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VOTE411 Voter Guide

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

The Livonia City Council consists of seven members elected at large, and is vested with all legislative powers of the City except as otherwise provided by State Law or the Livonia City Charter.The three candidates with the highest number of votes will serve a four-year term. The candidate with the fourth highest number of votes will serve a two-year term.Vote for four (4).

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.

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    Steve Alexander
    (NPA)

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    Patrick Brockway
    (NPA)

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    Jaclyn Graham
    (NPA)

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    Nicole Hefty
    (NPA)

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    James D. Hooper
    (NPA)

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    Frances G. Janis
    (NPA)

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    Marlene L. Katafias
    (NPA)

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    Alex King
    (NPA)

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    Steve King
    (NPA)

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    Rola Makki
    (NPA)

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    Eileen McDonnell
    (NPA)

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    Kathleen E. McIntyre
    (NPA)

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    Brian P. Meagher
    (NPA)

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    Jenny O'Connor
    (NPA)

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    Robin Persiconi
    (NPA)

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    Nicholas Pickard
    (NPA)

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    Kayleigh Kavanagh Reid
    (NPA)

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    Adam A. Stathakis
    (NPA)

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    Yvette Warren
    (NPA)

Biographical Information

Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office.

What are the priority issues facing this office, and what actions would you take to address them if elected?

Occupation/current position Senior Product Manager of Software Development at DMI Consulting
Campaign Phone 2487096587
Education Liberty University - MBA | International Business & Cleary University - Bachelor of Business | Entrepreneurship
I grew up in a service-minded family. My parents and three sisters all give back in their communities. That’s how we live. After serving in the U.S. Navy, I married, bought our home in Livonia, and raised two kids. I spent 22 years at Ford leading the design, budgeting, and planning of Smart City projects around the world, all while volunteering across our community. Service is my way of life. In 2024, I was honored as Rosedale Gardens Church’s Honorary Veteran and Friday Musings' Livonia Man of the Year for my volunteer work. Now I am looking to further use my skills and experience to better serve our city - as a transparent voice for our residents, business owners, and union workers. I’m running to build a stronger Livonia, together.
Priorities First, public safety. Every family in Livonia deserves to feel safe, and our police and fire departments deserve updated buildings, tools, and the full support of city leadership. Second, responsible financial planning. We must invest wisely, and be prudent with our spending, to preserve what makes Livonia special. Our parks, roads, pools, libraries, and historic spaces like the Noble Building and Wilson Barn all need attention. Third, thoughtful development. Projects like the Meijer Market show how we can blend housing, retail, and recreation in ways that bring neighbors together. To get there, I will advocate for accessibility, support union labor, and engage our residents, unions, and businesses with full transparency.
Occupation/current position Management Analyst- Department of Veterans Affairs
Education Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Leadership & Intelligence
Lived in Livonia almost my entire life. Married 10+ years. Have 3 cats. Hobbies include reading, woodworking, and gaming. Education- St. Edith/St. Michael's grade school, Diving Child High School/ Undergrad Schoolcraft College, and Ferris State University. Grad school at Madonna University. Master's in Criminal Justice Leadership and Intelligence. Work History- 2011-2020 Department of Homeland Security/Transportation Security Administration 2020- Present- Department of Veterans Affairs. I am running because I wish to help all of Livonia. There is much unease in the world today. While I may not be able to change things globally, I can work to make the day-to-day life of a Livonia resident better.
-2025 Bond millage- I am not in support of the bond millage proposal. I believe funding to improve police and fire services should not be handcuffed to capital projects that will raise taxes for residents for the coming 25 years. Action- I will work to ensure that future proposals are better vetted to ensure fiscal responsibility, so as not to burden Livonia residents. -Alfred Noble Library- The building has been shut down for a number of years due to city neglect. Action - I believe this building has a future in Livonia. I will work with local, state, and federal resources to save it. -Vacant storefronts- Livonia has an abundance of empty shops. Action- I will create incentives to bring in small businesses and create growth.
Occupation/current position Product Presenter
Campaign Email Jackiforlivonia@gmail.com
Education Eastern Michigan University
I’m a lifelong Livonia resident, married for 11 years, dog mom and caregiver to my mother.

Professionally, I’ve built a career in public speaking and communications, serving as a national product specialist and presenter for major auto manufacturers. In that role, I represented brands across the country, developed messaging strategies, and worked with diverse teams—all experiences that have prepared me to communicate effectively, build consensus, & advocate for our community on City Council. I’m running for Livonia City Council because I care deeply about our city’s future and I want to ensure our neighborhoods stay safe, our seniors are supported, small businesses thrive and local government remains transparent and accessible.
Public Safety – I would ensure our police, fire, and first responders have the tools, resources, and staffing they need to keep every neighborhood and business safe.

Parks & Neighborhoods – Cleaning up, investing in, and maintaining our parks, green spaces, and shared public areas so they reflect the pride of our residents.

Families First – Supporting Livonians at every life stage—from newlywed couples buying their first home to the seniors who helped build this community and deserve dignity, safety, and support.

Economic Growth — Supporting businesses by cutting red tape, working with the Chamber of Commerce, and creating an environment where small businesses can grow.
Address 8956 Melrose St
Occupation/current position Adjunct Professor of Public Administration, Western Michigan University
Campaign Phone 5863508765
Campaign Email NicoleAHefty@gmail.com
Education Master of Public Administration, Western Michigan University; Bachelor of Arts in Writing, Western Michigan University
My name is Nicole Hefty and I have spent my career in service of others--from assisting DV/SA survivors to teaching budding public servants and securing over $40 Million in grant funding to improve an entire city. I am running for Livonia City Council to continue serving residents in my own community through strategic, solution-focused action. I want to improve accessability across the city, starting with sidewalks. I will work with municipal staff to identify funding opportunities for the projects that we dream of. I will also continue to research opportunities and partnerships to advance life-improving initiatives to attract new residents -- like universal child care from 0-4. If elected, I plan to be the bridge between admin and council.
Livonia is bringing a $150M bond proposal to ballot. This proposal would raise property taxes by an average of ~$150 in the first year. I am not opposed to the projects, but I am opposed to a new millage. Having been successful in funding municipal projects WITHOUT the use of taxpayer funds, I am appalled there have not been other avenues consulted.

Beyond the Bond, Livonia needs to prioritize the safety and accessibility of its residents. Sidewalks across the city are broken, causing injury to seniors. The City serves as landlord to low-income seniors in city-owned properties, yet Council couldn't speak to the conditions of the buildings. If elected, I will ensure Council performs a yearly walkthrough and creates procedure get work done.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Address 17439 Sunset St
Occupation/current position Sorter at UPS and Fomer Steward and current Committee person for Teamsters
Campaign Phone 3139106037
Campaign Email francesjanis@hotmail.com
Education Cody High School Detroit Michigan 1977, Wayne State University, Henry Ford Community College
I am a mom of 6, 2 whom are adopted. I am a senior, yet have the voices of the younger generation running through our house as it includes ages from 11-24. I am a former executive board member of the 12th Congressional Democratic District & a precinct delegate. I am a former Teamsters Union Steward, now a current committee person. I am a proud member of Livonia Equity Anti Racism Network. I also had concerns about affordable housing, as this issue has been broached by younger residents. Upon noticing that we did not have ADA-compliant bathrooms, walkways & would not have them unless a millage is passed, I was compelled to toss my hat into the ring due to my late son, who was in a wheelchair his whole life.
I am encouraging all to view the millage that is currently being voted on in the August primary on LivoniaBuilt.org and use the calculator to see the current cost to your household. If it is not passed, I am concerned that the funds which are alleged to be already handed over for an ADA bathroom will still not be built and would fight to make sure all residents have the ability to access our buildings. If it is passed, I would work to use fiscally prudent methods to make sure I am good steward of the residents funding. Affordability in housing is a big issue in our area, and I am partnering with others to help all live in our city.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Occupation/current position Currently Unemployed (laid off in March)
Campaign Phone 2488846460
Education Bacherlor of Arts in Political Science at Xavier University (OH)
As a Jesuit-educated AmeriCorps alum, I believe in civic responsibility and working with anyone to advance the common good. I attended Livonia St. Michael Elementary, U of D Jesuit HS, and Xavier University (OH). I've worked at Detroit nonprofits teaching STEM activities in Detroit schools, spreading awareness about food insecurity, and delivering disaster services in times of need. I believe my public service background working in underserved communities makes me uniquely qualified for city council. As a choral performer, I believe strongly in supporting fine arts and am an avid supporter of small businesses in our community. I believe I am a servant leader and can work with any member and give every project the due diligence it deserves.
There are many priorities that we can address in Livonia. I plan to be supporting the municipal facilities bond on the August 5th ballot, and assuming it passes, I will make sure that council does it's part to fulfill the language of the proposal. I also support updating the city's non-discrimination ordinance, which hasn't been updated since 1982, to add protections for the LGBTQ+ community that I am a member of (bi). I also believe strongly in saving and repurposing the Alfred Noble Library as a community center. It is a gem in South Livonia and needs to be preserved. I also support development in the Plymouth Road Corridor, and we need to address blight and vacant homes & businesses when they arise.
Address Coventry
Occupation/current position CEO Steve King and the Dittilies
Campaign Phone 7345763057
Campaign Email steveking1954@gmail.com
Education Bachelor of science. Masters in Ed leadership
I am running for office to prevent the city’s downward spiral. This municipality has systemic issues and they are being ignored. I have been in this city longer than Bates and I can no longer stay on the sidelines watching the missteps.
My number one priority, other than getting elected is preventing the demolition of the Bennett library. If I am elected, I will no longer allow taxpayer dollars to be misappropriated. Every penny will be accounted for and spent wisely.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Occupation/current position Retired, former proposal and contract manager
Campaign Phone 7346738955
Campaign Email Emcdonn126@gmail.com
Education Eastern University
My husband Bob and I have been residents in Livonia for 29 years. Our children attended Livonia Public Schools. Professionally, I was a proposal and contract administrator for a Detroit based, global chemical company. I am also a former five-year Livonia Public Schools Trustee and was a previous council candidate; came short by less than 300 votes. My experience will be needed if Livonia's Vision 21 is approved by the voters along with all the duties of council. Council needs a deeper dive to listen to our citizens with compassion and humility. I'm concerned that we have lost empathy for each other. I want to bring people from all backgrounds together. I want Livonia to be a strong city that supports opportunities everyone.
I’ve watched our council evolve over the years. The council’s stance on governing has changed. It has transitioned from a role characterized by leaders with complete oversight to our current council’s leaders who regard their role as part-time, with limited power. The 75-year-old city charter, as written, isn’t accurate. Although it has been amended over the years, changes have not been fully reflected in this charter document.

I believe the council should govern with humility, compassion and active listening. If elected, I would ask my fellow members to become a community for all people. I would bring forward a charter review, ADA compliance, bring forward an NDO and be an advocate for the preservation of our city’s architectural gems.
Occupation/current position Student & Community Affairs Manager
Campaign Phone 734-674-4498
Education MBA, Eli Broad College of Business, MI State University, Finance concentration BA, Business, Michigan State University
I have over 35 years of private sector experience, including executive level positions at Ford Motor Company in Finance, Global Strategy and Governmental Affairs. I am a strong leader with excellent quantitative and communication skills and know how to manage critical details while not losing sight of the big picture.

In 2015 and again in 201, I was elected to the Livonia City Council, and as the top vote getter, served two terms as City Council President. Prior to City Council, I served Livonia on numerous boards and commissions including the Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Commission, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and Retirement Board.

Livonia is at a pivotal point and needs experienced, knowledgeable, and collaborative leaders.
We are pursuing a major redevelopment of our civic campus, facing aging infrastructure challenges, changing community needs and the demand for more transparent and accessible city government.

I would continue to demand fiscal restraint and accountability as I did in my first two terms on Council, be willing to challenge assumptions about the city's facility needs and be strongly engage and highly visible in the community, as I always am regardless of whether it's an election year. I am always willing to listen to residents and hear their concerns and complaints. I know I don't have all the answers - as no single council person does, I seek input from people with different experiences and perspectives and strongly value collaboration.

Occupation/current position Professional Nonprofit Fundraiser
Campaign Phone 4792159852
Campaign Email brian@brianforlivonia.com
Education BA History, Spring Arbor University; EMNA Nonprofit Administration, University of Notre Dame
I’m Brian Meagher — a lifelong Livonian, husband, father of three, and small business owner. I serve on the Livonia Zoning Board of Appeals and work professionally with nonprofits to secure funding and build strategic plans. I’m running for City Council because I care about Livonia’s future. I want to protect public safety, modernize communication, support smart development, and ensure responsible budgeting. I’m not a politician — I’m a neighbor, a parent, and a problem-solver ready to bring practical leadership and a long-term vision to the work ahead.
Key priorities include maintaining strong public safety, addressing aging infrastructure, and improving city communication. I support smart investments like the Municipal Facilities Proposal to modernize our police, fire, and city buildings. I’d also work to revitalize areas like the Plymouth Road corridor, support small businesses, and make city services more transparent and accessible. As a strategic thinker with nonprofit and zoning board experience, I’ll focus on practical solutions that protect what’s working in Livonia — while preparing us for the future.
Occupation/current position Design Director
Campaign Website http://www.jennyoconnor.org
Campaign Phone 7348372218
Education Associates of Arts, Bachelor's of Science
With 20+ years as a professional interior designer and project manager, I bring a unique blend of creativity, strategic planning, and fiscal responsibility to the table. My work across commercial and residential sectors has sharpened my skills in collaboration, budgeting, and long-term vision—essential traits for effective city leadership. I understand how thoughtful design and planning impact quality of life and am committed to sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused development. As a proven problem-solver and advocate, I’m ready to serve Livonia with the same dedication I bring to every project.
Some of Livonia’s most urgent priorities include addressing aging infrastructure—especially our police and fire stations—ensuring ADA compliance in public buildings, and increasing equitable access to services citywide. If elected, I’ll bring my professional experience in construction and project management to help guide responsible investments, improve transparency, and ensure our city grows with care. I’ve already proposed a workforce development plan for our fire department and will continue to advocate for inclusive, forward-thinking solutions that serve all residents—north, south, and everywhere in between.
Occupation/current position Attorney and Owner of The Law Office of Robin Persiconi
Campaign Website http://www.pickrobin.com
Campaign Email vote4persiconi@gmail.com
Education University of Michigan, 1999; Wayne State University Law School, 2002
Robin Persiconi is a committed public servant whose deep roots in Livonia are reflected in her active involvement with organizations that shape the city’s future.

Robin is running for Livonia City Council to bring her collaborative leadership and lifelong dedication to public service to City Hall. Her extensive community outreach includes:

Livonia Rotary Club Livonia-Westland Chamber of Commerce Livonia Housing Commission Livonia Education Foundation Livonia Symphony Orchestra Livonia Save Our Youth Coalition and more
Public Safety: Robin believes a strong, safe Livonia starts with supporting those who protect us. She’ll work to recruit and retain top-tier first responders, ensure proper staffing, and provide the tools and training they need. Economic Development and Business Support: As a small business owner, Robin knows how to grow jobs and opportunity. She’s committed to attracting new businesses, supporting entrepreneurs, and revitalizing vacant areas by partnering with community stakeholders. Parks, Recreation, and Infrastructure: Robin will champion improvements to parks, trails, and green spaces, and make Livonia more walkable and bikeable. She also prioritizes funding for road repairs, infrastructure upgrades, and neighborhood beautification.
Address 29891 Robert Dr
Occupation/current position Youth Program Coordinator for New Hope Center for Grief Support
Campaign Website http://Pickardforlivonia.com
Campaign Phone 3136380352
Education High School Diploma
My name is Nick Pickard. I am a girl dad, nonprofit professional, and community advocate running for Livonia City Council. I work as the Child Program Coordinator at a local grief support nonprofit where I help children process loss with compassion and care. I also serve on the board of The Friends of the Barn and have spent over a decade organizing community events that bring people together. Livonia deserves leaders who show up, who listen, and who care about what families truly need. I will fight for public safety, protect spaces like the Alfred Noble Library, and help make Livonia a welcoming and supportive place for every family.
Livonia is facing real challenges that need strong leadership. Our first responders are understaffed, our infrastructure is aging, and too many residents feel unheard. If elected, I will fight to increase firefighter staffing and make sure our public safety departments have what they need to protect our community. I will push for responsible investment in city buildings and infrastructure with long-term planning in mind. I will also advocate for transparency, accountability, and policies that make every resident feel welcome, valued, and represented in their local government.
Occupation/current position Executive Director of the Livonia Spree
Campaign Phone 7347169626
Campaign Email kayleighreid922@gmail.com
Education BA from the University of Dayton, MBA from Lawrence Tech University
I'm a mom, a wife, and since 2023, the executive director of the Livonia Spree. There I oversee a large budget, manage contracts with over 60 vendors, and coordinate public safety efforts to ensure every family's visit is a safe one. Since being hired, I have improved our programing, introducing inclusivity, sustainability, and financial transparency to the Spree's annual operation. I have also strengthened our community grant program, returning over $30,000 back to Livonia's. My husband and I are from Livonia, and are now raising our three sons here. I am running to ensure that our city continues to invest in public safety, the parks, and infrastructure that will keep Livonia a desirable community for them, just as it was for us.
Public safety - I would champion efforts to ensure our compensation packages remain competitive to maintain our ability to retain and recruit first responders. Walkable Micro downtowns - Residents have been clear that they do not always want to travel to experience downtown. I would seek to solidify Livonia Vision21's plan to establish Plymouth Road and 7 Mile as walkable micro downtowns through active blight enforcement, improvements to walkability, and strengthing public safety. Parks - As the mother of three, I know what parks mean to families. I would expand our city's recent focus on facilities maintenance to our city's neighborhood parks, ensuring every neighborhood receives the attention it deserves.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Occupation/current position Financial Industry
Campaign Phone 313-412-6022
Campaign Email yvecarter@aol.com
Education Business Degree
I decided to run for Livonia City Council due to the deep compassion I have for my Community to help move the city forward into it full potential of a Vibrant City and Community that people can call home. With the strong Leadership and Transparency that I have as being a Community Advocate. I understand Public Service and listening to the concerns of the Community and finding solutions to the issues. I am a Pastor in the City of Livonia. I am a Wayne County Chaplin and a Genesee County Chaplin. I have the public Service experience to understand Community needs and being a voice for the people,
There are more issues theses are just a few issues:My top priority is Public Safety, Livonia Police Department needs a New Police station and Livonia Fire Department needs a lot of upgrades. Buildings need to be upgrade and needs maintenance to ensure that the ADA is in compliance. My actions I would take will be to advocate to Departments and Department Heads, the Mayors office, the commissions, Coordinators and all that’s in charge to get the job done.