Longtime county commissioner Melinda Lautner is being challenged for her District 7 seat by another Republican.
Steve Yoder of Cedar is seeking the Republican nomination for the district which represents Solon and Kasson Townships.
Yoder announced his candidacy Tuesday.
“I’m proud and excited to announce my candidacy for the Republican for county Commissioner, and am overwhelmed by the outpouring of support I have received since filing to run,” Yoder said. “I look forward to bringing transparent, honest, and accountable leadership to Leelanau County and earning your vote every day to become your next commissioner.”
Yoder operates his family business, Yoder Crates, and previously worked for the Michigan State Senate as a district liaison for Sen. John Damoose. He has also served as a trustee on the Solon Township Board for the past seven years and as a board representative on the township Planning Commission.
“It’s time for a leader who respects those who have gone before us, and is willing to bring a new perspective to the Board of Commissioners,” Yoder said. “I will represent the people of Kasson and Solon townships with the same energy and motivation that has characterized my work on the Solon Township board.”
Yoder and his wife, Kasey, have an 11-month-old son.
All county board members are up for reelection this year. To date, Yoder is one of two persons to have filed to have their name on the August Primary ballot.
Lautner, who has held her seat since 1995, has been challenged many times by Democrats, but never by a fellow GOP member.
“No, I have not declared despite the amount of encouragement to do so,” Lautner said.
Leland Township resident Harry Steffens has filed as a Republican candidate for the District 5 commissioner seat, representing Leland and Centerville townships.
This seat is currently held by Commissioner Kama Ross.
The filing deadline for most local offices is 4 p.m., April 23.
