LWVKA 2008 Kalamazoo County Commission

Republican. Age 23. Full time student, WMU. Computer information systems major with a business minor. Programs Vice-Chairman, WMU College Republicans.

1. I would like to see the Kalamazoo County government become an economically booming area. Kalamazoo County would be a place where businesses from all over the world would want to come to. Taxes should be low and the budget should be effectively allocated. I would like the people to fully support their elected officials and feel like they have been given fair representation.

2. I would like to cut down on wasteful spending. I believe that the best way to help the economy here is to have low taxes. The current trend for Kalamazoo County is to raise taxes year after year. It is unfair to have people shell out their hard-earned cash at a time when the economy is doing so poorly both locally and nationally. One specific thing I would like to cut completely is the elimination of Kalamazoo Metro Transportation. Currently services are only offered to Kalamazoo and Portage, but the entire county has to pay for it.

3. I would like to bring some fresh ideas to the county. As a student at Western Michigan University, I understand the concerns of my peers and would make sure that their voice is heard. The county has been raising taxes for too long and I want to step in to do something about it.

Jack Urban

Democrat. Kalamazoo County Commissioner. B.S.Ch.E, Lehigh U, 1963; Ph.D., U of Maryland, 1967. Resident of Kalamazoo, 41 yrs. Chemical engineer and production manager, the Upjohn (Pharmacia) Company, 30 yrs. Part-time chemistry instructor, KVCC, 5 yrs. Founding member, Kalamazoo County Transportation Authority (1-yr term); member, then chair, Kalamazoo City Zoning Board of Appeals (approx. 2 yrs); formerly treasurer and task force co-chair, ISAAC (Interfaith Strategy for Advocacy and Action in the Community). jackurb@mac.com

1. In 20 years I see Kalamazoo County functioning effectively as a single metropolitan area with mutually enhancing urban, suburban and rural parts, all prospering on the realization that a well-educated workforce is a great resource that attracts and holds our population. To realize that vision, the county, through its mandate to promote public health and to administer the criminal justice system, should provide the infrastructure for delivering quality preschool care, promoting public safety and alleviating the conditions that prevent people from reaching their productive and fulfilling potential. The County Commission should provide discipline and focus for meeting objectives in these areas, and to further them, act to promote collaborations and partnerships with other governmental entities, non-profits and the business sector.

2. I would take the number of County Commissioner districts down from 17 to 9. The new districts should be wedge-shaped, all having urban, suburban and rural components, each having no extensive boundary that parallels existing jurisdictional boundaries. This action would have the demographic, political and symbolic effect of helping the voters and their representatives understand that we prosper or decay as One Community. The present 17-member commission is an artifact of the last redistricting process, one that was driven strongly by partisan considerations. And as such, it has not been nearly as effective is it might have been.

3. My talents and skills lie in the realm of ideas and concepts. I am able to combine, shape and order ideas gained from others to create formulations that have broader appeal or at least fewer objections than if they stood separately. I am analytical, and enjoy gathering, studying and presenting quantitative data, drawing conclusions from them and communicating information to others. I can relate to others’ premises and point of view . . . .

District 2
Kalamazoo City [precincts 7, 8, 9, 11, 27]

Carolyn G. Alford

Democrat. Age 58. KVCC, Payroll Specialist, 17 yrs. B.A., public service administration, Siena Heights U; A.D., business administration, KVCC. Incumbent Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 2; member of Galilee Baptist Church, past employment at the Family Health Center, Finance Department, 16 yrs; Kalamazoo School Board Trustee, 16 yrs. I have had the wonderful privilege to serve in many leadership roles on numerous boards and committees in the Kalamazoo area.

1. I envision Kalamazoo County having a strong economic base that is second to none. A strong economic base depends on a strong people base. Economic empowerment comes by putting people first. We know investing in people yields exceptional returns. It is imperative that the county takes the leadership role to ensure that people are trained and prepared to enter the workplace. The County Commission has a unique ability to bring all stakeholders to the table to set a common vision and to address our many challenges.

2. I view the county as one government and one community. It is my desire to continue to work diligently toward this goal. To attain this goal will require much dialogue.

3. Faith, hope, trust, integrity, accountability, respect and a servant leader are a way of life for me. These talents and skills have provided numerous rewarding opportunities to work with a variety of people with different backgrounds and experiences in a most positive manner. Anyone who knows me would say that I am a team builder, problem solver, flexible, compassionate, sincere and provide a unique viewpoint.

District 3
Kalamazoo City [precincts 1, 3, 13, 14, 23]; Kalamazoo Township [precinct 11]

Robert M. Barnard

Democrat. Age 42. Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 3. Independent Licensed Contractor; Certified Green Professional. Lakeview H.S. graduate; aviation engineering, minor in business management, WMU. Community Builders graduate. Current Boards and Committees: Kalamazoo County Public Housing Commission, Kalamazoo County Parks Commission, Edison Business Association, Brownfield Redevelopment and Economic Development. Previous: Edison Neighborhood Association, Board President and Treasurer; Edison Weed and Seed, Steering Committee Member, Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services, Building Blocks of Kalamazoo Site Supervisor (7 yrs), Additional Edison community activities. . . .

1. Kalamazoo County has all of the elements necessary to become an economic model for the State of Michigan. The County Commission needs to pursue as many leads as possible to procure new employment opportunities for all levels of educational experience. Through the use of Brownfield Redevelopments and cooperative efforts with other local municipalities, we can guide the reuse of underdeveloped and underutilized facilities to preserve our farmlands and green spaces. We must all strive to move forward in a stagnant economic environment; by doing so, we can continue to progress ahead of the curve for all of our citizens.

2. The county needs to focus its efforts on becoming more effective at collaborating. More effort needs to be made to eliminate duplication of services. To have this happen, all municipalities need to be at the table, partnering with each other and keeping the lines of communication open. County resources must be used as a tool to leverage other resources that will improve all areas for a healthy, thriving community.

3. Having worked at the grassroots level of community development for several years as a neighborhood leader, I am accustomed to working with diverse groups of people to develop a cohesive plan with obtainable goals. As a small business owner, I understand how tough it is to make a living in today’s economy. It is important that we focus our efforts on encouraging new businesses to stay and expand in Kalamazoo, while supporting the survival of our established businesses.

District 4
Kalamazoo City [precincts 4, 5, 12, 22, 26]

Cassandra Basore
Did not respond in time for publication.

John Patrick Taylor

Democrat. Age 29. Public servant, landlord, investor. Psychology, WMU.

1. I envision Kalamazoo County to be a community growing economically with a high quality of life. As county commissioners, we need to maintain our county parks and provide means to those in poverty to assist them in becoming self-sufficient. We also need to take advantage of the tremendous opportunity the Kalamazoo Promise affords us, by providing our youth with opportunities to become active members in our community. Organizations like 4-H help to build personal responsibility in the younger members of our community.

2. We need to find more ways for citizens to get involved with county government. We need to be more active in recruiting citizens to take part in advisory boards and councils

3. I have served as County Commissioner for 6 years and have fostered positive working relationships with members on both sides of the aisle. I also have experience in the inner workings of county government.

District 5
Kalamazoo City [precinct 6];
Kalamazoo Township [precincts 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 15];
Oshtemo Township [precinct 6]

Kimberly Suchyta

Republican. Age 21. Retail Sales Representative, T-Mobile. Full-time student, general science, WMU, senior year. H.S. graduate. At WMU, I served as a Student Senator in the WSA and was the Campus Concerns Chair, a position that handled environmental concerns on campus, on the WSA cabinet, 1 year.

1. In 20 years Kalamazoo County should be expanding economically, while adding jobs in lucrative fields such as health care, alternative energy research, and biomedical research. Kalamazoo County should also strive for a “AAA Bond Rating.” As a county we should also promote for greater cultural unity.

2. Only a few changes need to be made to the county structure of government. First, I would look into privatizing the bus system, K-Metro. I would also support renovation of current jail facilities, without raising taxes. Finally, I would do away with the ability of appointed boards to propose millages.

3. While at Western Michigan University, I was the Campus Concerns Chair where I handled environmental issues on campus, as well as corresponding with WSDP. I also bring a unique perspective since I am a working student with new ideas for Kalamazoo County.

Brian Johnson

Democrat. Age 57. Consultant, B R Johnson Corp. County Commissioner, 6 terms; CEO, B R Johnson Corp, 8 yrs; legislative staff for Michigan House, 10 yrs; Lansing consumer advocate, 2 yrs; insurance and investment business, 7 yrs.

1. Kalamazoo County should grow into a stronger university community with more graduate programs, more high-tech employers and jobs, more redevelopment of the urban core, and reduced poverty. We commissioners can help our community realize that vision with continue support of economic development initiatives, brownfield redevelopment, more effective prevention and treatment programs, better law enforcement and poverty reduction. The Board of Commissioners must provide the leadership that brings local jurisdictions, school districts and other community partners together to realize a sense of community and cooperative problem solving. Our children are our future, and Kalamazoo County government plays a key role in helping them become productive members of society.

2. For the most part, the structure of county government is defined and limited by state law. The barriers to Kalamazoo County government’s effectiveness are directly related to lack of resources, primarily due to loss of revenue sharing from the state. One option that we commissioners do have that should be explored is to create a public defender’s office similar to Washtenaw County since 1971 or more recently Kent County. At the present time, the court appoints attorneys to represent the accused when they cannot afford them. Evidence suggests that the present system is not working properly.

3. I have a strong financial background with the ability to analyze budgets, pensions and employee benefits. I have a strong institutional memory, having served two tenures (1986–1992, 2003–present) as a County Commissioner as well as ten years experience on legislative staff. My 22 years of government experience combined with my service on numerous local and statewide boards and committees provides a solid toolkit for solving problems in Kalamazoo County.

District 6
Kalamazoo City [precinct 10];
Kalamazoo Township [precincts 1, 2, 9, 10, 13, 14]

Franklin C. Thompson

Democrat. Age 82. Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 6. Plainwell H.S. graduate, 1943. Short courses at Kalamazoo College, WMU, MSU, Northwestern U, Oakland Community College. U.S. Navy, 1944-47. Police officer, Kalamazoo City, 25 yrs, until 1973.

1. To be a leader for southwestern Michigan. To establish a county land use plan. To work with all other units of government. Establish and build a regional jail; could build on northwest area, Checker Motors and Eaton property. Build BL 131 through area and return Kalamazoo city one-way streets back to two-way. Work to get people to move back into the city. More jobs for youth, etc. Additional suggestions: (a) That county administration improve ways on how elected officials can get better acquainted with each other. (b) Improve on informing the public and citizens on what the county is working on, not hidden surprises which makes the public lose faith in the system. Example: When voters turned down needed millage for the law enforcement, new jail, etc.

2. (a) Establish a public defender’s office to save money and give the defendants a better chance in court. (b) Re-establish the committees; go back to the system in 1979 and 1980; have just four. (c) Presently the committee of the whole takes too much time. (d) Establish an employee suggestion plan. How to improve services and save monies. (e) Establish a merit plan for employees.

3. Born and raised in this area. Worked on farms as a youth. Worked at Sutherland Paper Co. Worked at Checker Motors. I’m an extrovert and can talk with anyone, can listen to citizens’ concerns and follow through on complaints, etc. Can work with other people and elected officials.

District 7
Kalamazoo City [precincts 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]

David Buskirk

Democrat. Electrician, Project Manager, Executive Vice President of major electrical firm in Kalamazoo County. High school graduate, some college, 4 yrs trade school. Member IBEW local 131, 35 yrs; past President. County Commissioner, 7 terms; Vice-Chair, 1 term; Chairman, 3 terms.

1. To continue to be a place where people chose to live because of our values and quality of life here. Through support of neighborhoods, family, economic development, education and job development, we can and will continue to grow into a community that our children and their children will continue to call home.

2. While each of the 17 County Board members are fine people and great representatives, the number is sometimes more often than not unwieldy. The board should be reduced to seven or nine members at our next reapportionment.

3. My commitment to bi-partisan decisions, and my 14 years on the County Board, serving as vice-chair and current chair have taught me that this is about representation of the people. I strive to include all in our decision-making process and always look for consensus.

District 8
Portage City [precincts 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 13, 17]

John W. Zull

Republican. Age 67. Retired educator, PPSD. B.A., M.A., political science, WMU. Taught government classes for 37 yrs in high school; always taught a unit on all local governments. Appointed to several local advisory boards, including the Planning Commission of the city. Portage City Councilman, 13 yrs; presently serving 8 yrs as County Commissioner. Helped bring back the 4th of July fireworks in Portage as a Portage Rotary Club member. Presently serving on the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission Board.

1. Wow, this is hard to predict, of course. However, I would hope that WMU would have become an equal with the big three universities with a medical school. That our economic base would by then include many start up medical and otherwise high tech companies. I’m sure we will see some employers leave the area (perhaps Pfizer will have no presence or a much smaller one in Kalamazoo County). We must by then have a state of the art jail and be known across the nation for our restorative justice programs. As County Commissioner I can tell you we dream big and have been responsible for partnering with Southwest Michigan First to grow our potential for development with the Innovation Center on Western’s campus and MidLink industrial park. . . .

2. I would reduce the elected administrators to only the Judges, and the Prosecutor. All others would be appointed by the County Administrator, as such positions are always appointed in other local governments, such as cities. I would keep an elected County Board who appoints a County Administrator. Not that our elected administrators are not highly qualified public servants who work well together with the BOC; but if you look generally at county governments this practice of too many chiefs and too few Indians (so to speak) makes for less unity and more infighting and even unqualified public servants.

3. I refer you to my background and experience.

Alan Sprague

Democrat. Age 61. President, Teamsters Local 164. Gull Lake H.S. graduate; trained at KVCC, MSU. Have worked as a mechanic and truck driver, and now work with 33 companies on contracts, arbitrating grievances, and ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements. I’m accountable for all the books, and supervising the staff, just like a business, and I have to answer to an executive board as well. Website: http://www.spragueforkalamazoo.com.

1. The commission should be working cooperatively for the best interests of all, including attention paid to clean air and water, accessible public services, and a leadership body of a reasonable size, focused on fiscal responsibility. Those who have been blessed by the Kalamazoo Promise should return here to invest their education in the community. I’d like to see partnerships between our colleges and the county to better prepare kids for college. We also need to build awareness that the Promise supports vocational education. College isn’t for everyone, and excellent, well-paying careers are available in the building trades, which help build the infrastructure of our county. The building trades should be more involved in the schools to let students know about those career paths.

2. Our last redistricting led to an increase in payroll of nearly $100,000 to pay eight more commissioners. We have one of the largest boards in the state at 17, and that’s just irresponsible. I will work toward being positioned to respond to the redistricting that will follow the 2010 Census, and reduce the body to a more reasonable and efficient size. Partnerships will be vital in meeting the challenges of the future. The “this is mine, not yours” attitude, and our culture of partisanship and personalities is highly divisive, and serves no one.

3. In representing 33 companies of diverse industries in my present job, I have to be intimately acquainted with operations of each and every company—from bakeries to nursing homes. My skills and accountability are at work each day in the areas of negotiation, staff supervision, problem solving, budgeting, compliance, bookkeeping, and knowledge of pension and health care plans. I am elected to serve in this position, and my ongoing re-election attests to my success in these areas.

District 9
Kalamazoo City [precinct 25];
Portage City [precincts 7, 8, 11, 15, 20]

Nasim H. Ansari

Republican. Age 61. Instructor/Consultant. Master’s degrees in chemistry and business administration. Portage resident, 31 yrs. Kalamazoo County Commissioner. Portage City Councilman. Local Emergency Planning Committee; local government employee. Kalamazoo County Environmental Health Advisory Council. Portage Lions Club; Portage Groundwater Commission. Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau Board of Directors. Local Development Finance Authority. Vice-Chair, Inter-governmental Cooperation Committee. Appointment Committee, Aeronautics Board. Married, four children.

1. I picture an improvement in the health and quality of life of our community. I see a healthy, vibrant local economy that is diverse and innovative and one that attracts and maintains a highly educated and skilled workforce. I would like county residents to always feel safe and secure in their homes and as they travel throughout the County. I will promote policies that retain existing and attract new businesses to the County. Favorable taxes, skilled workforce and necessary infrastructure—plus good transportation, water and sewer would be incentives to prospective investors and contribute to the growth and retention of existing businesses. I will make sure that revenues are used as efficiently and effectively as possible.

2. (a) Now that the Office of Drain Commission is assisted by a Deputy, I feel we would benefit from its soil conservation side being reverted back to the Drain Office. The Drain Commissioner should be appointed based on his or her qualifications and experience rather than solely on the basis of an election. (b) Encourage more intergovernmental cooperation to achieve economies of scale through a cooperative consolidation of governmental purchasing and service provision where feasible. Also, the Planner’s Office, having jurisdiction over GIS, could be a one-stop shop to help in locating information and maps necessary for development purposes.

3. Experience on the Kalamazoo County Commission, Portage City Council and various county and city boards are an asset to the County Board. As a retired local government employee, a small business owner and an adjunct professor, I am fortunate to have the leadership, administrative and personal relations skills needed to serve on the Board. I am compassionate and a good listener, continuing to serve the County with the integrity, pride and leadership it deserves.

E. Dorphine Payne

Democrat. Age 61. Attorney at law. B.S., Spring Arbor College; J.D., Notre Dame Law School. Law practice includes criminal, family, juvenile and probate law. Prior work experience comprises: WMU Student Affairs and the Division of Minority Affairs; IBM; and Director of the Center for Leadership Options for Community Kids (C.L.O.C.K.), an award-winning juvenile diversion program. Also served on Lakeside Home for Boys and Girls, Board of Directors. Married, three children and six grandchildren.

1. A fully employed, educated workforce with safe streets and thriving green neighborhoods. A legal system that works for all of its citizens; and a community that is environmentally conscious and energy independent. To accomplish this, the County can begin now to establish a county wide strategy to become energy independent; continue to explore and expand entrepreneur opportunities and attract businesses to the community that are willing to remove the barriers to employing our citizens.

2. Establish a Public Defenders Office to operate independent of the Circuit Court. Currently the indigent defense budget is included in the County Court budget. Judges allocate funding and determine criteria for hiring attorneys. As the County Prosecutor has sole responsibility for his office, indigent defense decisions should reside in an office with the singular purpose of providing all citizens their constitutional right to a vigorous defense. Many existing problems of indigent defendants could be alleviated. County dollars paid to attorneys would remain in the County and the attorneys would be readily available to their clients.

3. I have a legal mind and common sense. As an attorney I have daily contact with constituents, providing me the unique opportunity of hearing the needs of citizens from myriad circumstances and socio-economic levels: those facing criminal trials, those who are probating the will of a loved one; or those ensuring their financial future by establishing a trust. I fight for them as I will vigorously advocate for the citizens in the 9th District.

District 10
Portage City [precincts 1, 9, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21]

James Graham

Republican. Age 44. Business owner. Law enforcement degree. Former Portage City Councilmember; Mayor Pro Tempore and Mayor. I was born and raised in Portage. I am proud to have raised my two children with my wife, Brenda, of 24 yrs in a wonderful community with outstanding public schools. I am a local business owner of Crossroads Expert Auto Service and Graham’s Towing.

1. I see Kalamazoo County reshaping itself and diversifying its job and tax base after the loss of the Upjohn Company. This experience has been painful for the community but we have responded well and will continue to respond well by bringing in new employers and increasing our educational opportunities. The County Commission needs to be a catalyst to bring the various municipalities together to better serve the respective constituents.

2. The County Board of Commissioners needs to be reduced in size to nine commissioners after the next census. Services and facilities need to be significantly consolidated to reduce expenses and to improve service. Currently, Kalamazoo County government utilizes too many buildings and expensive redundancies exist.

3. I have significant experience in business as well as local government having served in a progressive city. During my term as Mayor I was successful in creating new jobs, tax base, infrastructure improvements and quality of life improvements. I have the ability to communicate in a straightforward way and I avoid being “political.” I have always attempted to work for substantive change and I am results oriented.

Michael Quinn

Democrat. Age 61. Statistician, Summit Polymers, R&D and Engineering. B.A., applied mathematics, WMU, 1991; M.S., applied statistics, WMU, 1998. Veteran, U.S. Marine Corps, Sergeant, active 1966–69, served 1 tour in Viet Nam. Peace Corps Volunteer, Nicaragua, 1975–77, communications systems advisor for a reforestation project. Owner (with my wife) of Shamrock Montessori Center. Member: St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Southern Michigan Gun Club, Irish-American Club of Kalamazoo, and the American Statistical Association.

1. Environmental contamination in the creeks and river will be cleaned up, the site of Allied Paper will have been bioremediated and turned into a public park. A Local First movement will have supported a great variety of homegrown and locally-owned independent enterprises that are a pillar of the county economy. Mass transit is greatly expanded, nearly free and widely used. With the Kalamazoo Promise, a clean, friendly, and interesting environment, companies with high-paying, high-tech jobs are clamoring to relocate here. The commission can put more energy into healing the land and water, contribute a larger share to mass transit, give more help to local entrepreneurs.

2. The 17 commission districts were drawn by 4 Republicans and 1 Democrat to ensure Republican control of the commission. The gerrymandering is obvious, and does not serve the people well. Eleven districts would be plenty, and they should be redrawn by disinterested parties, even if we have to hire them from Finland and Costa Rica. The districts should be drawn to be competitive, and as geographically convex as possible. (My district looks on the map like a jigsaw puzzle piece!)

3. [Did not reply to this question.]

District 11
Portage City [precinct 10];
Texas Township [precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]

Grady G. Biby

Republican. Age 68. Production Manager, Allen Edwin Homes. Co-owner, Custom Surfacing Ltd. Kalamazoo County Commission. Mechanical engineer, Bachelor of Business Administration. U.S. Navy Submarine Service, retired; Consumers Energy, retired. Texas Township ZBA and Township Committees, Kalamazoo County Commissioner serving on Intergovernmental Governmental Cooperation Committee, Housing Committee, Local Development Finance Authority for the WMU Business, Technology & Research Park, Fairgrounds Focus Group, Kalamazoo County Committee Interview and Recommendation Committee, Human Resources Committee.

1. By 2028, Kalamazoo County will be into full utilization of the “Promise.” Humans outperform the other species because we communicate and educate. Education and retention of the current local youth and those who come to Kalamazoo County to be educated at our universities, along with the scientific and medical business incentives provided by local visionaries will propel Kalamazoo County into an economic leadership position in the state. Already there are spin-offs from the Innovation Center located in the WMU BTR that promise to equal or surpass locally-owned international businesses. The recent initiative of the Kalamazoo County Commission to provide true authority to the “Housing Authority” along with monetary support will lead the County toward elimination of the county “homeless.”

2. The Kalamazoo County government structure is correct. The current County Administrator has and will continue to rearrange the duties and responsibilities of the various department heads for greater accountability and efficiency. Installation of the current Treasurer and Drain Commissioner made tremendous strides forward in supplying the leadership and expertise needed in those departments. The Kalamazoo County Commission created an Airport Authority to aid in the expansion of the airport, a Transportation Authority to improve the ability to seek funds for the public transportation system and was instrumental in the change allowing five County road commissioners.

3. I have excellent analyzing and problem-solving skills. I believe being fair, honest and pleasant with people will lead to mutual respect and allow those involved to reach amicable end results. I believe the County Commissioners owe the residents of the County a financial responsibility to be frugal with their money while achieving mandated and elective services. I am experienced on many boards which serve the citizens of the County.

Calvin James Everly
Did not respond in time for publication.

District 12
Oshtemo Township [precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9]

Christopher T. Haenicke

Republican. Age 42. Attorney and Trust Relationship Officer, Greenleaf Trust. B.A., philosophy, OSU, 1989; J.D., U of Cincinnati College of Law, 1993. Engaged member of our community. Served on numerous boards: Guardian, Inc.; Optimist Club of Kalamazoo; Kalamazoo County Bar Association; Selective Service Local Board; Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra; Rotary Club of Oshtemo; and Heritage Community of Kalamazoo. Leadership Kalamazoo, graduate. Experience in solving complex legal and financial issues. Good understanding of local needs and issues.

1. Our County has a long history of fostering achievement in academic, business, civic, cultural and humanitarian areas. There is no reason to believe this trend will cease. My vision is of a County that will lure businesses with an educated workforce and business-friendly environment, and attract workers with good-paying jobs and an exceptional quality of life. The Commission is but one of the many public and private community stakeholders that has a role in realizing such a vision. While the Commission may have less legislative and regulatory power than the cities, townships and villages to affect the realization of such a vision, the Commissioners can use the bully pulpit of the Commission to encourage collaboration, coordination and cooperation by the various stakeholders.

2. I would start by taking a thorough look at the size of the County Commission. While spreading committee work amongst 17 commissioners certainly lightens the workload of the individual commissioners, one has to wonder about the efficiency of a 17-member body. Moreover, the demographic characteristics of the districts are not so different that some of them could not be fairly and adequately represented by a single Commissioner. The County could also look at making the Drain Commissioner and Surveyor appointed, rather than elected, positions. Doing so would save the expense associated with holding elections for these positions every four years.

3. As for talents, I am by nature a person who seeks agreement and cooperation, rather than conflict, and who includes people, rather than exclude them. While I enjoy communicating with others, I am also a respectful, tolerant and an attentive listener. I have a generally positive disposition and a sense of humor. Skills gained in my personal and professional life include analyzing problems, public speaking, conflict resolution, administrative oversight, budgeting and fiscal management.

John A. Nieuwenhuis
Did not respond in time for publication.

District 13
Alamo Township [precincts 1, 2];
Cooper Township [precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]; Parchment City [precinct 1]

Deb Buchholtz-Hiemstra

Republican. Age 41. Business manager and consultant. M.B.A., concentration finance and business policy, U of Chicago; B.A., economics and political science, U of Michigan; Parchment H.S. graduate. Incumbent Kalamazoo County Commissioner in 8th year; chairman, 2 yrs; vice chairman, 2 yrs. Small business background with ongoing business consulting and community-building project experience. Helped establish and expand international carbon-based commodity broker business, currently the company’s chief financial officer.

1. I believe our entrepreneurial and innovative spirit of the past and present are positioning Southwest Michigan for a prosperous future. Kalamazoo County’s strong commitment to education, coupled with a creative and philanthropic business community, and local government geared toward efficiency, will enable us to grow a diversified economy of opportunity. County government has a natural position from which to help lead and coordinate these efforts, but must exercise this leadership to a greater extent through trust-building and action.

2. Starting at the top, the size of the board must be decreased to improve group dynamics and issue discussion. We need to continue to prioritize and define goals, and hold staff accountable for attainment while giving them the latitude to creatively manage day-to-day affairs guided by board policies. County government has tremendous responsibility, but little direct authority. In the ideal world, we would evaluate the functions of local government and determine how the public could be most cost effectively and efficiently served without regard to departmental or jurisdictional lines. In the real world, such change is frustratingly slow and challenging.

3. I am recognized as a hard-working commissioner who is well prepared, well informed and dedicated to our community and its improvement. I am a consensus builder who regularly reaches out to other governments, business and community leaders for input in decision-making. My experience in business has focused my attention on measurable results and accountability. I am a detail-oriented fiscal conservative who challenges assumptions and the status quo in seeking better alternatives and processes.

Michael Seals

Democrat. Age 47. Retired. A.D., business management major, marketing and communication minor, Davenport College, 1996; plan on returning to finish. Family moved to Parchment, MI, in 1967 from Wisconsin. In 1969 moved to the Westside, until 1979. Served in U.S. Navy, 1981–89; worked at Consumers Energy, line worker, 1990–2005. President, local Chapter of A. Phillip Randolph Institute; United Way Board of Directors, 9 yrs, representing labor; Eastside Neighborhood Association Board of Directors, Treasurer; Kalamazoo River Clean Up Coalition, Treasurer.

1. My hope is that we will be working together to provide good-paying jobs to its citizens. That co-operation is the most common word. We provide fair wages, responsible contracting and policies that benefit all its residents. New transportation infrastructure that meets the needs of all our residents. A justice system that treats our citizens fairly. Education is key to growth and economic stability of the County.

2. I would like to see the number of commissioners reduced to 9, 11 or even 13. It just seems to me that there are too many. It makes it difficult when trying to come to a consensus. It would also save the county money.

3. Having volunteered/worked with non-profits for the past 18 years in Kalamazoo, I bring a lot of experience in networking with partners in the community. I understand the importance of cooperation and working to achieve goals that benefit our community as a whole.

District 14
Charleston Township [precinct 1];
Richland Township [precincts 1, 2, 3];
Ross Township [precincts 1, 2]

Jeff Heppler
Did not respond in time for publication.

Michael Liepman

Democrat. Age:62. Addiction Psychiatrist, Educator, Scientist. U of Michigan Medical School. Medical educator: MSU/KCMS Professor; 84 publications; journal editor. Physician: Medical Director, Community Healing Centers; 38 yrs addiction work. Community leadership: addiction services for Ann Arbor; VA Addiction Treatment Program Director; services for pregnant addicts; millions of grant dollars; Worcester Fights Back against Alcohol & Drugs; Healthy Babies Healthy Start; Mother’s Mind Matters; Family Matters Project; Kalamazoo County Substance Abuse Task Force; Michigan Psychiatric Society, Vice-President.

1. A multicultural community exercising tolerance and celebrating our diversity. Economic prosperity with diverse employment opportunities for all including agriculture, research and development, manufacturing, education, health care, services, business, recreation, arts and culture. Access to excellent health care, education and housing without barriers. Low prevalence of crime and substance abuse. Healthy respect for the environment with renewable energy, conservation and recycling.

2. No response.

3. My background is in health care, education, public health, families, social systems. I understand organizations and the way in which changes in one part of a system can affect other parts. No one on the Commission has a background in health, yet the Commission is responsible for the Health Department, Kalamazoo Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the Drug Courts, etc.

District 15
Comstock Township [precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8]; Galesburg City [precinct 1]

Ann Nieuwenhuis

Republican. Age 55. My current role as Michigan State University Extension Emergency Planning Specialist gives me a state-wide perspective that complements my 34 years as the Kalamazoo County MSU Extension Director/Educator. I have been a catalyst and successful facilitator for community and economic development within SW Michigan, consistently identifying and implementing common sense solutions. I bring first-hand county issues expertise, education (B.A. and M.A., WMU) and administration experience to the County Commission. Visit my website at www.electann.com.

1. Kalamazoo County’s cities, townships and neighborhoods will be a seamless metropolitan region that provides residents with the best of city life and the friendly, familiarity of small Midwestern living; accessible by walking, biking, affordable public transportation and by car. Its industry will be led by life science, advanced agriculture and manufacturing while supported by complementary industries that draw on a pool of local talent and provide employment choices. It will be known for generating and implementing creative and cooperative intergovernmental solutions led by a County Commission that leverages its access to federal dollars against state and local investment to stretch every tax dollar raised—a commission with a balanced budget and a record of setting and meeting goals that match the priorities of its citizens.

2. The County Commission has significant structural latitude, which it can, and has used to make arbitrary changes. While voter approval should not be a requisite, voter involvement must be. Efficiencies must be balanced by voter representation, and commissioners must be actively engaged in community—regularly attending local municipalities’, school and citizens group meetings. The board should also establish a strategic plan with clear, measurable goals around operational efficiencies. Such bench marking allows departments to improve their service delivery, identify ways to reduce expenses and maximize taxpayer buying power in a transparent arena that fosters citizen-driven current and future decision making.

3. As a County department head, I applied common sense solutions to make county government more effective, efficient and accountable for 34 years. I acquired expertise in the areas of agriculture and the environment—two issues essential to our region’s economic future. Within the state and local government, I am recognized for my ability to bring diverse groups together to build bridges and create unique community partnerships, a strength I believe vital to a County Commissioner.

Leroy Crabtree

Democrat. Age 43. Business Manager, Local Union 131 IBEW and Kalamazoo County Commissioner, District 15. A.D., electronic engineering technology, ITT Technical Institute, 1983–85; NJATC Electrical Apprenticeship, 1985–89; pursuing Bachelor’s degree, Employee Safety and Health, National Labor College, 2005–present. I have 2 yrs experience serving as a County Commissioner and nearly 20 yrs negotiating contracts, resolving disputes, and maintaining harmony between employees and employers.

1. I have a vision of a vibrant community that retains not only our educated youth but also our manufacturing base. I see a both a top-notch university and a community college that is responsive to the needs of the employers in our County. I see many abandoned manufacturing sites being rebuilt and refitted to accommodate new industries who move into Kalamazoo to take advantage of our skilled manufacturing workforce. The role of the County is one of support and leadership. We support by providing infrastructure, promoting collaboration between municipalities, and by brownfield and economic development. We lead by looking forward, learning about what is working elsewhere, and making decisions that move the strategic plan of the County forward.

2. (a) I would make the offices of Drain Commissioner and Treasurer appointed by the Board of Commissioners. These positions require a high level of skill and training and should be filled only after a thorough interview and vetting of qualifications. (b) I would change the way county districts are determined so the demographics of the people in the County are considered above political party preference.

3. I bring experience as a negotiator and consensus builder to the commission. I have earned the trust and respect of both labor and employers by building bridges between the two for nearly 20 years. It is essential that a bi-partisan commission find ways to work together and stay on task without being distracted by political or emotional influences. I will continue to work with the whole committee to serve the people of Kalamazoo County.

District 16
Climax Township [precinct 1];
Comstock Township [precinct 5];
Pavilion Township [precincts 1, 2, 3];
Wakeshma Township [precinct 1];
Portage City [precinct 2]

Jeff Balkema
Did not respond in time for publication.

Thomas Post

Democrat. Age 60. Expediting Manager, Clausing Industrial Inc. B.S., geography, Eastern Illinois U. Over 40 yrs experience working for multi-national corporations and, as a result, experiencing work with a diverse group of people.

1. I would like to see two major changes in Kalamazoo County in the coming years. First, I would like to see our county develop as a leading center for product distribution. A key ingredient will be development of an intermodal rail/highway terminal for distribution and collection of containerized freight. Development will be coordinated through the County Commission. I would also like to see the County promoted as an attractive place for active retirees to live. We have good recreation, transportation and health care facilities. Our lower cost of living and higher quality of life can be attractive to people moving from urban and suburban areas.

2. I am not in favor of great changes in the structure of our county government. I would like to see a concerted and coordinated effort to foster conditions in the County to retain and develop high-quality jobs in the county. Infrastructure development, tax incentives, educational programs and improved quality of life factors will play important roles in attaining these jobs.

3. I believe that through my years of experience in the business world and my experience working with non-profit groups, I have developed an ability to work well with people who not only share my opinions, but people I may differ with too. I am willing to listen to other people and work with them. I feel that this is important when working with 16 other commissioners and the many other people involved in county government.

District 17
Brady Township [precincts 1, 2];
Prairie Ronde Township [precinct 1];
Schoolcraft Township [precincts 1, 2, 3, 4]

David C. Maturen

Republican. Age 60. Real Estate Appraiser. Bachelor of Business Administration, Master of Public Administration, WMU. Small business owner as a real estate appraiser for the last 20 yrs. Township Trustee, 14 yrs; County Commissioner, 6 yrs. I serve on several state and national committees in the real estate and governmental arenas.

1. To be the economic engine of southwest Michigan while retaining its natural features which make it a great place to live. County government can play a role in caring for those in need with a hand up—not a hand out. It must strive to provide the necessary services to the public at a price they can afford.

2. Much of the framework we deal with is set by the state constitution so there is little ability to change it—though “change” seems to be the mantra for the current national election. Though I like the idea of authorities and commissions running various aspects of the county government as the members can focus their expertise on a single issue, I am somewhat concerned about the potential for a lack of responsiveness relative to the public. With appropriate safeguards and oversight that should not be a problem.

3. My experience in the private and public sectors on the local, state and national scenes. My job gets me into many county buildings, planning departments and municipal halls which affords me the opportunity to view various methods of and approaches to governance. My business owner status makes me cognizant of the burdens that government can place on job providers.