Since longtime Leelanau County Drain Commissioner Steve Christensen is not running for reelection, the position is up for grabs and voters will decide in the general election who will serve in the role. This year, two candidates, Democrat Faith Hoekstra is running against Republican Timothy O’Non for the job. Despite efforts to reach Hoekstra regarding her candidacy, she did not respond by the time of publication.
O’Non brings 46 years of experience in land surveying as well as 41 years of civil engineering experience, with much of his work done concerning local landscape and water systems throughout Leelanau County and other states like Colorado and Arizona. He said his goal is to implement transparent water management practices that respect property rights and preserve Leelanau’s natural beauty.
As drain commissioner, O’Non said his primary responsibilities will be ensuring proper drainage and runoff management to prevent flooding and to protect homes, businesses, farmland, and to safeguard water quality. In order to achieve this, he explained that he will utilize engineered methods like checking dams to control the flow of water and to minimize soil erosion, as well as administer laws related to flood protection, stormwater management, and soil conservation.
If elected, O’Non said one of his first priorities will be to ensure a smooth transition from the current drain commissioner, Steve Christensen, who he has known for most of his life. He said another priority is to see through the proposed drainage district near County Road 641 and M-204 if the project is not completed by the end of year.
“I will also prioritize open and transparent communication with residents regarding water management issues. In addition, I will make my office available to collaborate with local planning commissions to help and advise them during their master plan review process,” O’Non said. “Collaboration can go a long way in minimizing potential problems. Properly planned systems will protect the environment and property while aligning new developments with the county’s natural water flow…” Leelanau County currently manages four drainage districts: Lake Bluffs, Schomberg Drain, South Bar Lake, and Timberlee. While O’Non said he has not identified any immediate concerns after extensive discussions with Steve Christensen and residents, he recognizes some community members may have specifi c issues or suggestions based on their experiences.
“... My priorities will be to maintain and improve our drainage infrastructure, proactively address potential problems, and keep communication open with all stakeholders,” he said. “Building on Steve’s strong foundation, I aim to ensure our drainage systems continue to serve the community effectively and sustainably.”
O’Non said serving as drain commissioner is important to him because it gives him the opportunity “to protect the land and water that makes Leelanau County unique.” As someone who grew up in the county and worked in his family’s land surveying business, he explained that he’s developed a “deep connection to the area and a firsthand understanding of the importance of effective water management for our environment and quality of life.”
“With 46 years’ experience in land surveying and working with civil engineers, I’ve witnessed how well-designed drainage systems can safeguard homes, businesses, and farmland from flooding and erosion while preserving our water resources…” he said. “I am running for drain commissioner because I care about Leelanau County’s future. I want to leverage my experience to ensure our water systems are efficient and respectful of the natural beauty that defines this area. It’s about serving the community I cherish and protecting the land we all love for future generations.”
