Two incumbent township supervisors are being challenged by members of their own political party.
In Solon Township Supervisor Jim Lautner is pitted against former fire chief Chris Comeaux for the Republican nomination.
Greg Julian, supervisor of Kasson Township, is seeking the GOP nomination. He will face Ryan “Buzzy” Noonan.
A separate questionnaire was sent to Julian and Noonan and can be found on Pg. 10.
Lautner is a fifth generation farmer in Solon Township.
“Our family has been involved in Solon Township government since the early 1900s trying to keep what we have and make it better,” he said.
Comeaux graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Lake Superior State University.
He earn Managing Officer certification with NFA (Department of Homeland Security); has more than 20 years experience in public safety; was the first “professional” fire chief hired for Cedar Area Fire and Rescue (CAFR).
Comeaux currently represents the township on the CAFR board.
The winner of the Aug. 6 election will be unopposed in the November general election.We asked each candidate, three questions to which they were to respond in 75 words or less.
Here’s what they had to say:
1.)
COMEAUX: I believe parks and recreational opportunities are important for all citizens in Solon Township. It is important to listen to the recommendation of our township recreation committee. If given the opportunity to represent our township as Supervisor, I would ask that a survey be sent to all residents of our community to see if the citizens would like a millage to support the growth of our parks.
LAUTNER: It is my position to pay for parks out of the general funds and not a park millage. We’re paying enough taxes on our property now.
2.)
COMEAUX: After speaking to the Michigan Township Association, they informed me there are only two accepted meeting types if a quorum is met. Those two meeting types are regular and special. There are no exceptions to this rule according to the Open Meetings Act. Under my leadership, I would confirm these rules are followed so the public is formally notified by notice and minutes.
LAUTNER: I understand the Open Meetings Act and all meetings have been posted properly. I don’t think the Open Meetings Act was violated by Solon Township. Any action taken in a meeting has been properly recorded.
3.)
COMEAUX: As the Solon Township representative to the Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Board, I am confident that the request for 2.5 mills will be adequate to cover all immediate operational budget costs and long-term capital expenditure cost that Solon Township is responsible for in the next millage cycle. We are fortunate that our taxable valuation continues to support our current millage needs without any increase in tax to our citizens.
LAUTNER: The budget and amount asked for comes from the four-township fire board. Two-point, five mills will cover that amount for Solon Township and leave extra for unforeseen costs including capital expenditures.
