Ingham primary voter 2012

Copyright 2012 LWV Lansing League of Women Voters VOTE411 website for full coverage of Michigan candidates. http://www.vote411.org/onyourballot/state.php

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League of Women Voters of the Lansing Area

Voter Guide

INGHAM COUNTY PRIMARY ELECTION August 7, 2012

VOTE411 website

Covers Michigan elections, amendments and proposals

Under a Michigan law upheld in July 2007 by the Michigan Supreme Court, ALL voters are required to show photo identification to vote at the polls. If you have no photo identification or don’t have one with you, you must fill out and sign an affidavit in order to receive a ballot. The ID requirement does not apply to persons voting by absentee ballot.


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LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF THE LANSING AREA VOTER GUIDE

CANDIDATES FOR THE PRIMARY ELECTION: INGHAM COUNTY

The League of Women Voters is a national nonpartisan organization established to encourage citizen participation in government. It never supports or opposes any political party or candidate. The League of Women Voters does support or oppose governmental action on issues after careful study, without regard to the stand of any political party. This Voter Guide is also available at the VOTE411 website, http://www.vote411.org/onyourballot/state.php , http://lansing.mi.lwvnet.org and at the Lansing City Clerk’s website http://www.lansingmi.gov/clerk/elections.jsp and through the East Lansing City Clerk’s website at http://www.cityofeastlansing.com. This guide was prepared with the help of League members, students and members of the community interested in the issues. The personal statement and responses are limited to 300 characters per statement or response. The answers are printed as submitted and have not been edited, except for necessary cutting when replies exceed the stated word limitations. If the candidate does not reply by the required date for publication, the words “Did not reply in time for publication” appear by the candidate’s name. When a candidate exceeds the word limit the answer ends with an ellipse (…). They respond in alphabetical order by Party. The Michigan Secretary of State’s Party will always appear first on the ballot. All candidate responses are in bold. Publication of these statements and opinions of the candidates is solely in the interest of public service and in no way is to be construed as an endorsement thereof by the League of Women Voters. The League of Women Voters takes no responsibility for any of the views or facts as stated by the candidates. Ingham County is holding a Primary Election on August 7, 2012. This is a Closed Primary. Voters must vote for candidates in one political party in partisan races, such as county commissioner or drain commissioner. If voters cast candidates for more than one party, their ballots are invalidated. This rule does not cover judicial races, which are non-partisan. The following races are covered in this Voter Guide. Ingham County Drain Commissioner – 4 year term – Vote for 1 candidate Ingham County Commissioner– 2 year term – Vote for 1 candidate Judge of the 30th Circuit Court - Non-Incumbent -6 year term- Vote for 1 candidate Judge of the 54B District Court - Non-Incumbent – 6 year term- Vote for 1 candidate Kathy Esselman President, League of Women Voters of the Lansing Area


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Ingham County Drain Commissioner Election assigned to this office: Primary Election 8/07/2012

Office Description: According to the Ingham County Directory, the Drain Commissioner provides for construction, maintenance and improvement of county public storm drains. Responsible for the legal establishment and administration of drainage districts. Assesses benefited property owners to pay for costs of the drains. Other responsibilities include lake level control, soil erosion control (through issuance of permits), acting as the County Board of Public Works, and review of proposed subdivision plats. (see Plat and Drainage Boards, which are related to this office.

Salary: $82, 812 Term: 4 years Partisan Election Vote for One (1) Candidate TIMOTHY J. GRANT REPUBLICAN (R) 1. What are the greatest challenges facing the Drain Commission in a county which includes the Michigan capitol complex, Michigan State University, factories and farmland? Some of the greatest challenges facing the Drain Commission are ensuring environmental safety for our many visitors and residents, protecting our counties farm land, and keeping regulations at a level that allows for continued economic and residential growth. 2. How does the Drain Commissioner relate to other state, Ingham County and local government agencies? In all levels of government the voter is the customer and customer service must be a top priority. The Drain Commissioner must work with all agencies of government within the Drain Code and ensure the customer is taken care of in the most efficient and responsible manner. 3. Many County residents have wells and septic systems. In dense developments, this can increase the risk of water borne parasites, like cryptosporidium. What can be done to guard local streams and public health? Public safety should never be compromised; ever effort must be pursued in minimizing the chance of a water borne parasite outbreak. Wastewater treatment plants should be a long term option that is explored to reduce the risk of water contamination and protect public safety.


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MARK GREBNER DEMOCRAT (D) 1. What are the greatest challenges facing the Drain Commission in a county which includes the Michigan capitol complex, Michigan State University, factories and farmland? Recruiting individuals who bring relevant academic degrees, job experience, and professional licenses. Implementing Ingham County's Ethics Policy. Earning the respect of other public and private agencies with whom we deal. Fostering a culture of frugality and competence. 2. How does the Drain Commissioner relate to other state, Ingham County and local government agencies? The office of Drain Commissioner holds an anomalous position under state law. Unlike other positions which oversee physical infrastructure such as roadways, municipal water systems, or airports, Drain Commissioners have great independent power, including almost unlimited power to impose taxes. 3. Many County residents have wells and septic systems. In dense developments, this can increase the risk of water borne parasites, like cryptosporidium. What can be done to guard local streams and public health? Ingham County government has already established the requirement that before a house which depends on a well or septic system can be sold, the system must be inspected and brought up to proper working condition. This program was implemented through the Health Department, not the Drain Commissioner. PATRICK E. LINDEMANN (D) 1. What are the greatest challenges facing the Drain Commission in a county which includes the Michigan capitol complex, Michigan State University, factories and farmland? To effectively manage over 1400 miles of drains, respond to petitions for system upgrades, while getting the most value for every dollar spent. Completing these tasks on time and under budget for twenty years has resulted in many awards for innovative environmental protection. 2. How does the Drain Commissioner relate to other state, Ingham County and local government agencies? I share numerous responsibilities, goals and programs with dozens of these agencies. My talented staff and I attend meetings, research issues, perform work and share results with our partners. Partners include the DEQ, the county health dept. and the Sheriff’s emergency operations. 3. Many County residents have wells and septic systems. In dense developments, this can increase the risk of water borne parasites, like cryptosporidium. What can be done to guard local streams and public health?


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Groundwater protection is divided among several agencies including the county health department. To protect our drains my staff inspects them, and I vigorously enforce the laws against pollution of drains. I administer the federal plan to reduce nonpoint source pollution in all county drains.

Ingham County Board of Commissioners Election assigned to this office: Primary Election 8/07/2012

Office Description:

The Ingham County Board of Commissioners is the governing body for the County of Ingham, exercising legislative and administrative functions. There will be fourteen members on the Board, each elected on a partisan basis for two year terms from districts that are approximately equal in population. The primary functions of the Board of Commissioners include determination of type and level of County services, adoption of County budget, equalization of property values, legislative oversight services provided by Ingham County, appointment of various advisory boards and commissions and county officials.

The Board acts as a policy-making body for all county affairs and has the power to pass ordinances pertaining to county matters. It appoints the Equalization Director, the Controller, Health Officer, Medical Examiner, Animal Control Director and the County Attorney, in addition to many members of the various boards and commissions functioning within the county. The budget must be approved and all spending authorized by the Board of Commissioners. The following committees cover all phases of the Board’s duties: County Services, Finance, Human Resources, Law Enforcement and Judiciary. These committees report their recommendations to the entire Board for action. A description of the committees and their functions are included in this voter guide.

Salary: $11,250 a year

Term: Two (2) Year Term

Partisan Election

Vote for One (1) Candidate.

County Commissioner (Ingham County / 3rd District)

LESLIE LITTLE (R) (Did not respond in time for publication)


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SARAH ANTHONY (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? County commissioners determine the type and level of County services, adopt the County budget, equalize property values, provide legislative oversight of county departments, and appoint individuals to various advisory boards and commissions. They also provide constituent services for residents. . What are the distinctive qualities of your district? I was born and raised on the Southside of Lansing. Although the area is home to great neighborhoods, hard working families & beautiful county parks, we have also seen an increase in crime and too many businesses close their doors. I will ensure our community gets a fair share of county resources. 3. On which Ingham County Committee, would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? I would like to serve on the Human Services Committee. I have a passion for people & have witnessed firsthand the impact that the economy has had on our neighbors. This committee helps bridge the gap between vital county services and the residents throughout our community who rely on these service. JOE McDONALD (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? A commissioner’s top responsibility is to pass a responsible budget that best reflects the needs of their district. Priorities for me include public safety, the Ingham Health Plan, the innovative City-County Land Bank and aggressively ending unlawful foreclosures of our hard-working residents. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The Southside has wonderful people, vibrant neighborhoods, great parks and the Southside Community Center which I was proud to help establish. Lansing Schools have long been the focal point for our community. Cedar Street and MLK business corridors offer tremendous potential as commercial sectors. 3. On which Ingham County Committee, would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? Law Enforcement because it is my top concern and I support Sheriff patrols in the City and interested in the success of the new 911 Center. County Services because I believe that the county will be on the cutting edge of efficient and consolidated delivery of government services to our residents.


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County Commissioner (Ingham County / 4th District) VICKIE NIKLAS (R) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? The primary functions include determination of type and level of County services provided by Ingham County,adoption of County budget, equalization of property values, legislative oversight services provided,appointment of various advisory boards and commissions, and county officials 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? I live right in the heart of downtown Lansing, so my main focus will be to watch what the City provides to avoid overlap, and to try to keep a balance between the city and the out lying areas as far as monies and services needed. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? Finance-I really am interested in seeing how our tax dollars are being spent. County Services-another area where our monies are looked at and an oversight of employer/employee relations DEBBIE DeLEON (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? The primary responsibility of the Board is to create policy and set the budgets for all spending related to County government. The Board sets the type and level of all services and approves the budgets for all departments, including the budgets for each of the county-wide elected officials. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The new and larger District 4 continues to be very diverse with Old Town, Northside, School for the Blind/Willow St, Turner St, and now downtown, Delta River Dr, Tecumseh River Dr, and the airport…and is still 80% of the previous District 2 that I’ve effectively represented for the past 12 years. Q: 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I plan to chair County Services because it deals with 80%+ of all county issues including all personnel matters. I also plan to continue serving on the Law Enforcement Committee to monitor the implementation of the new 911 Consolidated Dispatch Center, as I initiated discussions to make it happen.


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CATHERINE MOONEY (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? Commissioners are responsible for providing long-term, sustainable, and stable solutions for the complex challenges facing the County. This includes access to quality health and elder care, well-maintained parks and roads, regional transportation and diminishing community blight via the Land Bank. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The 4th district represents several residential communities as well as Old Town and Downtown Lansing. Old Town was awarded the Great American Main Street Award in 2011, and Lansing’s first small business incubator is also within our district. North Lansing remains Lansing’s last food desert. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? It would be a privilege to serve on the County Services and Human Services committees, as well as the Land Bank board. Stabilizing property values throughout the county, providing quality health and transportation services to residents, and protecting juvenile justice programs are top priorities. County Commissioner (Ingham County / 6th District) RANDY MAIVILLE (R) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? The responsibility of a commissioner is to provide a high level of county services to the residents of Ingham County from the tax dollars the citizens pay. The services provided should recognize the unique needs of each area of the county. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The 6th district is mostly rural representing Alaiedon, Delhi, Aurelius, Onondaga Townships with some suburban areas of Delhi Township. These areas pay 20-25% of their property taxes to the county. 3. On which Ingham County Committee, would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? I would like to serve on Law Enforcement and County Services. These Committees represent those the most affect the rural areas for the Sherriff Department and road patrols for the Law Enforcement Committee and the Road Commission and Parks for the County Services and have been cut adversely.


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RENEE SUMERIX (R) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? To ethically and prudently serve; careful consideration of levels to ensure value add, coupled with adopting budgetary allotments for viability and sustainability are cornerstone. Open lines of communication and responsive behavior are key to benefit Ingham County residents. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The District is diverse as it is representative of both urban and rural areas; incorporating varied vocational and recreational attributes and desired states. Unique background lends to ability to properly balance stakeholder relations within the geographic area and Ingham County as a whole. 3. On which Ingham County Committee, would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? I would choose those best fitted to skills and attributes: Economic Development Corp., Farm Land/ Open Space Preservation, and Capital Area Community Services. Proper appointment is critical to assess current conditions and future direction, while avoiding unnecessary lags. JIM DRAVENSTATT-MOCERI (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? To make sure the roads are properly maintained and safe for for the people of Ingham County,To maintain good Public Safety for Ingham County, to secure vital funding for Police and Fire, Community Health and Senior and Children services. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? I have Holt Schools and Mason Schools in my District, both schools Districts are well run, my childern attended both schools. The other qualities is having full time staffing for Public Safety and Fire in Delhi Township. 3. On which Ingham County Committee, would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? I would like to serve on County services,with my 3.5 years of being a road Commissioner and TCRPC I would be very helpful to Committee.I would like to serve on the Law Enforcement Committee, I feel with my 20 experience in Law Enforcement It would be a asset to the Committee. County Commissioner (Ingham County / 9th District) DEREK M. DRUSHEL (R) (Did not respond in time for publication)


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IRENE M. CAHILL (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? The Board of Commissioners manages the business of Ingham County. It is responsible for creating an environment that will be safe, healthy, and encouraging for its citizens and businesses. It must ensure that county services are provided responsibly and efficiently. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? District 9 includes a large section of the City of East Lansing and Michigan State University. It is mainly residential with a very unique and diverse population that mixes MSU students with MSU faculty, other professionals, state employees, retirees, and others with widely varying backgrounds. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I hope to serve on the County Services Committee. My background in environmental protection, management, forestry, parks, and elections will be an asset in areas overseen by this committee such as the Drain Commissioner, Parks, Public Works, Board of Canvassers, and Board of Elections. CAROL N. KOENIG (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? County Commissioners are responsible to the county in many ways. We are responsible to manage the resources of the county including its financial, natural and human resources. We are to manage these resources in an ethical and thoughtful manner as fiduciaries to the people of Ingham County. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The distinctive qualities of my district are its wonderful array of people and places. We have young and old, wealthy and poor. We have retirees and young students and families starting out. We have the beautiful Red Cedar River, great neighborhoods and a wonderful university. It’s a great place. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I was first elected in 2008 so I have served on most committees. I currently chair Judiciary and also serve on Law Enforcement. I have also served on Human Services and County Services. Perhaps Finance this next time around along with Judiciary, each Commissioner serves on two Committees each term.


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County Commissioner (Ingham County / 10th District) NICK KOWALSKI (R) (Did not respond in time for publication) BRIAN McGRAIN (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? While I work hard to make sure that the county’s services are delivered across the board in the most efficient manner, I also strive to support the services that are most in demand and most supported by my constituents. Balancing these two is the challenge faced by County Commissioners. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The new district 10 is unique in that in encompasses urban areas from three government units: Lansing, Lansing Township, and East Lansing. Within its borders are our region’s largest hospital (Sparrow), our largest educator (MSU), and two of our primary commercial areas (Frandor and Eastwood). 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I hope to continue service on the county’s Human Service and Finance committees (though I also have interest in the County Services committee). I also hope to maintain my positions on Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, the Land Bank Board, and the Economic Development Corporation Board. TIM RUSS (D) (Did not respond in time for publication) County Commissioner (Ingham County / 12th District) ALAN WOLFE (R) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? A county commissioner's responsibility is to oversee the Road Commission, The Drain Commission, the Health department, the Sheriff's Department, Animal Control, Parks,and any other such county functions with financial control and operational advice. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? My district is more of a bedroom type community that is highly concerned about the quality of life. With that, it is important to be part of a regional commitment that is a win-win for all areas of the region.


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3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I would like to be elected to solve problems where ever they exist. I do not have an agenda, just a desire to do my best to improve the county. I believe I have the experience to be put into any problem area and bring solutions. DEB NOLAN (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? County commissioners are elected by a specific district within the county to set county policy and determine budget priorities for the governance of Ingham County. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? District 12 has the highest property values, the highest number of registered voters and one of the largest number of people who actually vote in the county. People in my district are educated and well read on issues. I am proud to represent this area. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? If re-elected I would continue to serve on Finance Committee because all financial business of the county comes through this committee for approval. I am the current chair of the Human Services Committee. This critical committee conducts the business of the Ingham Health Dept. JAMES H. RAMEY (D) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? To handle Budget and other problems of county. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? Urban and shops 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve, if you are elected? Please explain your reason? Personnel and Courts


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County Commissioner (Ingham County / 14TH District) DONALD R. VICKERS (R) 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? The commission acts as an overseer of all county governmental activities. They are a policy making body for county affairs. Commissioners approve the budget for the county and authorize all spending. They also appoint the county controller along with directors of various departments. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? District 14 is made up of 2 cities (Mason and Leslie) and 4 townships (Leslie, Vevay, Ingham and Bunkerhill. The district is rural and the residents have strong work ethics. Residents of this district sometimes feel forgotten as the majority of the county programs are located north of I-96. 3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? County Services, currently serve on this committee. Allows me to have a role in determining services for the out-county residents. Human Services, currently serve on this committee. Work to promote easy access to health care services provided by the county for the out-county residents. TIM FISCHER (D) PERSONAL STATEMENT: 1. What is the responsibility of a commissioner to the county? Commissioners serve on the Board, the county's policy-making and administrative body. The Board directs policy by passing ordinances. Commissioners are responsible for approving the county budget and appointing representatives to various advisory boards. They are the voice of their constituents. 2. What are the distinctive qualities of your district? The district is roughly framed by Mason in the northwest, Leslie in the southwest, and Dansville in the center east. The townships of Bunker Hill, Ingham, Leslie, and Vevay are largely rural; include the 5,000 acre Dansville State Game Area; support production agriculture and private residences.


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3. If elected, on which Ingham County Committees would you like to serve or continue to serve? Please explain your reason? I will seek to serve on Law Enforcement and County Services. Law Enforcement because it has responsibility over “out county” road patrols, an issue that needs to be revisited. County Services because it has responsibility over (former) Road Commission, the county fair, and farmland preservation. KELLI J. GREEN (D) (Did not respond in time for publication)

Judge of the 30th Circuit Court Election assigned to this office: Primary Election 8/07/2012

Office Description: There is one (1) seat open on the 30th Circuit Court for a six-year term in the Primary Election. The Non-Incumbent position is being contested. This is a non-partisan position. Circuit Court judges have jurisdiction over civil cases seeking more than $25,000 in damages and allcriminal cases where the defendant could be sent to prison. The family division of circuit courthandles all divorce, paternity, family support, juvenile delinquency, child abuse and neglect, personal protection, emancipation, name changes, safe delivery of newborn, adoption, and parental waivercases. In addition, the circuit court hears cases appealed from another court or by an administrativeagency. (http://courts.michigan.gov.) Michigan’s Canon of Judicial Ethics forbids judges to commenton specific cases and issues which might come before the Court. Therefore, a judge cannot expresspersonal or political opinion which might bear upon the outcome of cases. For example, they cannotpromise to go easy on someone’s brother-in-law or comment on abortion.

Salary: $139,919 a year

Term of Office: six (6) years

Non Partisan

Vote for ONE (1) Candidate.

NON-INCUMBENT – 6 YEARS – 1 POSITION CHARLES FORD NON PARTISAN (NP)

1. What special qualifications do you bring to this office? What you want to accomplish as judge? 23 years of practicing law and have performed a variety of cases in Circuit Court including Criminal defense,Civil,and Appeals. I have a Master's in Labor & Industrial Relations which allows me to be a finisher in the legal process insuring efficient and effective adjudacation of fairness.


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2. How should a criminal trial, particularly a high profile criminal trial, be more efficiently managed? That the process for adjudicating this type of case should be timely, and pirameters of how the case will be handled should be throughly communicated to the People and the Defense Counsel and Media participants. The necessary rules on who can participate and the extent of participation published. 3. What can be done to support a person representing themselves or someone with inadequate representation? Would make it clear to the person representing themselves the dangers of self-representation may appoint counsel to oversee. In regards to inadequate representation, that would be determined by the Defendant, and if brought to my attention, would advise of their options of substitution of counsel. JIM JAMO (NP) 1. What special qualifications do you bring to this office? What you want to accomplish as judge? I have litigated for 27 years in the Michigan Circuit Courts, Court of Appeals, Supreme Court & Federal Courts. I serve as a mediator & neutral case evaluator for the Ingham Circuit Court & have a diverse trial court practice. I am endorsed by 31 current & former judges & Sheriff Gene Wriggelsworth. 2. How should a criminal trial, particularly a high profile criminal trial, be more efficiently managed? Efficiency in managing a trial is important but cannot be at the expense of providing each side a fair day in court. The judge’s responsibility is to make certain the rights of both parties are protected. Pre-trial hearings determine in which cases trial is unavoidable. The other cases are settled. 3. What can be done to support a person representing themselves or someone with inadequate representation? Each person has a constitutional right to an attorney & competent defense. The court's system for appointing defense attorneys matches experience with the complexity of the trial. This is important because whether to go to trial or enter a plea is of great consequence for the defendant and victim. AYANNA JONES (NP) 1. What special qualifications do you bring to this office? What you want to accomplish as judge? I have handled thousands of cases in court. I am in the courtroom on a daily basis. I have the temperament, patience, integrity and actual courtroom experience to most effectively and


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efficiently management the court docket.I want education to be focus so less people reoffend & county will be safer 2. How should a criminal trial, particularly a high profile criminal trial, be more efficiently managed? A criminal trial can be more efficiently managed before it even begins.That can be accomplished by scheduling witnesses to appear for testimony within certain time periods, stipulation by attorneys of facts/evidence not in controversy,technology can be used to organize evidence for easy jury review. 3. What can be done to support a person representing themselves or someone with inadequate representation? Support can be given to a person representing themselves by giving them access to a court appointed attorney to act as a consultant if the person desires to continue to represent themselves. If a person has inadequate representation a court appointed attorney can be appointed to represent them. KEN ROSS (NP) 1. What special qualifications do you bring to this office? What you want to accomplish as judge? Exposure to a broad variety of legal issues in public service--as litigator for AG Frank Kelley and Insurance and Banking Commissioner for Governor Granholm--I took on tough issues including tacking Wall Street Investment Banks--and won for Michigan consumers. As judge, I will strive to be fair. 2. How should a criminal trial, particularly a high profile criminal trial, be more efficiently managed? Use of effective case management techniques, such as establishing and enforcing scheduling orders designed to hold parties to deadlines, limiting continuances in order to encourage lawyers to be prepared to advance their case, and making efficient use of the jury’s time during trial. 3. What can be done to support a person representing themselves or someone with inadequate representation? If they qualify, they should be afforded representation through the public defender and/or legal aid. Parties representing themselves should be strongly encouraged to take advantage of legal representation in order to ensure they are able to pursue every advantage to press their case. WANDA STOKES (NP) 1. What special qualifications do you bring to this office? What you want to accomplish as judge? My ability to engage and appreciate people from all walks of life with the same respect and dignity each deserve, my proven track record of leadership, and my skills to transform


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complex situations into positive results. I will foster respect and confidence in the judicial system for all people. 2. How should a criminal trial, particularly a high profile criminal trial, be more efficiently managed? A criminal trial regardless of its level of exposure should be managed based on the court rules, facts and how those facts align with the law. As jurist I will take an active role in controlling the proceedings and holding counsel accountable for being prepared and following the law and court rules. 3. What can be done to support a person representing themselves or someone with inadequate representation? Equal access to the judicial process begins with Jurists who actively instruct the non-represented litigant and appoint competent counsel. I would recess the court if necessary to allow time for adjustments and actively employ the discretion allowed under the court rules to ensure equal justice.

Judge of the 54B District Court Election assigned to this office: General Election 8/07/2012

Office Description: Citizens have more contact with the district court than any other court in thestate. District court has exclusive jurisdiction of all civil litigation up to $25,000 including landlord-tenant proceedings, land contract forfeitures, small claims, and other summary proceedings. In thecriminal field, district court handles all misdemeanors where punishment does not exceed one year,including the arraignment, setting and acceptance of bail, trial and sentencing. The district court alsoconducts preliminary examinations in felony cases.

A small claims division for civil cases up to $3,000 is provided in district court. In these cases litigantsagree to waive their right to a jury, rules of evidence, representation by a lawyer, and the right toappeal from the district judge's decision. If either party objects, the case will be heard by the generalcivil division of the district court. http://courts.michigan.gov.

The judges of this court have jurisdiction in the City of East Lansing

Mission Statement: Consistently provide to the public, fair and efficient justice, under the law, whilemaintaining respect for the individual worth and valuing diversity within the court and community.

Salary: Statutory State Salary: $138,272 Term of Office – six (6) years Non Partisan Vote for ONE (1) candidate


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54B DISTRICT COURT – EAST LANSING – 6 YEAR TERM – VOTE FOR 1 CANDIDATE – NON- INCUMBENT THOMAS P. CLEMENT (NP) 1. How could court efficiency be improved? Court efficiency can be improved through: 1. The addition of a probation officer to make certain all probationers receive close monitoring. 2. The addition of an “e-filing” system to improve access to courts. 3. Timeliness and preparation on the part of the judicial officer. 2. How can the 54b District Court support and improve community and MSU efforts to encourage responsible drinking? Accountability and offender support. Student offenders who knowingly place others in danger deserve strict accountability sanctions. Those who face substance abuse issues will receive the support necessary for success. I have worked in sobriety courts and know what it takes to impact offenders. 3. If the alleged victim in a domestic violence case requests the no-contact order be lifted during the defendant's pre-trial or preliminary exam, how might you respond? A no contact order is a protection intended to allow the victim to remain safe and free from undue pressure. Removal requests should require individualized review with a judicial hearing where the Court can evaluate many factors including any past violence, criminal histories, and the allegations. ANDREA LARKIN (NP) 1. How could court efficiency be improved? 54B operates as one of the more efficient district courts in the area employing technology where appropriate. 54B operates without a deficit. Under the Supreme Court ‘s guidelines for timely disposition all types of cases 54B is at 95-100%. I would continue the efficient operation of the court. 2. How can the 54b District Court support and improve community and MSU efforts to encourage responsible drinking? 54B could institute individual volunteer mentoring and compliance follow through as it does with Veteran’s court to work with students who evidence drinking problems. 54B could also initiate and participate in student education initiatives at the college orientation level and in local high schools.


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3. If the alleged victim in a domestic violence case requests the no-contact order be lifted during the defendant's pre-trial or preliminary exam, how might you respond? I would respond by giving the victim a voice. I would hear all reasons for requesting to lift the order and balance the wish of the victim to be allowed to participate in decisions regarding the family and to work toward the prospects for resolution within the family with all other relevant facts. FRANK McALPINE (NP) 1. How could court efficiency be improved? The District Court at some point should follow the Federal Courts and go to electronic filing of cases. There is a steep learning curve. Once the system is understood a great deal of time and money can be saved. If the doctors can do it so can the attorneys. 2. How can the 54b District Court support and improve community and MSU efforts to encourage responsible drinking? This is a recurrent problem. MSU and East Lansing have an alcohol culture and until that is changed we will have alcohol consumption problems. The Court can be creative with minor in possession charges to not give students a mark on their record. The more serious alcohol charges can not. 3. If the alleged victim in a domestic violence case requests the no-contact order be lifted during the defendant's pre-trial or preliminary exam, how might you respond? I would try to learn why the spouse wishes to lift the no-contact order. These orders can tear a family apart and leave an impossible situation for the family. Often the spouse refuses to testify or even come to Court and the charges are dropped. The Court is illequipped to handle these situations MARK S. MEADOWS (NP) 1. How could court efficiency be improved? The East Lansing District court is already the most efficiently run court in Ingham County. That is not to say that efficiency cannot be improved. As District Court Judge, I would involve the Court's employees in reviewing Court operations and making suggestions for improvement on a regular basis. 2. How can the 54b District Court support and improve community and MSU efforts to encourage responsible drinking? Michigan laws regarding underage drinking are well defined and the East Lansing Court has regularly addressed such drinking with a flexibility designed to make sure that potential drinking problems are dealt with promptly and recidivism is minimized. I support that approach and will continue it.


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3. If the alleged victim in a domestic violence case requests the no-contact order be lifted during the defendant's pre-trial or preliminary exam, how might you respond? In the abstract, I would be reluctant to lift the order. And, assuming that I would have been the Judge to grant the order, I would be even more reluctant. That is not to say that the right set of facts might convince me to lift the order.

INGHAM COUNTY PROPOSALS

JUVENILE MILLAGE RENEWAL QUESTION

JUVENILE MILLAGE RENEWAL QUESTION For the purpose of funding the continuing operation and enhancement of Ingham County’s capacity to detain and house juveniles who are delinquent or disturbed, and to operate new and existing programs for the treatment of such juveniles, at the same millage level previously approved by the voters in 2002 and in 2006 shall the constitutional limitation upon the total amount of taxes which may be assessed in one (1) year upon all property within the County of Ingham, Michigan, previously increased by up to 60/100 (0.60) of one mill, $0.60 per thousand dollars of state taxable valuation, be continued and renewed for a period of five years (2012-2016) inclusive. If approved and levied in full, this millage will raise an estimated $3,922,213 for juvenile housing and programming purposes in the first calendar year of the levy based on taxable value. ________________________________________________________________________________

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE (911 SERVICE) MILLAGE RENEWAL QUESTION

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SERVICE (911 SERVICE) MILLAGE RENEWAL QUESTION For the purpose of renewing funding for a comprehensive countywide 911 Emergency Telephone and Dispatch System at the same millage level previously approved by the voters in 1996, 2000, 2004 and in 2008, shall the Constitutional limitation upon the total amount of taxes which may be assessed in one (1) year upon all property within the County of Ingham, Michigan, previously increased by up to 0.8500 mills, $0.85 per $1,000 of taxable value, be continued and renewed for a period of four (4) years (2012 – 2015) inclusive? If approved and levied in full, this millage will raised an estimated $5,556,468 for the countywide 911 Emergency Telephone and Dispatch System in the first calendar year of the levy based on taxable value. ________________________________________________________________________________

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED MILLAGE QUESTION PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED MILLAGE QUESTION For the purpose of continuing funding for a transportation system to be used primarily by elderly and disabled persons in Ingham County, shall the Constitutional limitation upon the total amount of taxes which may be assessed in one (1) year upon all property within the County of Ingham, Michigan, be increased by up to 12/100 (0.12) of one (1) mill, $0.12 per thousand dollars of state taxable valuation, for a period of four (4) years (2012-2015) inclusive. If approved and levied in full, this Millage will


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raise an estimated additional $784,000 for the transportation system in the first calendar year of the levy based on state taxable valuation. ________________________________________________________________________________

AURELIUS TOWNSHIP PROPOSALS

MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL FOR FIRE PROTECTION

MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL FOR FIRE PROTECTION Proposal to allow the Township of Aurelius to continue to levy a millage for Fire Department purposes on all taxable property within the Township of Aurelius. Shall the previously voted increase in the tax limitation imposed under Article IX, Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution on general ad valorem taxes within the Township, as reduced by the required millage rollback and which last resulted in a levy of .9402 mills ($0.9402 per $1,000 of taxable value) upon taxable real and personal property within the Township be renewed and levied for ten (10) years (2013 through 2022, inclusive) for funding and defraying, in whole or in part, the cost of fire protection services and equipment for Aurelius Township, which levy shall raise in the first year of levy the estimated sum of One Hundred Seventeen Thousand Four Hundred Seventy-Eight and no Dollars ($117, 478,.00)? ________________________________________________________________________________

CITY OF LANSING PROPOSALS

LANSING CITY CHARTER PROPOSED AMENDMENT

LANSING CITY CHARTER PROPOSED AMENDMENT PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE 3, CHAPTER 2, SECTION 201, SUBSECTION 1 (3-201.1) OF THE LANSING CITY CHARTER. The purpose of this amendment is to change the requirement that the City Council meet weekly at least 50 weeks each year, and require instead, that it meet at least 26 times a year. Shall this amendment be adopted? ______________________________________________________________________________

AUTHORIZE SALE OF WAVERLY GOLF COURSE AND MICHIGAN AVENUE PARK

AUTHORIZE SALE OF WAVERLY GOLF COURSE AND MICHIGAN AVENUE PARK

SHALL THE CITY OF LANSING BE AUTHORIZED TO SELL OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF WAVERLY GOLF COURSE, A/K/A WAVERLY PARK, AND ADJACENT MICHIGAN AVENUE PARK, ALSO COLLECTIVELY DESCRIBED AS: The West 120.48 acres of the Northwest ¼ of Section 18, T4N, R2W?


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AUTHORIZE SALE OF A PORTION OF OAK PARK

AUTHORIZE SALE OF A PORTION OF OAK PARK SHALL THE CITY OF LANSING, FOR REDEVELOPMENT PURPOSES, BE AUTHORIZED TO SELL OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF THAT PORTION OF OAK PARK LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS:

A parcel of land in the Northwest 1/4 of Section 15, T4N, R2W, Lansing Township, Ingham County, Michigan, the surveyed boundary of said parcel described as: Commencing at the Northwest corner of said Section 15; thence S00°24'38"W along the West line of said Section 15 a distance of 796.25 feet; thence S89°39'06"E parallel with the North line of Genesee Street a distance of 41.25 feet to the East right of way line of the Conrail Railroad and the point of beginning of this description; thence S89°39'06"E parallel with said North right of way line 258.36 feet; thence N00°50'31"E 117.97 feet; thence S88°33'33"E 162.34 feet; thence S00°37'20"W 119.79 feet; thence S04°08'03"W 96.44 feet to said North right of way line; thence N89°39'06"W along said North right of way line 414.86 feet to said East right of way line; thence N00°24'38"E along said East right of way line 101.15 feet to the point of beginning; said parcel containing 1.40 acres more or less; said parcel subject to all easements and restrictions if any. The building known as the Vector building, located in Oak Park, and the fenced portion of the parking area located to the east and north of the Vector Building?

LANSING TOWNSHIP PROPOSALS

MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL FOR POLICE, FIRE AND GENERAL OPERATING PURPOSES

MILLAGE RENEWAL PROPOSAL FOR POLICE, FIRE AND GENERAL OPERATING PURPOSES This millage is a renewal of millage which will expire with the 2013 tax levy. Shall the currently authorized millage rate limitation of 1.75 mills ($1.75 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property in the Charter Township of Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, be renewed for a period of 10 years, 2014 to 2023, inclusive, to continue to provide funds for police, fire and general operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue that the township will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2014 is approximately $474,000.00 (this is a renewal millage which will expire with the 2013 tax levy)?


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News & Politics

Ingham primary voter 2012