VOTE411 Voter Guide

For more than 25 years I have worked with 4 different Leelanau County Drain Commissioners on personal property drainage and erosion related issues. During that period of time I conducted extensive research on both drainage issues and the Michigan Drain Code of 1956. I also have been closely involved in the process of creating a Special Assessment District through the Drain Commission. I strongly advocate the use of evidence based research to make important drain related decisions.

The Drain Commission has a clear responsibility to balance the need for effective drainage with protecting water quality and managing natural resources in a cost effective manner that benefits the residents of Leelanau County. Combining the technical skills associated with drain systems together with prompt and clear communication skills, constitutes the biggest challenge of this office.

1. Concise and transparent communication to the residents of Leelanau County, whether or not they are a property owner in a Drainage District. I will use the County website to provide information on the roles and responsibilities of the Drain Commission in Leelanau County, as well as to keep residents updated on all projects and current issues. 2. Collaboration with property owners, county staff, and consultants, to provide solutions to any issues or problems relating to the Drain Commission's responsibilities. 3. Protect two of Leelanau County's most precious resources- water and land. I am committed to this by making decisions that balance cost effective and environmental friendly drainage solutions with protecting water quality.

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I have 41 years' experience developing practical solutions to complex public infrastructure challenges, including drain projects. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Michigan Technological University. I am a licensed professional engineer. As a Leelanau County resident for nearly 35 years and former City Engineer for Traverse City, I helped plan, design, and manage more than $200 million in infrastructure. I understand that effective water management protects public health, prevents flooding, preserves property and water quality, and supports responsible investment for future generations. As Drain Commissioner, I will bring professionalism, transparency, accountability, technical expertise and experience to every decision.

The County Drain Commissioner is one of the most important elected officials. They have exclusive authority to create and maintain drains including determining assessments of all properties to pay for drain projects under the Michigan Drain Code. As Leelanau County progresses with the development of drain districts, there are lessons to be learned about project information sharing (transparency) and the availability of the drain commissioner, and the consulting team charged with the related project implementation (communication). Electing a drain commissioner with my technical expertise and project experience for drain projects will bring professionalism and transparency to every decision and reduce the reliance on out-of-town consultants.

1. Work together and be transparent-The Drain Commissioner succeeds through collaboration. I will listen, communicate clearly, and work with agencies and property owners to achieve effective outcomes. 2. Protect property and water resources to reduce flooding risks-Changing weather patterns require resilient drainage solutions. I will develop cost-effective projects that reduce flooding, protect property, improve water quality, and protect the environment. 3. Fiscal responsibility and accountability-I will prioritize projects according to need, maintain transparent decisions, and spend public funds wisely. Proactive maintenance and sound capital planning can reduce emergencies and save taxpayers money. I can reduce the use of consultants.