Two candidates are hoping for support from the ballot box to fill the District 2 commissioners seat.
Scott Perry a 2005 Traverse City West graduate, studied economics at Michigan State University. He founded 2Bays DJs at age 21. Perry and his wife, Hannah, married in 2022.
Mark Walter, the Republican nominee, served as a county commissioner representing District 2 from 2002 through 2008. A fifth generation county resident, Walter is a veteran and a retired lieutenant in the Michigan Department of Corrections. He has a bachelor’s degree and has been married to wife, Sandra, for 32 years. They have three adult children.
We asked the candidates the following questions to which they were asked to cap responses at 75 words each:
1.) As a result of legislation approved by state lawmakers in late 2023, the length of terms for county commissioners jumped from two years to four years. How will this impact governance at the county level?
Perry: Lengthening the term to four years is a sensible adjustment because it allows the commission to develop as a unit. As a citizen, I’m looking for a commission with a healthy long term outlook for our County. A longer term allows new commissioners to become comfortable in their role. Two years is a brief time to get your feet beneath you and I would expect a longer term affords the ability to not rush into rash policy changes.
Walter: The changes in term length shouldn’t affect the dayto- day operations of the Commissioner, it will assist with long term planning when dealing with larger projects and establish relationships with county employees, which should improve communication. It also allows the members to focus on their duties as a team working together once elected.
2.) In recent months, there has been a marked increase in the number of purported violations of the Open Meetings Act (OMA) by county commissioners and a board-appointed task force.
What is your knowledge of the OMA? What can be done to ensure transparency in county government?
Perry: Practicing transparency is a hallmark of county government in Michigan. Since 1977, any meeting with quorum must be open to the public for observation and input. Recently, publishing meeting minutes has been a thorn in the side of the commission. Cohesive communication between board members and administration is essential to fulfill the duty to keep the public aware of upcoming meetings and the progress discussed at said meetings.
Walter: I remember back in 2002 when I was a commissioner, we had OMA complaints and learned from those complaints. Like you can’t have a closed meeting without a public statement of the result. The Board needs to make decisions in the open and in the public setting. Committee meetings need to be posted, with minutes and public. Any variance to these practices put the integrity and the public trust of the Board in question.
3.) Commissioners have paused its search for a new administrator with the intention of allowing the newlyelected board to select a new administrator in early 2025.
What do you consider the top three attributes of a successful applicant?
Perry: The most desirable characteristic of a county administrator would be excellent communication skills. As the hub of our county government, the administrator needs to be sure all the county employees are working together to effectively conduct business. Accountability, positivity, and admirable organizational skills are also preferred. Perhaps, the best ability is availability; I fear qualified candidates may have soured on the opportunity after the commission’s indecision with earlier interview rounds.
Walter: The Administrator is the Board’s day-to-day presence, representing their intent and authority therefore: Good communication skills are essential. The ability to see issues and communicate with the board before they become a problem.
Organizational skills and the ability to meet suspense dates/ times.
Presents a professional attitude and appearance as the public face of the County Board.
