Like the job of Drain commissioner, Farming and Construction require critical problems solving, and planning taking into account what resources you have, like personel, tools and budget, while keeping an eye on the known long term effects your project will have on that land, animals, and people, while accomplishing a goal and getting things done. Having worked within small government and large governement, I am familiar with many of the processes and challenges therin. As a "waterwoman" (open water swimming and lifeguarding, river and ocean/inland sea kayaker, prone paddler, SUPer, surfer, water safety advocate, sailor, fisherman supporter, scuba diver), who wishes those experiences for any and everyone who wants them, I am familiar with many of the waters in the county.

The Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners has great information under Resources for the Public for what a Drain Commissioner does and answers to frequently asked questions about the position. I recommend that free resource. Not to avoid the question but because it is a nuanced answer, and somewhat complicated, and usually a short answer brings up more questions. Also as Drain COmmissioner I would join that association to bring all the resources, knowledge and benefits of that organization to the office. The Office of drain commissioner was established before the first Governor of Michigan, it has a lot of history. The code is 103 pages long. How is a drain defined? etc.

Keeping our lands livable and waters healthy. Taking into account the concerns of citizens living within current and potential drainage districts. Using the best current resources to make sustainable and budget friendly solutions.

Working in the Civil Engineering and Land Surveying industry, I bring over 46 years of Land Surveying experience and 41 concurrent years of Civil Engineering experience. Born and raised in Suttons Bay, I worked side by side with my father & brother in the land surveying business. My father also had an engineering background with the Army Corps of Engineers. Over the years working in the family business, I logged thousands of miles in Leelanau County & probably stepped foot on just about every section of land in every township. I've had the opportunity of meeting a large cross-section of personalities & property owners, mostly all good experiences. On to college in Chicago and then southern Michigan. I worked with engineering firms in the Grand Rapids area and then had an opportunity to join a firm in Prescott, AZ, where I became a Professional LS and business partner. A down turn in the economy brought me back to MI. I am very fortunate to live and work in the county I grew up in.

A drain commissioner is responsible for planning, developing and maintaining surface water drainage systems under Public Act 40, 1956 and is responsible under state statute for overseeing all the county’s drains including natural or artificial creek, ditch or pipelines for carrying storm water and all new drain construction, maintenance of existing drains and the establishment of water management districts. This office has the responsibility to educate the public about the importance of proper drainage and managing expectations regarding flood prevention, while also navigating complex issues like property rights, cost allocation, environmental concerns and often requires balancing the needs of landowners. The mission of this office is to improve and maintain storm water drainage for the public health, safety, welfare and convenience of the citizens of Leelanau County and also to be an effective and efficient steward of our natural and fiscal resources.

1) When elected, the transition from the existing drain commissioner Steve Christensen's office to my office, will be very important. I've known Steve most of my life, and he keeps good records, and he's done a good job. With my civil engineering experience, I believe the transition will be a smooth one. 2) I will then address the current priorities with the existing drainage districts and possibly add a new drainage district if or when it becomes necessary. 3) While getting dialed in on current priorities within the drain office itself, my focus on other committees the DC sits on will also be addressed.

The drain code is a very important law and is in need of constant updating to remain current and accurate. This code is also important in maintaining local land rights and local control of water issues. I will ensure the line of communication between the drain office and the residents of our county remains open and transparent.