Change Address

VOTE411 Voter Guide

Eastpointe City Council {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

Choose two candidates. Each will serve a 4-year term.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Rob Baker
    (NPA)

  • Candidate picture

    Cardi DeMonaco Jr.
    (NPA)

  • Candidate picture

    Karen Scott
    (NPA)

Biographical Information

What is your background and how will it help you serve on the City Council?

What do you think are the primary issues facing the city and how would you address them?

What kinds of developments would you like to see in the city?

What previous community involvement have you had in this city or other places you have lived?

Name Rob Baker
Education / Experience Served on City Council in 2019/2020 & again from 2021 to present.
Phone 313-333-8244
I currently serve on the City Council. I served a one year term in 2019, and was reelected for a full term in 2021. I understand the role of a Council person, and the importance of talking with and listening to the residents and business owners. Also, you must serve with honesty, transparency, and integrity.
One of the biggest concerns currently, is 9 mile road construction and the talk of implementing a road diet, and how it will impact residents and business owners. I have spoken against it and I will continue doing so in support of our local businesses and residents who have greatly expressed opposition to it.
I would like to see business owners investing and thriving in our community. Also, I'd like to see our parks continuing with the great improvements that they are already making.
I've served as a Commissioner prior to serving on City Council. I've done a lot of volunteer work in the community as well, with Gleaners, the Eastpointe Community Action Coalition, also P.A.C.E which stands for Police/ Fire and Community for equality.
Name Cardi DeMonaco Jr.
Education / Experience Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, Eastpointe City Councilman since 2014
Phone 586-744-3864
I have grown up in the community, having attended Kantner Elementary, Kelly Middle School, and East Detroit (now Eastpointe of course!) High School. After graduating high school I went to the University of Michigan-Dearborn for a degree in software engineering.

I have lived in Eastpointe for most of my life. I believe that has helped with knowing our residents and their needs and wants. For the last 10 years I've enjoyed my time on the City Council and hope to continue it to complete additional important projects.
There are some items facing the City right now that I would like to see through in another term on City Council. One issue is of lead service lines. We have replaced most of these lines throughout the community, but there are a few left. It will be an important milestone when we can say we are lead-free in the City water system.

Another issue facing the City is economic development. A major project happening right and that will continue for about another year is the reconstruction of Nine Mile. The goal of this project is to improve the business climate along the road, improve walkability, and enhance beautification.

A third major issue is that of building a new police and court building, of which the City has already purchased land.
Developments I would like to see in the City are more improvements to parks. We have made many improvements over the last ten years but I think we can continue to make more. A splash pad is in its initial construction phase. A second basketball court is going to be built soon. We have been discussing the creation of a ninth park that will include the tennis courts near the military museum (a tank was just acquired there!), and named after an astronaut that grew up in Eastpointe.

We are working on a new Master Plan right now. I enjoy working on Master Plans because there will be many opportunities for experts to work with our residents, putting their goals onto paper and into action.
Years ago, before my time on the City Council, I became a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. This was a memorable board for me, with the requirement to vote on issues that had many facets and were not usually black and white. You had to weigh the facts with what was practical with what was fair. Around then I also became a member of a group called the Millennial Mayors Congress. This group's members were current elected officials and young people interested in getting involved in civic life.

The last four years I have served on the ACFVO, the group that hosts the Memorial Day Parade and a Veterans Day event. Currently I am the Treasurer of the group, raising money so that we can continue to have a parade at no taxpayer expense.
Name Karen Scott
Education / Experience Associate of Arts in Liberal Studies (Concentration in Philosophy) – Miami Dade College; Bachelor of Science in Criminology – Eastern Michigan University ; Master of Social Work (in progress) – Wayne State University
Phone 248-254-2002
I am a wife, mother of four, and a caregiver for my senior father. My professional life has been rooted in education; I teach, tutoring, and mentor students from elementary through high school. These experiences have strengthened my ability to listen, problem-solve, and advocate for families. As a proud member of Eastpointe’s diverse community, I understand the importance of creating opportunities for all residents. I am committed to ensuring every voice is heard and to making decisions that truly reflect the values and needs of our city.
Eastpointe faces challenges that residents care about most: maintaining safe neighborhoods, supporting small businesses, repairing aging infrastructure, and fostering community unity. I would prioritize stronger partnerships with law enforcement for safety, invest in revitalizing streets and public spaces, and support programs that connect residents to jobs and resources. Listening directly to families, seniors, and young people will guide fair solutions. My approach is about transparency, accountability, and working with residents to ensure Eastpointe continues to grow as a safe and welcoming place to live.
I would like to see developments that bring lasting value to Eastpointe: family-friendly parks, youth recreation centers, updated roads, and support for local businesses. Expanding access to youth resources, healthy food options, and community gathering spaces will improve quality of life. I also support smart economic growth, developments that attract businesses offering good jobs while protecting the character of our neighborhoods. By encouraging investment that serves both families and seniors, we can create a city where every resident feels proud to call Eastpointe home.
I have been deeply involved in serving families through education and community engagement. I run a parent liaison and engagement program that empowers families with tools to support their children’s social and emotional growth. I have also mentored students, organized parent workshops, and connected families to resources that improve outcomes for young people. My commitment has always been to build stronger families and stronger communities, and I want to bring that same energy, connection, and advocacy to Eastpointe City Council.