As the November 2024 election approaches, it is crucial for voters in Ingham County to be informed about the candidates running for various offices. Local elections have a direct impact on our community, from school boards to county commissioners, and your vote will shape the future of our area. Below is a detailed overview of the key races, highlighting all the candidates running for each position.
County Commissioner Races
County Commissioners hold significant roles in local governance, as they are responsible for making decisions that directly affect the daily lives of residents within their county. Here are the key reasons why county commissioners are important:
1. Policy Making and Legislation
County commissioners serve as the legislative body for the county, enacting ordinances and resolutions that govern various aspects of life within the county. These policies can range from land use and zoning regulations to public safety measures, environmental protections, and more. The decisions they make have long-term impacts on how communities within the county develop and function.
2. Budget and Fiscal Management
One of the primary responsibilities of county commissioners is to oversee the county’s budget. They allocate funds to various county departments and services, such as law enforcement, public health, transportation, and education. Effective fiscal management by the commissioners ensures that the county's resources are used efficiently and that essential services are adequately funded.
3. Infrastructure and Public Works
County commissioners are often involved in decisions related to infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and public buildings. They prioritize and approve funding for these projects, which are crucial for economic development, public safety, and overall quality of life. Their decisions on infrastructure can influence everything from traffic flow to the availability of public facilities.
4. Public Health and Safety
Commissioners play a crucial role in ensuring the health and safety of county residents. They oversee public health initiatives, manage emergency services, and work with local law enforcement to address crime and safety concerns. During public health crises, such as pandemics, they may implement or enforce health regulations to protect the community.
5. Economic Development
County commissioners are key players in promoting economic development within their jurisdiction. They can attract businesses, support local industry, and create policies that foster job growth and economic stability. Their decisions can significantly influence the economic health of the county and its ability to attract and retain residents and businesses.
6. Representation of Constituents
As elected officials, county commissioners represent the interests of their constituents at the county level. They are the voice of the community in county government, ensuring that the needs and concerns of residents are addressed in the decision-making process. Their responsiveness to constituent concerns can lead to more effective governance and greater public trust.
7. Intergovernmental Relations
County commissioners often work with other levels of government—local, state, and federal—to coordinate efforts, secure funding, and implement programs. Their ability to build relationships and collaborate across different government entities is crucial for addressing complex issues that extend beyond county borders.
8. Environmental Stewardship
Many county commissioners are tasked with overseeing environmental conservation efforts within their jurisdiction. This includes managing land use to protect natural resources, overseeing waste management and recycling programs, and ensuring sustainable practices are implemented in county operations.
County commissioners are vital to the governance and administration of the county. Their decisions impact a wide range of areas, from infrastructure and public safety to economic development and environmental protection. By managing the county’s resources and representing their constituents, they help shape the future of the community.
2nd District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Karla Ruest (Republican)
Karl Andrew Sime (Democratic)
3rd District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Chris Trubac (Democratic)
Leslie Markwort (Republican)
4th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Jack C. Jordan (Republican)
Todd Tennis (Democratic)
5th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Myles Johnson (Democratic)
Clint Tarver (Republican)
6th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Courtney Brogan (Republican)
Rachel R. Willis (Democratic)
7th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Thomas P. Morgan (Democratic)
Michael Wiggins (Republican)
8th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Evelyn Davis (Republican)
Robert Orlando Peña (Democratic)
9th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Robert J. Macomber (Republican)
Ryan Sebolt (Democratic)
10th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Scott Greenlee (Republican)
Gabrielle Lawrence (Democratic)
11th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Mark Grebner (Democratic)
Virginia Werner (Republican)
12th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Irene M. Cahill (Democratic)
Nathan Mahn (Republican)
13th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Tanya L. Pratt (Democratic)
Geoffrey Recktenwald (Republican)
14th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Mark Polsdofer (Democratic)
Nikki Wang (Republican)
15th District - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 1
Michelle Rosa (Democratic)
Monica Schafer (Republican)
Township Races
Township races are crucial in local governance because townships, particularly in states like Michigan, serve as the fundamental units of local government, providing essential services and making decisions that directly impact the day-to-day lives of residents. Here are some reasons why township races are important:
1. Local Decision-Making Authority
Township officials, including supervisors, clerks, treasurers, and trustees, make decisions on a range of local issues such as zoning, land use, public safety, and road maintenance. These decisions shape the physical and social landscape of the community, affecting everything from where new developments can be built to how local parks are maintained.
2. Budget Management and Resource Allocation
Township boards are responsible for managing budgets and allocating resources. This includes determining how tax revenues are spent on public services like road repairs, emergency services, and community programs. Effective budget management can lead to better services and infrastructure for residents, while mismanagement can result in inadequate services or higher taxes.
3. Public Services and Infrastructure
Townships often oversee essential services such as fire protection, water and sewage systems, and local law enforcement. The quality and availability of these services are directly influenced by the decisions made by township officials. For rural areas, in particular, township government may be the primary provider of these critical services.
4. Representation and Community Engagement
Township officials are the most accessible and responsive level of government for many residents. They are often the first point of contact for citizens who want to voice concerns or seek assistance with local issues. Because of this, township races ensure that local voices are heard and that the community's specific needs are addressed.
5. Impact on Property Values and Quality of Life
Decisions made by township boards can significantly impact property values and the overall quality of life in the community. For example, policies regarding local schools, public safety, and infrastructure improvements can make a township more or less desirable for current and potential residents.
6. Checks and Balances
Township government provides a level of checks and balances at the local level, ensuring that no single entity or official has too much power. Electing competent and ethical officials in these races is crucial to maintaining transparency, accountability, and fairness in local governance.
While township races might seem less prominent than state or national elections, they play a vital role in shaping the community's future. The officials elected to these positions have a direct and immediate impact on the quality of life for township residents, making it essential for voters to participate in these races and choose candidates who best represent their interests and values.
Alaiedon Township
Supervisor (Vote for 1):
Steven R. Lott (Republican)
Clerk (Vote for 1):
Kimberly P. Hafley (Republican)
Treasurer (Vote for 1):
Scott D. Everett (Republican)
Trustee (Vote for 2):
Kurt R. Kranz (Republican)
Beth A. Smith (Republican)
Aurelius Township
Supervisor (Vote for 1):
David B. Droscha (Republican)
Clerk (Vote for 1):
Bethany Walter (Republican)
Treasurer (Vote for 1):
Marnie Anderson (Republican)
Trustee (Vote for 2):
Gary Malcangi (Republican)
Gordon Waltz (Republican)
Delhi Township
Supervisor (Vote for 1):
John L. Hayhoe (Republican)
Eddie Montemayor (Democratic)
Clerk (Vote for 1):
Evan Hope (Democratic)
Treasurer (Vote for 1):
Tom Lenard (Democratic)
Trustee (Vote for 4):
Patrick A. DeRosa (Democratic)
Fred Ford (Democratic)
Matt Lincoln (Democratic)
DiAnne Warfield (Democratic)
Meridian Township
Supervisor (Vote for 1):
Scott Hendrickson (Democratic)
Patty McPhee (Republican)
Clerk (Vote for 1):
Angela Demas (Democratic)
Treasurer (Vote for 1):
Phil Deschaine (Democratic)
Trustee (Vote for 4):
Nickolas Lentz (Democratic)
Kathy Ann Sundland (Democratic)
Peter L. Trezise (Democratic)
Marna Wilson (Democratic)
School Board Elections
Education is at the forefront of this year’s elections, with numerous candidates running for school board positions across the county. School boards play a vital role in setting policies that affect our children’s education, and this year’s candidates offer diverse perspectives, The School Board plays a crucial role in the governance and oversight of the Lansing School District, impacting the educational experiences of thousands of students and the broader community. Here are the key reasons why the School Board is important:
1. Educational Policy and Curriculum Development
The Lansing School Board is responsible for establishing and overseeing educational policies and curricula within the district. This includes deciding what subjects are taught, how they are taught, and the standards for student performance. The board’s decisions directly affect the quality of education students receive and can influence their readiness for higher education and the workforce.
2. Budget and Resource Allocation
The board has the authority to approve and manage the district's budget, which includes allocating funds for school programs, teacher salaries, facilities maintenance, and other essential services. Their financial decisions impact the availability of resources such as textbooks, technology, extracurricular activities, and special education services, which are critical for student success.
3. Hiring and Oversight of the Superintendent
One of the board’s most significant responsibilities is hiring and evaluating the district superintendent, who is the chief executive officer of the school district. The superintendent implements the board’s policies and oversees the day-to-day operations of the schools. The board’s ability to select a qualified and effective superintendent is crucial to the overall success and leadership of the district.
4. Advocacy and Community Representation
School board members serve as representatives of the community, advocating for the needs and concerns of parents, students, and educators. They are the bridge between the community and the school district, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
5. Equity and Inclusivity Initiatives
The board is responsible for promoting equity and inclusivity within the schools, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to a quality education. This includes addressing issues like achievement gaps, providing resources for underserved populations, and creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
6. Accountability and Transparency
The board ensures that the school district operates with transparency and accountability. They monitor the implementation of policies, review performance data, and hold the administration accountable for meeting educational goals. This oversight helps to maintain trust between the district and the community.
7. Impact on the Community’s Future
The quality of the local school system is often a significant factor in a community’s economic development, property values, and overall quality of life. By making decisions that enhance the education system, the Lansing School Board contributes to the long-term success and vitality of the community.
The Lansing School Board is integral to shaping the educational landscape of the city, ensuring that policies and resources are aligned with the community's needs and aspirations. Their decisions have far-reaching effects, making the board's work critical to the district's and community's success.
Lansing School District Board - 6 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 3
James T. Allen (Nonpartisan)
Keturah Bouyer (Nonpartisan)
Joshua Crim (Nonpartisan)
LaVonté Heard (Nonpartisan)
Dan Nowiski (Nonpartisan)
Kyle Richard (Nonpartisan)
Cirea Strode (Nonpartisan)
Simon Verghese (Nonpartisan)
Lansing School District Board - Partial Term Ending 12/31/2028 - Vote for Not More Than 1
Deyanira Nevarez Martinez (Nonpartisan)
East Lansing Public Schools Board - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 3
Chris Martin (Nonpartisan)
Elizabeth Guerrero Lyons (Nonpartisan)
Felix Thibodeau (Nonpartisan)
Estrella Torrez (Nonpartisan)
Haslett Public Schools Board - 6 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 2
Amy Clark (Nonpartisan)
Travis Stoliker (Nonpartisan)
Holt Public Schools Board - 6 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 2
Marisa Anderson (Nonpartisan)
Robert G. Halgren (Nonpartisan)
Mason Public Schools Board - 6 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 2
Matt Bennett (Nonpartisan)
Matt Hall (Nonpartisan)
Lacy Harding (Nonpartisan)
Michael Kelly (Nonpartisan)
Brandon Leffew (Nonpartisan)
Okemos Public Schools Board - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 4
Jason Burns (Nonpartisan)
Katie Cavanaugh (Nonpartisan)
Andy Phelps (Nonpartisan)
Leeni Shrestha (Nonpartisan)
Stockbridge Community Schools Board - 6 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 2
Jill Marie Ogden (Nonpartisan)
Richard D. Ramalia III (Nonpartisan)
Waverly Community Schools Board - 4 Year Term - Vote for Not More Than 3
Emily J. Lenneman (Nonpartisan)
Catherine M. Pike (Nonpartisan)
Andrea Torres (Nonpartisan)
State Representative Races
State representatives, often referred to as state legislators or assembly members, play a crucial role in shaping the laws and policies that directly affect the lives of residents within their state. Here are some key reasons why state representatives are important:
1. Lawmaking and Legislation
Policy Creation: State representatives are responsible for proposing, drafting, debating, and voting on state laws. These laws can cover a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, transportation, public safety, and taxation.
Representation of Constituents: They represent the interests and concerns of their constituents in the legislative process. This means that they act as a voice for the people in their district, ensuring that their needs and opinions are considered in state governance.
2. Budget and Fiscal Management
State Budget Approval: State representatives play a key role in shaping and approving the state’s budget. This includes deciding how state funds will be allocated to different areas such as education, infrastructure, healthcare, and social services.
Economic Impact: Their decisions on taxation and spending can have significant impacts on the state’s economy and the financial well-being of residents.
3. Oversight and Accountability
Executive Branch Oversight: State representatives provide oversight of the executive branch of the state government, including the governor’s office and state agencies. They ensure that laws are implemented effectively and that state funds are used appropriately.
Checks and Balances: They serve as a check on the power of the executive branch, helping to prevent abuse of power and ensure accountability in government.
4. Local Issues and Community Impact
Addressing Local Concerns: State representatives often deal with issues that are specific to their districts, such as local infrastructure projects, zoning laws, and community development initiatives.
Constituent Services: They assist constituents with issues involving state agencies, helping to navigate bureaucracy and resolve problems related to state services.
5. Influence on National Issues
Federal-State Relations: While their primary focus is on state matters, state representatives can also influence national issues through state legislation. For example, state laws on matters like healthcare, environmental regulations, and criminal justice can set precedents or serve as models for federal legislation.
6. Civic Engagement and Education
Public Awareness: State representatives play a role in educating the public about the legislative process and encouraging civic engagement. They hold town halls, meet with constituents, and engage with the community to discuss key issues and gather feedback.
7. Impact on Daily Life
Direct Impact: The decisions made by state representatives affect many aspects of daily life, including the quality of public education, the safety of roads and infrastructure, access to healthcare, and local tax rates. Their work often has more immediate and visible impacts on citizens than federal legislation.
State representatives are essential to the functioning of state governments and play a pivotal role in ensuring that state laws and policies reflect the needs and values of the residents they serve. Their actions and decisions help shape the future of the state and directly influence the quality of life in their communities.
Vote for Not More Than 1
73rd District - 2 Year Term
Julie Brixie (Democratic)
Joshua J. Rockey (Republican)
74th District - 2 Year Term
Kara Hope (Democratic)
Tom Izzo (Republican)
75th District - 2 Year Term
Emily Dievendorf (Democratic)
Erik G. Davenport (Republican)
Ingham County Prosecutor
County Prosecutor
The County Prosecutor is responsible for overseeing criminal prosecutions within the county, ensuring justice is served, and working with law enforcement to maintain public safety.
4 Year Term
John Dewane (Democratic)
Norm Shinkle (Republican)
Ingham County Sheriff
County Sheriff
The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for the county, responsible for managing the county jail, overseeing deputies, and ensuring public safety.
4 Year Term
Steve Fox (Republican)
Scott A. Wriggelsworth (Democratic)
Ingham County Clerk
County Clerk
The County Clerk oversees elections, maintains public records, and issues licenses, making this position essential for the transparency and efficiency of county government.
4 Year Term
Barb Byrum (Democratic)
Joseph Werner (Republican)
Ingham County Treasurer
County Treasurer
The County Treasurer is responsible for managing the county’s finances, including tax collection, investment of public funds, and managing county debt.
4 Year Term
Alan Fox (Democratic)
Bruce A. Little (Republican)
Ingham County Register of Deeds
Register of Deeds
The Register of Deeds is responsible for maintaining and recording property records, ensuring accuracy and accessibility of property ownership information.
4 Year Term
Karla Skoczylas (Republican)
Derrick Quinney (Democratic)
Ingham County Drain Commissioner
Drain Commissioner
The Drain Commissioner manages the county’s water resources, overseeing drainage systems, flood prevention, and water quality management.
4 Year Term
Brian Bruce Beauchine (Republican)
Patrick Lindemann (Democratic)
Ingham County Probate Judge
Probate Judge
The Probate Judge handles cases involving estates, wills, guardianships, and mental health issues. This position requires a deep understanding of family and civil law.
6 Year Term
Shauna Dunnings (Nonpartisan - Incumbent)
Lansing Community College (LCC) Trustee
LCC Trustees are responsible for governing Lansing Community College, setting policies, and ensuring that the institution meets the educational needs of the community.
6 Year Term
Terry Frazier (Nonpartisan)
Ryan J. Smith (Nonpartisan)
Chatum Taylor (Nonpartisan)
Partial Term Ending 12/31/2028
Noel Garcia, Jr. (Nonpartisan)
Partial Term Ending 12/31/2026
Hope Lovell (Nonpartisan)
Why Your Vote Matters
Local elections are the cornerstone of our democracy, and the officials we elect make decisions that affect our schools, our neighborhoods, and our local economy. It’s essential that every voter in Ingham County takes the time to learn about the candidates and their platforms.
To assist you in making an informed decision, the Chronicle News recommends reviewing the following resources:
League of Women Voters Voter Guide: A comprehensive guide providing detailed information on all the candidates, including their platforms and backgrounds.
Ingham County Clerk Candidate Information: Official candidate filings and additional election details.
Michigan Voter Guide - Vote411: Find specific information on your ballot, polling locations, and more.
Make sure your voice is heard on Tuesday, November 5th. Your vote is your power—use it wisely!