Originally published in The County Press June 12, 2022 https://thecountypress.mihomepaper.com/articles/election-guide/
• How long have you lived in Lapeer County, and why do you choose to call Lapeer County home?
Our family has been in Lapeer since 1983 when MSU Extension moved me from Wayne County to become Director/ 4-H Youth Agent. Lapeer has been a fine place to work, raise a family, educate children, and find volunteer opportunities. We enjoy the rural setting with nearby things to do.
• Why did you decide to run for a seat on the Board of Commissioners?
After retiring I ran for Commissioner to use my education and community knowledge gained through Extension work. After almost 20 years, the job remains challenging and meaningful! I want to continue serving Lapeer to provide continuity and experienced leadership; at least four of the seven current commissioners are leaving.
• As you may know Lapeer County was allocated $17M in American Rescue Plan funds. What priorities do you believe deserve funding? Why?
The Board has prioritized initial use of ARPA funds by committing approximately $3 million for worn-out Torzewski and General Squier Parks’ equipment, for county infrastructure repairs that have long-term impacts (e.g. roofs, building safety and security, telephone system, website improvement, boilers), and for a long-needed job and wage study to stop the increasing loss of county staff. Our major focus for remaining ARPA funds is on improving countywide access to quality broadband service.
• What do you believe is your role in County government as it relates to your relationship with county staff, programs, and the role of the County Administrator/Controller?
The County Administrator/Controller is hired by the Board to provide day-to-day county operational leadership. Commissioners meet weekly together and in committees. They establish the overall financial and personnel policies and procedures for the county departments and our 430 employees. Commissioners approve annual General Fund budgets for departments (currently totaling $22 million) and provide oversight of departmental programs and services. Commissioners also seek constituent opinions and help get answers to their concerns.
• What county government services can be enhanced?
All County services can be enhanced. Lapeer County has operated with the fourth to sixth lowest millage rate in Michigan for nearly 40 years! Property taxes provide about 50% of the General Fund budget. All services have been squeezed. My highest priorities for enhancement are: senior services to help them stay in their homes; parks to improve quality of life; law enforcement to keep us safe; preventive health; and youth and family support services.
• Is Lapeer County prepared for development? What development is needed? Where is it needed?
County government, through its programs and services, has an on-going, sometimes limited impact on development. Along with townships, villages, cities and schools, it affects individual, family and business decisions. There are a number of Lapeer County issues that private and public leaders need to collaboratively work to improve. These include affordable housing, local jobs, roads, water quality, transportation, rural broadband, agricultural land protection, health, and support for senior citizens and struggling youth and families.