Troy City Council Candidate Survey: Olimpiu Apahidean

Could you tell us about your education, relevant to this position? 

I have a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

I'm a Professional Engineer licensed in the State of Michigan

Could you tell us about your personal or professional background, relevant to this position?

I’ve worked as an engineer for the past 17 years; the last 12 have been for the Road Commission for Oakland County. I understand the many facets and challenges of the public sector. I’m a logical and pragmatic problem solver. I’m an independent thinker and a visionary. I am of fact-based decision maker. After reading all the Council meeting minutes of the past 10 years, I've gained thorough insight into Troy's past and present. Equipped with this information, I can assure Troy residents that as a Council member I will serve them having a comprehensive perspective of the specific needs and challenges of our City. 

For how long have you lived in Troy?

I've lived in Troy for 3 years.

Do you have an activity relevant to this position or an endorsement which you would like readers to know of?

A fundraising event is planned for October. The final date is still TBD. I will make an announcement in the Troy Patch as soon as the details are finalized. I have not sought after nor received any formal endorsements to date. As soon as that changes, I will post that to my official website: www.ApahideanForTroy.com 

Could you summarize why you are running for city council?

I was inspired to run for city council by the organizational chart for the City of Troy. At the top of this well structured organigram are none other than its citizens. It clearly shows that the city council and city management should have as their primary objective to serve its citizens. The most valuable asset Troy has is its citizens; they are the backbone of our city’s success. Putting people first requires a concerted effort to optimize efficiency, increase transparency and build more trust through accountability. Once this is accomplished, the citizens of Troy can be assured to be lead by  a cohesive Council who will work together in the best interest of the City and its citizens. 

What do you think are the greatest issues facing the city? How would you handle them?

I see challenges as opportunities for change. One of the challenges for Troy is to become the safest city in Michigan once again. I believe that City leaders should explore the viability of restoring some of the recently eliminated positions back to the Police Department. The safety of our neighborhoods, schools and businesses is a critical component to the quality of life we desire for our families. Another issue requiring immediate attention is the condition of the roads throughout our city. As an engineer for the Road Commission I have the knowledge and experience to address this issue. A first-class city like Troy needs to have better roads. The robust General Fund unassigned balance should be considered as a viable funding source for the much needed additional capital improvement projects.