The Romeo Observer - Romeo, Michigan: Northern Macomb County's weekly newspaper since 1866

Breaking News

DEIRDRE ZENSEN	DOROTHY MOLLON
EDWIN WERDERMAN	ELEANOR SUTTON
JAMES CRANNY	LOLA SHIMSHOCK
MARJORIE RENNY	PAUL UERLING
WITOLD BORONSKI
Browse Full Text...

» Inside

Public Notices
Links
About Us
News Stands
Subscriptions
Editorial Forms
Archives

» Deadlines

Friday, 2 pm
Inserts

Friday, Noon
Retail Display
Editorial

Monday, Noon
Classified Display
Service Directory Display

Monday, 2 pm
Service Directory Liners

Monday, 3 pm
Classified Liners

All Holiday Deadlines are One Full Workday Earlier

You are Viewing an Archived Issue

Posted: 10/31/12

Washington Twp., Village of Romeo,
Romeo Schools candidate profiles

      Following are the answers to questionnaires from candidates running in Washington Township, Village of Romeo and Romeo Schools.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

       SUPERVISOR

       DAN O'LEARY (R)
       Did not respond/running unopposed.

       CLERK

       KATHY BOSHEERS (R)
       Occupation: Washington Township Clerk
       Government, professional and political background: I was elected in November 2008. I am a commissioner for RWB Parks and Recreation, the Macomb Orchard Trail, and serve on the Executive, Finance and Personnel Committees for the township. I am a Republican, and I was unopposed in the August Primary and am unopposed in this election. For over 25 years, I have worked in manufacturing and the automotive industry. I have a degree in local government administration from Central Michigan University and certification from the U.S. Army Management & Engineering College. I have conducted numerous seminars and workshops on the topics of quality/productivity, strategic planning and organizational change for large corporations and small business. My husband and I owned a local small business, giving us a unique perspective relative to small business ownership in a struggling economy. I have been a volunteer for Romeo Community Schools, recycling programs and local charities. I am a youth basketball coach. My husband, Patrick, and I have lived in Washington Township over 23 years. Our son is a college student and graduate of Romeo High School. Our daughter is a student at Romeo High.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I have been part of a team that has managed the township finances and overall welfare while reducing costs and improving services. I have demonstrated effective administration of grant programs, implemented new election tools, and reduced/controlled township costs. I want to continue the work that was started four years ago. There is more work to be done and I want to part of it.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. Bring new business and help our current businesses, especially in the Van Dyke corridor. 2. As the economy and housing markets fluctuate, manage growth and blight. 3. Washington is a place where people want to live, play and work. We need to build outstanding work/life opportunities by focusing on infrastructure improvements including roads, sidewalks and recreation.

       TREASURER

       LINDA S. VERELLEN (R)
       Occupation: Washington Township treasurer.
       Government, professional and political background: Washington Township treasurer; member of Northern Macomb County Republican Association; Michigan Republican Association; Michigan Finance Officers Association; Macomb County Treasurer's Association; past secretary, treasurer, vice president, president Macomb County Treasurer's Association; B.S. Oakland University.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? My dedication as a public servant demonstrates my commitment to Washington Township. Throughout almost 28 years, I have proven this commitment. As treasurer and member of the Board of Trustees, I have worked to assure that Washington Township is debt free by being fiscally responsible, consistently earning the highest audit opinion available, committed to the safety and welfare of our township, serving to initiate the first Advanced Life Support, single waste hauler and tax administration program. I am a trustworthy, responsible public servant dedicated to listening and representing my constituents.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. To maintain the confidence of my constituents by continuing to represent the township as a whole and speak on their behalf. 2. To assure residents are provided with the services needed for a better quality of life. 3. Continue to control growth and spot zoning.

       TRUSTEE

       ART GRIMES (R)
       Occupation: Current Washington Township trustee
       Government, professional and political background: Before working as a trustee here in Washington these last four years, I was in the U.S. military where I spent 18 months overseas. I spent 33 years on the Washington Township Fire Department as a paid on call fireman. I also had 45 years working for Consumers Energy, 30 with the union and 15 years with management. Because of all those experiences, I felt comfortable dealing with the many issues we face in Washington Township.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I believe government needs to stay out of our pockets and provide only the right services at the right price. I work with my team to make sure that happens, fighting union benefits that the private sector doesn't get and fighting unnecessary expenditures. We've cut staff and cut out of the market benefits and yet still deliver quality services to our residents. I'm proud of our new fire station. I'm proud of the road paving projects and limestone work we've gotten done. I'm proud that we repaired some badly deteriorated water and sewer infrastructure. I'm proud that we lessened regulations that chase away businesses. I'm proud of our improved ambulance fleet. I've been involved in all those decisions. We've been fiscally responsible yet have improved the services you get. I want to continue to do that.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. Continue to manage your money by fighting high government union benefits. 2. Attract more business into town by further improving the regulatory environment. 3. Put money into the right projects that improve quality of life or save the taxpayer money over time.

       ABBY JACOBSON (R)
       Did not respond.

       HAROLD MILLER (R)
       Occupation: Retired carpenter and superintendant of Plant Operations at Macomb County Community College. Former owner and president of LifeTime Corp., a construction company.
       Government, professional and political background: Current Washington Township Planning Commission member. Washington Township trustee during 2004, 2007 and 2008. Washington Township weed inspector (three years voluntary), Assessing Board of Review, Zoning Board of Appeals, Building Board of Appeals, and Dangerous Building Hearing officer. Member North Macomb Republican Party and Precinct #3 delegate.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? My varied professional and life experiences make me a well rounded candidate       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: In this economy, taxes are the number one issue for most residents. Secondly, having good public services, and lastly, maintaining our small town, rural community look and feel. My plan to handle these issues is to: 1. Keep taxes in check by examining and questioning township expenses. 2. Support and promote the orchards, farmers, and encourage small business growth to keep in line with our small town atmosphere and give residents the ability to find work, dine, or shop locally. 3. Provide quality services to residents.

       LISA RAPP (R)
       Did not respond.

ROMEO VILLAGE

       TRUSTEE

       CHRISTINE MALZAHN
       Occupation: Owner/operator of Romeo Printing Company, 225 North Main Street.
       Government, professional and political background: I am a current member of the Greater Romeo Chamber of Commerce, The Romeo Merchants, Restaurants & Professionals group. I was appointed to the Romeo Downtown Development Authority, 2009-2012. My board-elected positions included secretary, vice chair and chairperson.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I want to represent the residents and businesses of Romeo in our local government. I believe my business and leadership experience can be of benefit as we meet the challenges before us. I am focused on what is in the best interest of our village residents, with honesty, integrity and dedication. I bring a unique perspective to council. My business has been in Romeo for over 27 years, I am a commercial property owner since 2002, and a resident of the village and surrounding areas for over 21 years. I am qualified to represent both the residents and the business professionals.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: The number one priority must be being responsible and mindful of what is in the best interests of the village residents. Tough economic times demand our elected leaders find common ground solutions or creative alternatives, so that a balanced budget can be achieved without raising taxes or water/sewer rates. 2. Maintaining first class police, fire and EMS services are essential to the safety of all in our community. A sharing of resources with our neighbors may lead to valuable partnerships that will be a benefit both in terms of quality of service, and fiscal responsibility. 3. Continued development of our Industrial Park will help improve property values in Romeo. Bringing homeowners to our neighborhoods, patrons to our local businesses and, most importantly, jobs to our area.

       RUSSELL J. RINKE
       Occupation: Associate creative director, advertising
       Government, professional and political background: Eight years as trustee for the Village of Romeo, 16 years in advertising.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I'm a lifelong Romeo resident and I have many family and friends that live here, so I have our best interests at heart. I understand the challenges our village faces and know what we need to do to move forward. I will continue to help by bringing a positive attitude and a voice of reason. Plus, eight years of experience in office and a good working relationship with the president, other trustees, and the village staff will help us all continue to achieve success.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. Continue to balance our budget. 2. Reduce our tax rates once our water fund is self-sufficient. 3. Improve our services and public safety.

       RON ROSSELL
       Occupation: 32 year owner of Action Insurance Service, Action Mortgage Services, Action Advantage Group
       Government, professional and political background: 16 years on Romeo Village Council, six years on Planning Board prior to that. Past president, Macomb County Agents Association; past president, Michigan Peach Festival Association; past president, Romeo-Washington Chamber of Commerce; past president Romeo Lions Club; founding board member of Romeo Downtown Development Association; 23 year chairman, Michigan Peach Festival Floral Parade.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I have always enjoyed representing the residents of our community in governmental, charitable, and business activities. I have always maintained the highest standards in attempting to be truthful and honest with our residents in whatever capacity I have been chosen to represent them. I will continue those standards.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. Continue to work to keep taxes as low as possible. 2. Working with our village administration so our services have the highest standards possible. 3. Have our industrial area, downtown business area, and our residents working and living in the best environment we are able to provide.

       RICHARD SELDON
       Occupation: Macomb County Circuit Court probation officer.
       Government, professional and political background: Precinct delegate from 2008-2012. Romeo High School graduate, Concordia University bachelor's degree in human resource management.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I have lived in the Romeo area for 30 years and my wife owns a business in the local area. We are vested in the village's future and I would like to be part of the decision making process. My decisions, as your trustee, would be based on residents' concerns and factual information. I have worked within the community for many years and have established many relationships within the community. These qualities give me an understanding of what positive direction the village should strive toward. I would serve the village wtih the integrity and honesty the residents deserve.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. The village is facing many important issues in the near future. The economy continues to struggle and local business opportunities are needed. Many long-standing businesses have unfortunately moved out, but this gives other businesses new opportunities. The village needs to make it a priority that the downtown district businesses are given every chance to flourish. 2. When the board makes a decision, it should always look at the totality of the circumstances. How will their decisions impact the residents' and the village's future? We need village residents serving on committees, and we need to add successful models from neighboring communities. 3. The village must continue to provide the residents with a high standard of essential services. The police and fire departments have provided a high level of professionalism and medical service to their citizens. The village needs to make it a priority to support their employees and the services they provide.

ROMEO COMMUNITY SCHOOLS BOARD MEMBER

       WAYNE D. CONNER II
       Occupation: Autoworker
       Government, professional and political background: Romeo School District: 20 years in Ray Township. 127th Wing Family Readiness Group Selfridge Air National Guard Base; Southeastern Michigan Veterans Stand Down Inc. for Homeless Veterans; Selfridge Optimist Club. Oakland University, bachelor degree; Baker College, M.B.A. Trustee of UAW Local 2280, 2007-2010; Executive Board Members At-Large for UAW Local 2280, 20012004; Have served in offices of vice president and trustee for Southeastern Michigan Veterans Down, Inc. for Homeless Veterans, 2005 to currently.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? My experience will help the Romeo School Board to move forward to be one of the best school boards in Michigan. I also would like to insure that the public is given clear information on how their tax dollars are being spent. I have previously held offices from president to trustee, showing I have leadership qualities. I have passion for helping people to accomplish their goals brought before me. I have been a trustee and could contribute to any financial issues.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. We need to approve this education bond on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2012. This would make us a leader in technology into the next century. The education bond which will replace aging technology infrastructure, provide wireless Internet access for students and staff and equip all classrooms with interactive capabilities needs to be approved by the voters. Community members will see no increase to the current tax rate with passage of this bond proposal due to other remaining debt being retired. 2. Improve communication between the board and our voters. 3. Work on increasing the enrollment in our Romeo schools.

       GUS DEMAS
       Occupation: Executive assistant to the president of Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, responsible for developing partnership programs with K-12 school districts which emphasize student success and college/career readiness upon graduation.
       Government, professional and political background: I have spent my entire professional career at the community college level as professor of biological sciences, associate dean of science and mathematics, dean of arts and sciences, vice-president of workforce development, provost and chief academic officer. My political and government background is based on the nine years I have served as the president and trustee of the Romeo School Board of Education.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? I should be re-elected because of my extensive background and experience in the educational profession as well as my board experience. I understand the critical issues that face the district and possess the collaborative, problem-solving approach necessary to deal with those critical issues.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: 1. To continue to balance the issue of limited resources and funding with the necessary support of all aspects of the district's operations from wages to facilities, transportation, technology, etc., through careful monitoring and prioritizing of all expenses in order to maintain a balanced budget. 2. To continue to develop, modify and assess all educational programs to assure quality by promoting student success, college and career readiness, as well as fostering responsible attributes for all students. 3. To sustain and create high quality programs/curriculum through current research, providing relevant technology and supporting professional development of teachers, staff, administrators through the judicious use of funds. Our students must be foremost in all of our decisions as we prepare them for success in our competitive world.

       SEBASTIAN S. PREVITI
       Did not respond.

       LEE VERBOUW
       Did not respond.

       CHRIS YOUNG
       Occupation: Full-time college student, camera and editor WBRW-TV, instructor for technology classes at RWB Parks and Rec and Senior Center, MiCM, and the Romeo District Library.
       Government, professional and political background: Mi Community Media & WBRW-TV (camera, editor, training instructor); RWB Parks & Rec and Senior Center (training instructor); Romeo's 175th Celebration Committee.
       Why should voters choose you to represent them in this office? The reason I decided to run for the Romeo School Board is I can provide an open mind and improve communication between our various groups. These groups play such a huge part in our community. I would also like to bring awareness to the residents of what's going in in their schools.
       Your top three priorities if chosen for this office: There's two most important issues I find facing the district, the budget and communication with the community.