The race for the District 5 commissioner seat is the second time these candidates have faced on another.
Alan Campbell, the Republican nominee, will face incumbent commissioner Kama Ross, a Democrat.
Ross edged Campbell by 38 votes in November 2022, 1,173 to 1,135.
Campbell is a 36-year business owner (21 years the Enterprise). He is an awardwinning journalist; director, PATH Foundation; Kids Fishing Day chair; community volunteer; author, Michigan Out-of-Doors
magazine. He and his wife, Deb, have a son, Cody.
Ross has served as the District 5 Commissioner since January 2023. She received her degree in forestry from Michigan State University, served in the Peace Corps in Paraguay and returned to enjoy a varied career in Natural Resources Education for 38 years. Ross has three grown children living on three different coasts and enjoys volunteering with many local environmental, artistic and civic organizations.
We asked county commissioner 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?
Campbell: Constituents and commissioners will benefit. County boards are composed with a mix of veterans and newcomers. Changing to four-year terms will give them all a chance to learn about themselves and work together effectively. For those with bold agendas, the extra time ensures that changes are well-planned and carefully executed, creating more durable, meaningful outcomes that truly benefit our community. Too many candidates run for election before they fully understand the job.
Ross: I believe this will be a positive change. Our Administrator, Elected Officials and Department Heads will receive solid policy and budget supportfromtheboard. Alonger term will help provide stability to staff. There is a huge learning curve to a commission position and by building experience each year the board will be more productive and will enhance collaborative working relationships — a very good way to keep government effective and efficient.
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.?
Campbell: The OMA roots out secrecy in government. During my journalism career, I’ve called out violations by Republicans and Democrats because the OMA is nonpartisan. It’s essential to democracy, as is addressing conflicts of interest. Recently, commissioners were asked by a nonprofit to gather to discuss energy policy without proper public notice, which can violate the OMA. If elected, I’ll demand that such events are posted so our government is transparent and accountable to the public.
Ross: I have received training on OMA during New Commissioner School and am grateful for guidance on the act from our County administrative team. I requested all board members, staff and county committee members receive further training inn November before assuming their elected and appointed roles. Education is key to making sure meetings are transparent, in accordance with the OMA. Assigning a staff member to be the main contact for OMA issues would be helpful.
3.) Commissioners have paused its search for a new administrator with the intention of allowing the newly-elected board to select a new administrator in early 2025.
What do you consider the top three attributes of a successful applicant?
Campbell: The process of hiring a county administrator should focus on practical skills, not impossible expectations like combining CPA expertise with administrative duties. That mix led to a failed search. I urged the board to move forward, but my opponent voted against timely action, citing personal distractions and campaigning. Attributes for success include integrity, ability to lead effectively, and common sense. These qualities ensure our administrator has the tools to best serve the public’s best interest.
Ross: As a current board member, I am looking for an individual with five or more years of experience in local government with a strong understanding of finance and collective bargaining principals. A collaborative leadership style that builds on the importance of relationships based on respect and trust. Excellent communication skills that will support the board’s policy decision making and the implementation of those policy decisions with elected officials and department heads within county government.
