Past Involvement and Forward Commitment
My involvement in this community spans across multiple boards and committees through volunteering, appointment, and as an elected official. I believe this experience has enhanced my ability to hear all sides of an issue. It has been my desire, that as a current commissioner and past member of these various boards and committees, that all voices be heard and involved in the problem solving needed to address the issues of our County. I have been a lifelong resident of Alcona County, with 3 children in, and one graduated from Alcona Schools.
In addition to my board activities, being a parent of school aged children has afforded me an unique opportunity through, volunteering and coaching, to hear about needs and problems from the perspective of other parents. Alcona County has a diverse population, from retired folks to young families. It is my desire as a commissioner to serve and make decisions that help all of our residents be safe, be content, and be successful here in our County.
Fixing What Impacts Us Most
Given what we have gone through as a nation and community the last several months, important issues seem to come in multiples now, not single issues. Being informed and proactive with our pandemic responses will be ongoing in an effort to keep the residents of our County safe. I will continue to seek resources that will help Alcona County continue to succeed as we go forward.
That being said, one issue that does seem to surface in all conversations is broadband availability in our County. In the past year I appointed an EDC committee that took on as it’s first challenge, the broadband issue. We have worked diligently identifying needs and seeking solutions to fill the void. We have worked with both local and non-local providers in an effort to bring broadband to more residents, and though not 100% coverage, we have seen some success, and will continue to pursue all avenues. I believe the pandemic made us more aware of the need of effective broadband for schools and businesses.
Creating An Environment for Growth
I believe the best answer is to provide an environment that encourages investment in our county and surrounding counties that allows low-income residents the opportunity to succeed and move up the income ladder on their own terms. In addition to encouraging business in our county, I have supported the space port in Iosco county, and Thunder Bay Sanctuary in Alpena County, both bringing more dollars to Northeast Michigan thereby increasing the odds of success by more of our residents.
Alcona County is a diverse population and we have become a destination for many upper and middle income residents, who contribute through property taxes to the success and safety of our County.
For those in lower income brackets who receive state benefits, we did provide office space to DHHS in order to have easier access in our County and I support various different programs, though not all “county run” services to those in need.