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Salaries for Elected Township Officials in Northwest Michigan

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on March 17, 2023 by Donna Gundle-KriegMarch 17, 2023

Have you ever wondered how much money township officials earn in Northwest Michigan?

Recently there was a survey done on salaries for Township Supervisor, Treasurer, Clerk, and Trustees. Twenty-six townships responded, all located in Antrim, Kalkaska, Otsego, or Charlevoix counties.

These are numbers as of March 1, 2023. Some numbers are still from  2022, some are 2023 proposed or approved numbers. Most townships with 2022 rates do anticipate voting for raises.

The number of full-time residents is used for comparison, but obviously there are many other factors which might impact a job, such as parcels and budget.

The biggest factor, which is difficult to analyze, is how hard the person actually works.

For example, most Clerks and Treasurers have deputy clerks that are very part time, while there are townships that have full-time deputy clerks, some who perform other duties such as maintenance.  Some townships require members to have regular office houses, serve on other boards, or regularly attend water, fire, or planning meetings. Sometimes this pay is extra, sometimes it’s included.

Some break down pay into different categories. For example, the Mancelona Township Treasurer receives extra pay for administering marijuana licenses, which comes from the marijuana license fund.  Some pay “extra” for tax collection. The numbers are the TOTAL numbers for these various jobs.

Data provided from townships with 1000 residents or less was figured in a separate category.

Participating in the northwest Michigan salary survey for Township Clerk, Treasurer, Supervisor, and Trustee are the following townships: Banks, Bay, Central Lake, Charlevoix, Chester, Clearwater, Coldsprings, Custer, Dover, Echo, Elmira, Eveline, Excelsior, Forest Home, Hayes, Helena, Hudson, Jordan, Kalkaska, Kearney, Mancelona, Oliver, Otsego Lake, Springfield, Torch Lake, and Warner. 
How Much Do Township Officials Earn in Northwest Michigan?

Donna Gundle-Krieg, Libertarian for Michigan State Board of Education

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on September 24, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegOctober 21, 2022

Donna Gundle-Krieg from Mancelona has been nominated by the Libertarian Party of Michigan to run for the Michigan State Board of Education. She will be on the ballot on November 8, 2022.

Click here to see a video interview of Donna by the Oakland County Times.

Donna has had a strong interest in education policy for over 30 years. She worked for a short time as a high school teacher, and was the National Education Journalist for Examiner.com. She also researched and wrote about education policy for the Oakland Press, the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, and several additional publications.

Donna has her B.A. in Communications from Wayne State University, and has taken numerous Master’s level Business and Law courses.

Donna and her husband Dennis raised two children. Steven and Ellie both attended public and private schools, and were homeschooled. Due to their excellent and varied education, both received full scholarships to college.

Based on her experiences as both a teacher and a parent, Donna strongly believes that parents should be more involved in their child’s education, and that teachers should welcome parental input and partnership. She also believes that each child is very different. Some will thrive in environments different from the traditional public schools. Click here to see the Libertarian Party platform on education. 

Donna recently met with Justin Amash, former Libertarian Congressman of Michigan.

The main reason that Donna is running for the State Board of Education is to help provide more voices at the table. The current Board of Education members are mostly Democrats, with a couple of Republicans. A large number of people do not identify with either party, and Donna believes that more diversity on the board would help with the public’s divisiveness over education policy.

Donna, who lived in the Detroit area for most of her life, moved to Northern Michigan nine years ago to work in real estate. She owns DEK Realty, a small firm dedicated to improving the town of Mancelona.

In addition to improving her town through her real estate business, Donna was elected as a Mancelona Township Trustee in 2022. She was the second Libertarian in Michigan to ever beat a Democrat/Republican in a partisan election.

Click here to read some of the columns Donna has written about Libertarian policy.

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: Rubingh Versus Kuiper District #2

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on September 24, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegSeptember 24, 2022

There are two people running in the general election on November 8th to become Antrim County Commissioner in the newly drawn District #2, which includes Torch Lake, Central Lake and Banks townships.

Jarris Rubingh, Republican incumbent, will be challenged by Democrat Raymond Kuiper.

Unfortunately, Kuiper decided not to reply to the voter questionnaire. He wrote me back in July telling me that he did not have the time since he is running unopposed in August. I invited him to fill out the responses for the November election, but never received any reply.

The answers for Rubingh are below. NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidates’ responses.

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.
Jarris Rubingh: I am the fifth generation to live and work on a dairy farm in Banks township. Through the past years my family has been able to provide many of our neighbors with employment. Taking care of the people, land, cattle, and resources we have been blessed with is a wonderful responsibility. My wife and I have been married for almost 13 years and God has blessed us with six children. As a small business owner, I have personally seen how many rules and regulations adversely impact the ability to provide good paying jobs and grow our economy.

2. Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?
Jarris Rubingh: My wife and I are both members of the Antrim County Republican Party and we have met many hardworking people at the meetings who desire to make our country and county a better place.

3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh: Yes, taxes should be kept low and government should operate as efficiently and effectively as possible. I helped to pass the first meaningful tax cut for the citizens of Antrim County in over a decade. Inflation is forcing our citizens to do with less, and I believe that government should also become more efficient so we can allow citizens to keep more of their hard earned money. If people can keep more of their money they are more likely to work harder which produces more goods and services for all of our residents. I like good plans, but we can have really good plans that quickly become obsolete, Covid would be a good example. The best plans use taxpayers money more responsibly; the commissioners recently witnessed this when our maintenance director renegotiated an elevator contract with significant savings.

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh:  It is always hard to be as responsible with someone else’s money as you are with your own. Encouraging communication and collaboration between staff, commissioners, and taxpayers should be encouraged and practiced frequently.

5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?
Jarris Rubingh: Yes, I have. I have also seen the department address concerns. Again, communication and trying to understand the nature of the problem is very helpful.

6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh: It depends. First, resolutions do matter. Legislators, officials, and citizens do pay attention to resolutions that are passed. For example, a resolution encouraging the federal government to expand the production and refining of oil and gas may not directly relate to county business, however, lower gas prices would have a definite positive impact on all of our department head budgets because all of them drive and pay shipping on items purchased for Antrim county. Most resolutions impact people, some people that we know, and some that we don’t, so they need to be evaluated on a case by case basis.

7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh: Absolutely, I would like the taxpayers to have a direct vote on large expenditures.

8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh: The jail is old, however, my house is old too. I would like to see the sheriff put together a detailed list of pros and cons regarding a new jail. I am not in favor of holding prisoners from other counties. Inmate expenses are high and even if we get reimbursed for those, hiring and training additional people is hard and not worth the effort and legal issues that go along with it. People who have made mistakes should hear the message of Jesus who came to earth to live a perfect life and die for sinners. Seeing people learning to forgive and love their neighbors is such a blessing to observe.

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.
Jarris Rubingh: I believe that the goal of this program is to keep people who have mental health problems out of jail. If we can use a program like this to help people become job holding, contributing members of our community then I am all for it. I would like to see former prisoners connected with a local pastor and a local church. People need support and encouragement to do the right things, and understanding sin and the price that was paid for it can totally renew a person.

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?
Jarris Rubingh: I think the building department is setting a good example in this regard by allowing permits and payments to be made online. I would like to encourage other department heads to offer online services too, but we need a balance, if someone needs to have a document notarized they should be able to walk in and have it done. I think that there are opportunities for more employees to work from home, and if some of them do this it will open up spaces in our existing buildings without the need to build more buildings.

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage.
Jarris Rubingh: think that a pole barn or a storage unit would be a lot cheaper than a large new county complex. I think that the county has the property to be able to build a secure shed to store items when not in use.

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?
Jarris Rubingh: I have learned a lot about Antrim County government during the past two years. I have made mistakes, and I have said some things that I would like to say differently. I have tried to make Antrim county a better place to live, work, and raise a family. If people vote for me I will continue to apply myself to learn and make the best decisions that I can. The townships and village that I represent know that I make every effort to communicate and collaborate with local governments. I believe that I have attended over 90% of the township meetings in my district.

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county?
Jarris Rubingh: No, I do not support this ridiculous lawsuit. I think our society as a whole is way too quick to pursue litigation. Why would someone sue every elected official in Antrim County? It looks like a publicity stunt, and lawsuits take a lot of time and effort that could be used in other areas to improve things for people.

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: VanAlstine vs Goldenberg District #3

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on September 24, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegMarch 15, 2023

There are two people running to become Antrim County Commissioner in District #3. The newly drawn District #3 includes Kearney, Forest Home and Helena Townships as well as a small part of Custer Township.  

Republican incumbent Terry VanAlstine, chair of the Commissioners, will be challenged by Democrat Fred Goldenberg in the November 8th general election.

Below are the responses from VanAlstine and Goldenberg.  NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidate responses.

Fred Goldenberg

 

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.

Fred Goldenberg: I am 71 years old, married to Debbie Goldenberg, father of three, grandfather to nine. I’ve been a resident of Antrim County for over 20 years.

I am a Certified Senior Advisor with an insurance practice in Traverse City. I been in the insurance business since the 1970’s, specializing in retirement planning and health care with an emphasis on Medicare. I am not retired and don’t have any plans to do so in the near future.

In addition to my insurance agency, I am a long-time columnist for the Traverse City Record Eagle with my column appearing bi-weekly. My column, Senior Matters, focuses on a variety of topics that are of interest to a large and varied audience.

Although I was elected as a precinct delegate, which is a party affiliated position, I have never held a county wide office. But I have been involved in numerous civic, residential, political, and religious organizations in almost every capacity since the 1960’s. I’ve sat at the head of the table and ran the meetings to burning the midnight oil licking the envelopes to meet a deadline.

I am a firm believer in fiscal responsibility tempered with a heavy dose of social responsibility. We live in a place that others only dream of living. Yet there are those among us who need help. Not everyone is able to do it on their own and as a community it is our duty to lend a helping hand.

Terry Van Alstine

Terry VanAlstine: I graduated from Boyne City High School and went to Northwood Institute in Midland got a bachelor’s degree in business admin. with a minor in accounting and a associate degree in automotive replacement management. Opened a NAPA store is Bellaire in 1981 been here ever since. I have 2 children and 7 grandchildren.

 

2.  Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?

Fred Goldenberg: I am a member of the Democratic Party.

Terry VanAlstine: I am a member of the Republican Party.

 

3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: Taxes are a necessity. The health of our County is dependent on the tax revenue collected. It is the responsibility of the County commissioners and the departments they oversee to spend those dollars in the most judicious manner. Fiscal planning for short term and long-term goals must be planned for with the ability to make changes should as the needs arise. Hopefully that will translate into lower taxes for us all.

Terry VanAlstine: I agree with being fiscally responsible work on keeping with in our means but also taking care of our buildings that have not been repaired in 20 years. I would hope that when we get thru the next year that we will be able to continue to keep the millage lower that is approved by the voters.

 

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: Accountability starts at the top. For to long our county has been dealing with a political agenda that has caused the commission to spend far too much time on items that are not in the best interest of our citizens.

Terry VanAlstine:
I was not on the board when the bank building was bought but I was when the maintenance dept. turned the heat off on a flat roof and the drain pipes for the roof froze and broke.


5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?

Fred Goldenberg: Personally, I have had no dealings with the building department, but I have talked to a few business owners who have had to deal with permit issues and building delays but were overall satisfied with their interactions.

Terry VanAlstine: I have had people contact me about the building department and I have gave them the chain of command to fix their issues. First to contact Mark Haynes If no help there to Contact Pete Garwood and then bring it to the board of commissioners meeting to get it resolved.


6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: No. See answer to question #4.

Terry VanAlstine: NO


7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: Debt is a four-letter word. But unfortunately, it is a necessary evil when dealing with a municipal government. How we structure that debt should be dependent on the project and what benefits our citizens currently and into the future. To make a blanket statement would be unfair to the current population and the future generations.

Terry VanAlstine: Yes I agree if we have to build a new building I would like to see it go to the vote of the people and find a way to pay for it with out adding more taxes or a bond to pay for it.


8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: Three years ago, we were told that we needed a new jail due to the lack of functionality. That certainly hasn’t changed if anything it has gotten worse. We are dealing with a facility built in 1955. The four options presented then would cost an average of twenty-five million dollars (more now) but which option is best for the county and Bellaire are important considerations. If housing prisoners from other counties would help defray operational costs then it might make sense to consider doing so.

Terry VanAlstine: No. Fix the old one and plan for replacement by putting money away until we can afford to build it if needed.

 

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.

Fred Goldenberg: According to MSU Department of Public Health more than 10 million individuals are arrested and enter the U.S. criminal justice system each year. More than half have mental health disorders and two-thirds have substance use disorders. Our county jail is our largest mental health care facility which makes no sense at all.

The Stepping Up Program is designed to identify those individuals who can be best served by providing mental health services within the community not though incarceration. Providing mental healthprograms to reduce jail population benefits the Sheriff’s department, the individual and the community.

Terry VanAlstine: YES I support the stepping up program and will work to get it in our jail.. The sheriff in elected and he has the say in that. Taxpayers need to let him know that that is what they want him to work on.

 

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?

Fred Goldenberg: The biggest issue facing many is connectivity. The lack of high-speed internet throughout the county is the main stumbling block for many of our citizens. Within the community I live in we have high speed internet yet less then a mile away they have to depend on very low speed or no speed at all.

You can have all the Work-at-Home plans you want but until there is equal access to high-speed internet for all there will continue to be a disparity, and some will not be able to comply.

Terry VanAlstine: Did not reply. 

 

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage.

Fred Goldenberg:

I suspect that many of you reading this will off-handily eliminate me from contention simple because I am affiliated with the Democratic party. But that would be a mistake. For many of you this will be the first time in a very long time where you will have a choice in determining who will lead our county and community.

This is not a question of “D” versus “R”.

I am a firm believer in the free enterprise system. I want to see Antrim County grow and expand. I want to see more business opportunities and employment. But I also want to see all our citizens benefit from those endeavors.

The resent failure of the County Commissioners has been the inability to separate their political agenda from the realities of those they are supposed to serve.

It’s time for a change in attitude.

If you see fit to place your faith in me I will serve all citizens of the county equally and without partisan political baggage.

Terry VanAlstine: I think the storage needs will be able to be taken care of by digitizing all of the records kept in paper form which I am working on the admin to start looking for vendors that could do that.

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?

Fred Goldenberg:

Terry VanAlstine: I think it is very important to attend the township and village meetings every month so I can make informed decisions for the taxpayers that I represent. Which is why I get to them every month.

 

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county? Are you connected with Randy in any way?

Fred Goldenberg: Under NO circumstances do I support Randy Bishop nor am I affiliated with any organization which does. He and those who support him have made a mockery out of our election process and that is shameful.

Terry VanAlstine: I am not connected with him at all nor do i ever want to talk to him. It is a terrible thing that he is suing the county over a baseless claim. Costing the taxpayers of the county more money.

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To see the responses from candidates in all districts, see:
2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions – Northwest Michigan Libertarians 

2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on July 3, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegJuly 11, 2022

This election year 2022 is a very important one for Antrim County. We asked the candidates for Antrim County Commissioner to answer several important questions about the issues that we are facing in this area. Their response are linked below.

Not only are there many important issues that the county is facing, the county has been redistricted down to five Commissioners from the current nine. Therefore, in a few instances, incumbents are running against each other in some closely contested races. 

Some of these races will be decided in the August 2nd primary, others in the November general election.

You can find responses from the candidates for Antrim County Commissioner at the following links:

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: Pero vs Hefferan District #1 (Milton and Elk Rapids townships)

2022 Rubingh vs Zelenak vs Kuiper District #2 (Banks, Central Lake, and Torch Lake townships)

2022 VanAlstine vs Goldenberg District #3 (Kearney, Forest Home and Helena Townships as well as a small part of Custer Township)

2022 Ricksgers vs Helwig District #4 (most of Custer and the western half of Mancelona Township)

2022 LaVanway vs Marcus District #5 (Echo, Jordan, Warner, Chestonia, Star Townships, and the eastern half of Mancelona Township)


There is a Facebook Page called
Concerned Citizens of Antrim County which allows any resident to post and comment on information about these candidates, or any county issues.  You can also see the incumbents in action at the County Commissioner meetings, which are broadcast on Facebook.

The county is currently facing a lawsuit filed by controversial radio host Randy Bishop over the 2020 election mishap. For some reason, Bishop sued every elected official in the county, even those who have no control over elections. Several of the Commissioners are connected to Bishop through various Republican groups, but only one of them had anything nice to say about him.

Last but not least, there are several county building projects that will be debated in this next term, including a new jail. That was one of the important questions that we asked many of the candidates, who hold different opinions on the scope of the project and how it should be funded.

In conclusion, it’s important that voters educate themselves on the county issues, and the stances that each candidate takes on these issues. See you at the polls!

 

 

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: Pero vs Hefferan District #1

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on July 3, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegJuly 3, 2022

There are two people running to become Antrim County Commissioner in District #1. The newly drawn District #1 includes Milton and Elk Rapids Townships.

Republican Caleb Pero is challenging Republican Bill Hefferan. Unfortunately, we do not have any answers from Hefferan. I sent him the questionnaire through the US Post Office since I was unable to find any campaign information about him. I also put a notice on the Citizens’ Facebook page, but still did not receive a response.

Caleb Pero and family

Below are the responses from Caleb Pero.

NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidate responses.

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.

Caleb Pero: I have been married to my wife for 13 years and have 2 children (12 & 5). I am the son of missionaries and spent my teenage years in the Republic of Ireland in ministry. After returning to the US, I joined the MI Army National Guard and served for 6 years. I spent 1 year deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom where I earned several awards and medals. I am currently a full-time excavator with Mel’s Excavating. I actively work with local youth as a Sunday School Teacher and Bus Driver for my church. I grew up on a cattle farm, and I love the outdoors. From hiking, to hunting and fishing, I enjoy it all. I also own and operate a small Video Inspection Business, In-Spect, LLC.

2. Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?

Caleb Pero: I am an official member of the Republican party, but I am a Constitutional Conservative.


3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.

Caleb Pero: I believe that taxation in excess of that which is necessary to provide for the funding of our government’s services and responsibilities, and in excess of what is fiscally prudent to maintain a healthy safety net/”rainy-day” fund, is robbing our citizens of money that should be left in their hands to do as they see fit with. Our citizens are the drivers of our economy… the government is not. We need to plan in a way that is fiscally responsible and in a way that recognizes and reflects upon where our authority as the governing body comes from – the people.

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.

Caleb Pero: I cannot speak to the fiasco nor the bank building, but would be happy to be educated on what happened so as to be knowledgeable about those situations. However I can speak to accountability…we were given a political system that was built with checks and balances in place to prevent things such as abuse of power, negligence, and dereliction of duty. At the county level we need to make sure we have in place functional checks and balances that act as both a safety net and a deterrent for the aforementioned issues.

5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?

Caleb Pero: I have heard a little from people on both sides of the aisle, but have not experienced any issues personally. I would be open to hearing common sense solutions from my constituents regarding any of their specific concerns.


6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.

Caleb Pero: 9 times out of 10, no; I don’t believe it is appropriate. We are not elected for the purposes of wasting our taxpayers money and spending time on matters that are not our responsibility and that are not within our powers to effect. Wasting the people’s time is really stealing from them, as we are paid by the citizens of the county to do our job, not to write and vote upon personal opinions.

 

7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.

Caleb Pero:
All major building projects should be put to a public vote. If a fiscally responsible manner of funding cannot be agreed upon, the building project should not go forward.


8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.

Caleb Pero: I am aware of the jail situation, and I think there is an opportunity to work with neighboring counties and the State to come up with a common sense, fiscally responsible solution to our county jail situation.

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.

Caleb Pero:
I support the program and it should be something the Sheriff prioritizes.

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?

Caleb Pero:
In today’s day and age, I see no reason why necessary government functions that require people to come into a government facility cannot be streamlined and given the option to be done online. I realize there will always be the need for in-person services at some level, but technology is available to us today that would significantly reduce the space and resources currently needed for government operations.

 

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage

Caleb Pero: I want to ensure our taxpayers receive the best ‘bang for their buck’ so to speak. If we can appropriately solve an issue while spending less and providing the same services as if we had spent more, we should be doing it for less. If storage is needed and there is a cost effective solution, that is the first option that should be explored.

 

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?

Caleb Pero: From growing up on a cattle farm, to serving in the military, to being a father of a family and a Sunday-school teacher of youth, I have been blessed with a broad foundation for service on the Antrim County Board of Commissioners. I am asking for your vote in the August 2nd election so that, together, we can create an even better future for our current families, as well as for generations to come.

 

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county? Are you connected with Randy in any way?

Caleb Pero: Since beginning my campaign I have met with many people, including people I do not necessarily see eye-to-eye with. Mr. Bishop falls into that category. He and I are not connected past having met with him early on in my campaign.

I do support the integrity of our elections, but I do not support Mr. Bishop’s wreckless, and frivolous lawsuit.

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To see the responses from candidates in all districts, see:
2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions – Northwest Michigan Libertarians 

 

 

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: Rubingh vs Zelenak vs Kuiper District #2  

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on July 3, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegJuly 3, 2022

There are three people running to become Antrim County Commissioner in the newly drawn District #2, which includes Torch Lake, Central Lake and Banks townships.

Republican Melissa Zelenak is challenging Jarris Rubingh, Republican incumbent, in the August primary. In November, Democrat Raymond Kuiper will challenge the winner of the Republican primary.

Kuiper decided not to reply to the voter questionnaire. He wrote me as follows: “My intent was to get you the questionnaire form by today. I was going to have my wife edit my responses to you could have it today. Unfortunately I spilled my coffee cup all over the document. Ink was smeared everywhere! As I am running unopposed in the primary election in August, I am wondering if I can send you the questionnaire after the 4th of July which will give me a little more time?”

Melissa Zelenak

Jarris Rubingh with his wife Rebekah

I didn’t understand, since I assumed that he wrote his answers on a computer. I also thought that I gave everyone lots of time.  When I told him that I was hoping to write the story soon, in time to get it to absentee voters for August, he replied: “Sorry I will not have the time. As I am running unopposed in the August primary, you should probably just run the responses without me. Again my apologies.”

The answers for Rubingh and Zelenak are below. NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidates’ responses.

 

 

 

 

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.

Jarris Rubingh: I am the fifth generation to live and work on a dairy farm in Banks township. Through the past years my family has been able to provide many of our neighbors with employment. Taking care of the people, land, cattle, and resources we have been blessed with is a wonderful responsibility. My wife and I have been married for almost 13 years and God has blessed us with six children. As a small business owner, I have personally seen how many rules and regulations adversely impact the ability to provide good paying jobs and grow our economy.

Melissa Zelenak: I’m Melissa Zelenak, residing in Central Lake for most of my life, and when possible in Chestonia as my sweetheart just moved there last year to a his new farm. I take care of my dad and son, and two beagles. I work for the conservation district and am a lifelong learner. I hold multiple college and university degrees and have recently been accepted into graduate school at MSU. I’ve worked on numerous boards, local to state level, non-profit to tribal. I’ve gained years of solid experience, am open-minded, considerate, compassionate, tenacious, and have a low tolerance for waste and political tactics. I want to see Antrim County on the map for amazing things, not the ongoing lawsuits and other nonsense we are embroiled in.

2. Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?

Jarris Rubingh: My wife and I are both members of the Antrim County Republican Party and we have met many hardworking people at the meetings who desire to make our country and county a better place.

Melissa Zelenak:  I’m not sure what official means in this question but if it means going to the party meetings held by Bishop and cronies, then by all means, no, I am not and never will be official, thank God. I came to choose the GOP because I love and believe in God, and belief was important to me when I researched and made my choice years ago. Today I don’t know if that’s a good or bad thing, religion is a personal decision not a government mandate. In the last decade or so I’ve become greatly concerned that we see politicians acting the opposite of what their religion asks of them, whether they’re democrat, republican, or any other party. Why do they flat out hate and attack anyone because they don’t wear the same party color. What’s with that? How can people think that’s okay? I don’t push my belief in God on anyone. I don’t knock on people’s doors or thump a Bible and judge. I don’t run my life based on what the people in my church think. I run my life on making myself better, helping people, and helping this planet. The real deal is that I like to help everyone, it doesn’t matter what party they are, what religion they choose, or what color their skin is, etc. Effective leaders listen to and help all people. Political players condemn those who don’t go their way. Frankly, people should be able to vote for the person they choose, not corralled into straight voting for a particular party. That takes away their freedom of choice doesn’t it? Who do you see working for that right to choose? Even though I feel unrest about today’s politics, I’m still a republican, but I am not looking for a label, I just want to work to benefit the entire county.

3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh: Yes, taxes should be kept low and government should operate as efficiently and effectively as possible. I helped to pass the first meaningful tax cut for the citizens of Antrim County in over a decade. Inflation is forcing our citizens to do with less, and I believe that government should also become more efficient so we can allow citizens to keep more of their hard earned money. If people can keep more of their money they are more likely to work harder which produces more goods and services for all of our residents. I like good plans, but we can have really good plans that quickly become obsolete, Covid would be a good example. The best plans use taxpayers money more responsibly; the commissioners recently witnessed this when our maintenance director renegotiated an elevator contract with significant savings.

Melissa Zelenak: I think reducing taxes is wonderful, but not at the expense of taking services away from seniors, veterans, and other folks who rely on necessary things that tax monies provide. There’s a difference between fiscal responsibility and self-serving personal tax breaks. The county has several long-term plans, the master plan, the this plan, the that plan, but I don’t know that they are actually followed. While it would be great for us to have a long-term financial plan, holding staff and BOC accountable to make sure it is adhered to is the key issue. Another huge issue is data and logical analysis. Commissioners having a clue as to financial trending and in-depth budget assessments can keep costs lower and decrease tax needs. There are gaps in services and things that we could and should be doing to benefit citizens with tax dollars too, hello county clean-up day for example… So yes, reduction of taxes is fine, but it shouldn’t be done without some well thought out and long-term consideration of the consequences and benefits. Messing around with millage money can backfire in a big way. Citizens vote for millages they believe in, and commissioners should abide by their decision, not undo them. I think the best way for us to “help taxpayers pay less” is to 1) better manage expenses 2) make longer term improvements/make our investments last longer 3) stop getting sued..

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh:  It is always hard to be as responsible with someone else’s money as you are with your own. Encouraging communication and collaboration between staff, commissioners, and taxpayers should be encouraged and practiced frequently.

Melissa Zelenak: Every board member should contribute to the work plans created for the county administrator. Every board member should weigh in at evaluation time and recognize that when goals aren’t met or when mistakes are made, there are consequences. Time is money, we continue to waste a lot of it in my opinion because of poor communication and lack of vision and planning. I’m still tweaked over the bank building loss. We can’t afford that kind of loss ever again. We need an educated, experienced board that knows how to direct their administration to perform for the betterment of citizens and this county as a whole. The BOC is supposed to LEAD, not follow. It must be prepared to replace an employee who is not performing at the level their job demands. When I was a commissioner the first thing I noticed that was very odd was that we didn’t have a human resources department. Seriously, 100+ employees and no HR expert? I got that ball rolling and a good team of people stuck it out through multiple meetings and actions that ended up forming the current department. All employees, top to bottom, must have guidelines, workplans, and evaluations. When those things aren’t jiving with what the employee is doing, then action must be taken, up to and including dismissal. Accountability is crucial in our department heads, especially in the Administration office, as it touches every aspect of the county.

5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?

Jarris Rubingh: Yes, I have. I have also seen the department address concerns. Again, communication and trying to understand the nature of the problem is very helpful.

Melissa Zelenak:  I have not heard anything regarding the building department, however as in question 4, accountability must occur in any department to make sure jobs are being done in the best way possible.

6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh: It depends. First, resolutions do matter. Legislators, officials, and citizens do pay attention to resolutions that are passed. For example, a resolution encouraging the federal government to expand the production and refining of oil and gas may not directly relate to county business, however, lower gas prices would have a definite positive impact on all of our department head budgets because all of them drive and pay shipping on items purchased for Antrim county. Most resolutions impact people, some people that we know, and some that we don’t, so they need to be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Melissa Zelenak:  Unless it has a direct impact on Antrim County, no. County commissioners work must be focused on the realm to which they were elected. In the last couple of years, we’ve seen all sorts of things brought forward that people have wondered why it was even on the agenda, worse yet, when it was, commissioners ignored the comments of the public who spoke to the issue anyway. We have state and federal representation who should be acting on our behalf toward state and federal concerns, that’s why we elect them. Antrim County commissioners must be educated and informed and concentrating on Antrim County issues not pushing political pet projects that have nothing to do with county business.

7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh
: Absolutely, I would like the taxpayers to have a direct vote on large expenditures.

Melissa Zelenak:  Yes, I think voting to build new facilities, whether admin building or jail, is the right thing to do. Citizen input is critical and since the BOC voted to get rid of citizen led committees (which I think is a super horrible decision) getting input from people must happen by vote. Remember this 8/2/22. I want committees back. So many people are still upset over that, and rightly so. The BOC took their voice away, and that’s wrong. As to paying for building, I think a combination of funding options would be worth consideration, like partial fund balance, maybe a loan, there are many options to weigh out. I’m okay with short term debt and paying the project off fast but I will not support a burden to taxpayers for the long run. Money is tight for everyone, we need to help people keep their money in their own bank, not the county coffers.

8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh: The jail is old, however, my house is old too. I would like to see the sheriff put together a detailed list of pros and cons regarding a new jail. I am not in favor of holding prisoners from other counties. Inmate expenses are high and even if we get reimbursed for those, hiring and training additional people is hard and not worth the effort and legal issues that go along with it. People who have made mistakes should hear the message of Jesus who came to earth to live a perfect life and die for sinners. Seeing people learning to forgive and love their neighbors is such a blessing to observe.

Melissa Zelenak: Having toured the jail, I believe we need a solution, whether it’s remodeling or rebuilding, we must make efforts soon to keep staff and inmates safe. We don’t need more deaths or injuries in the jail. Staffing is tough as it is, bringing in inmates from other areas may not be the way to go when staffing is so challenging now. We don’t have hundreds of inmates to warrant a giant jail. This is one building I don’t want to plan for growth in! Sharing jail space might have potential in terms of cost sharing it but I want to see county funds used for county needs. Too many times Antrim County gets lumped in with other counties to get funding for this or that great cause, but we never see the funding come back to our own county, it ends up in some other county…See #7, again, I think the people MUST HAVE INPUT. This is a major decision, let people decide.

 

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.

Jarris Rubingh: I believe that the goal of this program is to keep people who have mental health problems out of jail. If we can use a program like this to help people become job holding, contributing members of our community then I am all for it. I would like to see former prisoners connected with a local pastor and a local church. People need support and encouragement to do the right things, and understanding sin and the price that was paid for it can totally renew a person.

Melissa Zelenak: OMG yes I support Stepping Up. This is not a new program, we could and should have embraced it long ago. I was at the state conference when it was introduced and it demonstrated great success. There’s not a commissioner on board who shouldn’t support it. Yes, the sheriff’s office could execute the program, but that department can’t do jack without the funding and approval of the commissioners. If commissioners don’t support it, it won’t happen whether the sheriff wants it or not. I am confident the sheriff wants the best for the population and our community and given the opportunity the department could make Stepping Up successful.

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?

Jarris Rubingh: I think the building department is setting a good example in this regard by allowing permits and payments to be made online. I would like to encourage other department heads to offer online services too, but we need a balance, if someone needs to have a document notarized they should be able to walk in and have it done. I think that there are opportunities for more employees to work from home, and if some of them do this it will open up spaces in our existing buildings without the need to build more buildings.

Melissa Zelenak:  We can certainly streamline and offer more services online but there is a lot to consider to make sure its effective and that work is truly being accomplished efficiently. I’m pretty sure Antrim County has never done a cost analysis on services, but I suspect we are paying a lot more to get things done than we should be and working at home may not be as cost effective as one might guess. While some people loved working at home in their sweatpants during the worst of times, the world is wide open again and working at home in a service-oriented organization is difficult because people need face to face help. There are many things that this country learned by working at home that can help us save time and money, but time gets lost when we’re sending 42 emails back and forth instead of stepping over to Joe’s office and asking a quick question. I’m not for a blanket work at home policy. There are indeed times when it’s fine and good but in general, I don’t see government services improving because of it. What I would love to see very soon are more opportunities for citizens to pay for things online, that’s a real time and money saver. It’s a total pain in the bum for some folks to have to drive to the county building to pick up or pay for things that could have been handled with an electronic payment and simple mailing. As for impact on a new county building, having one that can maintain current capacity and ideally accommodate for growth should be considered. It doesn’t seem like enough people would be staying home to work that it would require construction of a smaller facility.

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage.

Jarris Rubingh: think that a pole barn or a storage unit would be a lot cheaper than a large new county complex. I think that the county has the property to be able to build a secure shed to store items when not in use.

Melissa Zelenak: I’m down with inexpensive storage units, but better yet, I say let us get rid of stuff we don’t need

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?

Jarris Rubingh: I have learned a lot about Antrim County government during the past two years. I have made mistakes, and I have said some things that I would like to say differently. I have tried to make Antrim county a better place to live, work, and raise a family. If people vote for me I will continue to apply myself to learn and make the best decisions that I can. The townships and village that I represent know that I make every effort to communicate and collaborate with local governments. I believe that I have attended over 90% of the township meetings in my district.

Melissa Zelenak:  I want people to vote for me or anyone in office whom they feel has the experience, education, and energy to solve problems and make Antrim County more successful. The ongoing legal issues and political drama doesn’t do a thing for our image, much less for the morale of staff and citizens. We have so many amazing things happening in our county. Every single commissioner should be praising the good works that get done every single day but some seem to spend time bashing county staff, and each other. How does that help anyone? It breeds discontent and disrespect and a whole lot of people are discouraged and sick of it. People need to know about the good things that are happening, not just the fiasco episodes. Praise and gratitude are bigtime game changers. I’m the person who can work with anyone, I want to work with everyone. I learn from people who have different viewpoints. What I absolutely don’t want is more time and money wasting. What I don’t want are more BOC decisions that only benefit a select few. I want people to vote for me because I have vision for the future. I have a broad network of resources, a solid skillset, and serious work ethic, but most important of all, I care deeply about this county. I’m all for the people, the land, the water, the wildlife, and everything that is Antrim County. People can go to the website I made and learn more about me, www.MZ4AC.com or see my long running Facebook page “Melissa Zelenak’s Antrim County Public Service that shows years of dedication to Antrim.

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county?

Jarris Rubingh: No, I do not support this ridiculous lawsuit. I think our society as a whole is way too quick to pursue litigation. Why would someone sue every elected official in Antrim County? It looks like a publicity stunt, and lawsuits take a lot of time and effort that could be used in other areas to improve things for people.

Melissa Zelenak:  That’s a hard no. I echo heartily what Mr. Gordy Schafer said in a Concerned Citizen’s post: “I would never vote for anyone connected to him. And add to that connected to him now, in the future, or in the past..” And add to that “…connected to him now, in the future, or in the past….”

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To see the responses from candidates in all districts, see:
2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions – Northwest Michigan Libertarians 

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: Ricksgers vs Helwig District #4

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on July 3, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegJuly 3, 2022

There are two people running to become Antrim County Commissioner in District #4. The newly drawn District #4 includes most of Custer Township and the western half of Mancelona.

Republican incumbent Brenda Ricksgers is challenging Jason Helwig, another Republican incumbent, in the August primary.

The answers for Brenda Ricksgers are below. I wrote Jason Helwig twice at the email address he posts on the county website. Sadly, I never received a response. I also tagged him in the Citizens Group to try to get his attention, but still have not heard back. This helps me decide who I will be voting for!

NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidate responses.

Brenda Ricksgers

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.

Brenda Ricksgers: I have been an Antrim County resident for 34 years, transplanted by marriage from Oceana Cointy. I have owned a Beaity Salon, driven a school bus (loved my kids), milked Cows and raised Rocky Mountain horses. I have also volunteered as a 4H leader helping to put on the Tate 4H Horse Show and State 4H Trail ride about 20 years each. I drive meals on wheels in winter for our Antrim County COA and alter server and Eucharist Minister at St Anthony church. We have 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

 

2. Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?

Brenda Ricksgers: I have been a member of the Antrim county Republican Party for a number of years.

 

3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers: I don’t believe more taxes than needed should be levied. That said I also believe in being prepared for emergencies and keeping what we have in good repair. Let go only costs more for n the long run! One mill is very little per parcel but adds up to a lot when combined from all!

 

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers:
by Administrative staff I’m guessing you mean Commissions. We look at the Administration Staff as Pete’s office. The Housing department was complicated and very hard to know the truth until later! The bank building was purchased for the property contiguous with county campus. It was meant to be temporarily used and tore down. Fortunately there was Insurance on it that paid to have it torn down when there was a water problem.

 

5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?

Brenda Ricksgers: in the past I have heard of concerns, not lately. The Building Department has been working towards better communication.

 

6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers: in many cases no but when it concerns our citizens yes.

 


7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers:
I like people voting for big projects! Some things could be funded through Fund Balance if the monies are there. With cuts there will be less money there to work with. Big projects would need voted milllage. We are in desperate need of a Command center for our officers and an evidence Room also the skin of the Administration Building needs attention.

 

8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers: our jail is not safe for our employees. We have great employees that are making due. Not sure how that can last. Working with neighboring counties could be one answer, unless that happens it only needs to be large enough our needs. With the changes in the law we do not have as many prisoners.

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.

Brenda Ricksgers:
yes and yes. From what I see it looks like an answer to curb jail population.

 

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?

Brenda Ricksgers:
I was thankful that many of our employees were able to work from home! During that time there were not many people coming into the building for services as usual. But some still had to. Our county departments are a service to our residents. Yes some of them can be handled in line with all the technologies but there still needs to be face to face conversations to make sure people get the services they need.

 

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage.

Brenda Ricksgers: that may be possible. We can look into that.

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?

Brenda Ricksgers: I care about the welfare of our county and the people that live here! This is the last election I will be in win or loose! In 2024 it will be a 4 year commitment, that is too long for me! Neither Jason Helwig or I am campaigning. We are putting it to the voters to decide. We have both been there for a number of years. We each bring out previous life experiences to the table. I feel we have both done our best for Antrim County for commissioner and which of us is elected will continue to do so!

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county? Are you connected with Randy in any way?

Brenda Ricksgers: I do not support Randy Bishop anyone in any way. He is grandstanding to cause trouble! I’m not sure how he found a lawyer to take this case! I don’t believe he has one!

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To see the responses from candidates in all districts, see:
2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions – Northwest Michigan Libertarians 

2022 Antrim County Commissioner Race: LaVanway vs Marcus District #5

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on July 3, 2022 by Donna Gundle-KriegJuly 3, 2022

There are two people running to become Antrim County Commissioner in District #5. The newly drawn District #5 includes the following townships: Echo, Jordan, Warner, Chestonia, Star, and the eastern half of Mancelona.

Republican incumbent Christiam Marcus is challenging Dawn LaVanway, another Republican incumbent, in the August primary.

The answers for LaVanway and Marcus are below. NOTE: I did not edit any of these responses for grammar, accuracy, etc. I cut and pasted exact words from the candidate responses.

Dawn LaVanway

Christian Marcus

1. Please tell us about yourself, i.e. your family, work experience, etc.

Dawn LaVanway: A resident of East Jordan for 31 years. Library Director of Jordan Valley District Library for 31 years. Former Business owner of a septic tank & excavating company. Former owner of polled Herefords-selling bulls, steers, heifers and hay.

Christian Marcus:  I am a Christian Conservative currently the commissioner of the ninth district in Antrim County. Formally A Star Township trustee. I served as a reserve sheriff deputy for three years prior to my election to the board. I owned and operated a gas station convenience store for 18 years in star Township. I am married to my wife of 23 years with two adult children. I’m Elected to the Board of Directors for the Michigan Association of Counties. Current vice president of the Northern Michigan Counties Association. Both of which are voted on by my peers.,who by the way are rather conservative in nature. Formally a Detroit casino marketing and hospitality manager of five years.

2. Are you an official member of either the Democrat or Republican party? If you are not a member, what made you choose to run as a Democrat or Republican?

Dawn LaVanway:
Member for years of both Charlevoix & Antrim Republican Parties.

Christian Marcus:  I have been a member of the Antrim County republican party since 2010. I am currently on the first congressional district executive committee for the GOP. This is elected position at the GOP conference by your (Rep) peers. Although it is growing more difficult to identify as a statesman in the GOP. I have strong conservative Christian values and value a libertarian style of leadership.,” free and constitutional” that is.

 

3. Do you agree with cutting county taxes? If so, should the Commissioners have an overall long-term financial plan, or should they take every opportunity possible to help taxpayers pay less? Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway:
I voted conservative on every issue. The County does have a capital improvement plan for the next ten years. I voted to cut 1.5 million dollars from the millage last year and almost a million this year to reduce the voters’ taxes.

Christian Marcus: I was the second on the motion by my colleague Jarris Rubingh., that was argued against by Commissioner LaVanway. The result was a reduction of the tax break initially offered in this year‘s budget. I will note that the Board of Directors has ignored the 4.5 million dollars coming to the county from the federal government (ARPA). Having once chaired the strategic planning committee, budgets are typically looked at as well as infrastructure needs, rather aggressively, by this board. In the past 10 years the board has done a very good job. All of us, of maintaining a healthy budget surplus and backfilling any needs on a year-to-year basis.

 

4. What ideas do you have to keep the Administrative Staff accountable? There have been examples of negligence that have cost the taxpayers, such as the housing department fiasco five years ago, and the bank building having no plan for maintenance. Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway: The Administrator is responsible to the Board of Commissioners. Strategic planning was done last year to give direction to the Administrator on goals to achieve that a majority of the board agreed upon. He was then evaluated on reaching these goals.

Christian Marcus:  Accountability is a responsibility of all of us. The administrator undergoes an evaluation and given direction by the board. Currently there is more emphasis on the bi-monthly report resulting in more QnA ,giving more awareness of the board of the actions of the administrator and his or her staff. It was my understanding that we bought the building with the intentions of building a new jail on it due to restrictions of the current footprint. The rents being collected offset the costs giving us time to plan for a new building. Fortunately the county had insurance when the building was damaged from water. It paid for the removal of the building.

 

5. Have you experienced any issues or heard any citizen concerns with the county building department? If so, do you have any ideas to address those concerns?

Dawn LaVanway: The County Building Department has had many complaints regarding issues. When Dollar General was built in Alba, I was informed as the Commissioner it had a permitting problem that led me to meet with the Health Department and building department to change issues to help the public. Scott Kenderski from the Health Department agreed to implement videos on how to fill out the septic permits, an employee was going to be hired to answer the phone, and communication with the Health Department and Building Department was to be improved. Scott resigned and moved to a new job and the agreed upon suggestions were not achieved. A survey was created by the building department to fill out after applying for a permit but people will not complain in this situation when the survey goes to the Building department. The Health Department then had to deal with Covid. This issue needs to be looked upon again by the Board of Commissioners.

Christian Marcus:  Actually, Although we held public hearings in our board room and at Meadowbrook the Facebook concerned Antrim county citizens page provided an easier way for Community members to voice their opinion. My goal is to address the needs of safety and Infrastructure but also utilize programs that will result in The possibility of shared services and more advanced Technology allowing the county to provide services to neighboring counties. For example forensic work,currently sent to the state police, or mortuary services. And of course our mental health services. I requested an extension of the surveys From the building department,To be given out for every applied permit, to maintain a better understanding of how we could make the process easier and more efficient.

 

6. Do you think the County Commissioners should spend time and vote on political resolutions that are not related to county business? Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway: I would prefer to leave issues that pertain to the state for our state representatives and senators.

Christian Marcus:  Resolutions that have the potential of impacting the revenue or the actions of the counties Townships and villages should be addressed. Also if there’s a clear violation of peoples constitution., the County should address this as well. I oppose any policy that is black and white. A true leader will accept any and all resolutions to be viewed and not discount anybody’s position on a issue. We currently require the administration to provide all resolutions for our viewing and we vote on the case by case.

 

7. Do you believe that the citizens should be able to vote on a building project? Should the project be funded with fund balance, a millage vote, or bonding our children’s future? Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway: Yes, I believe the taxpayers should have a vote on a building project if it will be through a millage or bond.

Christian Marcus:
 Transparency is the best answer in regards to major expenditures that require a vote of the people in order to complete. The commissioners, being elected must be accountable for their decisions. I believe any and all major investments, the county should involve public hearings., even if there may not be a request for a millage or bond. 


8. Should the county build a new jail? If so, should it be big enough to take in prisoners from other counties? Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway:
The County jail has been an issue for many years. I do not believe the taxpayers were represented and heard by the board on all the issues and ideas of what was best for all. Maybe not take in other county prisoners but work with other counties to go into partnership for a new jail shared? More work needs to be discussed regarding this issue.

Christian Marcus: As a member of the state police 911 committee who is charged at the state level of auditing jails and 911 staff operations,as well as trainings. I learned a great deal about the requirements in jails prior to our evaluation. I can assure you that Antrim County desperately needs a new jail. We have managed to get by,by lots of hard work and continual updating within our means but, that time has come to an end. The State expects all jails to meet standard requirements. In regards to excepting prisoners from neighboring counties. Counties are required to pay for housing of their inmates in other counties.

9. Do you support the Stepping Up Program to reduce jail population? Do you feel that the Sheriff should make this one of his priorities? Please explain.

Dawn LaVanway: I support the Stepping Up Program and I believe it is currently being implemented through Community Mental Health.

Christian Marcus:  As a member of the state police 911 committee who is charged at the state level of auditing jails and 911 staff operations,as well as trainings. I learned a great deal about the requirements in jails prior to our evaluation. I can assure you that Antrim County desperately needs a new jail. We have managed to get by,by lots of hard work and continual updating within our means but, that time has come to an end. The State expects all jails to meet standard requirements. In regards to excepting prisoners from neighboring counties. Counties are required to pay for housing of their inmates in other counties.

10. The board also approved a work at home plan during the pandemic. Do you have creative ideas to offer more online services for the county residents? How do you think this would impact the need for new county buildings?

Dawn LaVanway: County government is all about services. Not all services can be done from home. This is an issue that will take more fiscal planning to see if it is even possible to save money, without increasing liability, and not cutting services.

Christian Marcus:  The work from home plan and policy is currently meant to be implemented during a emergency declaration by the county. Working from home is becoming a new way of doing business. I believe there’s laws that need to put in place to reduce liabilities to counties and long-term liabilities in costs to counties. New laws may result in different negotiation strategies for union contracts. At no time should Face to face services be put at risk. Our counties membership to the Michigan Association of Counties provides those best practices examples for us to implement. I believe that we should be Educated on a technology resource before implementing. I would hate to see The county suffer the consequences as they have with using the dominion tabulating machines.

11. The county recently had a consultant report that the primary space needs in the county were for storage. Do you have any ideas to address that? Please consider building inexpensive storage units versus building all new expensive buildings just because we need storage.

Dawn LaVanway: Much space could be saved in the County if record retention was not required. Technology could save space needs by scanning and digitalizing records.

Christian Marcus:  The most recent needs assessment was done by our MMRMA auditing firm which resulted in a space storage needs issue. This should not be a major task or undertaking and I would expect it to be done with prudence and low cost.

12. Do you have anything else to say about why people should vote for you?

Dawn LaVanway: I am running to be re-elected as a Commissioner, as I feel I have been fiscally responsible, transparent, and conservative when voting on issues that pertain to the County. I have attended all four of my township meetings on a monthly basis giving written reports on County decisions as well as listening so I am aware of what is going on in my district. I have been responsive to voters who have contacted me about issues that needed improvement and I have stood up to get it taken care of.

Christian Marcus:
 I want the people of Antrim County to understand that I am a simple spoken person. I voice my opinion and I’m willing to be wrong and corrected. I stood up for the election integrity issues in our county. I stood up for the parents who felt ignored at the Northwest dept of health. I work at all levels of government to protect the vulnerable and mentally disabled people. Recognizing our county by population, is aging I will do everything in my power to provide healthy living spaces,proper nutritional services,public safety, and maintain our beautiful parks and lands for their wellness. I also will continue to respect private property rights. I will continue to support individual townships and their ability to adapt and form policies and plans that fit their community. I wish to not wait for the federal government to protect our children in schools. Surely it would be screwed up,tied up in court and never get done. I’m currently exploring ideas and how our county can provide some sort of school safety martial /enhanced resource officer to provide those needs in schools.

 

13. Do you support Randy Bishop’s lawsuit against the county? Are you connected with Randy in any way?

Dawn LaVanway: No do not agree with Randy Bishop lawsuit which will cost the money to defend. No I am not a member of the Antrim County Conserative Union.

Christian Marcus: Of course I wouldn’t be party to or agree to any lawsuit that I am subject of. The only person I’m connected too is God and family. Other than that Randy Bishop in general is a good man, a business man, and also a radio personality. “ radio personality “

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To see the responses from candidates in all districts, see:
2022 Elections: Antrim County Commissioner Candidates Respond to Citizen Questions – Northwest Michigan Libertarians 

 

Mancelona Approves Marihuana Dispensaries, Changes Coming to Town!!

Northwest Michigan Libertarians Posted on September 16, 2021 by Donna Gundle-KriegMarch 15, 2023

After months of deliberation, the Village of Mancelona approved a new ordinance allowing retail and “microbusinesses” for recreational marihuana. The vote was 5-0 at their September 14th meeting. Board members Mike Allison, Lori Derror, Justin MacDonald, Steve Elder and Aaron Biehl all voted in favor of revising the ordinance.

In addition, the Mancelona Township board has approved unlimited licenses for marihuana processors and Class A through C growers, retail dispensaries and outdoor growers. The most recent vote was 4-1, with Chuck Johnson, Jessie Ayoub, Rod Vesey and Donna Gundle-Krieg voting in favor of the revisions to the marihuana ordinance, and Mike Biehl voting against the revisions. 

Both the village and township marihuana ordinances will bring many changes to Mancelona in the next few months. Many of these changes are contingent upon the Village awarding licenses for the following buildings:

1. The PNC Building at the corner of M-88 and US-131 has been purchased by Green Pharm, who plans a regional headquarters for over a dozen stores. Green Pharm’s plans in Mancelona include a retail dispensary, offices, training facilities, and housing.

2. The recently closed downtown hardware store is another probable site for a retail dispensary or microbusiness.

3. The former video store next to Family Fare may also become a retail cannabis dispensary.

Changes to the Township
On the township side, the factory at 9855 Front Street has been purchased by a cannabis company. This company has received licenses from the township for a retail dispensary, as well as a Class C grow facility. The factory is big enough to add more Class C licenses in the future, as well as a processing license. A Class C license allows up to 2000 plants.

Several other Mancelona Township citizens are working on licenses for processing, indoor and outdoor growing.

Other Businesses Coming to Town
In addition to the new marihuana businesses, the updated marihuana ordinances will bring other businesses to Mancelona as well.

There is a new clothing store moving into the corner store where Honey Hollow Treasures was located. There are also plans for a bar and grill with outdoor seating where the Mancelona Tavern used to be.

There is also a possibility of Mancelona Water and Sewer Authority receiving state funds to extend the sewer north from the village. This would potentially bring in more business and housing, including a chain hotel and bar/grill.

Housing remains a big challenge in the area. Jason Green of Anchor Management owns several of the downtown Mancelona buildings and has already renovated the old apartments on the upper floors of many of these buildings. The village now allows first floor housing, as long as the building has a “business front.” Some of the potential new cannabis companies are also researching ways to increase area housing for their potential employees. 

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