Could you tell us about your education, relevant to this position?
I worked full time to pay for school, starting with an Associates degree from Macomb Community College. From Macomb, I entered the Journalism program at Michigan State, earning my B.A. Having to work my way through school taught me to value hard work and appreciate how diverse experiences contribute to being educated. My journalism degree taught me to be vigilant in doing research, thorough in checking facts, and committed to keep a broad perspective when dealing with the matter at hand. It taught me to relate to people, to think for myself, while staying grounded in questions of economics, sociology, and history.
Could you tell us about your personal or professional background, relevant to this position?
I've spent my professional career in public relations, with 17 years at GM and 4 as the Community and Government Relations Manager at Delphi. My time at GM taught me the challenges of long range budget and business planning. Delphi connected me to multiple layers of our city -- the schools, city staff, and the Chamber of Commerce. I recognize the value in a business perspective while managing an excellent reputation. I spent several years as a stay-at-home mom, working part-time in Troy's community affairs department, where I helped city staff meet the needs of both residents and businesses.
For how long have you lived in Troy?
My husband and I moved to Troy 24 years ago, right after we got married. We raised our two children here and are proud to call Troy “home.”
Whether I was working full time or being a stay-at-home mom, I volunteered in the community. In 2011, I received Leadership Troy’s “Outstanding Volunteer Award” for working to improve the political discussion concerning the library, looking for solutions to fund the Library in a fiscally responsible way. My endorsements come from across the political spectrum, including current Mayor Dane Slater and two former mayors. I agree with Former Mayor Jeanne Stine's perspective on serving on council – the job is about being responsible for caring for the place where I raised my family and call home.
Could you summarize why you are running for city council?
I am running for city council to ensure that our tax money is spent in a way that preserves those things that make Troy a community. I think the best way to preserve our community is through non-partisan decision making and working together. This will create an environment that fosters differing opinions and supports the city administration as it seeks for creative, innovative approaches to Troy's challenges and opportunities. Good leadership fosters a climate that gives residents the necessities found in every great city: safety, services and schools, all at an extremely low millage rate.
What do you think are the greatest issues facing the city? How would you handle them?
The greatest issues facing the city are infrastructure challenges. For the past three years, I have closely followed the Budget and Special Study sessions; I understand how Council has worked with City Management to protect our bond rating. I want to help achieve an honest, transparent dialogue about the best budget allocations that strike the proper balance between protecting our reserve fund and bond rating while ensuring our critical infrastructure (including roads) and safety needs are met, all while keeping our millage rate low.
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