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ROYAL OAK/CLAWSON — In the Royal Oak Review’s coverage area, voters will decide on a myriad of national, state, county and local races, from the president of the United States to local school boards, as well as several state and local proposals.
Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. (I) indicates the candidate is an incumbent. The answers are printed verbatim except where material is omitted due to personal attacks or items we know to be false or that are blatant misrepresentations.
U.S. House of Representatives District 9
Four candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
Andy Levin (I)
Age: 60
Occupation: Member of Congress
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 14 years
Online campaign information: andylevinforcongress.com
Education: Williams College, University of Michigan, Harvard Law School
Previously held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: As Education & Labor Committee Vice Chair, I put working families at the center of every policy decision. I want all Americans to find a good-paying job, send their children to an excellent public school, have access to quality, affordable health care, and retire with dignity. Unfortunately, this pandemic has shown how out-of-reach this American dream is for many among us. I’ll work tirelessly until we live in that “more perfect union” we’ve always sought.
Republican
Charles Langworthy
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Working Class Party
Andrea L. Kirby
Age: 43
Occupation: Junior Accountant
Municipality of residence: Eastpointe
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: www.workingclassfight.com
Education: Bachelor Degree
Previously held elected offices: none
Top goals: If elected, my top priority would be to ensure that all of the wealth that is generated by the working class are used to take care of the needs of the working class. That would mean funding public services such as public health and education among other things. This would also provide jobs for all those that want to work. The needs of the working class would be my top priority.
Libertarian
Mike Saliba
Age: 36
Occupation: Underwriter
Municipality of residence: Clinton Twp
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: votesaliba.com
Education: Broadcasting
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: JUST SAY NO TO CONGRESS! Whether it’s Democrats or Republicans in charge, Congress hasn’t had an approval rating above 35% in decades. It isn’t working! I pledge to vote NO on any bill that does not 1) Reduce the size and scope of government power, 2) Cut taxes or government spending #defundpoliticians , or 3) Increase the personal freedom of all Americans. It’s a simple promise to keep. JUST SAY NO TO CONGRESS!
United States House of Representatives District 11
Three candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
Haley Stevens (I)
Age: 37
Occupation: United States Congresswoman
Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills, MI
For how long: Since 2017
Online campaign information: HaleyStevensforCongress.com
Education: American University (B.A., M.A.), Ernest W. Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan
Previously held elected offices: U.S. Congresswoman representing Michigan’s 11th District since 2019
Top goals: As Chief of Staff on President Obama’s Auto Rescue Task Force, my top priority is rebuilding our economy and getting Michiganders back to work safely. We also have to make our economy more resilient by strengthening our supply chains, securing better trade deals and holding China accountable. Lastly, I plan to focus on finding bipartisan solutions to the problems we faced before the pandemic, from climate change to our underfunded public schools.
Republican
Eric S. Esshaki
Age: 36
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Birmingham, MI
For how long: 2 years, previously lived in Troy, MI
Online campaign information: www.EricEsshaki.com
Education: Juris Doctor, University of Michigan; Bachelor of Integrative Studies, Oakland University; Associates Nursing, Oakland Community College
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: We must continue to reopen our economy in a safe manner, which means that we must clearly define the at-risk population and implement policies to protect them. We know that COVID-19 is a serious and deadly virus that is most dangerous to approximately 20% of the population, yet we shut down 100% of our nation and failed to protect the most vulnerable 20%. Science-based solutions are the key to moving forward.
Libertarian
Leonard Schwartz
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired professor of business law and economics
Municipality of residence: Oak Park, MI
For how long: 28 years
Online Campaign information: www.leonardschwartz.us
Education: B.A., University of Chicago; M.A., Johns Hopkins University; J.D., Wayne State University Law School
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: (1) End the war on herbal medicine, thereby reducing the opioid problem. (2) End foreign quagmires and trade wars. (3) Repeal civil asset forfeiture laws, which allow the government to confiscate your property without even accusing you of committing a crime.
State House of Representatives District 26
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
Jim Ellison (I)
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Chris Meister
Age: 63
Occupation: Marketing Director
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 25 years
Online campaign information: chrismeister4mirep.com
Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Central Michigan University
Previously held elected offices: none, I’m a regular guy
Top goals: I am a Constitutional Conservative who will always put the lives, rights and property of individuals ahead of special interests and identity politics. It is not the government’s job to tell people what to do and how to think. The Governor’s response to the COVID crisis torpedoed the best economy Michigan has experienced in generations. I trust the people, not state government, to know how best to restart their lives and businesses in the aftermath.
State House of Representatives District 41
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
Padma Kuppa (I)
Age: 55
Occupation: Representative for MI House District 41 (Troy and Clawson)
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: www.electpadmakuppa.com
Education: Mechanical Engineering, BS
Previously held elected offices: State Rep in 2018 for HD 41
Top goals: My top priorities are education, economy, healthcare and the environment. We need quality public education that prepares students for 21st-century jobs to build a strong economy and open the door to success. Access to paid sick leave and affordable healthcare ensures that Michiganders are healthy. I will fight for clean water, both the Great Lakes and what comes out of our taps, make science-based decisions, and hold polluters accountable.
Republican
Andrew J. Sosnoski
Age: 34
Occupation: Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 5/2011
Online campaign information: www.NotOnMIdime.com
Education: Bachelors of Science Business Administration from Central Michigan University; major in accounting
Previously held elected offices: none
Top goals: With vast experience in construction management I know what it takes to establish plans that will address Michigan’s crumbling infrastructure while protecting our environment and most valuable natural resources. My vision is for increased opportunity of citizen participation in government through transparency while simultaneously reducing the size and scope of government. I will work to return Michigan to a part time/partial paid state legislature and make sure government works for our hard working taxpayers.
Oakland County Executive
Three candidates are running for one four-year term. Additionally, Coulter and Kowall are running for a term that will last approximately two months from the Nov. 3 election to Dec. 31, 2020.
Democrat
David Coulter (I)
Age: 60
Occupation: Oakland County Executive
Municipality of residence: Ferndale, MI
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.davecoulter.com
Education: Michigan State University; B.A.
Previously held elected offices: Current County Executive. Mayor of Ferndale. Oakland County Commissioner.
Top goals: My top priority as county executive is to manage the coronavirus and support the economic recovery. My team acted quickly to acquire PPE, make testing widely available, and provide financial support to small businesses, schools, community organizations and local governments hard hit by COVID-19. Additionally, we’re focused on our Oakland 80 incentive to provide education and career training to Oakland County residents.
Republican
Mike Kowall
Age: 69
Occupation: Former Oakland County Economic & Legislative Liaison, family business owner and carpenter
Municipality of residence: White Lake Township
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: KowallforOakland.com
Education: Five-year carpentry apprenticeship, Oakland Community College, Detroit Henry Ford High School, St. Mary’s of Redford School
Previously held elected offices: Former State Majority Floor Leader, State Representative and Township Supervisor
Top goals: Mike has fought, and won, against the Administration’s plan to raise homeowner’s taxes by $1,020.00 per year. This money would have harmed seniors, and many of the homeowners and local communities around our county, taxing homeowners out of their homes. Mike has worked hard to promote sustainable economic development, protect our environment, quality of life and create an environment of fiscal responsibility.
Libertarian
Connor Nepomuceno
Age: 26
Occupation: Test Lab Technician
Municipality of residence: Village of Clarkston
For how long: Three years
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/Nepo4Oak land
Education: Associate’s degree, Automotive/High Performance — University of Northwestern Ohio 2016
Previously held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Lower Cost of Living: Abolish the Property Tax, Reform Zoning/Building Codes, Deregulate Utilities
Get Out of the Way of Business: Streamline Business/Occupational Licensing/Zoning, Cut Red Tape, Deregulate Marijuana Dispensaries. Constitutional Sanctuary: Protect Oakland from the Feds, Expand Gun Rights, Protect the Immigrant Population, Free Speech on Campus, End the War On Drugs. Police Reform: End Qualified Immunity, Pursue Officer Personal Liability Insurance, Enhanced De-Escalation and Non-Lethal Apprehension Training, De-Militarization.
Oakland County Prosecuting Attorney
Two candidates are running for one four-year term.
Democrat
Karen McDonald
Age: 50
Occupation: Private Practice Attorney
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: www.mcdonaldforprosecutor.com
Education: After graduating Alma College (1992) with an English & Political Science degree, I attended Wayne State University Law School, where I attained my Juris Doctorate (1998).
Previously held elected offices: Oakland County Circuit Court Judge (2012-2019)
Top goals: As prosecutor, I will reduce mass incarceration and address racial disparity in Oakland County by building a transparent, accountable Prosecutor’s Office, eliminating cash bail, holding youth accountable without unnecessary incarceration, and giving assistant prosecutors discretion to reduce or amend charges. I will also invest and participate in treatment courts and diversion programs for low-level, nonviolent offenders; create new mental health programs; and establish both a functioning Hate Crimes Unit and Conviction Integrity Unit.
Republican
Lin Goetz
Age: 53
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Lake Orion
For how long: 13 years, Village of Beverly Hills Resident for six years
Online campaign information: www.linforprosecutor.com
Education: Thomas M. Cooley Law School Juris Doctor; Michigan State University, B.A.
Previously held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My No. 1 goal is to protect you, your business, your family and your home. I support good law enforcement, who are there to protect and serve our community. I will implement a public integrity unit to give victims reassurance that former convictions were correct, or to correct wrong convictions. I will fight for domestic violence and child abuse victims to make sure their voice is heard in the court. I will fight for you.
Oakland County Sheriff
Two candidates are running for one four-year term.
Democrat
Vincent Gregory
Age: 72
Occupation: Volunteer at Judson Center
Executive board member
Municipality of residence: Lathrup Village
For how long: Nine years
Online campaign information: www.vincentgregoryforsheriff.com
Education: B.S., Criminal Justice, Madonna University
Previously held elected offices: Former Oakland County Commissioner 10 years
Former State Representative 2 years
Former State Senator 8 years
Top goals: 1. Transparency. Currently, Oakland County Sheriffs do not wear body cams. I will implement policies that require officers to wear active body cams at all times.
2. Community policing. Increasing the presence of officers in the community.
3. Accountability. After my platform release, a woman was promoted to Captain. As Sheriff, I will not wait 20 years to promote a woman.
4. Integrity. I will enforce executive orders from the Governor relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Republican
Michael J. Bouchard (I)
Age: 64
Occupation: Oakland County Sheriff
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield
Online campaign information: sheriffbouchard.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts with honors, Criminal Justice and Police Administration, Michigan State University
Graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute Program (NEI)
Graduate of the United States Secret Service in Dignitary Protection Program
Mid-Michigan Law Enforcement Center, Valedictorian
Graduate of the National Sheriff’s Institute
Previously held elected offices: Oakland County Sheriff (1999-present)
Michigan State Senate (1991-1999); Elected Senate Majority Floor Leader in 1998
Michigan State House of Representatives (1990-1991)
Village of Beverly Hills Council (1986-1990)
Top goals: As a police officer for 33 years, I know better hiring and better training leads to better outcomes. We need a state-of-the-art training center built for law enforcement in the county. To hold police more accountable, we need to focus on training to produce better results. I’ll continue to focus on getting police reform enacted in the capitol. I’m proud to be the only sheriff from Michigan ever named national sheriff of the year.
Oakland County Clerk and Register of Deeds
Two candidates are running for one four-year term.
Democrat
Lisa Brown (I)
Age: 53
Occupation: Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: Almost 30 years
Online campaign information: LisaBrown4Michigan.com
Education: Michigan State University, B.S. , Detroit College of Law, J.D.
Previously held elected offices: Started Representative 2009-2012, County Clerk/Register 2013-present
Top goals: I am running for re-election to continue providing an accessible, efficient, transparent, and fiscally responsible office to the residents of Oakland County. Now more than ever, it is vital to have a Clerk/Register with experience and knowledge in each area of this important office and continue the award winning, innovative programs I created, like PRN. I will build on my track record of success and ensure our elections are accurate, secure and fair.
Republican
Tina Barton
Age: 48
Occupation: City Clerk — City of Rochester Hills
Municipality of residence: Springfield Township
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: www.tinaforclerk.com
Education: Liberty University, master’s degree in Management and Leadership; Great Lakes University, bachelor’s degree in Business Administration
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: I will innovate, collaborate and protect. I will bring my nationally recognized, award-winning passion for working smarter and not harder. I will be a partner for our residents and Clerks. I will create a roundtable for our exterior partners such as realtors, attorneys and voter advocacy groups to review our services and processes. I will protect your finances, vote and property records. I will continue to work with security experts across the country.
Oakland County Treasurer
Three candidates are running for one four-year term.
Democrat
Robert Wittenberg
Age: 39
Occupation: State Representative
Municipality of residence: Huntington Woods, MI
For how long: 25 years
Online campaign information: www.RobertWittenberg.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Management, Indiana University
Previously held elected offices: State Representative, 1/2015-current
Top goals: Securing the financial well-being of every resident during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond, maintaining our AAA bond rating and preventing foreclosures, and helping to recruit new businesses while supporting existing ones. I will ensure that people are able to stay and thrive in our neighborhoods. I believe an effective public servant should be both fiscally responsible and socially conscious. That is why I’ll be a compassionate steward of resources for all residents across the county.
Republican
Joe Kent
Age: 62
Occupation: Tax Accountant, partner at Kent & Edwards Tax Advisors LLC
Municipality of Residence: Oxford, MI
For how long: 29 years
Online campaign information: https://electjoekent.com
Education: Bachelor’s degree, Michigan State University College of Business; M.B.A. University of Michigan School of Business
Previously held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: Protect property rights through an impartial review of procedures leading to this summer’s MI Supreme Court ruling against the Oakland County Treasurer’s office. Stop tax increases and stop risks to the county’s AAA bond rating. Protect the county’s assets through an impartial review of investment policies. Achieve best practices for privacy, security and ease of use in online payment tools and other Treasurer’s Department online resources. Restore openness in the county’s books.
No Party Affiliation
Nicholas G. Luppino (write-in)
Age: 29
Occupation: Political research and development.
Municipality of residence: Oakland County
For how long: 29 years
Online campaign information: change.org/chapter401
Education: Personal study
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: Policy fulfillment. Follow through with voting’s past. Corrections and reductions to monopoly’s and privateering. Restoring resource standards. Corroborating United States program intentions. Employment upkeep. Modernizing the impacts automation has had on the community.
Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner
Two candidates are running for one four-year term.
Democrat
Jim Nash (I)
Age: 63
Occupation: Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 26 years
Online campaign information: www.nash4wrc.com
Education: B.S., Florida State University, 1988, Political Science and Peace Studies
Previously held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner, (D) Farmington Hills — 2005-2013
Top goals: To continue my work leading collaborative regional efforts to make our water, sewer and stormwater systems as efficient and effective as possible to protect public health and safety, preserve and protect our water resources, and contribute to the economic success of the region. I will continue working with community partners across Oakland County to further develop the new technologies and infrastructure management practices that will protect our water resources for generations to come.
Republican
Jim Stevens
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 16
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
Penny Luebs (I)
Age: 66
Occupation: Social Worker
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: Facebook – Penny Luebs, Oakland County Commissioner
Education: Master’s Degree in Social Work, LMSW; CAADC (Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor)
Previously held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner
Top goals: Health & Safety – Supporting Schools, Senior Citizens, Veterans, Working Families and Public Safety Services
Protect our Environment – Preserve our Natural Resources, Protect our Lakes, Rivers, Streams, Protect our Drinking Water
Fiscal Responsibility through a Balanced Budget – Maintain our AAA bond rating
Maintain Infrastructure – Sewage & Water Systems, Communication Networks, Transportation Systems
Republican
Matt Pryor
Age: 60
Occupation: No answer given.
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 60 years
Online campaign information: mattpryor.org
Education: Bachelor of Science, University of Michigan
Previously held elected offices: Councilman and Mayor of Troy
Top goals: Spending should reflect priorities we all agree upon: Water, Roads, Sewers, Drains and Public Safety – especially in times like this.
Flint’s water crisis resulted from decades of misplaced priorities and politicians playing Santa Claus for special interests and cronies.
Good government is boring. Drinking water is clean, sewers and storm waters don’t flood basements, roads are drivable and people don’t live in fear.
I promise to be boring when spending your money.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 19
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Democrat
David T. Woodward (I)
Age: 44
Occupation: County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 44 years
Online campaign information: No answer given
Education: B.S. Mathematics, Wayne State University
Previously held elected offices: State Representative 1999-2004, County Commissioner 2005-present
Top goals: • Protect and expand our county public health services to get through this pandemic together
• Help our local small businesses recover with grants, technical assistance, and a long-term economic development strategy to build an economy that works for all.
• Help our schools reopen safely.
• Protect our drinking water, including helping local communities replace lead service lines
• Create an Office for Sustainability to reduce carbon emissions, increase renewable energy, and promote the development of green infrastructure.
Republican
Pam Lindell
Age: 59
Occupation: Volunteer and community activist
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.ElectPam2020.com
Education: Attended W,M.U.
Previously held elected offices: None.
Top goals: My goal is to put aside partisan politics and bring back transparency. We need leaders, not professional politicians working their agenda. Now is the time to keep taxes low and not spend foolishly. I will be the example of fiscal responsibility .
I will stay focused on what is best for our county. And I would support the Tri-county unified Regional Transit system provided that all regions contribute and benefit equally. Thank You.
Justice of the Supreme Court
Seven candidates are running for two eight-year terms.
Susan L. Hubbard
Age: 59 years old
Occupation: Judge of Wayne County Third Judicial Circuit Court, Civil Division
Municipality of residence: Reside in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
For how long: Lifelong Michigan resident, grew up in Dearborn, moved to Grosse Pointe Farms 8 years ago.
Online campaign information: HubbardforJustice.com
Education: Wayne State University, B.A. Detroit College of Law, J.D. Fordson High School, Dearborn
Previously held elected offices: Elected in 1985 to Dearborn City Council — 1986-1989
Elected in 1989 to Wayne County Commission — 1989-2004
Elected in 2010 to Wayne County Circuit Court — 2011-2016
Re-elected in 2016 to Wayne County Circuit Court — 2017-present-2022
Top goals: As Justice, I will protect the constitutional rights of Michigander’s by addressing, without delay, important issues such as the constitutionality of the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act. As the third generation in my family to serve in public office, I know the importance of protecting our democracy of representation of the people, by the people, for all the people. I will ensure that our system of checks and balances is upheld.
Mary Kelly
Age: 62
Occupation: Former 30-year assistant prosecutor. Current Lawyer Guardian Ad Litem for children involved in neglect and abuse cases in foster care system.
Municipality of residence: St. Clair County
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: MaryKellyforJustice.com
Education: Juris Doctor from Detroit College of Law; Bachelor of Science Michigan State University
Previously held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: As a Justice on the Michigan Supreme Court, my goals will be simple: to uphold the rule of law and deliver justice for the people of our great state. The role of a judge is not to make law, but to enforce and uphold the law. The Supreme Court also administers the judicial system throughout the state, and I will ensure our court system delivers equal justice for all.
Bridget Mary McCormack (I)
Age: 54
Occupation: Law
Municipality of residence: Ann Arbor, MI
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: www.bridgetmarymccormack.com
Education: In 1988, I graduated from Trinity College, a small liberal arts school in Hartford, Connecticut where I earned a B.A. with honors in political science and philosophy. I graduated from New York University Law School in 1991, where I was a Root-Tilden Scholar and earned the Anne Petluck Poses Prize in Clinical Advocacy.
Previously held elected offices: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, 2013-present
Top goals: If re-elected, I will continue the progress of the Justice For All Taskforce, which aims to achieve 100% access to the civil justice system in Michigan. Currently, eight of 10 Michiganders can’t afford a lawyer in civil legal problems. There is also an absence of innovation and technology in courts, which costs them transparency, efficiency and access. We have made great progress recently, but we need to make processes more user friendly and efficient.
Kerry Lee Morgan
Age: 65
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Redford Township
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: www.pck-law.com/attor ney/kerry-l-morgan
Education: Regent University, M.A. Public Policy, magna cum laude, 1985. Detroit College of Law, J.D., 1981. Michigan State University, B.A. Political Science and Criminal Justice, with honors, 1977.
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: The Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the law as written, not as it ought to be written in the mind of the Judge. My background in the law for over 40 years has taught me the importance of this purpose. I can bring a balanced respect for the written law and the Constitution in particular to the bench, so that justice may be done.
Katherine Mary Nepton
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Brock Swartzle
Age: 49
Occupation: Judge, Michigan Court of Appeals
Municipality of residence: Ingham County
For how long: 16 years
Online campaign information: BrockForJustice.com
Education: B.S., University of Michigan; J.D., George Mason University School of Law
Previously held elected offices: Judge, Michigan Court of Appeals
Top goals: We have the greatest legal system in the world — if you can afford it. Justice that is too expensive is not justice. We must make access to justice cheaper for everyone, from the single mom to the corner storekeeper to the low-income juvenile to our major employers. Therefore, (1) we need to make pretrial procedures cheaper and court records free online, and (2) we need to intervene early with juveniles who enter the justice system.
Elizabeth M. Welch
Age: 50
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: East Grand Rapid
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: welchforjustice.com
Education: Penn State University, B.A. with honors. Ohio State University, J.D.
Previously held elected offices: East Grand Rapids Board of Education, 2012-Jan. 2020
Top goals: The vast majority of litigants lack access to counsel. We must utilize technology and new pathways to ensure everyone can access justice fairly. Additionally, the lack of complete data makes it impossible to fully understand our criminal justice system. The court should modernize technology platforms in order to gather data in a usable format so that we ensure justice is delivered fairly across all demographics and programs are implemented that ensure safer communities.
Judge of Court of Appeals District 2
Two candidates are running unopposed for two six-year terms: Mark J. Cavanagh (I) and Jonathan Tukel (I).
Judge of 6th Circuit Court
Six candidates are running unopposed for six six-year terms: Martha D. Anderson (I), Mary Ellen T. Brennan (I), Lisa Gorcyca (I), Nanci Grant (I), Shalina Deborah Kumar (I) and Jeffery S. Matis (I).
Oakland County Sixth Circuit Court Judge, non-incumbent position
Two candidates are running for one six-year term.
Clarence Dass
Age: 35
Occupation: Attorney and Founder, The Dass Law Firm; Previously Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office (2012-2016)
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township, Michigan
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: www.dass4judge.com
Education: B.A., Wayne State University; J.D., The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: Having been a prosecutor, defense attorney and manager of a law firm, I will utilize my diverse, well-rounded experience to provide empathy for every litigant, while still upholding the law. As judge, I will seek to improve access to our courts, utilize treatment courts wherever possible and protect our community from violent crime. Whether it is a family, civil or criminal docket, I will treat each case with care and concern — always striving for justice.
Lorie Savin
Age: 50
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 19 years
Online campaign information: wwwSavinForJudge.com
Education: University of Michigan, A.B. in Political Science & Sociology 1992; Wayne State University Law School, J.D. 1995
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a judge, my goals are to: (1) Be an effective judge that helps people resolve disputes in a meaningful, fair, and timely fashion. (2) Continue efforts to improve access to the legal system for everyone and improve civility and professionalism within the legal community. (3) Partner with community organizations that support struggling families, reduce intimate partner violence, and help our youth avoid entering the juvenile justice system.
Judge of 6th Circuit Court, partial term ending Jan. 1, 2025
One candidate is running unopposed for the partial term: Kameshia D. Gant (I).
Judge of Oakland County Probate Court
One candidate is running unopposed for one six-year term: Daniel A. O’Brien (I).
Judge of 52-4 District Court
One candidate is running unopposed for one six-year term: Maureen M. McGinnis (I).
Clawson Public Schools Board of Education
Two candidates are running unopposed for three four-year terms: Kimberley Carlesimo (I) and Michael Frink (I).
Royal Oak Schools Board of Education
Six candidates are running for four four-year terms.
Erika Alexander
Age: 44
Occupation: Director of Quality Assurance for Oakland Family Services
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 17 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: Master of Arts in Counseling from Oakland University
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: Continue the work of ensuring fair and equitable experiences for students of all race/ethnicity and learning styles. Ensure the district meets the educational and social-emotional needs of all students. Continue to support the district in attracting and retaining staff of various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Encourage the development of formalized avenues of communication between the Board and all stakeholders (students, parents, teachers, administrators and community members) with built in measures for feedback.
Timothy J. Ciechorski
Age: 42
Occupation: Deputy District Court Clerk
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: Facebook- timforroschools
Education: A.S Criminal Justice
Previously held elected offices: Precinct Delegate 2012 to present
Top goals: I will encourage a stronger emphasis on mental health awareness for both students and staff. Call for greater diversity in curriculum and hiring. Promote a stronger focus on vocational education; providing a pathway for students into the skilled trades. Advocate for the best virtual and online instruction. Making Royal Oak Schools a leader in technology.
Lisa-Aline Hanes
Age: 49
Occupation: Clinical Services Program Manager-RN
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak, MI
For how long: 20 years and 7 months
Online campaign information: No answer given
Education: Michigan State University: BA Psychology
University of Detroit-Mercy: BS Nursing
Oakland University: Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education
Previously held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Diversity: Improve the diversity of teachers, leaders and curriculum. Every child of color should feel safe and have educators whom they identify with.
2. Healthy and Safe Environment: Ensure that all students and teachers have the resources for their physical and mental wellbeing.
3. Modernization of Classrooms and Curriculum: Collaborate to equip all classrooms with the latest technology and use best practices in enhancing he curriculum to meet the specific needs of our students.
Dustin G. Kaupp
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Lakeesha Morrison
Age: 36
Occupation: Full time wife and mother
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: https://m.facebook.com/Lakeesha-Morrison-for-Royal-Oak-School-Board-102393248216285/?tsid=0.41000822758263744&source=result
Education: PreK-12 Royal Oak Schools
Oakland community college
– Studies in Photography
Previously held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Lifelong resident of RO, former student, and mother of 3 now raising my children in the RO school district. I want to represent the personal interest of all RO students, including students of color! Honoring the diversity in our schools is important to the RO community, a diverse representation on the school board is extremely important. I personally have invested interest in my community and would like to continue to be the voice our community needs.
MaryAnne VanHaitsma (I)
Age: not provided
Occupation: current position – Adjudicator
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 23 Years
Online campaign information: https://sites.google.com/view/re-elect-maryanne-vanhaitsma/home
Education: Masters of Business Administration – Finance – Wayne State University, Bachelor of Science-Business – Wayne State University. Michigan Association of School Board Training
Previously held elected offices: Royal Oak School Board Incumbent
Top goals: Goal to ensure the delivery of an excellent education at all grade levels for each and every student. Ensuring our students and staff remain safe as they are entrusted in our care on a daily basis. Fiscal responsibility with taxpayer dollars and advocate for equitable and appropriate funding of public education. I am committed to equity, diversity and social justice; this goal needs to be a consistent theme in all the work we do.
Proposal 20-1
A proposed constitutional amendment to allow money from oil and gas mining on state-owned lands to continue to be collected in state funds for land protection and creation and maintenance of parks, nature areas, and public recreation facilities; and to describe how money in those state funds can be spent.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Allow the State Parks Endowment Fund to continue receiving money from sales of oil and gas from state-owned lands to improve, maintain and purchase land for State parks, and for Fund administration, until its balance reaches $800,000,000.
• Require subsequent oil and gas revenue from state-owned lands to go into the Natural Resources Trust Fund.
• Require at least 20% of Endowment Fund annual spending go toward State park improvement.
• Require at least 25% of Trust Fund annual spending go toward parks and public recreation areas and at least 25% toward land conservation.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 20-2
A proposed constitutional amendment to require a search warrant in order to access a person’s electronic data or electronic communications.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Prohibit unreasonable searches or seizures of a person’s electronic data and electronic communications.
• Require a search warrant to access a person’s electronic data or electronic communications, under the same conditions currently required for the government to obtain a search warrant to search a person’s house or seize a person’s things.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Millage Replacement And Increase To Improve, Operate, And Maintain Parks, Open Space Areas, Trails, And Recreation Activities In Oakland County, Michigan
The Oakland County Parks System includes 7000 acres and 80 miles of trails preserving and protecting the environment. There are 13 Oakland County Parks and recreational activities throughout the County including campgrounds, dog parks, golf courses, water parks, and mobile recreation units.
To continue to provide revenue to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, shall the current millage, which has been reduced by required rollback, be replaced and increased to .35 mills for 10 years from 2020 to 2029? The .35 mills is equal to 35 cents per $1,000.00 of taxable value. The millage, if approved and levied, will generate approximately $22,026,860.00 in 2020. The purpose of the millage is to improve, operate, and maintain parks, open space and water areas, trails, and recreation facilities; to allow for free day-use park admission for seniors (62 and over), military, veterans, and residents with permanent disabilities; to expand trails; to enhance local recreation programs; and to increase environmental conservation and recreation activities. Revenue from this millage will be disbursed only to the County of Oakland to be used solely for the purpose of funding the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission with external audits and oversight by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.
Royal Oak Schools Operating Millage Proposal
This proposal would restore and extend the authority of the Royal Oak Schools to levy the number of mills for operating purposes on taxable property in the School District required for the School District to receive the full foundation allowance permitted by the State and allow the district to continue to levy the statutory limit of 18 mills on non homestead property in the event of future Headlee rollbacks of up to 1.25 mills. The existing authority expired with the School District’s 2020 tax levy.
Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property in the Royal Oak Schools, County of Oakland, Michigan, be increased to 19.25 mills ($19.25 per $1,000 of taxable value), with 18 mills being the maximum allowable levy ($18.00 per $1,000 of taxable value), to the extent such property is not statutorily exempt, and of which not more than 3.4 mills may be imposed on principal residences, for ten (10) years, the years 2021 to 2030, inclusive, to provide funds for operating expenses of the school district? This millage would raise approximately $18,588,941 in the first year of levy.
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