad Hoc Committee to evaluate and one side of the ledger or the other, or Company. Council of Governments delegate for the recommend plans from the communities why both spending cuts and increased past six years. to the Finance Committee. With the revenues are the solution. sluggish economy, the county must ROAD FUNDING: Several bills were The county can address both sides of tion, reduce air pollution, alleviate the guard its tax revenue; however, these recently introduced to give counties the the ledger ... in keeping the budget bal- need for more parking structures/lots, authorities enable local municipalities ability to seek voter approval of new anced. reduce gas consumption, and will attract economic growth that would not occur taxes and/or fees that would create ROAD FUNDING: I would support the leg- business and industry to the entire region without these tax captures. revenue for road construction and TOP ISSUES: islation. Quality control measures need to to enhance economic growth. No. 1 is the budget. maintenance in that county. State why be enhanced with more oversight on the Property tax revenue will continue to you do or don’t support such legisla- Every endeavor should be made to projects. If business continues “as usual” fall. Since property tax revenue sup- tion. If it’s approved, state why you maintain the level of current health care with road construction and renovations, ports about 62 percent of the county’s believe it’s time for Oakland officials to funding for children, seniors, and the indi- it will be very difficult to get any increas- operations, Oakland County is not with- consider putting such a question before gent. By placing a stronger emphasis on es approved by the voters. out budget challenges. In 2010, a voters. If you do, what’s your take on preventative health care programs with I support the concept of shared costs $19.6 million shortfall is anticipated. Oakland County partnering with one or cooperation from health care providers, with two or more adjacent communities As a Finance Committee member, I will more of its neighbors to raise money overall health care costs could be reduced. provided that the communities agree to a WHY YOU? continue to review all county spending for roads? My diverse educational and partnership. The public has the tendency with diligence. It’s imperative to keep TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: County professional experiences make me the to live in one community and work or taxes low while providing quality serv- officials have tightened down on a poli- most qualified candidate. Please visit my spend leisure time in another. Since the ice within a tight budget. cy related to the use of tax increment website for a complete review: public benefits from the road systems in No. 2 is the economy. I will continue financing (TIF) included in local corri- www.PamJackson2008.com. I am a pro- the connecting communities, sharing to diversify the county’s economy with dor improvement authority (CIA) plans. fessor at Oakland Community College expenses would only seem logical. initiatives such as Automation Alley, the Under the policy change, the county teaching mathematics, construction man- TAX INCREMENT FINANCING: I support Emerging Sectors program, and “may not support” plans that involve agement and concrete construction man- the policy change on restricting the use Wireless Oakland. use of TIF revenues to bury utility lines, agement. I have successfully owned two the TIF monies. Oakland County might No. 3 is public safety. Residents construct municipal facilities or build- small businesses over the years which look into creating a land bank authority deserve to feel safe where they live, ings, or to acquire land. Explain why required quality work, balancing budgets, like Genesee County, where declining work, and play; therefore public safety you do or don’t agree with the new and getting the job done on time and areas are transformed to their maximum services must continue to be adequate- policy provisions. within budget. I will help generate jobs, potential. They should incorporate green ly funded. Jail overcrowding continues TOP ISSUES: What are the three most attract businesses with the Emerging construction practices. Why let a commu- to be a challenge. A task force is important issues for the county, and Sectors program, facilitate the improve- nity deteriorate while trying to develop a exploring and developing alternative how do you propose to address them? ment of the educational and health care new one? It only decreases the surround- sentencing programs, such as the teth- WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should programs, preserve the environment, and ing property values. We need to be fiscal- er program, for non-violent offenders. voters choose you over your opponent? ensure that Oakland County has a bal- ly responsible and use TIF monies to revi- anced budget. WHY YOU? Operating a fifth generation PAM JACKSON talize our depressed areas before sprawl- family farm, my business enables me to BUDGET: One way to reduce costs may ing into open spaces. CHRISTINE A. LONG be available and highly visible before be to offer early retirement incentives TOP ISSUES: Responsible development BUDGET: Unlike the state, Oakland my constituents on a day-to-day basis. to county employees or eliminate posi- needs to occur to preserve the environ- County uses a biennial budget that antici- Having installed a designated tions through attrition. Expanding the ment using green construction practices pates economic conditions two years out “Commissioner Hotline” in my home, I concept of a 4-day work week could be as a requirement or encouraged in the and adjusts its budget accordingly. As a have made it a priority to return calls explored to decrease costs. A feasibility specifications for roads, new construc- Finance Committee member, I will contin- from residents in a timely manner. study could be done for maximum tion, and redevelopments. Moving toward ue to review all programs, services, as well Based on merit and hard work, I have building utilization that may help renewable energies would generate as staffing with tight scrutiny. In 1998, moved into leadership positions at the reduce costs. The commissioners voted employment for this region while creating Oakland County established a property tax county. I have voted with principle, and to take a pay freeze. The administra- educational programs to retool our work- rate of 4.19 mills. With good leadership, have been a strong advocate for local tion could also follow suit with a pay force for these new careers. the board has been able to retain the same input and participation in county freeze until the economy turns around. A safe, efficient, and cost-effective tax rate for 10 years. I will continue to issues, programs, and services. My 100 Revenues can be increased by regional mass transit system is of para- maintain a balanced budget through percent attendance record for commis- attracting businesses using the Emerg- mount importance to Oakland County. spending cuts, not tax increases. sion meetings in 2007 and 2008 ing Sectors program and Automation Cooperative and responsible regional ROAD FUNDING: Any tax or fee increase proves my commitment to my elected Alley. development will relieve traffic conges- for road improvements must be decided position and my constituents. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 21/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford Township Supervisor Incumbent Democrat Carl Solden is unions and employees that want more being challenged by Republican Gary benefits or more money. You have to Wall in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general really take a hard-line look at how election race for the Waterford much money you have to work with Township supervisor position. The and how you can budget it aptly. township supervisor serves a four-year Where necessary, you have to make term and is currently paid $92,000 cuts that will least affect the township annually. as a whole. The following are questions our CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- staff recently posed to the candidates, ITY: We are in a very tight budget and their responses to those ques- right now; there just isn’t a lot of tions. money to go around. I like the idea of LEADERSHIP: As supervisor, at what a CIA. There are a lot of great ideas point do you believe you should disre- especially for that part of Waterford. I gard public sentiment, and cast a vote don’t believe at this time that it’s a on an item based on your own knowl- good time to go forward because I edge and feelings about how an issue don’t believe we have the revenue that impacts the greater community? Carl Solden has served as Waterford Gary Wall has owned and operated a con- it will take to start it, complete it and BUDGET: What changes in township Township's supervisor for the past eight struction firm for the past 18 years. go forward with it. I don’t think now budgeting priorities or processes do years. He is a retired Waterford Township is the time to be taking money off of you advocate to deal with continuing Police Department detective sergeant. tax dollars in an economy where the budgetary challenges? property values are declining and taxes CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- about a 4 percent decrease in property with less employees and better services. are, I assume, decline with them. I’m ITY: The Waterford Board of Trustees taxes. We’re prepared to take whatever Third, transportation is an issue in favor of putting it on hold until recently approved creation of a corri- steps are necessary to accomplish our based on our economy these days, con- there is a more positive money flow. dor improvement authority (CIA) for mission as we have in the past. sidering gasoline prices and peoples’ When we get that ball park built that the Telegraph Road corridor, and CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHORI- inability to seek transportation from will be the spring board that gives us appointment of the new authority’s TY: With the CIA we felt it was a neces- point A to point B. I’ve had a meeting at something solid to build off of. governing board members. Please sary thing to deal with. We haven’t really Oakland County on a transportation sys- I would like to look into fixing some state why you are or aren’t comfort- moved it ahead for monetary reasons. tem running from Milford to the court- of the sewers in that area. We need to able at this time with township tax Now is not a good time (for the town- house on Telegraph. That’s a start, but dress up and clean up the area to revenues being captured for public ship to allow a capture of tax revenues), it’s not a complete answer to the trans- attract business and commerce. improvements in the CIA district. although the tax structure as it is will be portation problem. We can build off of TOP ISSUES: My No. 1 concern is to What kind of improvements would you a portion of the taxes over and above that, but anything we do requires fund- be a representative of the residents of like to see in the CIA district? the improvements that are done in the ing. The possibility is there and at least Waterford, their wants, their needs TOP ISSUES: What are the three most area going to the CIA. it’s something to build on. and their concerns, and seeing that important issues for the township at We’ve had a few problems in that WHY YOU? I’ve got the experience and they are addressed within reason. We this time, and how do you propose to area. No. 1, the ball park got delayed a leadership ability. I’ve been there and need to represent and promote the address them? bit. I see the ball park as the catalyst for worked through the tough times. I don’t township. We have so many things to WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should that entire area down there. see that I’ve done anything in this com- offer in Waterford. If you can get peo- voters choose you over your oppo- We will have to have aesthetic munity to be removed from office. It’s ple to come here, they might want to nents? improvements, highway improvements, been a great job, and I’ve enjoyed it. I stay. CARL SOLDEN and make the whole area more appeal- have a great rapport with all of the My second biggest concern is the LEADERSHIP: We just went through ing. We will not move on this until such department heads, everyone is pulling in police department. I want to see us that very thing at the last few board a time as we feel it’s appropriate. We the same direction and we are making have more officers; but again, we have meetings, for example, with the need to be able to attract businesses progress in all areas of the community. to work at coming up with funding for Elizabeth Lake weed eradication pro- and people to the area. I’ve embarked on a fair and equal ordi- that. gram. We had 56 percent of the lake- TOP ISSUES: My No. 1 priority is keep- nance enforcement approach. There are Third is working with department front owners who wanted the weed ing the township running through the no special favors for anybody, I’m not heads to juggle money, budget and eradication process. We went with the budget process. For the eight years I’ve tied to any special interest groups, and I make everyone happy. Property taxes majority of the people who wanted been here that’s what I’ve been saddled owe no one anything. I intend to keep it are heading in reverse. It’s that much this and I think that holds true with with. that way. less that is coming into the township. any agenda item or issue, coupled No. 2, I think we have to keep GARY WALL We need to work with departments to with the fact that I think whatever embarking on new technologies. We’ve LEADERSHIP: You have to sort out what try to make things work. you do it comes from the heart, not done a very good job with technology in is opinion and what is fact. If it’s the WHY YOU? My supervising experience so much because of the special inter- the last eight years. We have people majority of the community that wants it, doesn’t come from government, it’s est groups. You have to be able to coming in from all over the U.S. to our you have to be able to separate senti- been in the construction industry. I look at the total picture. DPW to get ideas on how they can mental or heart-felt feelings from judg- have been in business myself for the BUDGET: You have to remember I first transform their operations into what we ment, being as you are a representative past 18 years. I have an impeccable took office in 2000. In 2001 the bot- have. We just went to a new meter sys- of the voters and residents. I feel it’s reputation in the industry. I have the tom fell out of everything and we tem that’s going to be read by satellite. important that you represent what is the ability to run jobs and supervise peo- started getting an annual loss in rev- We can tell customers’ usage, peak majority of what the people want as long ple, small and large groups, and keep enue sharing. hours and see if they have a leak all as it is a common sense thing or a case jobs and projects on schedule. I bring We need to look for new ways to through the satellite system. We have where you know nothing different from those projects in at or under budget do things. We need to prioritize new technology at the police department what the voting public knows. time and time again. I’m very firm. I’m things. We need to depend a lot on using the wireless system in the com- BUDGET: I have been in the construction a reasonable and fair person. Things new technology to serve our citizens munity. They can do all of their paper- business and we’ve been, from 2000 on, that aren’t right have to be dealt with in a better manner for lower costs. work in the car and eliminate the time to hammered and every year it’s gone back- and fixed. Waterford has a lot of top We’ve lost over $13.5 million cumula- go back and file. We’ve come a long way wards. You have to make do with what notch people that would make my job tively in revenue sharing since 2001. and we intend to go farther because you have. There are only so many cuts easier. The transition from business We have no idea what’s going to hap- each day technology changes and that you can make and at the same time owner to township supervisor will be pen here, although the county talks has helped us enhance our operations you’ve got departments, individuals, relatively smooth. ❏ PAGE 22/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Waterford Township Clerk

Republican Sue Camilleri is chal- election results. We began document lenging incumbent Democrat Betty imaging (several years ago) which we Fortino in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general do when time allows. All of our deeds election for the Waterford Township and limited other records have been clerk position. The township clerk completed and we will continue with serves a four-year term and is current- that in an off-election year. In 2005 we ly paid an annual salary of $81,965. were delegated to conduct school elec- The following are questions our staff tions while operating with one employ- recently posed the candidates, and their ee short. While the document imaging responses to those questions. is a nice thing, it’s definitely not essen- CLERK’S ROLE: Clerks are often tial. The township can ill-afford non- described as the chief financial officer, essential spending. of sorts, for the community. Please BUDGET: Our auditors have said we explain the role of clerk as financial Sue Camilleri has worked in the Waterford Betty Fortino has served as Waterford are one of few communities that have officer? Is there a need for changes or Township Building Department for the past Township's clerk for the past 22 years. Prior maintained a fund balance during these improvements in the way the clerk’s 12 years. She has been a house captain to that, she served as an Oakland County and vice president of Christmas in Action commissioner from 1975 to 1986. dire times. They said if our board had office handles these financial responsi- for 10 years. not had the foresight and diligence five bilities? What skills or training do you to 10 years ago, we would not be in have that qualify you for these finan- this condition. I’m proud to say I was a cial responsibilities? scanned and stored digitally, at little or accepting passport applications; and I key player. We began cutting years ago RECORDS: The township clerk is no cost. This will create a back up copy will work with the Secretary of State to and projected the worse case scenario. responsible for record-keeping and of all records. It will also improve the create a “no reason” absentee ballot to We have maintained the same number storage of the township’s records and access to these documents and save time encourage more voters to participate in of employees through attrition and documents. What’s the state of the and money. The equipment to do this elections. I will reduce spending in our eliminated services that were not cru- township’s current record-keeping sys- work is already in place so it will entail clerk’s office; one immediate savings will cial for the health and protection of tem? What changes or upgrades, if any, no extra expense. I’m very familiar with be not accepting the vehicle allowance our citizens. Dennis Ritter and I were do you anticipate having to make? the process because I lead the team that that is offered to the clerk, saving tax- responsible for computerization of this BUDGET: What changes in township is scanning the Building Department payers $20,400 over my four-year term. township which greatly improved pro- budgeting priorities or processes do records. My background as a successful Waterford duction. you advocate to deal with financial BUDGET: With the revenue estimates business owner and a 12-year employee We continually face the possibility of challenges? continuing to decline we must first look of the township gives me the skills and arbitration and negotiation, and since TOP ISSUES: What are the three most to our core responsibilities. Priorities knowledge to bring about the change we personnel is most of the expense, important issues for the township, should be public safety and the state- need and to do the kind of job residents workforce cuts may have to be made. and how do you propose to address mandated activities. But even the depart- deserve. Long before it was popular, we formed them? ments that provide these basic services BETTY FORTINO consortiums with the county, other WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- must reduce their expenses to accommo- CLERK’S ROLE: The clerk is responsible communities, schools and others to be ers choose you over your opponent? date reduced revenue. I will look closely for all elections, voter registrations, cost-effective and efficient. We will at all expenditures to be sure we are not township accounting, purchasing, licens- need to expand these efforts. SUE CAMILLERI wasting taxpayers’ money and I will also ing and ordinances. Payment of all bills TOP ISSUES: Our most important CLERK’S ROLE: The clerk shares recommend a pay freeze for all elected (except payroll) and all accounting is responsibility is continued scrutiny of financial responsibilities with the treas- officials. done in the clerk’s office. Most charter our budget. In the past we started urer and the finance director. The TOP ISSUES: Residents can’t be expect- townships’ clerks do payroll, but establishing new funds (for retiree clerk’s responsibilities include accounts ed to support an increase in their tax Waterford has always kept it in the trea- health costs and workmen’s comp). payable, purchasing, overseeing the rate to finance government operations surer’s office in spite of my efforts to We have set up safeguards by staying bid process and, with the other board when they are struggling to pay their change it. in compliance with governmental members, review, approval and over- own expenses. We don’t have the luxury I majored in business at Eastern accounting standards. sight of the budget. of doing things the same way we have Michigan University and ran my own We need to continue our efforts to The township is well organized to always done them. We must seek out business for many years. I’m proud of restore the Summit Place Mall. deal with all financial issues. The shar- new ways to keep the lid on expenses. many financial improvements during the We have always maintained good ing of financial operations by separate Blight is a growing concern for resi- 22 years I have served as clerk. For working relationships with schools, the departments creates a checks and bal- dents as increasing numbers of homes example: county and neighboring communities, ance system that protects township are abandoned and maintenance falls to • I initiated centralized purchasing, which has resulted in huge savings. We assets. The recent addition of a finance lending institutions. Blighted properties designating an employee as purchasing need to expand this philosophy. director is a welcome change in how tend to drive down the value of the sur- agent. That resulted in hundreds of thou- Sharing of manpower and equipment in the township plans for the future ... rounding neighborhood. I’m currently sands of dollars of savings and continues all areas is the logical process to get (and) will help prepare the township working with the Building Department to do so. more for less. to move forward confidently in these and code enforcement to preserve the • When I came to the township, there WHY YOU? I have represented the citi- difficult economic times. quality of our neighborhoods by strict was a contracted accountant who was zens of Waterford for 33 years in an As a former Waterford business enforcement of our ordinances to help also doing the auditing. I supported and effective, efficient manner. I’ve saved owner I will bring the ability to analyze protect property values and I will contin- worked toward a full-time accountant the residents millions of dollars and income and expense figures and the ue my efforts to prevent blight. and an independent auditor. Today we will continue to do so. I have always ability to react to change productively. Public safety is a high priority. I want not only have exceptional audits but an had an open-door policy and I welcome I’m very detail oriented and I’m famil- to work to maintain the high level of excellent bond rating. any citizen to express their concerns to iar with the accounting practices in service and protection from our police • No tax increase, ever. me. I maintained a perfect attendance Waterford. and fire departments that the residents RECORDS: We are able to retrieve record for 21 years and haven’t missed RECORDS: Currently the records in the of Waterford expect. requested information for our citizens all half a dozen meetings in 33 years. This clerk’s custody are kept in boxes and WHY YOU? I see real possibilities for the way back to the early 1800s. We not only demonstrates dedication, but file cabinets in town hall. It’s time to improving our clerk’s office. I will have used our township web site to pro- more importantly, supports the fact change the way these documents are improve efficiency by taking full advan- vide a wealth of information, such as that I have never intentionally missed a kept. Digital technology has been uti- tage of the computer equipment already board minutes, ordinances, and specifica- vote or refused to discuss a controver- lized in other departments for years. I in place. I will expand services offered to tions for all bids, forms for voter regis- sial issue. I love my job and I’m very intend to have all the township records residents and businesses, such as trations, absentee ballot applications and good at it. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 23/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford Township Trustees Democrats Kenneth H. Hempstead, the township board’s fiscal responsi- David J. Kramer, Garry Nielsen and bility. These challenges to budgets are Bette O’Shea; and Republicans David faced by all local governments. Maloney and Stan Moore will face off Waterford, of course, is no exception. in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election I don’t know, at this point in time, for four Waterford Township trustee where money could be saved in lieu of positions. Township trustees serve the crisis we’re in. I do know there are four-year terms and are currently paid proposals at the state level to defray $10,976 a year. even more property taxes for people The following are questions our who are in the foreclosure process. I staff recently posed to the candidates, think the township board needs to and their responses to those ques- look at that and address their consen- tions. sus of opinion to the state as to the BUDGET: What changes in township impact that would have on local gov- budgeting priorities or processes do ernment. We may need to look at a you advocate to deal with recent freeze in hiring except for essential budgetary challenges? positions. I don’t have enough inti- COMPOST SITE: New state require- mate knowledge of the budget at this ments for the operation of compost time to say clearly what could be cut Kenneth H. Hempstead served as a 51st David J. Kramer is a recently-retired asses- or sustained. I do think the board is sites has prompted the township to District Court judge from 1969 until 2001, sor for Independence Township, where he close down its site on Hospital Road. and was justice of the peace in Waterford was employed for 22 years. He has served going to work together and minimize In the meantime, a group of township from 1964 until 1968. as president of the Watkins Lake Owners the change in services to local resi- officials is conducting a feasibility Association, and a member of the Watkins dents. study to determine the economics Lake Improvement Board. COMPOST SITE: This is a big issue. I behind running a compost facility think there are many residents of under the new requirements. Where COMPOST SITE: My understanding was TOP ISSUES: I would say No. 1 is the Waterford Township that are upset does operating the compost site fall one of the biggest problems was that budget because of the horrible economic with the closing of the compost facili- on your list of priorities for the town- we didn’t own the land where the com- times that we’re all in. It will be coming ty. I understand that these state regu- ship? Please state why you do or post site was located. That’s another upon us to review it until we’ve sharp- lations are stringent and the township don’t believe the closing of the com- thing we’d have to examine if we’re ened our pencils as much as we can. isn’t presently prepared to meet the post site should prompt the township going to retain it as an edifice of the The second is to find other means of financial obligations. to break the community up into dis- township. We’d have to acquire some supporting the township. Taxes are The people of Waterford were tricts and issue waste hauling con- land that we aren’t using at the present imminent but there has to be another banned from burning leaves 12 to 15 tracts so all residents receive compost time. As for restrictions, I think it’d be way of doing it that’s constant and years ago, which is a good thing, but pickup service. the job of the various supervisors and/or doesn’t fluctuate. One way is to be there was no alternative in place CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- their representatives to go to Lansing proactive with our Legislature and get except to take them to the compost ITY: The Waterford Board of Trustees and see if we can’t change the restric- them to listen to our problems and sug- site which is now closed. There are recently approved an ordinance creat- tions and see what area they would gestions. I’m certain they’d welcome an alternative ideas for dealing with ing a corridor improvement authority bend in and which areas they wouldn’t. exchange of ideas. organic compost in the township, one (CIA) for the Telegraph Road corridor, I would think the idea of dividing into Third is taking a look at our long- of which would be to consider the and appointment of the new authori- districts is good and let the bids begin. term goals — what do we have in mind possibility of independent contractors ty’s governing board members. Please Several other communities, Ann Arbor for future development, and where is it to come in and find a viable way of state why you are or aren’t comfort- for instance, vacuums leaves at the curb going to be? We need to see if our mas- making it a for-profit enterprise to able at this time with township tax and sells the refuse to the citizens at a ter plan is still what we thought it was. remove our organic waste. revenues being captured for public reduced rate. The product is excellent. I If not we need to adopt a new one, use Cities like Royal Oak vacuum the improvements in the CIA district. can’t see wasting it, I can’t see burning it and not abuse it. leaves at the curb, take it back to their What kind of improvements would you it and I can’t see doing without it. WHY YOU? In 1964 I ran for the office DPW yard and next spring sell it to like to see in the CIA district? I don’t know where on my list of con- of justice of the peace in Waterford and I their residents. I don’t know if that TOP ISSUES: What are the three most siderations this exist because I don’t was elected. I served until 1969 and was plan would work in Waterford important issues for the township at know what all the considerations are at also appointed in Pontiac and Royal Oak. Township, but I do believe we should this time, and how do you propose to this time. It’s important though, and I In 1969 I ran for district judge and was explore these alternatives rather than address them? think it should be worked out and we the first in the 51st District Court. I just throwing our hands in the air and WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should should check all possibilities and see served there for 35 years. I believe that saying, “We’ve got state regulations voters choose you over your oppo- whether we can run it as a municipal my experience in these offices and pri- we can’t meet.” nents? operation or turn it over to private vate practice will allow me to properly I would discuss the concept of dis- enterprise. serve the people of Waterford. I estab- tricts for collection. It would still be a CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHORI- KENNETH H. HEMPSTEAD lished the first drug-free facility in free enterprise system, but we need to BUDGET: TY: First of all, I don’t know the I’m in favor of the CIA. I’m in favor Oakland County which is still in existence think about our carbon footprint as a budgeting process, so I have to learn of adopting something that will help and currently occupies two buildings on township. In my neighborhood, that and see if I agree with it. I would improve the corridor. I don’t know North Oakland Boulevard. I’m well aware garbage companies operate five days a suggest that we need to cut the budg- whether, at this time, it’s advisable and of the needs of the people of Waterford week. I could not even begin to tell et to bare bones because we’re not how much we’ll be spending on it. It from several standpoints. My education you the plethora of garbage companies going to get a lot of money from state seems to me you’d have to look at that and experiences qualify me to serve the operating in my neighborhood. Smith’s agencies. I would say that house val- and see whether the overall advantages people of Waterford. Disposal alone makes three trips ues are going to go down for a while, are to our best interest and the total through my neighborhood in one day: so we’re going to have to take a look interest of the community, not just those DAVID J. KRAMER one for compost, one for recyclables at that and see if there are areas in conducting business on Telegraph. I BUDGET: I think historically the town- and one for garbage. It’s my belief the township budget that we can save would have to see the layout and respec- ship board has balanced the budget very that if we divide the township into dis- on. That’s my main concern, fiscal tive cost and benefit from it before I well. The Plante & Moran audit report tricts and require that free enterprise responsibility. pass on that. came out and gave a glowing review of PAGE 24 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 24/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Trustee race services away. We are looking to make those services a pay service or ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 23 increasing the percentage residents do garbage operating companies compet- pay if they are already paying. COMPOST SITE: itively bid for those districts, we can We may have to do reduce the carbon footprint, provide the compost pickup. I think that a greater safety for our pedestrians and service of some kind is important children on the streets, and have pre- because we have stopped all burning. dictable traffic in our neighborhoods. We’ve got to give the residents some CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- type of relief as far as being able to ITY: The CIA is a good working tool to get rid of the compost. I don’t know improve a specific area. The captured that we will be able to comply (with tax dollars are spent within the dis- new compost site regulations). I know trict. I do believe there is a time limit there is a study out right now to see if on the district and ultimately those we can and how much it will cost, but tax dollars will be spread across and I don’t think it’s far enough along to used across the whole township. It where I could tell you if it’s a certain will encourage commercial develop- David Maloney has served on the Stan Moore has served on the Waterford amount. I do feel that we need to do ment in the area, which brings in Waterford Board of Trustees since 2000. He Board of Trustees since 2004. He is owner something and I’m glad that it’s being is vice president of W.J. Stewart Contract- and operator of S&B Plumbing and Bill's researched. more tax revenue. So while the rev- ing Corp., where he has been employed Plumbing. He is founder and president of enue is captured in a specific district I, myself, pay my waste haulers for 21 years. Maloney has served on the Helping Hands of Waterford. Moore is also some additional money to fill 12 bags during a period of time, ultimately the Waterford Parks and Recreation Board. He a member of the township's Parks and revenue is spread across the entire was state chairman for the Vietnam Recreation Board. with leaves a week and they take it township’s needs. Veterans of America "Agent Orange" away. Of course, limbs are still a prob- I don’t know what plans the town- Committee. lem. If the only financially reasonable ship has specifically for the CIA but option was issuing contracts to waste the concept of the CIA has worked in reserve dollars that we have. We’ve costs the township has to absorb right haulers I would do that. CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- other communities and if history is already lost, I think, 21 full-time posi- now. All department are being impacted ITY: any guide it will be a benefit to tions in the last four years. We’ve done by the budget right now. We need to I don’t believe that the corridor Waterford Township, as well. everything that the taxpayers ask us to make sure we can equitably divide the authority is even going to happen TOP ISSUES: The first is garbage col- do with respect to down sizing govern- money up so that none of them suffer right now. I’ve been in touch with sev- lection by district and competitive bid. ment and managing the budget to come more than they have to. eral of the county commissioners and I believe that would reduce our carbon up with a balance as mandated by the The second priority is public safety. they have said that it’s not going to footprint by reducing the number of state. We’re going to have to continue to We have the three millages because the happen, the county is just not going trucks operating. It would reduce stay on the same course we’ve been on. community has told us that is what they to let it go through. That being said, blight and protect our pedestrian traf- We’re going to have to look at the dol- want and they are willing to pay for it. I’m glad that it’s in place. If it ever fic. lars and the cents and we’re going to Our Fire Department is the only one does happen, we’re ahead of the The second is the CIA which would have to balance it out. licensed and approved by the state to game. help encourage economic growth and COMPOST SITE: I think the compost teach paramedics. That’s a plus. I think The improvements that I would like beautify our township. site was a plus for Waterford Township. our fire department is a leader in this to see, especially along the Telegraph The third is the budget. It’s part I’ve talked to a lot of people who used state. corridor, are aesthetics. I would like to and parcel of a township trustee’s the site. A lot of them were upset when The third priority is our Parks and see it look better, have entrances to responsibility. it was closed. Recreation Department. I think we have business cleaned up and have every- WHY YOU? I think everyone (in the I think, like anything else, we need to to have some balance in the township thing look better because it is one of race) brings experience with them. I look at viable alternatives. We need to for our citizens, be it the use of the sen- the entrances into the township. I served in Independence Township as provide this service for our citizens, but ior center or parks where people can would definitely like to see it cleaned an assessor for 20 years. That gave it isn’t necessarily the highest-rated pri- relax and enjoy themselves. I think all of up. It would improve the businesses, the appearances and the views of me great insight as to how local gov- ority in Waterford Township. It’s some- the programs offered in the township Waterford Township. ernment works. I believe that experi- thing we need to look at from a private are very important, and when we loose TOP ISSUES: The main issue right ence prepares me for dealing with enterprise standpoint. I think it will just those we’ve just about lost everything. now is the devaluation of our homes. I issues that come before the board and put an additional cost burden on the WHY YOU? Experience and consistency. don’t believe that our assessments gives me understanding as to why township and the citizens if we tried to I’m a fiscal and environmental conserva- reflect the true value of our homes at some things work and others don’t. It reopen. We need to find another alterna- tive. I do my homework, I research the this point. I believe that their values helps me to decide the priority of tive and I think we are on the right information and I try to do it objectively. issues and still address the needs of I’ve always been the people’s advocate are decreasing more rapidly than is track. being allowed on our assessments. I the citizens of the township. CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHORI- and I enjoy doing that. I enjoy taking on believe that’s got to be addressed. We TY: that responsibility. DAVID MALONEY The small district that they have need to make them more true to actu- BUDGET: We anticipated that state designated does need some improve- STAN MOORE al value. revenue sharing will be down, as it ment. I think capturing the taxes in that BUDGET: We are going to have to cer- Secondly, budget issues are impor- always is. It’s difficult to anticipate area and putting those dollars back into tainly take a look at each department tant. We’re going to have to hunker the current market, and the housing that area is a positive. I think it’s a good and see where we can make cuts. Cuts down and make some tough decisions values and property values are also idea to attract more people and busi- are going to be required, there is no on what’s important and what’s not declining. I think that the board will nesses to the area by cleaning it up and doubt about it. We will have to make important. We will have to make cuts probably have to do what we’ve done I do support it. I’m really not sure what cuts and yet maintain the services that where necessary and sometimes it will every year. We will have to take a look specifics I would like to see. I think the the residents are used to. I don’t know really hurt services and families but at all of the departments. The budget CIA board they established should make that there is a good answer as to what it’s something we have to do. is the No. 1 priority in the township those recommendations. to do at this point, and I know we’ve The third important item is water because all of the departments are TOP ISSUES: The No. 1 priority that is already made some concessions with and sewage treatment. That’s going impacted by it. We will have to sort going to impact us right now is the some departments. There are other to be a combination of working with through it. I think we’ve gained over budget. We’ve lost revenue sharing from departments we’ve put on notice and the DPW, the county and Pontiac. I’m $38.5 million in revenue and — even the state over the last few years. Our said they will have to make bigger con- very familiar with the city of Pontiac. this year — our expenditures are costs are constantly increasing and our cessions. We’re looking at departments I’ve worked for them for a long time exceeding our revenue. This is eventu- wages and benefits are way up. That like Parks and Recreation and other and I’ve been in contact trying to dis- ally going to take a bite our of the makes up probably 90 percent of the areas where we’ve been giving some PAGE 26 ❯❯❯❯ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 25/MHW,WAT

DAVID J. KRAMER Waterford resident for 23 years EXPERIENCE: • 21 years serving local government as the Assessor of Independence Township • Info. Tech Director at Independence Township for several years • Served on numerous Boards & Commissions • Involved in long-range planning • Served on the Watkins Lake Lake-Board for several years • Served 2 years as president of Watkins Lake Owners Association I REFUSE TO EDUCATOR: • Real Property Appraisal classes for many years at Oakland ACCEPT THIS AS University, Mott Community College, Middleton Real Estate Training WHAT I BRING: THE FUTURE OF • Experience in local government • Logical decision making WATERFORD. • Mature decision making, Time • A conscientious approach to decisions that affect the citizens of Waterford Township Vacant malls. Unattractive major corridors. Increasing blight. Paid for by Committee to elect David J. Kramer, 1651 Eason, Waterford, MI 48328 The economy’s bad. But we don’t have to look like it. We can do better. IMPORTANT NOTICE: WATERFORD RESIDENTS I’ve lived here for 23 years and watched our community’s decline. We need fresh thinking. Elections should not be based on who has the most campaign signs, brochures, fundraisers or endorsements. I choose not to do these things as I find them intrusive. Because And we need action. There are many things our of this, my campaign will only be found in this notice… Board can and should do more of to make Waterford Electing a candidate should be based on experience, consistently and concern. Over the a place we can all be proud of again. past eight years I’ve researched the information given me and made my decisions objectively and without bias. We must work in the best interests of the people. The health, safety and Things to encourage beautification and revitalization. welfare of this community are paramount. A balanced budget is the key to maintaining these There are tax credits and abatements and incentives services. As your Trustee, I currently serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals, Economic Development we can utilize to draw new businesses. Corporation and Election Commission. I have also represented you on the Cable Commission, And to spruce up the ones we still have. Parks & Recreation Board and the Management and Administrative Policy Review Board. To make Waterford more attractive and more vital. Tremendous constraints have been placed on our current budget due to reduction in State revenue sharing, rising health care costs, labor costs and the everyday overhead expenses of My career was as a high-ranking advertising agency executive. running your Township. Because of this, experience and knowledge will be the key factor in So I know how to do this. I have the ideas. I have the energy. adjusting to our ever-changing economy while maintaining a balanced budget we can all live with. Plante-Moran has rated Waterford as one of the top municipalities in dealing with its I care enough to do something. finances, especially during these difficult economic times. This is credited to a current board If you care too, you’ll give me your vote on November 4th. that works collectively in your best interests. Upgrading Waterford can’t happen overnight. I ask you to return me to your Waterford Township Board to continue to protect those interests. But it can happen. Remember, a politician cares about the voters, an advocate cares about the people… One new shop…one planted tree…one new café… “Maloney… impressive as a maverick on the one shrub at a time. Board of Trustees. He’s an independent Join with me for a better Waterford we can all be proud of again. voice that never loses sight of his role as the people’s advocate…” Spinal Column Newsweekly, July 2004 GARRY NIELSEN RE-ELECT DAVID “DOC” MALONEY Democrat WATERFORD TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE For TRUSTEE Paid for by the Friends to Re-Elect David J. Maloney Waterford Township Trustee 5846 Southward, Waterford, MI 48329 Paid for by Friends of Garry Nielsen Committee [email protected] 5192 Durnham Drive, Waterford MI 48327 PAGE 26/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide bottle collection or something to start Trustee race kicking it off but those are the rea- ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 24 sons that we can’t really just jump cuss it. It’s going to be vital in this back into having a compost site. It’s economy because it’s going to save us just too bad because we care about a lot of money now and a lot of saving the environment and being money in the future. environmentally concerned and we WHY YOU? I’ve been on the township turn around and now can’t help the board since 2004 and I believe in my environment in what seems like a heart that I have given above and practical way. beyond what the job calls for. I will I am looking forward to the results continue to do that if re-elected. I of the study but I’m apprehensive would like to say that I thank the vot- that they may not be able to afford it. ers for voting me in in 2004 and I can CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- only hope that they continue by vot- ITY: It’s a tool to manage areas that ing me in in 2008. can’t be managed by the government, the township for example. It gives us GARRY NIELSEN money to jump start projects for busi- BUDGET: The recent audit of nesses and improvements. It’s a beau- Waterford’s financial situation has tification that will draw people in. The come out with flying colors, but that’s Garry Nielsen is the owner and creative Bette O'Shea has been a Waterford director of Nielson & Associates, an adver- Township trustee since 1993 and works as a ghost town that we’re seeing at the for right now. I just read that the tising firm. He ran for a seat on the medical technologist for POH Regional Summit Place Mall isn’t totally the fault income was about $42 million and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners Medical Center in Pontiac. She is chairper- of the business people. They tried, and expenditures were $41 million, so it’s in 2004. son of the Hess-Hathaway Historic Farm a lot of them have just had to give up pretty close. I’m happy to hear that Committee and the township board's liai- because they’ve not had actual store the township is solvent, but with the son to the Planning Commission. use to support them being there, even mortgage crisis we’re in and state with some of them getting special funding declining I would anticipate percent in favor of. I don’t think it’s a be affected by our political philosophies. treatment with their rent. that in the next couple of years we’ll waste of taxpayer money because if it Up until this year the board was occu- So, yes. we’re looking into revital- have trouble. A reason I’m running is can be made more attractive it can pied by three Republicans and one izing and the CIA was one tool that because I have the experience with attract more businesses. Beyond that I Democrat. Whether I win or not, I hope was offered. It takes about six months budgets from my previous advertising feel the government has a social respon- Democrats do. for all the necessary steps to go into career to take a hard look at all of sibility to its citizens to make sure that place. They’ll be meeting and deciding that and see what we can do to keep the community they live in is a place BETTE O’SHEA BUDGET: where the money should be invested. Waterford solvent. I wouldn’t know, of that they can be proud to live in. Having been a part of the It’s a tool that brought funds into the course, until I get elected what those TOP ISSUES: I would say maintaining board that everyone is complementing township for us to use to improve areas are. The audits seem to think the services we provide our citizens is because Plante & Moran gave us a four- these areas. that staffing necessary to run the the first. They’ve come to expect it and star rating for the way we’ve handled it, TOP ISSUES: The budget is the first. township is just fine, but we’d have need it. We should do it without raising we have a reserve of 10 percent roughly It’s a priority because that’s what we to keep a close eye on it because, as I taxes. and that’s wonderful under these times do. We’ve raised and spent and saved. said, I would expect a decline in the The budget is the second. How can when other government agencies aren’t Negotiating our contracts is part of next year or two. we ignore it? The state is experiencing doing so well. What we’ve done to help the budget. COMPOST SITE: I’m dismayed at the one of the worst downturns of any with our budget is to go outside and Second is finding new ways to closure of the facility because I think state. Waterford seems to be solvent but find grants. The police and fire have bring money into the government it’s a necessary facility for the com- it’s perilous and we don’t know, with written a lot of grants. The departments aspect of the township. We’ve had munity. There has to be a way to con- increasing foreclosures, what the future have, too. We’ve had the opportunity to unique things in the township to tinue its operation. I understand and holds. I would expect revenues to side up with other government agencies achieve that. Maybe we can have the appreciate the cost of monitoring the decline. and try to share fire or police protection residents take a dollar out of their runoff and contaminants and appar- The third is beautification efforts and with those agencies so that we didn’t taxes and set up some kind of match- ently it was decided it wasn’t cost- redevelopment. There are ordinances have to service or buy new equipment ing fund for a community center. effective. If elected, I would look at that support beautification and certainly on our own. It’s going to be trying the The third is maintaining the quality other expenditures to make sure the redevelopment is exemplified in the next four years but I think that the of life that Waterford residents expect money that we do have is being allo- Summit Place Mall problem. We need to momentum has been set with what we even though we are in dire straits cated where it’s most necessary. This look to the future. What do we want have doing right now and I think if we sometimes. Whether it’s keeping the is an important facility. A side benefit this community to be? keep going with the staffs we have, who residents safe or providing the basics, of it is it helps with suburban blight, WHY YOU? As a 23-year resident, I are very cognizant of the need to be we’ve done marvelous things like the which I think is a major issue for the know Waterford and I love Waterford as careful, I think we’ll stay ahead of it for nature center. We’ve been preserving township. So, I think it needs to be much as I’ve railed against its blight. I the next four years. I hope by that time and taking care of things but I would looked at and continued. know how beautiful Waterford can and the economy will have a better turn. like to keep that going. CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- should be. My career is behind me, COMPOST SITE: I’m upset they closed WHY YOU? I’m hoping that my expe- ITY: I’m 100 percent in favor of the though I still run an independent con- the compost site because it did allow rience on the board, since 1993, will CIA. I didn’t know that it was tied sulting firm from my home office. At my some of those people who would be less give me the privilege to serve the into Telegraph but I’m all in favor of executive position in the advertising industrious about their debris a place to township again. I have a unique back- that. It’s a favorite issue of mine, the industry I routinely oversaw multi-million take it and it was out of the streets and ground with being in the health care suburban blight. I think it’s a problem dollar budgets. Whatever I’d be facing not cluttering the township. I’m wonder- system. in the township. I don’t know about with Waterford should come as no sur- ing where the debris is going. The test- I care about Waterford. I’ve run for anyone else, but in other corridors — prise and wouldn’t be difficult for me to ing of the soil and runoff was fairly trustee each time because I’ve not M-59 and Dixie Highway — it’s fast understand or deal with. expensive and had to be done frequently. had any political goals to use it as a food chain after fast food chain or Beyond that, the reason why I am It’s not like you can test once a year. stepping stone. I’ve lived in Waterford muffler shops, and it’s very unattrac- running is the same as in 2004. I’m That means someone has to be out since 1968; I’ve raised my girls here. I tive. We don’t have a viable down- beyond disgusted and appalled with the there all the time. The regulations that would like to keep that for those kids town congregating place that’s attrac- Republican/Bush administration. While I they are requiring are an expense that coming up. I have a grandson I would tive like some of the other communi- realize that the township board’s issues the township doesn’t have funds to han- like to share the community with. I ties, and any kind of attempt at beau- are largely budgetary and non-partisan dle right now. would like to be a steward of the tification and revitalization I’m 100 in nature, I think that we can’t help but The only thing I can think of is a pop township to make that possible. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 27/MHW,WAT general election voter guide White Lake Trustees Republicans Forrest J. Brendel, Another issue of importance is the Todd T. Birkle, Carol J. Burkard, and water and sewer system in the town- Michael C. Powell; and Democrat ship. There is a need for a long-term Michael E. Long will face off in the master plan, especially as it applies to Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for the sewage system, and where we are four White Lake Township trustee going to shift our flow. We’re looking positions. Township trustees serve expansion of the system, yet I know four-year terms and are currently paid the Commerce system we send our $8,014 annually. flow to is about at its max, I believe, The following are questions our staff without making some improvements. recently posed to the candidates, and There’s talk about sending our flow to their responses to those questions. Pontiac via Waterford. We would have PARKS AND RECREATION: Two years to have some say with the Pontiac ago, White Lake voters approved a Forrest J. Brendel has served as a White Todd T. Birkle was a Waterford Township system, but I think that’s a big issue new millage for parks and recreation. Lake Township trustee for over 11 years, trustee from 1994 to 2000. He's served as that needs to be dealt with in the near Please tell us why you are or aren’t and has owned and operated a business chairman of the White Lake Planning future, as well as possible iron filtra- satisfied with the way those millage in the township for over 30 years. Commission. He is current the manager of tion for our water. Our water has a lot revenues have been spent, and with support services for Oakland County. of iron in it; you can see it on the side- the overall progress of parks and walks in our neighborhoods. recreation programs in the township. budget. We need to keep this township in White Lake, especially along the M-59 Another issue is the traffic flow in CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- up and running. I think we’ve done a corridor, and attempt to get these build- our community and the need for more ITY: Adoption of a White Lake good job this past year of keeping ings filled with new tenants. New busi- traffic studies. You hate to have the Township Corridor Improvement money saved. I think the new board will nesses mean new jobs and more tax rev- traffic be stop-and-go on M-59, and Authority plan for the M-59 corridor continue the good work. enue, therefore offsetting some of the there needs to be some road improve- has been postponed due to financial The second thing is the fire depart- investment in the corridor. ment. considerations. Please tell us why you ment and the third thing is the police I don’t know how successful these are I think something that brings busi- do or don’t believe the township made department. We need to have good going to be over the next couple years nesses here is a good parks and trail the right decision to delay adoption of equipment and personnel. given the fiscal constraints, but I’m in system. If that brings redevelopment the plan. At what point, if ever, do you WHY YOU? I feel I’m experienced. This is favor of the concept itself if there is a into the community then that is some- believe the township should adopt and my fourth term as a trustee and I’m kind good return on investment to that plan. thing that I want to see happen. begin to implement such a plan. of a people person. If a citizen has a BUDGET: White Lake is in an enviable WHY YOU? You should be involved in BUDGET: What changes in township problem with getting something done situation as far as commercial growth. the community in which you live in, budgeting priorities or processes do through the township, I go out and try However, there are a lot of steps we will and I’ve been involved in White Lake you advocate to deal with recent to work with them. have to take to look to cut or consoli- since I moved here in 2004. I’m budgetary challenges? I was born and raised in the town- date services with other municipalities, presently the chairperson of the TOP ISSUES: What are the three most ship. My business is here. I’m not going whether it be police and fire and cutting Planning Commission. I was an elected important issues for the township, anywhere, and I know the background of some of our contributions to them, but I township trustee in Waterford from and how do you propose to address this township and how it’s been over think there’s a lot of things we can do 1994 to 2000. them? the last 30 to 40 years. internally. Also in my role with Oakland WHY YOU? Why specifically should vot- TODD T. BIRKLE In my role with Oakland County, I County, I oversee a budget of $14 mil- ers choose you over your opponent? PARKS AND RECREATION: Progress has have faced some of these challenges. I lion dollars, which is larger than the FORREST JAY BRENDEL not moved as fast as the residents oversee a $14 million budget. We have a operating budget of White Lake, and I PARKS AND RECREATION: They’re would like to see. Things that are visible budget task that we put in place where supervise 42 employees. I feel that I now getting stuff set up. It takes time haven’t really shown up yet, like maybe we have to cut expenditures over the have a good, sound understanding, for the Parks and Recreation Committee more bike trails and improved parks, but next three years because we haven’t hit especially on the budgetary issues. to get going, and they’re looking at I think with some of the things going on rock bottom yet, as far as declines in I pledge to the people of this com- buying some land. It doesn’t happen and the township hiring a grants writer property values are concerned. munity that I will provide them with a overnight, but I’m happy with the way position they’re looking at really moving We’re going to have to take a proac- responsive voice on the township things are going. It should work out in ahead with the parks system. I would tive approach, and there are several little board. the long run and it should be what’s also like to see the trails system things that we can do that can add up CAROL J. BURKARD best for the township. improved. I know they’ve also attained a to big changes. For example, the way PARKS AND RECREATION: Right now, CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- lobbyist in order to obtain funds for township purchases fuel for it’s fleet we have a number of people on our ITY: I think they made the right deci- parks. vehicles, they can obtain a fleet fueling parks and recreation committee who sion in postponing it. What I was told It’s my hope that those funds would card and not pay taxes on fuel at the are moving forward. I think we have is that we were going to get money be used for parks and not put forth to time it’s purchased. That’s a savings about $500,000 in that account. They from the county and we were refused, just a specific area such as a corridor right out of the box because right now have been studying very hard on how so we would just be taking money improvement, because White Lake has a the township has to apply to the federal to spend that money wisely; and to from ourselves. Why would we start lot of opportunity for a good parks and and state government to get these taxes me, what the people have voted for is something that we already have? trail system and that’s one of the goals refunded to us. pedestrian pathways. In our economy Unless things change within the tax in my campaign. TOP ISSUES: The most important issue today, people would really be using base, I will never see it happen. We CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHORI- facing the township right now is the those for bikes and walking. don’t benefit from it. Why have it if TY: The township saw the writing on the budget and the fact that we are in a They really haven’t spent the we’re collecting our own money and wall that the plan was not going to pass downturn as far as residential values. We money yet but I believe their plans on putting it in a different bank? through the Oakland County Board of need to look at and control our expendi- moving forward with pathways con- BUDGET: We’ll just have to look at Commissioners. The township needs to tures and look at ways to consolidate necting the different state parks what money is coming in and cut go back to the drawing board and define services. That is really my area of expert- together is a very important part of accordingly. We can’t really cut police the area of the actual corridor improve- ise in my role with Oakland County. I the plan. They’re also looking at a and fire, but if we have to cut some ment area and narrow it down a bit. oversee a budget of $14 million dollars; piece of property, Lumer Park off of personnel in different departments, I’m in favor of a corridor improve- that’s larger than the White Lake operat- McKeatchie Road. That one was that’s what we’ll do. We have no ment authority. One of the goals in my ing budget. I’ve had experience with offered to the township a few years choice. campaign is to work with business own- budgeting and making cuts and looking ago for a dollar. Right now the state is TOP ISSUES: The No. 1 priority is the ers or people that own vacant buildings at ways to consolidate. PAGE 28 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 28/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide

position and I’m disappointed we Trustee race don’t have an integrated pathway sys- ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 27 tem in White Lake Township. I have been responsible for the design of offering it to the township for many pathways here in Oakland $99,000, which I think is way too County, and would like to see those much money. We’re also going to be pathways extended through White looking for grants for improving the Lake Township. pathway in that particular park and I I was a part of the Parks and think that would be particularly nice. Recreation Committee until recently, I’ve also heard of pedestrian path- and I’m excited about the possibilities ways north and south of Highland here. Road. It’s my interpretation that they I’m disappointed and concerned should be continuous, inviting and that it takes so long politically to well-maintained. It would link the peo- Carol J. Burkard has been White Lake Michael E. Long was the owner of Long Township's clerk since 2000. She was previ- Construction Co. for 35 years before retir- move forward on any plans of action. ple to restaurants, shopping and ously a township trustee and a White Lake ing. He has served on the White Lake It’s very difficult because you have a entertainment, and it would connect Library employee. Township Planning Commission for 12 planning agenda that you have to deal people to a destination. years. with first, then you meet with all the We do have a pathway down M-59 home and property owners along the that really needs to be maintained and routes of those pathways and then looked at. I would expect to see some- public safety is able to get through OK would be a satisfactory thing for the citi- to get to a safe spot. We also need walk- zens of White Lake. Hopefully we can you have to purchase easements, so it thing moving forward in the next year takes many years to facilitate the or two. ing and bike paths that are safe for our somehow reintroduce the CIA plan that CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- residents to use. is currently on the table so it can possi- installation of the pathways them- ITY: No. 2 is our environment. Fifty per- bly be reinstated. selves. I was the only vote on the board BUDGET: During the last three years, we that asked not to postpone the authori- cent of White Lake can never be built Currently our township is very upon because it’s either a wetland, state fiscally responsible. Our current supervi- have modified the development ordi- ty plan. I felt that the authority comes nances in White Lake that mandate in two parts. The beginning is setting land, or a lake. We always have to be sor, Mike Kowall, has done a fine job in mindful of our fragile environment and keeping this in line, along with the not only sidewalks but pathways along up the boundaries and we could have the major thoroughfares as those devel- started that process and been ready. our shrinking natural resources that we township board. The issues of budget are caretakers to. cutting coming from various places like opments get produced in the township. Our consultants recommend we do that That should have been done many, and I agreed with them. No. 3 is our infrastructure, which is the state and so forth are not going to important so that we have clean water get any better, so we have to learn to many years ago, and we could have had I believe the authority is the direc- a major start on the pathways. tion the township should go. If you and a sewer system. control what we have and work within it WHY YOU? I have been on the board for and make sure at the end of the year I’m in favor of the pathway that is look at most townships, they have being proposed to link the Pontiac one or a downtown development 12 years and I’ve been a public servant that we come up with a balanced budg- in White Lake for over 20 years with my et. It can be done but you have to take Recreation Area to the Highland authority. It’s crucial for the growth of Recreation Area through the ITC corri- White Lake Township. The information service at the library. the budget as a whole and then dissect I’ve been a trustee before, the town- it and then from there decide where you dor. I believe it will greatly enhance the I had was that the county was not opportunity for our residents to go willing to look at this at this time, but ship clerk for eight years, and I really can do the right cuts to remain fiscally feel that with the experience that I’ve responsible. cross-country. That pathway will eventu- they’ve looked at them elsewhere. I ally go all the way from Rochester down would hope from month to month the had and the development that’s gone on The biggest thing would be the police in White Lake the last 12 years, I would and fire budgets so that they impact to Kensington and allow our citizens to supervisor would be in contact with enjoy biking in non-motorized recreation the county to see when we’re ready. like to continue being a part of it. themselves rather than impacting the I believe my experience speaks for township budget. around the township. I believe this is one of the most TOP ISSUES: We’re very close to seeing that now important issues that has come itself and I really care about my town- First would be fiscal respon- ship and its residents and I would like to sibility, and maintaining a balanced budg- turn into actual pathway construction, before us in my 12 years on the both along M-59 and major corridors board, to take our township into the continue as the people’s partner. et, which is working very well. Secondly, I would like to see some- here in the township. future in a correct way, to prevent MICHAEL E. LONG CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHOR- thing established in the south end to deterioration and promote our eco- PARKS AND RECREATION: ITY: I think at save the Huron River headwaters. The final approval on the corridor nomic growth. I would like to be on this particular time, what they have for No. 3 is kind of a difficult one — improvement authority was postponed the board if that comes up again. this millage, and what they’re using it watching our controlled growth. Sitting due to the inability of the taxing author- BUDGET: Right now, White Lake, out for is working well. They have a grant on the Planning Commission for 12 ities to come together and agree to the of every township in Oakland County, writer and there seems to a little ani- years, I’d like to see us continue to tax increment financing portion of the is the only one that I know of that is mosity concerning how things are done, watch our growth and do the right thing authority. It needed to be postponed, not really hurting at this time because but I think that the grant writer has to enhance the community and still not but quite frankly, it has been postponed of the amount of commercial develop- shown an ability to get money for the take away the neighborhood atmosphere too long. I believe it should be readopt- ment that’s happening. We’re very necessary things that are there. ed, but in a different shape. If in fact fortunate. Plante & Moran just hap- that still exists. What I would like to see there in the WHY YOU? Currently we have a few you can get taxing authorities to allow pened to come in and look at our future is a possible development on the board members at the trustee level that the capturing of their taxes in the dis- auditing book and they just couldn’t south side of M-59 that has to do with seem to have a little too much of their trict, that’s great — it provides money believe how fiscally-healthy our town- the Huron River watershed that is locat- own self-interest, which has been for improvements. ship is. We were happy to hear that. ed on Cedar Island Road between Oxbow reported. I for one have always been and There’s another aspect that hasn’t Our auditors, Janz and Knight, just and Bogie Lake Road. Again there’s a lot will always be strictly for what is better been talked about yet, and that’s the gave the report to our three in-house of “ifs” to get this done, but if voted in for the township based on the citizen ability to control development and officials saying the same thing. as one of the trustees, I’d like to see it response and not so much by what is standards within that authority. That’s At this time, I don’t see anything go forward. politically motivated. just as equally, if not more, important that’s going to hurt our township. We CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENT AUTHORI- than collecting funds for initiating have a very conservative board now. TY: I sat on the CIA Board originally. The MICHAEL C. POWELL projects. Hopefully we will in the future too, CIA is a very good idea if you can imple- PARKS AND RECREATION: I was It is very difficult for Waterford to because we have put ourselves in a ment it like it’s supposed to be done, by extremely pleased when the residents go back and reinvent its frontage on healthy position. each tax base entity returning a certain approved that millage. I’m a major pro- M-59. If we don’t deal with that now, TOP ISSUES: When we take our oath portion of revenue to the township CIA ponent of parks and recreation in our we will never be able to. of office, public safety is No. 1. The board. The corridor plan is based on one community. Growing up with my chil- BUDGET: The state revenue sharing passage of the millages was very of the downtown development proposals dren, we had to load our bikes in a car has been dropping over the years and important for public safety. We also that came up many years ago and White to get to the pathways and utilize them. the non-statutory revenue sharing will need to look at our roads to see if Lake didn’t do. To try to reimplement it I know our grandkids are in the same PAGE 29 ❯❯❯❯ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 29/MHW,WAT general election voter guide provided a summary of what expenses and 1982 dealing with the sewers and Trustee race revenues occurred during the previous water services, the quality of the lakes ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 28 month, but every check that was written and the roadways of those communi- continue to drop if not be eliminated. and every expense that was expended ties that I represent. So I have a good The predictions from the county from each department on a line-by-line background on all those items that this assessor and the local assessor are basis so we can monitor how the money township is going to be faced with over that property values are going to is going and it wasn’t just summarized at the next four years and beyond. drop, which is where we get most of the end of the month or quarterly. The I’m also a professional civil engi- our funding for the local government. reviewing of those details is going to neer that has worked with all the sur- become more important so that we can There are two ways to keep our rounding communities — Commerce, realize how we can control the expenses budget balanced. One is cut expendi- Milford, Waterford, West Bloomfield, in the township. We only have control tures. The township may have to look Novi, and Wixom. I have a great rela- over the expenses, not the revenues. at extending use of cars a longer time tionship with them. I’ve worked with My No. 2 concern is the roads and the Oakland County Drain Commission for both police and fire and office per- Michael C. Powell has served as a White the traffic. Being a civil engineer, I’m and the road commission, the state sonnel. We have a number of other Lake Township trustee for the past four very much aware of the overwhelming years. He is a civil engineer. Powell is the Department of Environmental Quality, areas we have not had to cut yet, but impression of the traffic and the poor dangerous building hearings officer for and the state Department of Natural will have to be looked at. We have to condition of the roads here in western Commerce Township, and the past munici- Resources virtually on a weekly basis. maintain our revenue to sustain our Oakland County. The Road Commission pal engineer for Highland Township. Therefore, I have a very good under- expenditures. for Oakland County and all the other standing of how those agencies work. The other thing is we are in the departments claim they don’t have have to meet, they will buy property and I have a very good understanding enviable position of still looking at funds, so we have to be extremely cre- tell us what to approve instead of us of how the township functions and new development in White Lake. The ative as to how we take care of those telling them what we want. the more technical aspects of the residential market has flattened out, issues. I believe that a regional traffic It’s important that White Lake install township itself. but the industrial and commercial study needs to be undertaken to deter- the ordinances and the CIA to set stan- Prior to my election three years market is still growing and we’re mine how the routing of traffic can be dards and warn developers when they ago, I would have to sit through all blessed with that. Our new assess- designed away from the more residential come in that we will not accept strip the public meetings and just give my ments have remained the same due to areas and spread out to more of the shopping centers or the overdevelop- recommendations because I didn’t the increased controlled development north-south roads instead of the ones ment of the frontage of M-59 without a have a say in what happened. Since along the M-59 corridor. that are currently used. And my major lifestyle center, a multi-use facility or a then, I have used my experience over TOP ISSUES: The first is the budget. concern is the gravel and dirt roads in campus-style center. the last 30 years to bring everything After sitting on the board for the last the township. WHY YOU? I would like the opportunity that I’ve learned to the benefit of three years, I am very concerned with The third biggest concern I have is to serve the residents of White Lake White Lake Township. Therefore, I’m the forecasting of much lower revenue development — the quantity and the Township for another four years. I asking the residents to give me and the expenses going up due to fuel quality. I’m extremely opposed to any moved into the lakes area in 1958 and another chance to continue what has costs. When the current board took strip shopping centers. If we don’t put graduated from the Walled Lake Schools. been started and re-elect me to the office we requested that we not only be forward these standards that developers I have been a municipal engineer since White Lake Board of Trustees. ❏

EXPERIENCE! The reason so many judges have endorsed David Carl Anderson to be your next Oakland County Circuit Court Judge. THE ONLY JUDICIAL CANDIDATE WITH OVER 30 YEARS OF TRIAL-TESTED COURT ROOM EXPERIENCE!

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES Hon. Antonio P. Viviano Hon. Dennis C. Drury, 52-4 Hon. David F. Viviano Hon. Kelley R. Kostin, 52-2 OAKLAND COUNTY Hon. Tracey A. Yokich Hon. Michael S. Maceroni, 41A Hon. James M. Alexander Hon. Michael C. Martinez, 50th Hon. Martha D. Anderson WAYNE COUNTY Hon. Michael A. Martone, 52-4 Hon. Steven N. Andrews Hon. Susan D. Borman Hon. Phyllis C. McMillen, 51st Hon. Leo Bowman Hon. Michael J. Callahan Hon. Julie A. Nicholson, 52-3 Hon. Rae Lee Chabot Hon. William Callahan Hon. Marla E. Parker, 47th Hon. Mark Goldsmith Hon. Gershwin A. Drain Hon. Dennis N. Powers, 52-1 Hon. Linda S. Hallmark, Probate Hon. William J. Giovan, Chief Judge Hon. Cynthia Thomas Walker, 50th Hon. Cheryl A. Matthews Hon. Warfield Moore, Jr. Hon. Fred M. Mester Hon. John A. Murphy Hon. Denise Langford-Morris RETIRED JUDGES David Carl Hon. Michael F. Sapala Hon. Rudy J. Nichols Hon. Edward Avadenka Hon. Richard M. Skutt ANDERSON Hon. Colleen A. O’Brien Hon. Harold M. Bulgarelli Hon. Jeanne Stempien Hon. Daniel Patrick O’Brien Hon. Gus Cifelli For Circuit Court Judge Hon. Isidore Torres Hon. Wendy L. Potts, Chief Judge Hon. Stephen C. Cooper Hon. Robert L. Ziolkowski Hon. Edward Sosnick Hon. Louis E. Fairbrother Vote Hon. Joan E. Young Hon. William P. Hampton DISTRICT COURT JUDGES November 4, 2008 Hon. Barry L. Howard MACOMB COUNTY Hon. Michelle Friedman Appel, 45B Hon. Norman L. Lippitt for Hon. James M. Biernat Hon. Laura Cheger Barnard, 71A Hon. Francis X. O’Brien David Carl Anderson Hon. Richard L. Caretti, Chief Judge Hon. Robert M. Bondy, 52-1 Hon. Gene Schnelz Hon. Peter J. Maceroni Hon. James B. Brady, 47th Hon. Deborah G. Tyner for Circuit Court Paid for by the Committee to Elect David Carl Anderson Please visit my website: for Oakland County Circuit Court Judge JUDGE 32400 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 104, Bingham Farms, MI 48025 www.DavidCarlAndersonForJudge.com PAGE 30/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Oakland Circuit Court David Carl Anderson, Mary Ellen abuse issues that impact their deci- Brennan, Lisa Gorcyca and Thomas E. sion-making. Work release and home Kuhn will compete in the Tuesday, Nov. tether are appropriate for the non-vio- 4 general election for two seats on the lent offenders. Both restrict the defen- Oakland County Circuit Court bench. dant’s freedom but allow him or her to The two candidates that receive the stay employed. These programs cost most votes will serve six-year terms. the taxpayers less than jail housing. Circuit court judges are paid approxi- Adult treatment court holds people mately $140,000 per year. accountable while also providing the The following are questions we tools and support to change their posed to the candidates, and their lives. responses to those questions. ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: I will JAIL: The Oakland County Jail has look at each case individually to decide experienced chronic inmate over- when to impose traditional jail time vs. crowding for months, leading to the an alternative sentence. Factors I will early release of scores of non-violent David Carl Anderson has his own law Mary Ellen Brennan is currently the judicial consider are the nature of the offense, prisoners. A citizen survey indicated practice in Troy. He currently serves on attorney/case coordinator for the 44th the attitude of the offender, the life overwhelming opposition to a tax the Oakland County Bar Association's District Court. She has worked in various experience of the offender, and the increase to pay for a new jail. What do Board of Directors. divisions of the Oakland County input of the victim (if there is one). you see as a circuit court judge’s role Prosecutor's Office. Jail is appropriate for a repeat in addressing the jail inmate popula- offender who takes no responsibility tion issue? What, if any, alternatives million per year. appropriate for violent criminal offenders for his/her behavior and has no desire would you support to deal with the jail Alternative sentencing approaches to keep the community safe. to change the way he/she makes deci- overcrowding issue? such as supervised probation, monitored Since 97 percent of all Oakland sions. In other cases, the goal is reha- ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: When is work release programs, and drug court County Circuit Court civil cases settle bilitation. A first-time offender who it appropriate for you, as a judge, to programs are all positive and cost-effec- before trial, increased emphasis on early seems to understand what went use alternative sentences rather than tive ways of sentencing non-violent crim- civil intervention conferences, media- wrong and shows genuine remorse impose a traditional jail term? What inal offenders. Alternative sentencing tions, and arbitrations should be pur- and an understanding of the harm sentencing alternative proposals, if approaches should be used on a regular sued by the court. This will help keep he/she caused would be a candidate any, would you suggest upon being basis by circuit court judges to keep the the length of litigation and the cost of for alternative sentence. seated as a judge? prisoner population at a manageable level. litigation to a minimum. Some alternative sentences I will JUDICIAL DISCRETION: As a judge, Violent criminal offenders should remain Lastly, with the great increase in com- consider are intense substance abuse how faithful do you feel the bench incarcerated in the Oakland County Jail puter usage, e-filing programs and the use counseling, work release programs should be in accepting a prosecutor’s until their case is fully adjudicated. of other computer technology to keep the and volunteering at facilities where a recommendation for sentencing? At JUDICIAL DISCRETION: When a person cost of litigation and the time individuals person can obtain a sense of perspec- what point would you stray from the pleads guilty to, or is found guilty by a must spend in court to a minimum need tive about his/her life and role in the recommended sentence, either in favor jury of a criminal offense, that individual to be aggressively pursued. community. is sent to the probation office for the JUDICIAL DISCRETION: of or against a defendant? Please pro- WHY YOU? I have been a litigator for my When impos- preparation of a pre-sentence report and vide examples. entire 31-year legal career. The position ing a sentence, a judge should consid- TOP ISSUES: sentencing recommendation. The pre- What are the three most of Oakland County Circuit Court judge er (but not necessarily agree with) sentence report gives the judge crucial important issues for the circuit court requires a person serving in this role to input from all participants in the sys- background information regarding the at this time, and how do you propose be a person with broad based litigation tem — victim, prosecution and the person to be sentenced. While the pros- to address them? experience. I’m the only candidate run- defense. However, in doing so, a judge ecutor’s recommendation and defense WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- ning for the Oakland County Circuit should at all times remember that a counsel’s recommendation for sentenc- ers choose you over your opponents? Court who has over 100 completed primary purpose of sentencing is to ing are factors the court may listen to, criminal and civil jury trials. In addition, protect law-abiding citizens from crim- DAVID CARL ANDERSON the judge needs to sentence a defendant I’m the only candidate running for the inals. Sentences exceeding guidelines JAIL: In order to alleviate the jail over- based upon the overall protection and Oakland County Circuit Court who has and recommendations are appropriate crowding situation, Oakland County safety of the citizens who live in the broad based experience in family law, in cases of violent crimes or when the Circuit judges must utilize alternative community. criminal law, civil law, equity law, arbitra- victims are more vulnerable, such as sentencing when dealing with non-vio- Individuals who commit violent crimi- tions, and mediations. This is the exact with children or senior citizens. lent criminal offenders. Alternative nal acts need to be incarcerated for the experience I will be called upon on Jan. TOP ISSUES: The top issues facing the sentencing approaches that should be protection and safety of the community. 1, 2009 to perform as an Oakland circuit court are jail overcrowding used include supervised probation, Individuals who commit non-violent monitored work release programs, and Circuit Court judge. All the other candi- (addressed above); docket manage- criminal offenses such as property ment; and lack of a mental health drug court programs. In addition to crimes or drug offenses, are good candi- dates running for Oakland Circuit Court court. alternative sentencing approaches, dates for alternative sentencing options judge will need six to 12 months to reasonable bonds need to be set by such as monitored work release pro- learn the entire job, and they will do so I will address docket management both district court judges and circuit grams, supervised probation, and drug at taxpayer expense. Due to my broad issues by running an efficient court- court judges involving individuals court programs. based experience as a litigator, I will be room. I will be on time and prepared, charged with non-violent crimes. TOP ISSUES: The three most important able to perform this job on day one, at set a high standard of professionalism ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: issues facing the Oakland County Circuit no expense to the taxpayers of Oakland and expect lawyers to be on time and Alternative sentencing is a cost-effec- Court at this time are jail overcrowding, County. I respectfully request your vote prepared, as well. I will have a good tive way of keeping the jail population increasing the utilization of alternative in the Nov. 4, 2008 general election. working knowledge of the files on my at a manageable level, and without dispute resolution programs, and MARY ELLEN BRENNAN docket. I will adhere to the case flow having to incur huge costs for the increasing the use of computer technolo- JAIL: I will impose alternative sentences management guidelines set forth in construction of new county jail facili- gy in the court system. whenever appropriate. The programs I the Supreme Court Administrative ties. The cost for a new Oakland Both the circuit court judges and the will consider are placement in adult Order. County Jail is estimated to be over district court judges in Oakland County treatment court, work release and home I would support a pilot program for a $100 million, and the additional need to work together to set reasonable tether. mental health court. A mental health expense associated with the operation bonds and sentences for non-violent Adult treatment court is appropriate court functions much like adult treat- of a new jail is approximately $20 criminal offenders. Incarceration is most for individuals who have substance PAGE 32 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 31/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY JOSEPHFABRIZIO G. FOR 52-2 DISTRICT JUDGE Winner of the Primary Election, and now endorsed by all other challengers in that race “It’s Time to Elect a New Judge for Our District Court” ENDORSED AS BEST QUALIFIED •Oakland Press •Oakland County Deputy Sheriff’s Association •Oakland & Wayne County Judges •Michigan Court Officers Association “I urge you to vote for Joseph G. Fabrizio on November 4, non-partisan.” Gerald E. McNally 52-2 District Judge, Retired www.FabrizioForJudge.com Paid for by the Committee to Elect Joe Fabrizio, 4630 White Lake Rd., Clarkston, MI 48346 BRENNANMARY ELLEN FOR CIRCUIT JUDGE Proven•Trusted •Endorsed More than 20 years litigation in probate, Experienced criminal prosecutor and civil attorney general civil, trial & appellate courts Rated Well Qualified by the 3,000-lawyer Oakland County Bar Probate & Circuit Court Facilitator, Association* and the Women Lawyers’ Association of Probate Court Conservator & Guardian, Michigan - Oakland County Region Probate Court Fiduciary Trustee Endorsed by lawyers and Oakland County Circuit and District The Only Candidate Endorsed as Best Qualified Judges • Spinal Column Endorsed by law enforcement organizations • The Oakland Press Endorsed by the Detroit Free Press, The Detroit News, The • Detroit Free Press Oakland Press and the Michigan Chronicle • Law Enforcement •All Oakland County Probate Judges Endorsed by Democratic and Republican elected officials Endorsed by the South Oakland Bar Association Our Most Vulnerable Deserve A Qualified Judge *2004 election. The OCBA has not rated candidates for the 2008 election THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR CIRCUIT COURT www.brennanforjudge.com Paid for by Mary Ellen Brennan for Circuit Judge Committee Straight ticket is not a vote for judge. You must flip your ballot to the judge section to vote for Frankel! 322 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, MI 48009 PAGE 32/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide

the mentally ill. Previously, these Circuit Court groups weren’t a major responsibility ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 30 of the courts; however, the mental health support system in our state ment courts by sentencing non-violent has been shredded in recent decades offenders to mental health evaluation, forcing many of these individuals into intense counseling, and medication the criminal justice system. We need compliance assistance. All of this takes to get non-violent substance abusers place within the community. into intensive, community-based WHY YOU? I have been an attorney treatment, rehabilitation and supervi- for 18 years. For the past six years, sion programs to cut the number of as the judicial staff attorney/case repeat offenders. We need to get the coordinator I have been responsible mentally ill into community-based pro- for all aspects of docket management grams that address their illnesses. for civil and criminal cases. I conduct JUDICIAL DISCRETION: A judge is pre-trial and settlement conferences, required to be independent. Because review files before trial or hearing, citizens have the opportunity to vote identify evidentiary issues and assist the court in making rulings. I’m in the Lisa Gorcyca has been an assistant Thomas E. Kuhn is a former Royal Oak City for the judges who reflect their com- courtroom every day. I have served in Oakland County prosecutor since 1993 Commissioner and currently a trustee for munity, neighborhood and family val- and is currently the chief of the domestic Oakland Community College. that uniquely neutral position, allow- ues, judges should use their own violence division. She is a former major independent judgment in sentencing ing me to evaluate files from a judge’s crimes prosecutor and has been an perspective. criminals. The state establishes guide- instructor at the Oakland County Police lines for sentencing, and prosecutors, I’m most qualified for this position Academy. because of the broad experience, skills and probation officers give their rec- and temperament that I will bring to ommendations; however, in our sys- the bench. In addition to having sig- incarceration centers. 150 trials and handled over 10,000 tem of separation of powers, the final JUDICIAL DISCRETION: nificant criminal and civil courtroom A prosecutor’s cases, my courtroom experience is decision on sentencing reasonably experience, I possess the common sentencing recommendation is but only unmatched. I have dedicated my entire rests with an independent judiciary. sense, humility, and life experience one factor in the sentencing equation. A 15 year legal career to public service and TOP ISSUES: Case Management: I will that comes with being a married judge should hear and consider informa- to protecting victims of crime as an address delays in our justice system mother of three children. I’m commit- tion from the defense regarding mitigat- Oakland County assistant prosecutor. My by being hard-working. I will be at ted to creating a courtroom that is ing circumstances as well as information vast experience in trying murder, rape, court every day and use extended efficient and productive and where from the probation department who domestic violence, and elder abuse hours. I will work to settle cases justice is served. conducts a lengthy pre-sentence report. cases, where families and victim lives are promptly, and utilize alternative dis- Due to the passage of statutory sentenc- torn apart and emotions run deep, have pute resolution when appropriate. LISA GORCYCA ing guidelines there is little room for provided me a training ground for the Prison/Jail Overcrowding: Public JAIL: My role as a circuit court judge arbitrary sentences. The court may development of an even-handed but firm safety must never be compromised; in addressing the jail overcrowding depart from the mandated sentencing temperament. I have an avid grasp of however, we must reserve prison issue is to mete out sentences that range, but only if there exists a substan- courtroom procedure, rules of evidence balance the protection of the public space for violent offenders and expand tial and compelling reason. Substantial and protocol. I am accustomed to work- boot camps to prevent young, non- against fashioning an appropriate sen- and compelling reasons only apply in ing long hours on case preparation and tence for the crime committed. violent offenders from graduating to a exceptional cases. The reasons justifying research, both of which are habits that life of crime. Sentences must take into account departure should keenly and irresistibly will transfer to the bench. defendants who are repeat offenders, Integrity: We need to have judges grab the court’s attention and be recog- THOMAS E. KUHN with the highest integrity and dedica- seriousness of the offense and those nized as having considerable worth in who prey on elders and children. JAIL: We need to assure that violent tion to hard work. A judge must also determining the length of the sentence. criminals are in jail. The safety of our cit- have great legal ability, fair-minded- There currently exist a number of TOP ISSUES: Jail overcrowding is a per- izens, their families and their neighbor- ness and excellent judicial tempera- jail alternatives I support and some petual problem. With limited county hoods is the highest priority. In recent ment. I believe that I’ve demonstrated that I would encourage expanding. GPS resources it is vital the justice system years, a number of Oakland County these qualities during my 23 years of tether systems are a useful and suc- appropriately addresses the difference courts have successfully established private practice as an attorney, and cessful jail alternative I support and in between violent and non-violent offend- appropriate cases should be utilized drug courts to address non-violent sub- through my 16 years of service as an ers and balance the protection of society elected official in Oakland County. more frequently. Use of tether is also against holding offenders accountable. stance abusers. Drug courts utilize WHY YOU? I will serve the citizens more cost-efficient than the price of Docket congestion is another major intensive, community-based treatment, with the highest integrity and com- daily incarceration. Work release pro- issue facing the court. Due to the high rehabilitation, and supervision for drug mitment to justice. I’m committed to grams also free up jail beds and allow volume of cases, it’s important that the defendants to cut high recidivism rates. treating attorneys, parties and all defendants to continue employment courts are efficient as possible. Litigants These courts divert non-violent, sub- other citizens coming before the court while paying their debt to society. want and should have their cases decid- stance abusing offenders from jail into fairly — with respect and dignity. Lastly, drug courts are successful pro- ed on an expeditious basis. I would con- treatment: They help break the cycle of grams that boast a low recidivism rate sider implementing “rocket dockets” and criminal behavior, alcohol and drug use, I will do everything possible to effi- and free up jail space. utilizing more alternative dispute resolu- and incarceration. They also play a criti- ciently use the time spent at court by ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: The most tions. cal role in helping families and teens deal attorneys, parties and other citizens, appropriate factors in the determina- The alarming number of youthful with youthful drug addictions. Drug creating longer and more flexible tion to utilize alternative jail sentences offenders appearing in court must be courts reduce crime by lowering re- hours. are the seriousness of the offense, past addressed. It’s my goal to keep youthful arrest and conviction rates, improve sub- I will expedite decision-making. I criminal history of the defendant and offenders from entering the adult crimi- stance abuse treatment outcomes, and will make judicial decisions promptly likelihood of rehabilitation. nal system via a combination of punish- reunite families; as an important side while displaying a high level of com- As a sitting judge, I would encour- ment, deterrence, rehabilitation, mental benefit, they also assure measurable petence and knowledge of the law. age expansion of GPS tethering. health treatment (when necessary) and cost savings for the taxpayers. I will continue to be greatly Mental health courts should be education. I would create a partnership ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: I support involved in the community. I’m aware explored since the jails have neither with schools so that students could see tough, fair sentencing for criminals. The of the values of our citizens. My the resources nor expertise in dealing first-hand the ramifications of criminal state sentencing guidelines help to set extensive public service makes me with the mentally challenged in our behavior and drug and alcohol abuse. out the parameters for sentencing: knowledgeable about Oakland County, criminal justice system. I would also WHY YOU? The circuit court is common- Certainly violent criminals need to be in and its community, neighborhood and utilize programs supported by the ly referred to as the trial court and trial jail. In addition to the violent criminals, family values. I will reflect those val- Department of Community Corrections experience is what I would bring imme- our courts have been inundated with ues as an Oakland County Circuit such as Step Forward and alternative diately to the bench. Having tried over non-violent substance abusers, and with Court judge. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 33/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Oakland Probate Court Mark Frankel and Daniel A. O’Brien sometimes received their appoint- will compete in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 ments for political/personal reasons, general election for a non-incumbent and to pad their resume. The court’s seat on the Oakland County Probate certification of a mediator only means Court bench. Probate court judges that he completed the class, and is serve six-year terms and are currently not a certification that he is a good paid approximately $140,000 per year. mediator. The following are questions our CHILDREN’S ADVOCATES: Two keys staff recently posed to the candidates, to a successful child advocate program and their responses to those ques- are well-trained advocates, and vigi- tions. lant, thoughtful judges who are in CASELOAD: The Oakland County touch with the advocates and their Probate Court’s annual caseload sta- cases. I would make sure that I had a tistics indicate steady growth in the good working relationship with the number of new cases filed over the advocates, and that I understood their past four years. Please state why you strengths and their limitations. do or don’t believe the probate court Mark Frankel has experience in probate/ Daniel A. O'Brien has a general litigation Advocates are bound to be more effec- has adequate personnel and financial general civil trial and appellate courts, as practice that deals with commercial and tive when they are placed in the prop- resources to accommodate the well as a prosecuting attorney. He has criminal law, divorce, wills, trusts, and other er situation, so that their primary increasing caseload. What changes, if been a probate and circuit court facilita- areas. He is a former assistant Oakland duties are in their strengths. I would any, do you advocate to help handle tor, discovery master, receiver, conservator County prosecutor and electrical engineer, also provide as many opportunities as and guardian, fiduciary and trustee. and has worked as a magistrate. the growing caseload? possible for the advocates to obtain MEDIATION: Those involved in cases regular, quality training online and live. handled by the probate court can seek use of mediation to resolve issues in the importance of helping parties to resolve I would make this training available to a resolution outside of court through probate court. Many disputed probate disputes themselves, and, when a reso- the guardians, as well. matters are conflicts between family lution is not possible, I know a judge mediation. Please state why you are or TOP ISSUES: This survey has addressed members. Mediation undertakes to get must make a fair decision. I will ensure aren’t satisfied with the probate at least three important issues: case- the parties to sit down and discuss their parties are treated fairly and with respect court’s mediation program. What load, children’s advocates, and assisted dispute and to devise their own resolu- and that their rights are protected. changes, if any, do you advocate in the outpatient treatment. A key ingredient tion. I have found this process to be a program to better serve the public and DANIEL A. O’BRIEN to effectively dealing with these issues, valuable tool in healing such rifts ease the court’s caseload? CASELOAD: over which I would have direct control, between family members. Additionally, I will spend substantial time CHILDREN’S ADVOCATES: Volunteers would be developing a staff, working mediation reduces the number of cases speaking to all of the clerks and staff to are appointed by the probate court to with me, who are always at the service that the court must try, reducing the learn first-hand what their concerns are represent the best interests of a minor of the people who come to the court for court’s caseload. about the increasing caseload, and their on a minor guardianship case by resolution of their problems, not just CHILDREN’S ADVOCATES: The attor- ideas for handling it. Serious study must investigating and reporting on the management. I would be personally neys and lay people that volunteer as also be given to determine the rates of child’s and the proposed guardian’s available to my staff and to attorneys to child advocates and guardians ad litem growth of different case types, the situation. Please tell us what changes, discuss cases in a way that encourages do an excellent job. They are concerned judge/staff-hours necessary to handle if any, in the child advocate program candor and resolution of problems. and dedicated. They are fearless in them, and the expected rate of growth you would support. When people walk into my courtroom, I reporting abuse and neglect. Their only of the different “populations” that gen- TOP ISSUES: want them to see a judge who is work- What are the three most focus is on what is the best for the erate them. If projected growth would ing hard, and who is familiar with the important issues for the circuit court child. They are invaluable to the court. overwhelm the current resources, I cases and people that come before me. at this time, and how do you propose We do have to be vigilant and ensure would first hire additional clerical per- Recognizing that a judge needs to be to address them? that all new volunteers, attorneys and sonnel, and then consider seeking leg- WHY YOU? able to see issues from all perspectives, Why, specifically, should non-attorneys, are adequately trained so islative authority to utilize highly-skilled I would provide additional time every voters choose you over your oppo- that they appreciate their responsibility. lawyers for part-time positions, who week for meeting with lawyers and staff nents? TOP ISSUES: The most important issues would exercise specific judicial authority, to discuss the effectiveness of the court. MARK FRANKEL facing the probate court are the as I am presently doing as a judicial magistrate. These part-time judicial posi- WHY YOU? CASELOAD: Recently enacted probate increased caseload occasioned by the I have seven and a half tions would not appreciably increase statutory law has helped ease the bur- aging of the population, the increased years of judicial experience as a judicial costs, primarily because they would not den on the court by streamlining the incidents of elder abuse, and juvenile magistrate, making decisions that administration of simple estates. I will crime. I will work with the court admin- be eligible for benefits. Since judges are directly affect the safety and well- work with the court administration istrator and the probate bar to further the most costly resource, I would work being of the people of Oakland County. and with the members of the probate streamline the probate docket. I will con- to significantly increase the work I could I’ve had the opportunity to deal direct- bar to further streamline the handling tinue to work with volunteer groups handle before asking for more judges. ly as a judge would with citizens, of estates. Much of the pressure can which provide important educational and MEDIATION: Mediation is great, if the attorneys and police. Mediators don’t be alleviated by my setting an example support services, such as Youth parties are open to mediation, the case make judicial decisions. They simply in the courtroom, by opening court Guidance and the Citizen’s Alliance, to presents issues appropriate for media- present compromises. Additionally, as promptly and having my staff pre- reduce elder abuse and juvenile crime. I tion, and the parties can afford media- a research attorney for over two years pared to handle matters quickly. I will will be vigilant on the bench when tion. While some say “the best resolu- in the Court of Appeals, I analyzed the work to make sure that parties addressing youth offenders to reduce tion is the one the parties make them- records of hundreds of cases, includ- appearing before me are heard and recidivism. selves,” I have seen cases where the ing probate matters throughout the that their matters are decided quickly WHY YOU? I’m the only candidate with best resolution would have been for the state. As a trial lawyer for 18 years in and decisively. extensive probate litigation experience. judge to make the decisions he or she criminal and civil cases, I gained a MEDIATION: I’m the only candidate Judges appoint me as a personal repre- was elected to make. Almost nothing unique insight into the role of judging. for probate court that is qualified for sentative, trustee and conservator focuses the lawyers’ minds on their No other candidate has had such both the circuit and probate court because of my experience and integrity. cases like knowing the judge will make broad and substantial experience. I will mediation panels and the only candi- I’m dedicated to the protection of senior tough decisions, and is prepared to try be ready on my first day to assume date that regularly conducts facilitative citizens and incapacitated persons. As an cases. Also, not all mediators are suited and effectively exercise the authority of mediation. I’m a firm believer in the experienced facilitator, I understand the to do the work of mediation, but have the office. ❏ PAGE 34/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide White Lake 52-2 District Court Joseph G. Fabrizio is challenging restitution for crime victims where it incumbent Judge Dana Fortinberry in is requested and verified. I also listen the Tuesday, Nov. 4 election for a 52-2 to defense counsel’s elocution on District Court bench seat. District behalf of his or her client, and to the court judges serve six-year terms and defendant if he or she wishes to make are currently paid approximately a statement. It would be improper for $138,000 per year. me to provide an example of a situa- The following are questions our tion where a deviation from the rec- staff recently posed to the candidates, ommendation of the prosecutor would and their responses to those ques- be appropriate. Each case must be tions. decided on its own merits, in the JAIL: The Oakland County Jail has interest of justice for all concerned. experienced chronic inmate over- TOP ISSUES: Joseph G. Fabrizio is the founder of Dana Fortinberry was elected to the 52-2 No. 1 is protecting our crowding for months, leading to the Fabrizio & Brook. He has represented indi- District Court bench in 2002. She has been community from repeat and dangerous early release of scores of non-violent vidual and business clients, including a magistrate, trial attorney, and prosecu- criminal offenders. I am dedicated to prisoners. What do you see as a dis- financial institutions and banks. tor. protecting our families from criminal trict court judge’s role in addressing behavior. That is why I am endorsed the jail inmate population issue? patient drug treatment and tethers are a The new process appears to be working by the Police Officers Association of What, if any, alternatives would you few alternatives that should be consid- well. I still make it a point, however, to Michigan, Oakland County Sheriff’s support to deal with the jail over- ered. go over jail inmate lists weekly to check Command Officers Association and crowding issue? JUDICIAL DISCRETION: A sentence for bench-warranted and newly-arrested Michigan State Police-Groveland Team. ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: When is should always fit the facts of the case. defendants who are being housed at the No. 2 is effective management of it appropriate for you, as a judge, to As a judge, I will always keep an open jail. I then accelerate scheduling of those court resources in a time of declining use alternative sentences rather than mind as to the arguments and recom- individuals so their cases may be tax revenue. The 52-2 District Court is impose a traditional jail term? What mendations set forth by both the prose- processed as quickly as justice allows. among the most fiscally-responsible sentencing alternative proposals, if cutor and defense attorney. However, a This accelerated scheduling saves tax- courts in Oakland County and the any, would you suggest upon being sentence shouldn’t be blindly rendered payer dollars and protects our communi- state. I eliminated the $900,000-per- seated as a judge? based only on recommendations. The ties by preserving valuable jail space to year budget deficit taxpayers paid JUDICIAL DISCRETION: As a judge, ultimate decision as to sentencing is the insure that repeat and dangerous offend- before my election. how faithful do you feel the bench judge’s to make after full consideration ers can be kept behind bars where they should be in accepting a prosecutor’s No. 3 is embracing innovative all of the facts and circumstances. belong. recommendation for sentencing? At methods to end recidivist criminal TOP ISSUES: Civility — I will exhibit ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: Michigan what point would you stray from the behavior and educate youth about the proper judicial temperament. Individuals law provides for a one-time deferral of a recommended sentence, either in favor justice system. I created a state-recog- who appear before me will be treated conviction for first-time offenders for of or against a defendant? Please pro- nized sobriety court program, making with courtesy and respect, and will be such crimes as minor possessing alco- vide examples. sober and productive citizens out of given an adequate opportunity to be hol, possession of marijuana, domestic TOP ISSUES: What are the three most alcohol-addicted drunk driving offend- heard and to meaningfully participate in violence and for other crimes committed important issues for the 52-2 District ers. Court in School takes real court the judicial process. by offenders under the age of 21. These Court at this time, and how do you cases to high schools, allowing stu- statutes allow the court to grant a dis- propose to address them? Respect — I will respect the value of dents to see real defendants sen- missal of the charge upon successful WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should other people’s time. All hearings will be tenced for crimes like marijuana pos- completion of a period of strict proba- voters choose you over your oppo- held in a timely manner in order to session, drunk driving, minor possess- tion. As judge, I have implemented a nents? ensure jurors, parties and witnesses can ing alcohol and retail fraud. highly successful sobriety court pro- return to their regular routines as soon WHY YOU? Your district judge is the JOSEPH G. FABRIZIO gram. Utilizing the method known as as possible. I will work hard and make first line of defense between criminal JAIL: This is an important issue that “therapeutic justice,” alcohol-addicted fair decisions in a timely manner. offenders and your community — not has been even further aggravated by repeat drunk driving offenders are strict- Facilities — The 52-2 District Court a job to trust to someone with limited the recent elimination of Oakland ly monitored through daily testing, facility has not kept up with the popula- experience. My depth of experience County’s Boot Camp program and the intensive therapy, 12-step program tion growth in this district and is ill-suit- and proven dedication far exceeds that closing of the jail in Southfield. To ed to serve the needs of a district of this attendance, weekly probation oversight avert early releases, the three branch- and bi-weekly court hearings. Positive of (the other) candidate in this race. size. The need for a larger facility is yet Experience as a trial attorney, as a es of government must work together another reason to show up on time, behavior is rewarded and negative in the spirit of cooperation to find a behavior is swiftly sanctioned. Most par- prosecutor and as a magistrate pre- properly schedule hearings and issue pared me well to serve as judge. successful plan to end the problem. decisions in a timely manner. ticipants attain and maintain sobriety I have forged a reputation as an The adoption of Public Act 140 will WHY YOU? I will uphold the oath of during the program and following gradu- innovator. As prosecutor, I created a allow the court to handle overcrowd- office, and will make every effort to ation, resulting in fewer drunk drivers ing in a more sensible manner. Recent restore the public’s confidence in its threatening our loved ones on the roads special team to prosecute sexual jail renovations and programs such as judiciary. of our community. offenders who victimized children. work release, in-patient drug treat- JUDICIAL DISCRETION: While the prose- That team was so successful that I ment and drug court all help ease the DANA FORTINBERRY cutor can make sentencing recommenda- received an Achievement Award from issue of jail overcrowding. JAIL: In 2007, the Legislature amended tions and must indicate a lack of objec- the National Association of Counties. ALTERNATIVE SENTENCING: the County Jail Overcrowding State of tion prior to the court utilizing some Continuing to innovate as judge, I Alternative sentences are appropriate Emergency Act, thereby largely removing sentence deferrals allowed by law [e.g. created the sobriety court program to only when they fit the facts of the most judicial participation in jail over- MCL 769.4a in domestic violence cases get drunk driving offenders sober; the criminal case. Every case is unique, crowding issues. The circuit and district and MCL 436.1703(3) in minor in pos- Community Service Garden, a produc- and the sentence must fit the crime. courts now are represented on a Jail session of alcohol cases], sentencing is tive alternative to jail for non-violent Whether a traditional jail term, or an Overcrowding Committee, which meets strictly the job of the judge. I always offenders; and the Court in School alternative sentence, this fundamental periodically to set minimum bonds for request input from the prosecutor and program to educate young people concept cannot be compromised. prisoner release upon declaration of an all crime victims who wish to speak at a about the consequences of criminal Programs such as work release, in- overcrowding emergency by the sheriff. sentence hearing, and I always order behavior and substance abuse. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 35/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Six-year terms OCC Trustees Incumbent Phillip J. Abraham, chal- courses that people can take from lenger Shirley J. Bryant, incumbent home; it needs to increase courses in Sandra Ritter, and challengers Carlyle areas where there is strong demand: Fielding Stewart and Timothy nursing, technology and job retraining. Terpening will compete in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for two six-year SHIRLEY J. BRYANT BOARD DYNAMICS: terms on the Oakland Community The assessment is College (OCC) Board of Trustees. OCC accurate and it has been that way for trustees are not paid for their service. many years. The 1998 Higher Learning The following are questions our Commission report described the staff recently posed to the candidates, board’s unprofessional and unproduc- and their responses to those ques- tive behavior. Ten years has passed tions. Terpening didn’t respond to our without improvement, but now the col- candidate questionnaire. lege’s actual accreditation may be BOARD DYNAMICS: A recent report by Phillip J. Abraham has served on the OCC Shirley J. Bryant has 35 years of experience in endangered. It’s time for new leader- Board of Trustees since 2002. A CPA, Abraham public education as a teacher and adminis- ship. I will advocate for bringing in a the Higher Learning Commission criti- is a managing partner with the accounting trator, including 28 years with Birmingham cized Board of Trustees members’ conflict resolution and board develop- firm Abraham & Associates, PC. He served on Public Schools as executive director of com- ment expert. I will work to rebuild the behavior, and some faculty and staff the Royal Oak City Commission from 1989 to munity education/relations. She has served as board’s trust and respect within the members described the board as being 1991 and 1996 to 1997, and the Citizen a trustee on OCC's Foundation Board; presi- “dysfunctional.” Explain why you do or Finance Committee for Royal Oak Schools dent of the National Community Education college community and with taxpayers. don’t agree with those assessments. If from 1993 to 1994. Association; board chair of Orchards I will support the chancellor and his Children's Services; and chair of Birmingham administration in developing a partici- you agree, state how you would work Youth Assistance. to improve board relations. pative strategic plan to help students grow into productive and contributing BUDGET: In what ways should OCC citizens with the essential job skills for seek to increase revenues, cut spend- relatively simple to address the Higher The nursing needs in our area are well- a global economy. The board must do a ing, or both, to remain on solid finan- Learning Commission concerns. The documented. OCC needs to expand nursing better job to fulfill its responsibilities. cial ground? Please explain why you do board can meet with facilitators, provide training to assure we will be able to meet BUDGET: OCC has a budget of $150 or don’t agree with the way the cur- proper orientation for new members, and the demands of an aging population. million annually. Of that amount, 40 rent board has handled OCC’s finances. TOP ISSUES: run meetings in an orderly manner con- No. 1 is increase public percent comes from the millage passed FACILITIES: Explain why you do or sistent with Roberts’ Rules of Order. accountability. The OCC board needs to be BUDGET: in 2000. A millage renewal is necessary don’t believe OCC’s building facilities The budget should reflect the more publicly accountable. Board meet- for the college to avoid facing facility and equipment are adequate for pro- needs of our residents. More of the budg- ings must be televised; trustee expendi- deterioration or even worse, the neces- grams needed to prepare students for et should go to providing retraining pro- tures must be brought to the board table sity of cutting or reducing programs for the future. What building or equipment grams, nursing training, online classes, at each meeting; trustee credit cards students. In the current economy, mill- upgrades, if any, would you like to see? and technology-based classes. In the past must be stopped; expensive out-of-state age renewals will be a tough sell with PROGRAMS: Explain why you do or two years, too much of the budget has trips must be severely curtailed; and for- the public image the board has. The don’t believe OCC is meeting the pub- gone to trustee trips out of state, and eign trips must be prohibited. board must regain the trust and lic’s needs through existing programs. out of the country, and to various trustee No. 2 is assure tax dollars are spent in respect of the community. What specific program changes, if any, perks; too little gets to the classroom. the classroom, not on wasteful adminis- OCC should rely on the goals of a are necessary at this time. It’s also important to maintain afford- trative and board extravagances. strategic plan and tie budget needs and TOP ISSUES: What are the three most able tuitions. I oppose any increase in the No. 3 is increasing technology. OCC staff evaluation to the plan. More atten- important issues for the college at this county millage; however, the renewal of needs to dramatically increase online tion must be paid to students who time, and how do you propose to the existing millage in 2012 is critical for class offerings, so that working people need new employment skills through address them? maintaining OCC programs and facilities. have access to retraining and career train- awarding scholarships. WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- FACILITIES: OCC has done a good job ing despite family and work responsibili- ers choose you over your opponents? expanding facilities at the Highland Lakes ties. In addition, OCC needs to re-focus It’s imperative the board have com- (Waterford) campus. In particular, the the programs offered to provide more of petitive bids on construction projects PHILLIP J. ABRAHAM new nursing wing, and the new medical those in great demand in the community and tuition must remain affordable. BOARD DYNAMICS: The Higher technology is critical for supplying our — more technology-oriented classes, FACILITIES: The facilities appear to be Learning Commission determined area with needed nursing professionals. more nursing and health care. in good shape, though constant main- board dynamics have been poor for OCC has to assure facilities have tech- WHY YOU? We need to assure excellence tenance is necessary to protect taxpay- over 15 years. A big part of the prob- nology necessary for retraining programs, at OCC. My background will assure ers’ investment. There’s a need for more lem is long-term trustee Sandra Ritter. medical, work study and other programs. greater accountability and responsibility classrooms that are specifically enhanced She has been on the board for 30 PROGRAMS: Retraining, technology, on the OCC Board: BA in accounting; over for use of technology. A $25 million years, creating a disruptive and con- online and nursing programs should be 20 years experience as a certified public major renovation and expansion is frontational situation for board meet- the top priority for expansion. Oakland accountant; over 20 years working on planned for the Southfield Campus which ings. Thus, an important part of the County desperately needs strong retrain- local boards and commissions, including is critical because the largest population solution is up to the voters this ing programs to retain citizens who have building authorities, audit review, asset center serviced by OCC is now in the November: They need to replace Ritter. lost their jobs. Extensive online courses management, retirement boards and the southern part of the county, whereas the Another element of board dysfun- would allow those with work and family Royal Oak City Commission. largest campuses are located in the tionality is the unseemly influence of obligations to get training or retraining We need to stop the OCC trustee northern sectors. Some renovation and the faculty union. The Ritter faction while balancing their other important abuse and end the OCC trustee credit expansion of the administration building seems responsive only to them — not obligations. OCC needs to be a leader in cards which have been flagrantly mis- should be untaken to create a board to the public. online courses and programs. used; end the extravagant trustee trips room that is larger and more welcoming The Higher Learning Commission Technology-based employment is the abroad, such as to China; televise OCC to the public … or board meetings had the same criticism of the OCC futurey. We need to assure that our citi- board meetings so the public can see the should be moved to a larger facility. Board over 10 years ago. Why should zens have the skills necessary to move board in action; and assure competitive Accommodations must be made to we accept this? If the most disruptive this future forward with extensive and bidding for all contracts. videotape or cablecast board meetings. board members are replaced, it will be appropriate courses and training. OCC needs to begin extensive online PAGE 36 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 36/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide OCC board purpose and unite decision-makers around common goals and objectives. ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 35 For shared governance to have mean- PROGRAMS: OCC’s nursing program ing, the board should also practice it. should expand because a large aging I would work as a harmonizing and population has created more demand. unifying force by helping to establish OCC has the largest nursing prepara- new ground rules for interaction and tion program in Michigan with a high communication that will help create quality and quantity of offerings, but board solidarity and refocus its funda- it’s still not enough to meet the need. mental purpose for being. Last year there were 600 applications BUDGET: Maintaining and balancing for 300 places in the program and the the budget are always important. As average student had a GPA of 3.67. prudent stewards of its various resources, the college should increase Michigan will need 18,000 nurses by Sandra Ritter has served on the OCC Board of Carlyle Fielding Stewart has served on the 2015, which OCC has a social and Trustees since 1978. She has worked as a Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary revenues by supporting the upcoming moral obligation to meet. principal at the Burton Glen Academy, assis- Board of Trustees for four years. Pastor of the mileage, by offering quality programs OCC has become a transfer college tant principal at Waterford Mott High Schools, Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield that will draw students and increase with 47 percent of students stating a director of development with Metropolitan for the last 25 years, Stewart founded the enrollment, and by developing coopera- clear intention to go on for a four-year Affairs Corp., and a teacher in the Detroit and Carlyle Stewart Foundation, which gives tive education opportunities that will degree. The college must expand its Waterford school districts. Ritter has also been tuition and book scholarships to needy stu- encourage industries to subsidize those a statewide coordinator for the Michigan dents. He is also co-founder of the Southfield OCC programs that help train and qual- best programs in health services, tech- Adult Literacy Initiative and a higher educa- Education Action Committee. nology and human and public services tion consultant for the state Department of ify their labor forces. Strengthening the (such as training for firefighters and Education. Business and Community Alliance police through the CREST program). would also be helpful. TOP ISSUES: We must improve the builder and mediator. It’s those skills that stands its own capacity for program FACILITIES: The Board should regular- board’s governance and ensure the col- I will use to help develop positive relation- development, emerging technologies, ly review the condition of college facili- lege remains accredited by the Higher ships with other board members to bring demographic shifts and globalization.” ties and where feasible make necessary Learning Commission. Without accredi- about a board that is mission-driven and TOP ISSUES: First is restoring public recommendations for renewal, tation, students can’t transfer their focused. I have confidence in other mem- trust in the board. I pledge to work with improvement and new building con- credits to a four-year university. With bers and their ability to come together the other members to establish leader- struction through capital projects. input from the staff and community, and be keepers of the vision and dream ship goals and a common agenda. I will PROGRAMS: The college is meeting the the board should serve as policy archi- for OCC and our students. help bring about a focus on college values current needs of the public but there is tects while allowing staff to perform BUDGET: I agree with the way the college and strategic planning; and spend more room for improvement. Continuing management duties. Students deserve is handling finances. In the face of declin- time celebrating accomplishments of the emphasis should insist on developing board support in helping staff make ing property tax revenue, increased health faculty and successes of our students. educational programs that will prepare the college the best that it can be, and care and retirement costs, and poor eco- Second is investing our resources in students to vocationally and profes- constant turmoil on the board is not nomic conditions, the college is in a good the economic development of our county. sionally compete and qualify for jobs in helpful in reaching that goal. The col- financial position. Our Standards and We can expand our partnerships with the the current job market. Meaningful lege needs a clear vision for the future Poor’s AA+ rating is based on steady stakeholders of Oakland County; intensify education also means relevant educa- achievable through a participative trends and healthy financial reserves; our our commitment to emerging sector com- tion; helping students to receive the strategic planning effort. Finally, the audit was clean and revealed the college panies, Automation Alley and other pri- type of training that will place them mandate to respond to evolving needs has a strong and liquid position regarding vate and public initiatives to create jobs, head and shoulders above peers. of students and community should reserves. Per the Higher Learning train and build a skilled workforce that is TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is getting the strengthen through greater participa- Commission, “A review of the annual flexible and knowledgeable. mileage passed which is approximately tion in continuing education and financial statements and monthly budget Third is dealing with shrinking finan- 60 percent of the current OCC budget. retraining for the job skills necessary in reports clearly indicate that the college cial resources. Our challenge is to protect No. 2 is developing board unity and today’s global economy. successfully manages its resources.” the college programs and services while implementing regular board self-evalua- WHY YOU? I have 35 years experience FACILITIES: Bricks and mortar are not being challenged by declining property tax tions so it can move beyond its current in public education as a teacher and particularly flexible when new programs or revenue, increased health care and retire- factionalism and work in the best inter- administrator (28 years with Birming- needs arise. Our facilities were built to ment costs, and in general, poor econom- ests of the college and the people of ham Public Schools as executive director respond to a culture that was solely cam- ic conditions regionally and nationally. Oakland County. No. 3 is cultivating a of community education/relations). I will pus based. Campus life is still a priority as WHY YOU? Those who know me and unified strategic plan including policies bring much needed professionalism and the Higher Learning Commission discovered who have worked with me acknowledge for establishing and perpetuating solid integrity to the board. Board experience on their visit, “physical resources, build- my commitment to education. As a pro- accreditation; developing more top- includes: trustee of OCC Foundation ings, and grounds are well maintained with fessional educator, volunteer, and public notch programs for students, strength- Board; president, National Community extensive renovation projects for aesthetics, servant, I have a profound grasp of the ening faculty, clerical and administrative Education Association; board chair, functionality, and enhancement of the edu- issues that confront education. support, and instituting plans for the Orchards Children’s Services; chair, cational environment.” We are using tech- As an OCC board member, you can rely enhancement of all areas of the college. Birmingham Youth Assistance, trustee, nology and thinking beyond the campus to on my commitment to providing quality WHY YOU? As former student, I have Leadership Detroit; and trustee, provide programs and instruction. Our instruction and programs. I have 30 years attained the highest degree in my field, Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber of value to the community hinges on our abili- of service to the college and demonstrat- the Ph.D., and know what it means to Commerce. Awards and honors include: ty to keep a step ahead of changing tech- ed my commitment to putting students be a student in a competitive academic Eastern Michigan University College of nology, employment and economic trends. first. The college possesses a strong fac- program. As former professor, I under- Education Hall of Fame, 2007; the Anti- PROGRAMS: OCC is meeting the needs of ulty, exemplary programs and student stand the demands, needs and chal- Defamation League’s Women of the public through its existing programs, development services. I pledge continued lenges of faculty as persons and profes- Achievement Award and the continued program review and develop- support to work with all stakeholders to sionals. As a board member of an insti- Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber of ment of initiatives that provide our stu- make sure our programs continue to be tute of higher education, I have experi- Commerce “Athena Award” for out- dents with the skills they need to be com- timely, relevant, accessible and affordable. ence that gives me insight into the standing professional and community petitive. We rely on our health care, man- ethics, expectations and operations of service. I will work toward making OCC ufacturing and community partners to CARLYLE FIELDING STEWART board members. As a senior pastor for our nation’s best community college. help us interpret their industry’s trends BOARD DYNAMICS: Shared governance is 25 years, I have compassion for people SANDRA RITTER and develop educational programs that an important hallmark of OCC, which and know how to negotiate and work BOARD DYNAMICS: I agree with the best prepare our students to meet those means that the Board of Trustees, faculty, to achieve goals and objectives. As a Higher Learning Commission’s assess- needs. Additionally, as noted in the Higher employees, students, and community col- student of life, husband and father, I’m ments. Learning Commission’s report, “The laborate in making decisions that will ulti- still learning, still eager to learn and People who know me know I have a Strategic Plan for 2008-2012 clearly mately affect the life, health and vitality have an open mind and sense of adven- successful history of being a consensus demonstrates that the college under- of the college. This process should clarify ture for the learning process. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 37/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Partial Term OCC Trustees Sherry Cormier-Kuhn, Debbie expenses. This practice, which violates Macon, Christopher P. Maloney, and state law, has gone unchecked for far Thomas Patrick Sullivan will face off in too long. the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election I will oppose expensive and unnec- for a partial term on the Oakland essary trips by trustees. For example, Community College (OCC) Board of just this August, trustees voted to Trustees. The winner will serve a term send one of their own to China. These ending Dec. 31, 2010. OCC trustees sorts of trips have nothing to do with are not paid for their service. education in Oakland County and The following are questions our staff everything to do with trustee abuse. recently posed to the candidates, and I will work to get tax dollars to the their responses to those questions. classroom: increasing nursing, tech- BOARD DYNAMICS: A recent report nology-oriented, and online classes. by the Higher Learning Commission Those are areas where the Oakland Sherry Cormier-Kuhn is an instructor of higher Debbie Macon has served on the West criticized current Board of Trustees education in Wayne State University's College Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees for the taxpayers need their dollars spent. members’ behavior, and some faculty of Education. She is a former instructor at past 12 years, served two four-year terms on DEBBIE MACON and staff members have reportedly Western Oregon University and a general and the Bloomfield Hills Board of Education, and BOARD DYNAMICS: The fact that the described the board as being “dys- special education teacher in the L'Anse has been vice chairwoman of the Oakland board is dysfunctional can’t be disput- functional.” Please explain why you do Creuse School District. She has been a mem- School-To-Work Partnership/Educational ber of the Network of Michigan Educators Advisory Group. ed. As a board member I will actively or don’t agree with those assess- work to address expectations for the ments. If you agree, state how you Steering Committee and the Michigan Development Disabilities Council Education board as identified by the Higher would work to improve board member Work Group Subcommittee. Cormier-Kuhn Learning Commission. I favor cre- relations. served on the Royal Oak Board of Education BUDGET: ating a distinct eight member board In what ways should OCC from 1992 to 1996. leadership team inclusive of the seven seek to either increase its revenues, elected board members and the chan- cut spending, or both, in order to The board should establish a facilitator properly maintained and up-to-date tech- cellor. Improving relationships among remain on solid financial ground? to work with board members, as they nology be provided for training and and between members of the board Please explain why you do or don’t have in the past. Finally, the board chair retraining; however, there is no need for leadership team is both a function of agree with the way the current board must insist that Roberts’ Rules of Order expansion to new and different locations the amount of time members spend has handled OCC’s finances in the last are followed during meetings, and that — as suggested by some OCC trustees. together and how their time together two years. FACILITIES: trustees act with respect and civility Instead, OCC should look to expanding is utilized. I suggest increasing the Please explain why you toward each other. its online course and program selection. number of meetings and workshop do or don’t believe OCC’s building BUDGET: OCC must keep its tuition Online courses and programs will allow sessions to allow members to work facilities and equipment are adequate affordable — particularly in these hard significant expansion while improving with a leadership coach, mediator or for offering the kind of programs times. If we want to retain our citizens accessibility for those living at a distance facilitator on the specific disciplines needed to prepare students for the whose jobs have disappeared, we need from the OCC campus offering a particu- necessary for building high trust rela- future. What specific building or to provide retraining that is affordable. If lar course or program. tionships inclusive of listening, com- equipment upgrades, if any, would you we want to provide training for our PROGRAMS: The need for online pro- municating, consensus building, coop- like to see? PROGRAMS: young men and women just out of high grams and courses is paramount. erating, problem-solving and self Please explain why you school, so that they can stay in this area Unfortunately, OCC has lagged way assessment. As a board member, I will do or don’t believe OCC is meeting the with good jobs near their families, the behind other post-secondary institutions work toward creating and sustaining public’s needs — including students’ tuition for that training must be afford- in these kinds of offerings. That’s too the high trust environment necessary and employers’ — through existing able. bad. OCC was established to provide for effective stewardship, teaching, program offerings. What specific pro- OCC can work within the current mill- training for students, many of whom learning and innovation to occur. gram changes, if any, are necessary at age level, if we stop inappropriate expen- have conflicting family and job responsi- BUDGET: OCC is currently on solid this time. WHY YOU? ditures and have proper financial over- bilities. Online courses would be far and financial ground as a result of the con- Why, specifically, should sight. away the most effective means of reach- fidence and foresight of voters to pro- voters choose you over your oppo- OCC must stop the wasteful spending ing these students. Online courses vide a charter millage in 1964 and nents? on trustee perks that has continued for would provide more flexibility for those renewable millage authorized for 2002 SHERRY CORMIER-KUHN years and years with the current board. seeking retraining and training, as well through 2012. I agree with the way BOARD DYNAMICS: Anyone watching Taxpayers shouldn’t be paying for inter- as easier accessibility for those living too OCC’s finances have been handled in the OCC Board would be appalled at national trips for trustees. The trustees’ far from a particular campus offering a the past two years due primarily to the disruptive conduct of some board frequent out-of-state trips should be lim- program or course. It makes no sense to the existence of the college’s 2002- members. In the face of that disrup- ited. It’s inappropriate for trustees to be force residents of Milford, for example, 2007 Strategic Plan and the follow tive conduct, it’s obvious that the going to all these exotic places, staying to have to go down to Southfield in the through by college administration and OCC board chairs have been unable to at five-star hotels, and all at the taxpay- middle of a week day to get courses only staff to execute its objectives. The maintain orderly meetings or to ers’ expense. offered at that campus. board has to date not adopted a assure proper adherence to Roberts’ FACILITIES: OCC has committed around WHY YOU? I will bring change to OCC’s strategic plan beyond 2007. I believe Rules of Order. Because the Board has $15 million annually to building mainte- dysfunctional board. I have extensive it’s imperative for the board to adopt been incapable of reining in the mis- nance and improvement. OCC needs to experience in education: BA, MA, Ed.D. a new Strategic Plan, moving effective- conduct of its members, the voters continue to look to the needs of the degrees in education; 17 years as a spe- ly to support our region’s economy by must be the ones to decide whether community when deciding their future cial education teacher; four years on a preparing students for our future. they want this kind of representation building, facility and equipment needs. local school board; National Board of FACILITIES: With the very recent — during this year’s OCC elections. The new wings at the Highland Lakes Professional Teaching Standards certifi- adoption by the board of a major Other than the continual disruption Campus have been important because of cation; numerous education seminars expansion of the Southfield Campus, of board meetings, the Higher the overwhelming need for additional and training programs. planned over the next three-and-a-half Learning Commission’s issues are eas- nurses and medical assistants in our I will stop the outrageous abuse of years, OCC’s facilities and equipment ily resolved. Full orientation of new area. credit cards by trustees who spend tax- will be capable of more adequately board members should be instituted. It’s important that OCC’s buildings be payer money for their own personal PAGE 38 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 38/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide

to improve respect and all-around OCC board board relations. The people that the ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 37 voters elect to represent them should meeting the needs of a diverse stu- act responsibly in the discharge of dent body for future employment in their duties as trustees of Oakland health sciences. Continuous technolo- Community College. gy upgrades will demand attention as FACILITIES: The Higher Learning more individuals seek the flexibility of Commission found that Oakland distance learning. The emerging sec- Community College is blessed with tors will additionally dictate expanded facilities that are conducive to a pro- emphasis in the future. ductive learning environment. There PROGRAMS: OCC meets the public’s has been $25 million appropriated for needs by an ever expanding array of improving and expanding the innovative program offerings. Campus Christopher P. Maloney has over 20 years Thomas Patrick Sullivan has had a dental Southfield Campus, and this shows leaders are sensitive to the needs of a experience working in industrial leadership in practice for 40 years. He's served as president that Oakland Community College is the automotive and defense industries, and of the Oakland County Dental Society, a very diverse student body. I have addressing the needs facility and over five years entrepreneurial leadership in trustee with the Michigan Dental Association, equipment-wise to prepare students observed first-hand how very effec- small business development and manage- and treasurer of the Michigan Dental tively OCC administrators and educa- ment inclusive to service to the U.S. Association Insurance and Financial Group for the future. There are always on tors work with students of all ages, Department of Defense, the Pentagon, and Board of Directors. Sullivan has been director going to be maintenance issues that local school districts and businesses various defense contractors. of the OCC Foundation for the last 12 years, need to be addressed in order to keep within the community. In fact, almost and treasurer of the foundation for the last Oakland Community College a state-of- everyone I’ve spoken with in the last eight years. the-art educational facility. several weeks has a great story to PROGRAMS: Oakland Community share about their relationship with tive industry where such a diverse work- they need to be provided with the best College has an advisory committee on OCC. The college is a gem and I look force is evident and success in bridging vocational training that will help ensure workforce and economic development. forward to supporting its mission. social issues is an everyday success. long-term secure employment in the The goal is to address the education WHY YOU? Active study and hands- BUDGET: I don’t agree with how the workforce. The programs that need and training needs of the community, on practical application of governance current board has managed fiscal respon- more development are those in math, always aiming to keep more current. best practices as both a township sibility. To being with, we must redefine science, and engineering. There is ongoing assessment of trustee and school board member the purpose of the college. First, stu- WHY YOU? Experience: Over 20 years Oakland Community College’s educa- have well prepared me for the role of dents must be adequately prepared to educational leadership resulting in train- tional programs, services and opera- OCC trustee. I’m viewed by con- matriculate into four-year schools, i.e. ing at both the world’s most prestigious tions, given our rapidly changing eco- the University of Michigan, Michigan nomic climate. stituents as respectful, community- technical institute, the MIT Sloan School WHY YOU? minded, inclusive, an independent State University, Wayne State University, of Industrial Management, and one of It’s time for change; the thinker, a consensus builder and etc., or gain the necessary skills in order the world’s finest scientific research uni- Oakland Community College board has skilled in dialogue and deliberation — to achieve long-term secure employment. versities, the University of Chicago; over been plagued with problems for some all disciplines honed and practiced as The current curriculum at OCC must 20 years industrial leadership in the time, being labeled non-collaborative, a long-time leader in the League of reflect this purpose. In doing so, there automotive and defense industries on lacking civility, and dysfunctional. Women Voters and a great diversity of will need to be spending cuts in certain projects exceeding $1 billion in research I bring to the Board of Trustees non-profit and community-based obsolete areas of the curriculum. This will and development costs with profits in over 30 years of board experience. I organizations. make the school more efficient and effec- the multiple billions; and over five years have served the Oakland County I well understand the roles and tive. Likewise, increased spending will entrepreneurial leadership in small busi- Dental Society as councilman, treasur- responsibilities of governance boards need to occur in areas which will make ness development and management er, secretary, president-elect, president including those that have adopted the students competitive in both academia and inclusive to service to the U.S. (1980-1981) and past president. On policy governance model, as has the industry. Wasteful college operational costs Department of Defense, the Pentagon, the state level, I was a trustee of the OCC board, from years of active par- will need to be reviewed and cuts will be and various defense contractors. Michigan Dental Association from 1984 to 1991, and served as a mem- ticipation in board professional develop- made, as needed. THOMAS PATRICK SULLIVAN ment as both a student and teacher. FACILITIES: Having attended both MIT ber of the Michigan Dental Association BOARD DYNAMICS: I agree that the Since 1992, I have served in leader- and the University of Chicago, I’m a firm Insurance and Financial Group Board Board of Trustees of Oakland Community ship roles as part of Oakland County’s believer that it isn’t the buildings which of Directors, a for-profit corporation College have been dysfunctional, and commitment to preparing students for constitute the physical structure of a (1989-2002). During this time I was have acted in an uncivil, disrespectful the workplace, effectively leveraging my school, but rather the quality of the teach- treasurer. I have had the opportunity manner. With over 30 years of board formal education and degrees in both ers. It has been my experience when I to be a director of the Oakland experience, both on non-profit and for- education and business. attended the University of Michigan, that Community College Foundation since it built beautify buildings, but the quality profit boards, I would work within the 1996 to the present, plus the privi- CHRISTOPHER P. MALONEY of education was basic, at best. It’s my board structure to change the existing lege of serving as its treasurer since BOARD DYNAMICS: The term “dys- own preference that I would rather study image, and increase the morale of the 2000 to present. I also serve as a functional” isn’t the correct term to in a barn under the direction of a Nobel college community. This would be director of the Meadowbrook Center be applied to this situation. wherefore laureate as opposed to attending a beau- accomplished by treating people with for Learning Differences as its treasur- the current OCC Board of Trustees tiful campus and learn from a proverbial respect, dignity, plus working with the er. members have acted unprofessionally nobody. At this time, with the economy other trustees in a collegial, collaborative As a candidate for trustee of in a position which requires profes- in such a depressing state, I see the cur- manner to accomplish the mission of Oakland Community College, with my sionalism. I do agree with the fact rent structures of OCC being more than Oakland Community College. experience on both non-profit and for- that our current leaders of OCC have adequate to do the job. With that being BUDGET: There are three main sources profit boards, I know my role as a presented themselves unbecoming said, it would benefit OCC more to invest of revenue for funding Oakland board member and would work dili- merit the position and purpose of in our current teachers, and to hire those Community College. They are state gently to represent the people of their elected office. Even though polit- better to help augment the quality of appropriations, approximately 13 per- Oakland County. ical parties have their differences and education offered at OCC. cent; tuition and fees, 24 percent; and If I’m elected trustee I would work friction naturally occurs among PROGRAMS: At this time OCC isn’t meet- property taxes, 61.5 percent. With the within the board structure to change diverse peoples, the primary position ing our community’s needs. The curricu- support of the taxpayers of Oakland the existing image, and increase the and purpose of OCC trustee is that lum at OCC is mediocre at best. As I have County and the passage of the millage morale of the college community. This the quality of education for students said before, we must work together to renewal, we can keep Oakland could be accomplished by treating comes first. As a trustee of OCC, it redefine the purpose of OCC. It’s my Community College on solid financial people with respect, dignity, plus will be my responsibility as a leader in direction to see that it develop students ground. I believe that the budget has working with the other trustees in a our community that bridges be built first and foremost for the transfer into been well managed. As an aside, I don’t collegial, collaborative manner to to overcome these frictions. With it I competitive four-year institutions. If this think that the Oakland Community accomplish the mission of Oakland bring my experience from the automo- isn’t the ambition of the student, then College board needs to pay consultants Community College. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 39/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Walled Lake School Board Incumbent Dr. William Balestrino, the property or some other use. challengers Mathew Cornish and Greg Whatever the decision, it must be in Janicki, and incumbent Kathy J. Lyall the best interest of the district both will face off in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 educationally and financially. We do not general election for two six-year terms have the luxury of expansion without on the Walled Lake Schools Board of strong justification. Education. School board members BUDGET: It doesn’t take an in-depth aren’t paid for their service. review of revenues and expenditures The following are questions our to figure out that the district is facing staff recently posed to the candidates, major challenges. Funding is flat at and their responses to those ques- best with little prospect of this chang- tions. ing. Expenditures are down slightly LAND ACQUISITION: Last year the but not nearly enough. The district Board of Education approved spending has been balancing the budget by $4.62 million to acquire 80.31 acres Dr. William Balestrino has served on the Mathew Cornish has worked for several using its savings. Unfortunately, this of Proud Lake Recreation Area proper- Walled Lake Schools Board of Education southeast Michigan financial services firms can’t last forever. ty for use as a future school building since 2004. He has a dentistry practice in over the past 10 years. He has also worked The district must be proactive to site, despite projections indicating the Novi. in the public sector with Michigan munici- grow revenues by capitalizing on its district’s student enrollment will con- palities and universities. reputation to attract new students. It tinue to decline. Tell us why you do or must also be proactive in working to don’t believe the acquisition was a another sign of Michigan’s economic sit- tion is just wrong. keep existing students. Further, the good decision in the public’s best uation. It’s wise to assume that once the It can’t be stressed enough that addi- district must take a difficult and interest. If you’re inclined to disagree economy improves, and it shall, the tional educational program cuts or their detailed review of all expenditures. with the decision, would you go so far quality of Walled Lake Consolidated elimination can only be considered in the Expenditures must be brought in line as to advocate selling the land and Schools will attract young families to our most desperate of situations. with revenues. Failing to make these refunding the proceeds to taxpayers, area again. At that time the Proud Lake No. 3 is meeting educational difficult decisions now could result in who provided the money for the land property will become a valuable asset for needs/state requirements in the current decisions later that are even more dif- acquisition by approving a bond issue? our continued growth. fiscal situation; maintaining the pro- ficult. BUDGET: Michigan’s schools face a BUDGET: School funding is the major grams that our children benefit most GUNS IN SCHOOLS: If security is a permanent budget crisis. In what spe- issue facing all school districts. School from; and minimizing cuts that directly concern, then it should be addressed cific areas do you believe the district funding in the state has a basic structur- effect students. through a comprehensive security plan must change its spending? On the al deficit: By that I mean, until there is a WHY YOU? Having lived in the district undertaken by the district in conjunc- revenue side, in what ways should the change from how Michigan schools are over 20 years, I have seen many changes tion with state and local law enforce- district be looking for new funding funded we will continually run into finan- effected by the area’s growth. All three ment. Allowing school administrators sources? What, if any, changes would cial difficulties. of my children have attended Walled to carry concealed weapons inside you like to see at the state level to Proposition 11 must be altered or Lake Schools from kindergarten through school buildings doesn’t promote the address school funding? eliminated so that the state is not redis- high school. Through my children’s overall safety of students or staff. The GUNS IN SCHOOLS: State lawmakers tributing taxes from our area to other school experiences and as a business- district must proactively address secu- have discussed legislation that would districts. School funding must have more man, I have obtained a perspective of rity concerns in a comprehensive man- allow public school officials to carry local control. Walled Lake Schools area both the positive and negatives of our ner long before such plans are needed. concealed weapons inside school residents have always been generous district. I believe my view is one that is Allowing school officials to carry buildings in an effort to deter the kind and supportive of education. shared with many parents and business concealed weapons is neither a com- of gun violence tragedies witnessed Beyond significant legislative owners in our area. prehensive nor well thought out plan. across the nation in recent years. changes, we as a district must continue My school board experience has been Allowing such action could actually Please state why you do or don’t think the “belt-tightening” and look to other during one of the most difficult times for reduce the overall security by introduc- it’s a good idea for school officials to potential revenue streams. Increasing Michigan. The poor economy has been ing other unintended opportunities for carry guns while in school buildings. the support of local fund raising (for reflected in the budget woes that we violence. TOP ISSUES: What are the three most example; the Foundation for Excellence) have faced as a school district. During TOP ISSUES: The most important important issues for the district at is one possibility. These programs pro- the last four years I have strived to mini- issue facing the district is navigating this time, and how do you propose to vide classroom resources that might mize budget cuts to programs that the changed financial environment address them? otherwise come from the district’s gen- would impact on the children’s educa- while preserving the high educational WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should eral fund. tion. quality for which Walled Lake has voters choose you over your oppo- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: No. I will use my experience as a school become known. The district must nent(s)? TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is union negotia- board trustee, a parent and area busi- make difficult decisions in allocating tions. Encourage the shared vision of nessman to shape my decisions and funding across its many educational WILLIAM BALESTRINO our district in working toward excel- guide me, always keeping the children priorities. We must focus on core fun- LAND ACQUISITION: If previous lence. Present solutions that do not pun- and their educational experience the pri- damentals such as limiting class sizes school boards had lacked the foresight ish our great employees and teachers ority. and providing proper instructional to purchase land for future school and yet give the district some breathing MATHEW CORNISH resources to ensure the highest quali- sites, Walled Lake as a district would room with the budget through shared LAND ACQUISITION: The financial out- ty education. not have had the capability to grow sacrifice. look for most Michigan school districts We don’t have the luxury of funding with the expanding population. No. 2 is the current funding short- is at best challenging. Walled Lake is no programs that may provide value but Granted, vacant land would most likely fall. In addition to requesting help from different. While purchasing land is some- don’t directly support the most impor- have been available for the elementary, our employees during negotiations, I times necessary, I must admit this pur- tant priorities. The district must be middle and high schools that we have would press for more department budg- chase is puzzling. I believe such purchas- proactive. The District must not make built. However, the cost of acquiring et cutting and improved efficiencies. es should only be made when the need decisions as a response to surround- the needed properties immediately Although other districts have priva- is clear and plans for use defined. ing school districts. Schools today prior to construction would have been tized certain departments and services, Unfortunately in today’s economy, must compete for every dollar of fund- at a significantly higher cost to tax- it should only be as a last resort. All the undoing this purchase might not be fea- ing. A reactive district is an uncompet- payers. district’s employees have shown dedica- sible. The board must determine how it itive district. An uncompetitive district At present, projections for our stu- tion to our schools and students. can use this land in a financially respon- risks further erosion in enrollment and dent population are declining. It’s only Thanking them by eliminated their posi- sible manner. This might include selling PAGE 40 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 40/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide

drills involving a number of emergen- School board cies, including lockdowns. On Sept. ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 39 18, 2008, I witnessed Walled Lake subsequently reduced funding. Schools’ emergency readiness during a WHY YOU? I am passionate to see Patriot Services emergency simulation that Walled Lake retains its reputation at Western High School. This simula- as an outstanding place to learn. I am tion was funded through a Homeland driven to make sure every aspect of Security grant. For me, it was a dis- the district’s operations remain finan- turbing situation to witness and one I cially healthy not only today but in the hope our district never faces; however, future, as well. I’m focused on educa- our staff and students did a superb tional quality, financial responsibility, job taking their responsibilities seri- and creativity. I believe these charac- ously while focusing on several situa- teristics will be essential for Walled tions simultaneously. We have con- Lake to retain its reputation for edu- firmed through this exercise, not only cational excellence. Greg Janicki is chief operating officer at Kathy J. Lyall has served on the Walled are we prepared to work and commu- As a parent in the district, I want CSM Worldwide. He has served on the Lake Schools Board of Education since nicate with five law enforcement agen- to work to ensure that all children are Walled Lake Schools Foundation for February 2008. She is the Loon Lake cies efficiently, but our staff can utilize Excellence and the district's NCA Elementary School PTA president. Lyall is their training and apply it while being completely prepared when they gradu- Leadership Team since 2007. also currently vice president of the Twin ate. We must make every effort to professional and sensitive. Suns Lakes Homeowners Association, and TOP ISSUES: My focus will remain in give our children the greatest educa- previously served as secretary. tional opportunities available. I will the classroom. I’m dedicated to mini- work to make this happen. mizing the impact of budget reduc- the current state of safety and security property for use of a future school build- tions in areas directly affecting our GREG JANICKI in the Walled Lake Schools necessitates ing site. In the year 2000 this bond was student’s ability to achieve. I take LAND ACQUISITION: Understanding a arming school officials with guns. passed because Walled Lake’s projec- responsibility for budget decisions and complex and important action like the TOP ISSUES: My top priorities for the tions for enrollment continuously will work diligently to reduce the one described requires research and Walled Lake School District are to sup- increased. We didn’t own any suitable effect on our programs, staff and stu- due diligence. As I was not on the port curriculum that creates student property that could be used to build a dents. board at the time, I can’t evaluate a leaders; deliver effective resources to new middle or high school. Projections I believe our district needs to pro- decision out of context without the ensure a safe, high-performing district; with regards to enrollment are difficult vide every student with a first-rate information the board had available and establish clear measures of success to predict in Michigan because of our education, regardless of academic and and considered at that time. What I in all areas. economy and populations shifts. For social challenges. I support interven- can describe is my decision-making To achieve these goals, I will recom- example, we predicted declining enroll- tions such as Reading Recovery, process, if this issue came to the mend decisions that serve the best ment for this school year; however, our Reading and Math Essentials, Project board’s attention during my tenure, interest of district students. I will also enrollment actually increased. Rise, and Community High School. In should I be elected. Every decision I endeavor to provide the district team This Board of Education has the addition, I believe we need to maintain make will begin with a thorough with the resources necessary to deliver responsibility to procure building sites support systems to ensure every stu- analysis of all available information — curriculum and services to achieve stu- within our district for future boards. dent is successful. asking lots of questions of both inter- dent success. Additionally, I believe the Some of our most recent construction Our district needs to remain nal and external sources. Any recom- district must emphasize community was made possible because of property focused on continuing to improve stu- mendation then must be based on involvement, encouraging parental sup- purchased more than 20 years ago. dent achievement, reflective in bench- whether the decision supports our port in and out of the classroom. Also, I Without this property, we would not mark and state assessments, and district’s mission. I will consistently would encourage all areas to closely own land suitable to building a middle or improved graduation rates. I support recommend decisions that serve the examine their impact on the achievement high school in the future. giving our staff more collaborative best interest of district students. of the district’s mission and ensure that BUDGET: There are several ways our time to analyze individual student’s BUDGET: The premise of your ques- every member of the district team district can continue to modernize how data and implement best practices. tion, while accurate to a point, is knows that they have a positive influ- we spend our monies. We must continue WHY YOU? I am passionate about quite pessimistic. I believe our state ence on district success. to look for grants to offset our general remaining on the Walled Lake School will recover, but do understand that WHY YOU? I’m running for the Walled operating budget. We must carry on Board because I believe in our dis- school funding will continue to be a Lake Board of Education because I working with Oakland Schools to find trict’s educational standards. I’m the top priority that must be addressed. believe in the district’s mission to be innovative ways to save money while proud involved parent of two elemen- Regarding changes to the district “…the best educational system in providing the same services our commu- tary school children. Since my appoint- spending, I believe programs that America.” As a parent and community nity anticipates. Finally, we need to con- ment (02/08), I have toured all 22 have the most direct impact on stu- member, I believe our district can pro- sistently use our sinking fund to repair schools, met all principals, many staff, dent achievement should be support- duce caring and responsible students and replace routinely used items; for transportation personnel and school ed. However, school funding decisions who will lead our community. example, boilers, roofs, etc. administrators. It has been a priority will never be about simple choices I’m active in the Walled Lake School The state must guarantee funding at for me to meet parents and con- that can be summarized in a brief District through my current role as a the rate of inflation and consistently dis- stituents to learn more about our questionnaire. Investments the Walled trustee on the Walled Lake Foundation burse payments on a timely basis. The diverse community. Lake School District makes must be for Excellence, as a member of the state should not have the option to I will continue using my results-ori- clearly linked to the district’s mission District NCA Leadership Team and as make mid-year cuts. The state budget ented management strategies acquired to be “the best educational system in chairman of various PTA fund-raising should be adopted before schools are during professional and volunteer America.” Making judgments about committees. Additionally, my role as chief required to finalize their budgets. experiences to make our district supe- revenue or expense choices now, out operating officer with CSM Worldwide has Sinking funds should be expanded to rior by securing long-term resources, of context of the issues facing the dis- provided me an opportunity to demon- include expenditures such as buses and developing cutting-edge curriculum, trict at a particular moment, trivializes strate that I can make mission-critical technology. This would allow us to providing safe environments, and the complex decisions that must be decisions, create results with and through spend more funds from our general maintaining open communication. My made. I will recommend decisions that other people, and lead by building a vision budget on areas that directly affect our highest priority will be our students. serve the best interest of district stu- that others want to be a part of. All these students’ ability to achieve. Examples of my community service GUNS IN SCHOOLS: dents. skills are necessary for a school board I don’t agree with include: Walled Lake School Board, GUNS IN SCHOOLS: We should con- trustee to be successful. school officials carrying concealed Lakes Area Youth Assistance, PTA tinue to explore effective and proven weapons in schools. We have trained President (three terms) and Legisla- safety approaches and active interven- KATHY J. LYALL administers and staff, plus our liaison tive Representative, vice president and tion strategies, as the district has LAND ACQUISITION: I support the officers assigned to each of our high secretary for my homeowners associa- done, to address the risk of such Board of Education’s decision to pur- schools, to handle emergency situations tion, and creating the resolution to events occurring. I don’t believe that chase the Proud Lake Recreation Area safely. Our students take part in regular Keep Michigan Students Safe. ❏ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 41/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Partial Term Huron Valley School Board Challenger Sean Carlson and incum- current district policy which is to not bent Joe Ghislain will face off in the allow weapons of any kind into the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for a building. Isn’t it possible one or two partial term on the Huron Valley large students could overpower a Schools Board of Education. The win- smaller teacher and take away a gun? ner will serve until Dec. 31, 2009. Carrying a gun also means the school Board members are paid $30 per official may have to use the weapon. meeting. At what point would they determine The following are questions our when this type of excessive force staff recently posed to the candidates, would be necessary? What about the and their responses. liability and the possibility of wrongful BUDGET: In what specific areas do death? These are issues that highly- you believe the district must change trained police face every day, not its spending? In what ways should the Sean Carlson has worked as director of Joseph Ghislain is a former YMCA board something an untrained school district district be looking for new funding corporate procurement for Blue Cross Blue member and currently works for Ford Motor should take on. As a district we con- sources? What, if any, changes would Shield Michigan, chief procurement officer Company. for the state of Michigan, and chief of staff centrate on intervention and preven- you like to see at the state level to for Speaker of the House Andy Dillon. tion, and I hope we don’t get to a address school funding? point where this is necessary. SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: The TOP ISSUES: The top three priorities Huron Valley board has extended far in advance leaves the district finan- Michigan, I saved in excess of $500 mil- are a great education for all children, Superintendent Jackie Johnston’s con- cially exposed and at risk. If for whatever lion in taxpayer dollars and developed fiscal responsibility, and collaboration. tract for an additional year. Johnston reason the board made the decision to and executed effective cost-containment Children are our most important is now under contract to work from go in a different direction on leadership, strategies. resource and as a parent of a child July 1, 2008 until June 30, 2011. the district would be at risk of paying JOE GHISLAIN with a learning disability, I know what Please explain why you do or don’t two superintendent salaries. The board BUDGET: Michigan’s schools budget cri- great education for all children really support the common practice of annu- shouldn’t consider extending the con- sis and the way schools are funded are means. We learned to be advocates for ally extending a superintendent’s con- tract until 12 to 18 months prior to the major issues for Huron Valley. All costs her needs. As a board member I will tract by one year. end of the contract. need to be reviewed and reductions continue to be an advocate for all chil- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: State lawmakers GUNS IN SCHOOLS: A gun carried by made in areas that don’t adversely affect dren. have discussed legislation allowing school officials won’t deter an event. If education, like reducing energy costs. While providing a high-quality edu- public school officials to carry con- there’s a concern about violence a better This is where my experience in opera- cation, we still have an obligation to cealed weapons inside schools to solution would be to work with local tions and maintenance and as a certified the taxpayers to be prudent. With my deter the kind of gun violence police to provide support and presence. I energy manager can help. background and experience, I will work tragedies witnessed across the nation. also believe the knowledge of students On the revenue side, we need to con- to make sure we reduce costs without State why you do or don’t think it’s a that school officials could be carrying tinue to offer high quality education and jeopardizing education. good idea for school officials to carry weapons would create an adverse effect choice programs, like the International Collaboration is the key in working guns while in school buildings. on the learning process. Academy, to make our schools the edu- together to achieve district goals. I TOP ISSUES: What are the three most TOP ISSUES: A quality education is cation of choice both in the district and have worked not only with the UAW important issues for the district, and what’s needed to prepare the children of the surrounding area. and CAW but on numerous commit- how do you propose to address them? Huron Valley for college and a competi- At the state level, I would like to see tees, task forces, and boards. I under- WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- tive workforce. A centerpiece to ensuring Lansing do two things — continue equi- stand the importance of working ers choose you over your opponents? a quality education is pursuing best-in- ty increases to districts like Huron Valley together and getting to common SEAN CARLSON class student/teacher ratios. Huron that are well below other schools in objectives and goals. BUDGET: We need to review how well Valley schools have a 25:1 pupil/teacher their county, and perform a study to see WHY YOU? I have two daughters who we are leveraging the district’s spend- ratio, one of highest in the county. what the true cost of education to the graduated from and one daughter still ing and at what level we are involved Critical teaching and learning can’t take state standard is and adjust funding at Milford High School, so I’m not a in cooperative purchasing programs place with lopsided ratios. This is espe- accordingly. politician, just a parent who cares that help contain costs. Are we using cially true in the kindergarten through SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: The about the district. I care about chil- state (MiDEAL) and local cooperative fourth-grade. annual renewal of a superintendent’s dren, their education and well being. I purchasing programs to manage dol- A balanced budget is equally impor- contract is common practice. While there have been involved with organizations lars being spent? tant. A core strategy should be an are always pro and cons to any method, that educate and support children, Regarding revenues, we should aggressive plan calling on Lansing to I oppose changing this for three rea- including Junior Achievement, YMCA work closely with local leaders to provide equity in its distribution of the sons. First, since it’s common practice, Parent/Child Programs and March of encourage commercial development. per-pupil foundation allowance. Our stu- changing it could put us in a competitive Dimes. I want to give back to the com- More businesses in the district is one dents receive from $200 to $1,100 less disadvantage if we ever had to hire munity and district using my business, way to increase revenue. than those in neighboring districts. It’s another superintendent. Second, running operational and energy management Lansing needs to address the not right and needs to be changed. a school district shouldn’t be focused on experience from over 22 years at Ford. inequity in the per-pupil foundation Finally, we need to champion commu- just year-to-year improvements but also I want return the investment the com- allowance we receive. There’s no rea- nity commitment between parents, over time. The contract gives the district munity and district made in me when I son our children should receive less in teachers, and administrators to promote stability and allows the board to give was appointed in May 2007. I’m hard state funding. Yet students in neigh- our students’ success. positive feedback through renewal or working and have studied district boring districts like Walled Lake and WHY YOU? Community connection: I’m puts the superintendent on notice that operations, school funding and the West Bloomfield receive a higher per- a proud father of two young children things must change. Finally, since board legislation/laws that govern them, pupil allowance than students attend- and want to ensure my children, as well members change, the fate of the district earning the Certified Board Member ing Huron Valley, anywhere from $200 as the children of Huron Valley receive can’t be left to the “whims” of new Award and Award of Merit from to $1,000 more. an education that prepares them for col- board members who may not know Michigan Association of School SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: I lege and a competitive workforce. school operations and the governing Boards; and want to use this knowl- don’t support the current practice. Experience in saving tax dollars is laws. edge to continue to serve the Huron Adding extensions to contracts that another reason. At the state of GUNS IN SCHOOLS: I agree with the Valley Schools community. ❏ PAGE 42/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Four-year terms Huron Valley School Board Incumbent Lisa L. Blackwell, chal- with school-age children. We will con- lenger Lee Ann Clifford, and incumbent tinue to attract new students to our Charles Dittmar will compete in the district with our dedicated staff, quality Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election for test scores, high graduation rates and two four-year terms on the Huron beautiful facilities. In order to remain Valley Schools Board of Education. fiscally responsible to our stakeholders Board members are paid $30 per we will continue to evaluate the utiliza- meeting for up to 52 meetings per tion of our schools. year WHY YOU? Currently I have four chil- The following are questions are dren in the Huron Valley School system staff recently posed to the candidates, — one in high school, two in middle and their responses to those ques- school and one in elementary. I live tions. every decision I make as a board mem- BUDGET: Michigan’s schools face a ber whether its revised high school permanent budget crisis, not merely a graduation requirements, changes in temporary challenge linked to a mea- Lisa Blackwell has served on the Huron Charles Dittmar has served on the Huron middle school curriculum or changes in Valley Schools Board of Education for the Valley Schools Board of Education for the ger economic recovery. In what specific past four years. She is currently the school past four years. He is employed as an envi- elementary schools. I believe it is a areas do you believe the district must board's vice president. ronmental consultant. perfect time for me to be on the school change its spending? On the revenue board. side, in what ways should the district Lee Ann Clifford served on the Huron Valley Four years of experience bring a be looking for new funding sources? exceed our schools of choice enrollment School District's Building Utilization totally new perspective to the job. It What, if any, changes would you like to goals. This is a substantial source of Committee and District Parent Council for brings confidence, knowledge, trust, see at the state level to address school supplemental revenue for us. We are cur- the last two years. She is currently presi- understanding, compassion, and an funding? rently working on a very comprehensive dent of the Highland Elementary Parent overall calm to the job. I have built a SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: Huron energy audit to keep utility costs to a Teacher Organization. good rapport with parents, administra- Valley Schools Board of Education has minimum. We are active participants in tors and teachers in the district. They the Oakland Schools consortium initia- extended Superintendent Jackie all students. The new graduation require- trust me to take care of our schools tive. We recently formed a group that is Johnston’s contract for an additional ments will present challenges as we and our kids. attempting to emulate the “Kalamazoo year. Johnston is now under contract strive for this goal. Students have very I’m very appreciative of the oppor- Promise.” to work from July 1, 2008 until June different learning styles and some may tunities given to me to strengthen my We have had a very successful and 30, 2011. Please explain why you do struggle with the new mandated class abilities as a board member through stakeholder inclusive “grassroots” fund- or don’t support the common practice requirements. We need to make sure we seminars and classes. I have achieved ing campaign focused at state legisla- of annually extending a superinten- keep these students engaged and con- Level One and Level Two certification tors. We will continue these efforts to dent’s contract by one year. nected to the classroom. Our interven- as well as my Advocacy Skills Specialist keep our local legislators in tune to what GUNS IN SCHOOLS: State lawmakers tion programs will be more important certification. deep budget cuts do to a school district. have discussed legislation that would than ever at the high school level. I’m just a normal person granted SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: Keeping allow public school officials to carry Innovative class scheduling will be key as the privilege and honor to give back to quality staff at every level is a major concealed weapons inside school build- we promote and include electives, arts my community through my school focus of this board. Our district is lucky ings in an effort to deter the kind of and athletics into the student’s year. As board service. I love this job and would to have a superintendent with the quali- gun violence tragedies witnessed class offerings become more rigorous, it appreciate the opportunity to continue ties and skills of Mrs. Johnston. The across the nation in recent years. will be more difficult to find highly quali- my good work. superintendent’s performance is evaluat- Please state why you do or don’t think fied teachers in the mandated content ed yearly and a decision to extend the LEE ANN CLIFFORD it’s a good idea for school officials to areas. We need to continue to attract contract is made at that time. It’s impor- BUDGET: We created a building to rent carry guns while in school buildings. and retain the quality staff we have in tant to note that studies show the out for additional revenue. I think as a TOP ISSUES: What are the three most this district. tenure of a superintendent has a direct district we should be looking to rent important issues for the district at this No. 2 is equity in funding. The dispar- time, and how do you propose to effect on student achievement. Therefore out other things that might raise rev- multi-year contracts are desirable from ity in per pupil funding throughout enue, such as buses for trips for our address them? Oakland County and the state must be WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should the board’s point of view. senior citizen outings. If we are okay to GUNS IN SCHOOLS: If by school officials dealt with. We need to continue the rent out space in our schools for out- voters choose you over your oppo- efforts to close the funding gap between nents? you mean administrators and other staff, side programs, then we should be okay the answer is pointedly no. School offi- the top funded district and the lowest. for the buses to be used. LISA L. BLACKWELL cials, in the capacity defined above, are I’m not suggesting we take money away SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: I sup- BUDGET: Huron Valley is 24th out of not trained professionals in the areas of from the top funded districts, just boost port this practice, just for the simple 28 in state funding in Oakland County. firearms, nor are they trained profession- the lower funded districts to close the fact that the superintendent won’t be This district doesn’t have a spending als in the gun violence tragedies that gap. The quality of a child’s public edu- out looking for different positions. We problem. Our financial challenges are have plagued our nation. Huron Valley cation should not be based on where are secure in knowing that we have caused by a structural deficit created Schools currently has police liaisons that they live or the value of their home. We someone to run the schools, and the in large part by the state’s do work in our schools and do carry will continue our grassroots efforts to superintendent is secure in knowing inability/desire to provide funding firearms. This is perfectly acceptable as close this funding gap, as well as work they have a job. increases that match the inflationary this is what they are trained to do. The with the Legislature to do an Adequacy GUNS IN SCHOOLS: If the district gets increases seen in our expenses. This is safety and security of our students and and Equity Study. Such a study will that bad, that our principals have to why a major focus of the current staff continues to be a high priority for determine the appropriate dollars needed carry weapons into the schools, I school board and of this district has the board. We routinely collaborate with to fund education at a level consistent would like to see more security in the been continued cost containment and our local municipalities to analyze and with the content we expect schools to schools. I do realize that some of the revenue generation. improve our processes in that area. deliver. tragic events have happened in schools Our “Schools of Choice” campaign TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is successful imple- No. 3 is declining enrollment. that have had security. If we did need has been very successful. Even as mentation of the state-mandated new Declining enrollment is a state wide epi- to put guns in the schools they need Michigan’s student population graduation requirements. One of the demic. Michigan’s current economic con- to be put in a locked central location decreases dramatically, we continue to main goals in Huron Valley is success for dition is causing mass exodus of families PAGE 47 ❯❯❯❯ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 43/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford School Board Paul K. Coughlin, Stephen K. Dooley, Heather Halls, John Himmelspach, Karen M. Laszlo, Robin McGregor, Aimee McKeever, Virginia Poehlman, Michael J. Ristich, and Joan Sutherland are competing in the Tuesday, Nov. 4 general election race for four seats on the Waterford Schools Board of Education. The candidates receiving the two highest vote totals will serve six- year terms, and the candidates with the third and fourth highest vote totals will serve four-year terms. Board members are paid $30 per meeting attended. Paul K. Coughlin has served on the Waterford Stephen K. Dooley has worked in law enforce- Heather Halls is the executive director of The following are questions recently Foundation for Public Education for the past ment, including as a school liaison officer. He the Waterford Coalition for Youth. She has posed to the candidates, and their 12 years, four as president. He has owned also has coached local youth sports. been a PTO/PTSA Executive Board member responses. Ristich didn’t respond to and operated the Runnin' Gear store, a tech- for six years, and served on the Superin- our candidate questionnaire. nical running shop offering the latest and tendent's District Advisory Council. BUDGET: best running and walking shoes and apparel, In what specific areas do you for 28 years. believe the district must change its spending? On the revenue side, in PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: what ways should the district be look- lar budget item off limits, and not ask It’s the a BA in psychology from Albion ing for new funding sources? What, if the school district to do the same in it’s board’s responsibility to be open, honest College. My wife, Linda, and children, any, changes would you like to see at budget procedure seems disingenuous, and responsive — it’s the community’s Amy, Megan, and Eric, also attended the state level to address school fund- but I will again point out the priority responsibility to be involved. Waterford Schools. As a business owner ing? education represents. A full and diverse A board’s constituency includes the I have spent 28 years in Waterford and SEX EDUCATION: Debate on whether education is always in our best interest. entire community, from students and for the past 12 years have served on public school sex education curricu- When budget cuts are necessary at the parents to retirees and businesses; and the non-profit Waterford Foundation for lums should be based solely on teach- district I believe it should be done as a board member the more informa- Public Education supporting fund-rais- ing abstinence as the only way to avoid across the board, avoiding the entire tion and community opinion I receive the ing efforts to supplement Waterford unwanted pregnancy and sexually dismantling of particular departments. better my decision-making process. classrooms. transmitted diseases resurfaces period- Waterford’s nationally recognized fine Waterford enjoys an involved community The foundation has allowed me to ically. State why you do or don’t sup- arts department, for instance, repre- but needs to continue the effort to visit every school building and given port that concept. State why you do or sents part of teaching the whole child. encourage two-way communication. me a direct line to our most innovative SEX EDUCATION: don’t believe the curriculum could First let me say I I’ve had the opportunity, through my and creative teachers. Providing fund- include both abstinence and other think it should best be taught at home. years on the Waterford Foundation for ing on a grant basis, the foundation methods of birth control and disease Conceding that sex education needs to Public Education, to observe the district has given me a window on the wishes prevention. be addressed in school, as well, I feel as an outsider on the inside. This privi- of this dedicated staff, as well as a GUNS IN SCHOOLS: State lawmakers that teaching abstinence, while possibly lege convinces me that continuing com- look at the deficiencies of public have discussed legislation that would the best method and thus the curricu- munication, making it clear to everyone school funding. I believe this informed allow public school officials to carry lum of choice, needs to be supplement- what we have to offer as a district, will outside view and my business experi- concealed weapons inside school build- ed. I support at least making young answer questions and encourage involve- ence is important to the school board, ings in an effort to deter the kind of adults aware of more options. A blind ment. The district currently hosts expos providing perspective and an opportu- gun violence tragedies witnessed eye to the activities of our youth will not and open houses, curriculum nights and nity to introduce fresh vision. across the nation. Please state why prevent unwanted pregnancies or dis- advisory groups, parent teacher confer- ease. The epidemic of incurable disease ences and Internet communication, to STEPHEN K. DOOLEY you do or don’t think it’s a good idea BUDGET: for school officials to carry guns while calls for education. Whether kids take name just a few of the avenues open to The Waterford School in school buildings. advantage of alternatives to abstinence all of us. I say get on board. District needs to increase its fund bal- TOP ISSUES: PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: Explain to become promiscuous is again a ques- At the state level I will reit- ance. We currently have approximately why you do or don’t believe parents tion I believe that is best addressed at erate my opening remarks about school 6.3 percent in the fund balance. This are given enough opportunities to par- home, but if they are considering that funding. Much work needs to be done to puts the district in a position where ticipate in the district’s decision-mak- path a chance to better educate youth encourage our decision-makers to find a they have to borrow around $ 6 mil- ing process? Who are the school on the consequences and safeguards are more equitable and dependable funding lion to cover operational costs until board’s true constituents? realistic. formula. their state funding comes in. This loan TOP ISSUES: What are the three most Please keep in mind, regarding any As a community, I also reiterate, we costs the district around $250,000. If important issues for the district at this issue, my respect for the wishes of the need to make a commitment to be better the fund balance was near the recom- time, and how do you propose to community would be foremost as a rep- informed and involved. I believe Waterford mended 15 percent, they would not address them? resentative on the board. is a progressive district (i.e. the early have to incur this cost. GUNS IN SCHOOLS: WHY YOU? Why, specifically, should vot- Having guns in institution of all-day Kindergarten mim- In these difficult economic times ers choose you over your opponents? school is a lot like the issue of teaching icked by neighboring districts) and we are it’s imperative that every effort is sex education — if more options are working hard to get our message out — made to keep any cuts away from the PAUL K. COUGHLIN available are you more apt to use them? but I also believe we need to work harder. classroom. We need to continue to BUDGET: The state funding formula If an event occurred where force A community commitment to the system actively pursue grants and other fund- for education simply isn’t working at appeared unavoidable, I would rather builds the district. ing sources that are not taken directly any level — K-12, community colleges leave the guns to trained professionals. I In our own homes we need to stress from community members’ pockets. or our universities. Such a major priori- understand that response time is of the responsibility and respect. Discipline SEX EDUCATION: It’s important for ty as education needs to have a fixed, utmost, but an untrained response could shifted from home to school when our the school district to have sex educa- guaranteed commitment. The shock also lead to further tragedy. If we have attitudes at home changed — time to tion in the curriculum. I also believe wave sent through district budgets like proper emergency procedures, which send it back with a more active and that the schools should have an open ours, causing uncertainty in curriculum Waterford has had the foresight to open dialogue with parents. door policy with the parents to view and hiring, has to stop. ensure, the decision of deadly force WHY YOU? I’m a product of Waterford the curriculum and any literature that To ask the state to make a particu- should be left to the police. Schools, Cranbrook Schools, and possess PAGE 44 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 44/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide provide first-hand perspectives of Waterford board their experiences, good or bad, and ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 43 it’s a great way to develop collabora- tive relationships. goes along with it. TOP ISSUES: The curriculum should include both Safe and secure environ- abstinence and other methods of birth ments encourage positive learning control and disease prevention. The experiences. Pressures are great over- curriculum should stress that absti- all for youth and adults, especially in nence is the only sure method to avoid our struggling economy. Regularly pregnancy and remain free from sexu- evaluating the effectiveness of current ally transmitted disease. It should also systems in place is important. Our supply our students with the knowl- community’s diversity continues to edge to make informed decisions. We grow, including 39 different languages being spoken in the Waterford School need to be proactive and realistic when John Himmelspach has served on the Karen M. Laszlo has been a PTA president, a it comes to protecting our children as Waterford Schools Board of Education since classroom mom and coach. She previously District. Increased academic mandates they become young adults. 1992, including as the board's president, vice served as national director of education and required outputs have made it dif- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: As a former president, secretary, and treasurer. He has design for Domino's Pizza, Inc. Laszlo has ficult to create time for focus on posi- school liaison officer, I can say worked at Chrysler Corporation in Security served on the Waterford Foundation Teacher tive social and cultural awareness and Services for the last year, and as a West of the Year Committee, and current co-man- education. Through the coalition, I unequivocally that I’m against any leg- Bloomfield Township police officer from 1977 agers her husband's dental practice. islation that allows school officials to organized and collaborated with the to 2008, retiring as an administrative lieu- district in bringing Rachel’s Challenge carry concealed weapons in school. tenant. Himmelspach was the department's They are not trained in defensive tac- first school liaison officer. He has served an to all seventh through 12th-graders, tics or weapon retention in the event officer of several district PTAs; and was a which focuses on creating kinder, someone tries to disarm them. I’m a founding member of the Waterford Coalition more compassionate, respectful envi- firm believer that the liaison officers for Youth. ronments at school and in the com- need to be kept in the schools. This munity. Expanding on the many isn’t only a benefit to the school but ed from Waterford schools and our two offering educational opportunities for awareness programs currently in place also a benefit to the police to have offi- children currently attend Pierce Middle parents on this subject. In addition we in our schools and searching out addi- cers who are familiar with our kids. School and Schoolcraft Elementary. I can provide an atmosphere in school tional venues for positive results is We won’t make our schools safer by coach our children in various sports and where students feel comfortable in pur- important. Strained relationships exist adding more weapons in the building. I’m a very strong advocate for our com- suing their concerns. Resources are in within the district. I offer trusting, PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: I believe munity. I bring a unique perspective with place in our community which compli- collaborative energy in the issues we the parents in Waterford have the my law enforcement background and ment these support systems. face and am approachable and com- school liaison experience. I have no per- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: It’s critical to place mitted to Waterford. opportunity to get involved in the deci- WHY YOU? sion-making process. There are school sonal agendas and I’m not tied to either emphasis on prevention strategies which I’m the executive director board meetings that are televised and side in bargaining. Most importantly, I educate and equip students, families and of the Waterford Coalition for Youth. open to the public where parents have love our community and care about the community members in reducing the My husband and I have two children in the opportunity to address their con- futures of our children. risks of violence. It’s equally important to Waterford schools. As a 32-year cerns directly to the board. There are HEATHER HALLS review studies and statistics on the effec- Waterford resident and a graduate of meetings with the superintendent that BUDGET: Budgets everywhere are of tiveness and safety in implementing legis- Waterford Mott, I have served in many are also open to the public. critical concern in our country’s econo- lation which allows school staff officials roles on the executive boards and com- I was recently in a meeting that my. Because salaries and benefits are 87 to carry weapons. I’m not convinced that mittees at elementary and middle was open to the public where I, along percent of our district’s total budget, the effectiveness over the risks has been school, in addition to serving on the with numerous other parents, was this is one key area in which to focus. proven. Teachers are in school to teach. Superintendent’s District Advisory able to provide input into the future Re-evaluating day-to-day expenditures is We have resources in place within our Council and Safe Schools Healthy direction of the district. We were another important element for review. school district, including police liaisons Communities $5.7 million Grant asked for positive and negative input What are other districts doing and how and prevention specialists to respond and Advisory Board. My parents are retired and were able to prioritize those ideas can we remain competitive? Our district assist in violence prevention and reduc- educators in the Waterford School as a group. has or may soon be implementing tion. I would prefer to see an increase in District (Spry) and my siblings graduat- TOP ISSUES: First is the safety and changes such as reorganizing trans- the numbers of these resources. State ed from WTI/Waterford Kingsley security of our students and staff. I portation routes, adapting school start lawmakers must go beyond the statistics Montgomery. My involvement and col- intend to be involved with our school times, consolidating printing venues, of school violence and confer with the laborative experience within Waterford liaison officers on a regular basis so and offering all-day kindergarten, for experience and training of law enforce- extends communitywide, including the that I can be aware of the safety con- example. Efforts to increase grant fund- ment and safety professionals before Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce, cerns and other issues in our build- ing would be beneficial. When continuing implementing such legislation. Police Department, Fire Department, ings. I will also push for training for state funding shortfalls already exist, I’m PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: Research Optimist Club, Youth Assistance, our staff to ensure they know how to concerned about the long-term impact of demonstrates that parent involvement in Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy respond to emergencies. the governor’s 21st Century Schools their child’s learning experience is posi- Communities, Waterford New Horizons Second is balancing the budget and Fund. There are many items to consider tively related to the child’s achievement Concert Band, Golden Age Club and remaining fiscally responsible. It’s in balancing and sustaining a budget and — at all ages. Parents frequently step Christmas in Action. I’m committed to more important than ever that we con- it takes the collaborative review of many back from involvement as their children Waterford, to youth and to a positive tinue to make decisions that ensure to be successful in addressing the get older for fear that they “don’t need future for our community. Please visit the survival of our school district. We numerous needs and concerns. them” anymore. Being involved is imper- www.votewaveofthefuture.com. also need to be aware of how our deci- SEX EDUCATION: Sex education is an ative to sustaining success and achieve- JOHN HIMMELSPACH sions affect the community. important topic which I believe should ment, as well as continuing and strength- BUDGET: The Waterford Board of Third is improving the image of the ultimately begin at the family level. Not ening the growth of family relationships. Education has instituted $23 million Waterford School District. The image all families choose to educate their chil- Parents are given many opportunities in budget adjustments over the past and reputation of Waterford schools dren in the same manner, nor at the to participate in the decision-making five years. We have kept the Fund have declined over the years. We have same age. Each child is unique in their process, offer feedback and ideas. Balance at 5.5 to 6 percent. We have a very good staff and student body. We maturity and readiness to handle this Unfortunately, not all take advantage of made budget adjustments without need to get past the tainted test topic. One of the most important things it. I strongly encourage more parents and making more than a half dozen lay- scores that are published in the papers we can do is educate students in the community members to attend PTSA offs. We have reduced administration and showcase the many great oppor- risks associated with sexual activity, meetings, school and community events, by 25 percent; secretaries by 23 per- tunities that exist in our community including pregnancy and disease, as well board meetings and to get involved in cent; custodial/ maintenance by 20 and our schools. as dating safety. We can be proactive in school committees and elections. Talk to percent and transportation by 15 per- WHY YOU? I have resided in Waterford enhancing comfort levels for families to your school’s teachers and administra- cent. For the 2008-09 school year we since the first-grade. My wife graduat- have discussions with their children by tors. Parents have the opportunity to PAGE 45 ❯❯❯❯ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 45/MHW,WAT general election voter guide Waterford board begun last year and continue; however, the amount of parental involvement is ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 44 disappointing and parents must com- have hired over 70 professional mit to investing proactively in these teaching staff, allowing us to keep forums and wisely reacting to con- class sizes the same during these cerns with a willingness to be part of times of budget cuts. We have made the solution. Our children need you $12 million in improvement through every step of the way. the sale of energy bonds without an TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is ensuring funda- increase in taxes. Payments through mentals in math and writing are the savings realized have reduced taught and strategically built upon. energy costs. We have received a $12 Current assessments and aligning of million grant from the Oakland the curriculum must be continued but Schools Special Education Fund to Robin McGregor has served for eight years as Aimee McKeever has been an educator for 23 with more timely, accurate, and correc- renovate our Kingsley Montgomery president of various PTA/PTSA groups. She is years. She currently holds several leadership tive steps along the way. We are on a building. We have also received a chief steward for her union. positions within the local and state union, as good track and must continually tweak $5.7 million dollar federal grant to well as community leadership positions and without reinventing the whole wheel. increase the safety and health of our within the public schools as a parent. No. 2 is increased, timely, and schools. responsive communication at all levels SEX EDUCATION: The health of our requirements outside of the normal four exposed to much more earlier in life; to parents, students, and community children is a vital issue to schools and years of traditional high school. however, their brain development for members, which is vital, as is an our community. Public schools are Third is new trends in education. The processing information is still where it approachable administration to the required to teach a sex education cur- Waterford School District must maintain was for kids many years ago. Therefore, needs and concerns of teachers and riculum that is reviewed by parents of its position as a leader in meeting educa- if sex education is taught in school, it students. Frequency of district and our children. Each family has the tional needs. This means looking beyond should include abstinence and other school newsletters can be increased right to provide alternate sex educa- the traditional brick and mortar of the methods of birth control because clearly with the use of Edline. The accom- tion to their children or work with kindergarten through high school facili- just one or the other isn’t effective plishments of our teachers and stu- the district to insure that their indi- ties that school has been taught in for enough. However, I think the larger dents must be celebrated and shared. vidual child gets the both the knowl- centuries. debate is whether sex education is in the The community must be engaged and edge of preventing unwanted preg- WHY YOU? I was first elected to the curriculum at all. Many families feel this valued. nancies and diseases while maintain- Waterford Board of Education in 1992 is of a highly personal nature and should No. 3 is expectations must be ing their family values. I firmly believe and re-elected in 1996, 2000, and be addressed at home or through the raised and adhered to in academics that the curriculum should include 2004. I have served as the board’s pres- other educational programs readily avail- and citizenship. School administrators abstinence along with birth control ident, vice president, secretary, and able in our community. What I would must be held accountable and take and disease prevention. treasurer, and am currently the board like to see addressed in a class are the pride in the ownership in the continu- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: In 31 years of vice president. I have worked at Chrysler health, well-being, educational, and exer- ous improvement of student achieve- police work, I have been trained in Corporation in Security Services for the cise benefits to proper nutrition and how ment. weapon use and safety. Staff that last year, and as a West Bloomfield to achieve those along with conquering WHY YOU? I have been married for 20 would carry guns would not have the Township police officer from 1977 to the obesity epidemic. years and have three children in hours of training that police go 2008, retiring as an administrative lieu- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: I don’t think it’s a Waterford schools. Volunteer roles through that insures safe and proper tenant. I was the department’s first good idea for school officials to carry include PTA president, chairmanships, discharge, and the safety of school liaison officer. I have served as a concealed weapons. This would result in classroom mom, and coaching, to dis- bystanders is at the forefront of any vice president of the Riverside easier access for a student intending to trictwide initiatives. I’m a previous weapon discharge. This district has Elementary School, Della Lutes do harm to gain access to a weapon. national director of education design maintained a strong police/school liai- Elementary School and Pierce Middle The only school officials carrying a for Domino’s Pizza, Inc., a current son officer program and is instituting School PTAs; and was a founding mem- weapon should be highly trained to do Sprint athlete, serving on the a $5.7 million dollar grant to improve ber of the Waterford Coalition for Youth. so, such as our police liaisons. There are Waterford Foundation Teacher of the the safety of our children. too many emotional and physical stress- Year Committee, and co-managing my Weapons belong in the hands of KAREN M. LASZLO es throughout a school day that could husband’s dental practice. I feel our BUDGET: police professionals, not first-grade Do you cut programs or per- cause a student or teacher to make a District’s glass is half full. However, teachers. sonnel? This can only be adequately momentary error in judgment that would that is not satisfactory. Our kids PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: The addressed when on the “inside” where have lasting catastrophic results due to deserve an excellent education that Waterford School District holds numer- there is access to this information. Once the easy access of a concealed weapon. best prepares them for tomorrow. I’m ous decision-making committees at there, appropriation of funds must be Of much greater value would be an a perpetual student that listens, both the school building level and the looked at objectively to assess what’s increase in the number of effective pro- learns, acts and grows. I have a repu- district level. Parents enjoy participat- working and where to make cuts. Our grams already in place in violence pre- tation for being approachable, trust- ing in these efforts that allow them to district continues to implement budget vention and strategies for dealing with worthy, efficient, and making a posi- be part of educational improvement, reductions including the addition of all- the social and emotional stresses our tive impact. I’m discerning and take budget priorities, and facility use. We day kindergarten, a reduction in weekly children face at home and school. the time to assess and evaluate. Water- have more than doubled our parent/ newsletters, and re-routing of school PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: Parents have ford must build on its strengths, cor- community “feedback” opportunities in bus transportation to include one-way two powerful tools that must be used rect its shortcomings, and continually the past few years. service for sports teams. Grant opportu- wisely: their vote and voice. engage the community for a mutually The school board’s true con- nities must be sought through both the Parents must address educational beneficial and rewarding relationship. stituents are the 11,000 Waterford government and corporate avenues, as concerns and celebrations — often vent- ROBIN McGREGOR children age 1-25 working to obtain must districts of similar demographics ed on the proverbial soccer fields of life BUDGET: First, we need to start look- the best education available. with successful funding programs. — with teachers and principals, continu- ing at the 7 percent annuity that TOP ISSUES: First is budget con- As for state funding, that is one tan- ing on to the district administration and administrators get every year. I believe straints of the state of Michigan, our gled web. The state must carry through board if need be. However, it’s too easy that these should be in line with the parents, and our local businesses. We on its “promised” funding so that schools for parents to give up when they feel raises that all other staff are receiving must continue to find ways to control can plan their budgets. The state needs they aren’t being heard. Parents need to rather than a raise just because. costs and find alternative funding to listen to educators currently in the field support one another in PTA meetings Additionally, we need to keep look- sources. for both funding needs and the education- and to attend board meetings to really ing for ways to bring money into our Second is high school graduation al requirements necessary to keep up with discover what is happening and affect district. There are many grants and requirements. Our students face the this global economy. change. Additionally, the board and company sponsorships available. For toughest graduation requirements in SEX EDUCATION: You often hear how administration must provide both a instance, Waterford just received a the country. We must work to find kids today are growing up too fast. This forum and approachable demeanor to grant that is worth almost $6 million. options for students to meet these is only part of the equation: Children are welcome these voices. Forums were PAGE 46 ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 46/MHW,WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY general election voter guide Waterford board consolidating wherever possible. We have kept the reductions as far from ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 45 the classroom and our students as Finally, I believe that there are possible. changes that need to be made at the I would like to see the state realize state level, in terms of budgeting. The that if our schools were better funded state should allocate money and keep the prison system would need less this budget for an entire year. Over the funding. Currently prisoners are funded past few years, many cut backs have at twice the level our students are. Are been made at multiple times during the they being rehabilitated? Would they be school year, thereby stopping schools prisoners if they were given the best from planning a solid budget. education possible? I think not. SEX EDUCATION: SEX EDUCATION: I believe parents Sex education Virginia Poehlman has served on the Joan Sutherland has served as secretary and starts at home and it should be a Waterford Schools Board of Education since vice president of the Waterford Mott PTSO, should be allowed to review the sex family decision. Currently, the state 1991, and is the board's current treasurer. She and is a founding member and sponsor of the education curriculum and make the sets its own benchmarks for sex edu- is the owner and CEO of Troy Freight Waterford Mott Junior Optimist Club. She has decision on whether their student cation. Under these rules, if a parent Expediting LLC. She is a member of several over 20 years of leadership experience in should attend the class. I believe the decides that he or she doesn’t want state and national school board associations, business, including roles as a supervisor and school should teach abstinence but and several community-based organizations. department manager, college instructor, cor- give options if abstinence is not cho- his or her children exposed to this porate trainer, systems and business analyst. information, then he or she can sen. Schools are not a moral compass, request that they not participate. This but the vehicle that delivers informa- system allows each student and their we can show colleges that our students what is constituted as an event when tion. It’s the family’s job to set bound- family the opportunity for open dis- are prepared while helping our students weapons need to be drawn? We are edu- aries and values for their children. cussion without imposing on personal to have the best possible opportunities. cators educating and reinforcing actions GUNS IN SCHOOLS: This needs more views. As a result, this provides the Finally, to improve the environments of and behaviors of right and wrong on a open discussion to weigh the pros most flexibility and options for each our schools, we will need to remove mold daily basis. We are not law enforcement and cons. Initially I feel if an individual individual and family. and allergens which bother both students officers trained to handle volatile situa- is well-trained, and certified, they GUNS IN SCHOOLS: I don’t think that and staff members and stop them from tions with guns. should be allowed to carry. In this day PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: allowing staff members to carry con- doing what they are in school for. Parents are and age there are too many incidents WHY YOU? cealed weapons is the answer to the Voters should vote for me given ample opportunities to be involved with students and teachers being held violence that we have seen in schools. because I care about our schools, stu- in the decision-making processes in this hostage, when a trained, certified per- Waterford has had a very good safety dents, and staff members. I have always district. There are several organizations son could diffuse the situation, and record. Bringing weapons into our been a part of Waterford Schools and and committees within the schools, as save lives. classrooms could provide more oppor- still am today. Through my involvement, well as opportunities to meet one-on-one The answer is in the police liaison tunity for future violent acts to occur. I have proven myself. People know me as with administrators and staff, with the program which we just bolstered dur- PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: The someone who always follows through ultimate involvement being at the school ing my tenure. school board’s constituents consist of and does what I say I am going to do. board level, serving its constituents of PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: The dis- the entire community, from senior citi- Moreover, I believe that education is the community members, parents and stu- trict continually gives parents oppor- zens to the single person without key to our community. Without good dents. Community members and parents tunities to be involved in the decision- children, to parents whose children schools our community can’t flourish. just have to choose to be active and making process. Currently we are After all, our legacy to our children is involved. holding “stakeholder” meetings have graduated and families with chil- TOP ISSUES: dren that are still in school. their education and that legacy depends The most important issue involving every group that touches the Therefore, every parent and communi- on the decisions that we make today. is to settle all contracts with all units in Waterford School District to align the ty member has the opportunity to be AIMEE McKEEVER the district. Within my 23 years as an goals and mission of the district. This involved in the school system and/or BUDGET: She state needs to re-examine educator I have served on negotiating was first done 17 years ago. We their children’s education. It depends the formula used to fund public schools. teams and feel I bring vital experience to involve parents as much as possible in on each individual’s personal level of Most schools, if not all, will never be the table. Secondly, the communication the decision-making process. For involvement. For instance, I have been able to adequately fund their districts between employer and employees should example, when a student applies for and am very involved in the Waterford with the present system. Secondly, in this be improved upon, making sure all par- readmission to our schools following School District. Before my children county we need to examine the large fund ties receive information in a respectful an expulsion, a parent is on the com- and timely manner. mittee that makes the decision. We graduated from the Waterford school balance at the Oakland Intermediate WHY YOU? system I worked full-time, contributed School District. With local districts in such I have been an educator for couldn’t begin to serve this communi- to my community, and still played an dire straits we should be able to get more the past 23 years. I have worked at all ty half as well without our parents. active role in the Waterford School financial assistance from the ISD. School grade levels and in many areas of special We have PTSA’s in every building plus District. In fact, I even helped to cre- districts are not for-profit, we should be education. I have and currently hold sev- the District Advisory Council which ate changes and bring programs to spending some of the money if we have it. eral leadership positions within the local includes a parent and meets with the our district. Now that my children Locally, I believe the district should re- and state union, as well as community superintendent and a board represen- have graduated, I’m still involved with examine the budget spending, making leadership positions and within the pub- tative throughout the year. lic schools as a parent. I have a daughter the school district. I’m even a parent sure cuts are not in the areas that directly TOP ISSUES: My top three issues are currently attending Kettering High advisor for Kettering’s Interact group affect children. a safe and secure environment for School which encourages me to be apart (a student community service group). SEX EDUCATION: (This) has been and staff and students; a fair contract, of the decision-making/input part of the TOP ISSUES: The three most impor- probably will continue to be a debatable also keeping the environment for our school community. I feel my past and tant issues are settling the staff’s issue. That’s why it’s very important to staff free from stress and unrest by present experience in public education contract, improving our school dis- have the parent/community input on providing good fiscal management of demonstrates a commitment to serve on trict’s college rankings, and improving these issues. Advisory committees are the resources available to the district; the Board of Education and the the building environments in our always reviewing the curriculums and and future tough decisions in Waterford School District. schools. We need to consider that making changes as society changes with Waterford coming with the never-end- before our teachers and staff mem- the times. What the curriculum covers is VIRGINIA POEHLMAN ing funding questions, as well as bers can teach our students to the important and should be followed up BUDGET: Waterford has been aggres- jumping the No Child Left Behind and best of their abilities, it’s important with parental support/communication at sively seeking ways to cut costs while Michigan Yes hurdles being thrown at for them to know where they stand home. still providing full programs for the stu- us by the state and federal govern- and have some sort of stability. GUNS IN SCHOOLS: Absolutely not. dents we serve. We have closed build- ments. We have to find a way to com- Furthermore, for our students to Guns have no business in the school ings; we centralize services and collabo- ply with guidelines while best serving move forward with the challenges environment. Who would decide on the rate with the township and the county our students and employees. I intend that they are facing today, they need officials that would carry these guns? whenever possible so that tax dollars are to be sure the voice of Waterford is to be prepared. By communicating the Who makes the decision when to use not spent twice. I’m proud of the system heard loud and strong at state and positive aspects of our school district the gun? Who makes the decision as to we have of constantly monitoring and PAGE 47 ❯❯❯❯ OCTOBER 22-28, 2008 www.spinalcolumnonline.com PAGE 47/MHW,WAT general election voter guide

state level, I would like to see school who are trained to handle a weapon, as every classroom and school, compro- Waterford board funding changes which would hold firm well as being trained to handle the ensu- mises standardized test scores and ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 46 the communicated foundation allowance. ing ramification. diminishes our sense of community. national levels to cease picking on The state shouldn’t be permitted to PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT: Parental Waterford is a dynamic and diverse public schools and start working reduce the foundation allowance or cate- Involvement is paramount to the success community. By building on these together with them. goricals after the money has been bud- of a child, as well as to the success of strengths and creating synergy WHY YOU? I have served this commu- geted by school districts, and in some our schools and community. Parents between the community and the nity well over the past 17 years while cases, after it has already been spent. should be encouraged to participate in all schools, we can expand educational building excellent facilities, combined SEX EDUCATION: Sex education is an levels of their child’s education, serving opportunities to ensure that all stu- with good fiscal management. Hard integral part of a student’s education and as advocates for their educational oppor- dents are challenged and engaged in decisions had to be made to maintain is best taught at home. However, there tunities and experiences. Further, the learning process. fiscal responsibility to keep from laying are a significant number of students who parental feedback to the school board WHY YOU? I’m an enthusiastic advo- people off, or initiating programs or never receive this very important infor- (positive and negative) is a necessary cate for public schools and care deeply policies like pay to play. I’m approach- mation that could save their lives. part of the democratic process. School about the Waterford community, able to parents, students and the Therefore, I believe that sex education boards are representatives from the schools, and most importantly, our community and am available to help should be taught in the schools utilizing community at large, and have the pro- youth. I attended Waterford schools K- them solve a problem they may have a concise, factual and medical approach. found privilege of representing the best 12, and graduated from Waterford within the district. I care deeply about The current and future health of our stu- interest of the students, parents, staff, Mott High School. My husband and I our schools and the students we dents is dependent on them being armed administration and community members. have four children, two of whom serve. I believe in public education and with the necessary information to make All are stakeholders in the educational recently graduated from Waterford I have worked hard to see us get to mature and informed decisions, and to process with varying perspectives that schools and attend college, and the where we are today. I will continue to understand the physical, social and emo- must be heard and represented. younger two who currently attend work to see us improve even more. tional impacts. The risks are far greater TOP ISSUES: Waterford has outstanding Waterford schools. I have been privi- than in generations past, and disease students, parents, teachers, administra- leged to serve as the Waterford Mott JOAN SUTHERLAND prevention should be paramount. The tors, staff and facilities. However, the PTSO secretary and vice president, and BUDGET: In the Waterford School education program should be formulated perception of those in and around am the founder/sponsor of the District, the salaries and benefits of with parental input, and include discus- Waterford is often negative. This needs Waterford Mott Junior Optimist Club. I staff, teachers and administrators rep- sion points which are required of the stu- to change, and requires a positive have been actively involved in school resents almost 87 percent of district dent to solicit the opinions, views, and approach with improved communication sports, choir, orchestra, scouts, the- expenditures. This is consistent with values of their family members. and community involvement. I would like ater and PTA, holding offices and most organizations in the service sec- GUNS IN SCHOOLS: I don’t believe that to implement a community website that chairing numerous events for the past tor throughout the nation. school officials should carry guns while in connects our schools and community 17 years. I have over 20 years of lead- Benchmarking should occur to ensure school buildings. While I recognize that organizations to all parents and commu- ership experience in business, includ- that the costs associated with admin- legislators are looking for ways to keep nity members. In addition, standardized ing roles as a supervisor and depart- istration, including contracted admin- students safe, allowing school officials to test scores need to improve, which ment manager, college instructor, cor- istrative positions, are also consistent. carry a gun in school would be an escala- requires a strategic targeted and data- porate trainer, systems and business I would pursue revenue increases tion of the violence. Schools should be driven approach. We are losing students analyst. I hold a master’s of business through a targeted and comprehensive free from violence and threats, and there to neighboring districts and private administration degree with a concen- approach to grant writing. At the are community officials and police officers schools, which affects the dynamics in tration in finance. ❏

that votes without reason. I question contract term should be two years expand effective processes and change Huron Valley board things that I feel are not right for the instead of three years in length, regard- or eliminate ineffective ones. This ❯❯❯❯ PAGE 42 students. The district would benefit with less of the person in the position of includes talking with staff and making and kept out of the children’s reach. more parents doing that. superintendent. sure the best practices are shared GUNS IN SCHOOLS: TOP ISSUES: No. 1 is overcrowding This is a topic that across the district. CHARLES DITTMAR requires further discussion and study. On No. 3 — Monitor the building uti- in a couple of our elementary schools. BUDGET: I believe that the district the surface I can see the potential deter- lization/transition process. I want to I would like to see equal numbers in needs to continue the process of finding rence effect of an evil person not know- ensure that transition runs smoothly all our schools. Otherwise we will be cost efficiencies in the budget by review- ing whether the first adult they come in and student achievement is monitored. going though another Apollo situation ing and improving management process- contact with when entering the school is I will work with the administration, in a few years. es, evaluating energy costs, and looking armed or not. However, I can also under- staff, parents, and other board mem- No. 2 is keeping the open enroll- for savings in benefit costs while main- stand that the numbers of armed staff in bers to follow these students’ ment, Schools of Choice and year- taining benefit levels. On the revenue the building would be low and the progress and address issues that round programs going. Again, equal side, I would like to see us maximize the chances are small that the armed staff arise. numbers in the schools help to utilization of the pools, fitness centers would meet the criminal. There are also WHY YOU? I believe I should be re- ensure this. Right now there are at and field houses at both high schools, issues of training and liability to consid- elected to another term on the school least two schools that aren’t open to and to look into having various depart- er, which should not stop the debate but board because I have worked over the enrollment, and if out-of-district par- ments (such as the technology or food be included in it so the Legislature can past four years to keep the district’s ents want their children to attend service) providing services for a fee to craft a good law and districts can have focus on our students, especially those these schools they would be turned outside organizations. adequate guidance from the state on who are struggling to succeed at every away. That isn’t acceptable in this day On the state level, growing the econ- implementation. level. With even tougher financial and age. omy within the state is the best way to TOP ISSUES: Along with providing a times ahead as a result of the funding WHY YOU? I would like to see the get additional funding for schools with- quality education for all students, my approach by the state, I will continue schools equaled out. We are a large out cannibalizing other state services. I top personal priorities are: to provide valuable input into the over- district with lots of space to redis- would also like to see legislation pass to No. 1 — Increase achievement for sight of the district by bringing my trict. I feel that with the classrooms expand uses for building and site sinking “at-risk” students. I will continue to education, work experience, and expe- overcrowded the students are losing. fund revenues. work with district staff and administra- rience as a small-business owner to We need to reduce the class size to SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT: I sup- tion to meet the needs of under-per- the table in subcommittee work and in ensure that each student has a port the practice of annually extending forming students to enhance their individual meetings with staff and chance to be the best that they can the superintendent’s contract by a year achievement. Helping these students administration. I have the skills as an be. This would also help to grow the because it provides a level of certainty to increase their knowledge and skills is out-of-the-box, analytical thinker with school district to enable more of the the district and to the superintendent in not only what is right for them but is in an inquisitive mind and a collaborative Schools of Choice and the open enroll- terms of continued leadership for a job the best interest of our community. approach, but that is not afraid to ask ment students to go to the schools well done. That being said, in order to No. 2 — Continue process improve- the tough questions of administration. that they want and are available to help minimize the exposure for the dis- ments. I will continue to ensure the If re-elected I will continue my work on take them. I’m not the kind of person trict, my personal opinion is that the administration works to identify and the board in this same manner. ❏ PAGE 48/MHW/WAT www.spinalcolumnonline.com SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY