"There is a significant turnover on the county board--let's finish that change. The 9th District must provide strong and consistent leadership and not flip-flop on the political wind or fail in chairing committees. I have the experience, foritude, and integrity of character to provide that leadership."
LIST OF ISSUES
ENVIRONMENT & ECONOMY (Water and Electrical Power)
Two main ingredients for Genesee County to return as a manufacturing powerhouse—water and electricity. The KWA pipeline will supply abundant clean water at the same time Flint’s tarnished water image is mended. Michigan’s independent energy plan will ensure clean, reliable power using our natural resources and proven, cost-effective fuel sources. A power plant in Genesee County would attract major manufacturers and their suppliers.
BUDGET (Limited Government)
There is no magic pot of money and the taxpayer is stretched to breaking with current rates and fees from all levels of government. So, how do you pay for the necessary functions of government? You keep spending in check. Do not bloat the system with redundant civil servants—only add staff when both tax base and number of residents reach milestone levels that require more service. Do not take grant money that does not have legacy costs covered and may leave a bankrupt eyesore down the road. You do not raise bonds to finance debt unless there is a clear, reasoned payoff schedule—not based on idealized, hopeful growth expectation, but proven, working economic plans showing trending and sustainable tax base growth. Forecast a justified Capital Improvement Plan and set real goals for funding the maintenance and replacement needs. Fight unfunded mandates from the state and regulatory agencies—be the voice of the people. Protect a healthy fund balance--receivership is NOT an option.
CRIME (Social Values and Personal Responsibility)
Use of the Flint city jail must continue for real consequence of lockup and not simply an appearance ticket. Programs like the Flint Blue Badge volunteers must be leveraged to free up officers/deputies for the streets. Ordinances and regulations that over criminalize aesthetic activities need eliminating to lessen the burden on the judicial system. Also, focus on community values--sanctity of life, property rights, and hope from job growth that expands freedom of choice and self-worth. Drugs, violence, and gangs must be replaced with jobs that support families, increase homeowner occupancy, and break the cycle of government dependency that abdicates personal responsibility. Social changes require courage and patience but, values must be addressed and championed.
VOLUNTEERS AND SERVICE (Animal Control & Senior Centers)
Since senior center funds are now collected at the county level, care must be exercised that a bureaucracy is not created siphoning money from getting to the local municipalities. Areas with high participation and successful programs should be rewarded; low participation communities should be turned around or consolidated and not unduly propped up. Proper accounting and auditing must be conducted to ensure every tax dollar goes to intended senior-related activities, advocacy and aid programs and the centers are run in a safe, productive manner. We have a director for the millage funds--no need to re-invent a sub-committee micromanaging successful programs.
Animal Control volunteers are a passionate force for the care and adoption of domestic animals sheltered in the county facility—they are creative and organized and do not need micromanagement from a dissolved sub-committee. They should be allowed to flourish under the shelter’s programs.
Programs like Flint’s Blue Badge Volunteers and other government support volunteers, should complement needed services (like putting cops on the streets) and not be viewed as a threat to careers or funded positions. These same volunteers are involved in neighbor block groups, charities and advocating for Genesee County. Having volunteer groups provides an avenue for training and résumé building to sharpen skills and employability.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Simply put, 16 out of 24 county parks are in the 9th District! The 9th District must have the voice of a leader to keep these attractive activities that lift our standard of living and draw visitors. In combination with township and city parks and trails—what a beautiful place to live!
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Promote positive image of Genesee County! Intersection of two interstate highways leading to Detroit and Chicago markets--including I-69 connecting Canada with Mexico along the "NAFTA" highway. North-South and East-West railroads, international airport, and nearby Port of Sarnia--distribution is a breeze. First commissioner to complete Certified Tourism Ambassador certification through the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. Advocates skilled trade careers with college students and returning veterans. Building trades are in demand for new industrial facilities and future maintenance of our manufacturing growth. Major university campus locations with many satellite schools. Three major hospitals and a network of clinics and outpatient services. Recreation! With 11,000 acres of parks, hard working parents are only minutes away of treating their families to camping, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, and a host of entertainment!