Monroe County election guide: Two running for Ida Twp. treasurer

MONROE COUNTY — Voters in Monroe County have more than 30 contested races in Aug. 6’s primary election. The Monroe News sent questionnaires to the candidates in the contested races. Profiles of the candidates in contested primaries will be published over the next few days.

Brandjord and Seiler are running for the position of Ida Twp. treasurer. No Democrats filed.

Their responses are printed as provided, though they may have been edited for clarity or truncated if the answers exceeded the given word limits.

In-person voting will take place from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6. Absentee ballots may be requested from township clerks.

Kelli Brandjord

Age : 41

Occupation : Building Administrator for Ida Township

Spouse/kids : Chris Brandjord, husband of 15 years, and three sons attending Ida Public Schools

Government experience : Currently the building administrator for Ida Township, election inspector for the prior four years, chairman of the absentee counting board and seasonal election preparation

Volunteer/community service experience : Volunteer at my local church, serve on the YoungLife Adult Committee and volunteer at my children’s school

Why are you running for this position? As Ida building administrator, I have become proficient in the software used for tax preparation, established relationships with government officials and learned how local government runs. I would responsibly manage township resources and represent Ida residents on the township board. I would make a valuable contribution as Ida Township Treasurer.

What do you think is the main challenge facing Frenchtown Township, and what should be done about it? One of the main challenges of Ida Township is to continue to find fiscally responsible ways to support our volunteer fire department. They are the best service our township has to offer. I intend to work closely with the fire department to pursue grants to increase funding. I want to support them in their innovative ways. Another challenge would be, with our limited funding, to find some ways to improve our park. It could use some love and it has the potential to be a great asset to our community.

Why should people vote for you? My high level of integrity, organizational skills, and attention to detail are essential for effectively performing the duties of the treasurer. Additionally, my strong rapport with the office staff and familiarity with our unique software will ensure a seamless transition into the treasurer’s position. As a board member and elected official, I would be committed to actively listening to the needs of our residents. I will diligently support our volunteer fire department, the enhancement of our park, and ensure continuous improvements for the benefit of our community.

Kimberly Sieler

Age : 46

Occupation: Sales, Retail

Spouse/kids : Dan Sieler spouse, Alex (Stephanie) Sieler son/daughter in-law

Government experience: Although I do not have any government experience per se, I am involved within my party. I've also gained priceless experience working first hand with the public from all over the world for nearly 25 years.

Volunteer/community service experience: Volunteered with Habitat for Humanity building homes within Monroe County, donated time with the Salvation Army throughout the holidays as well as with St. Joe's in Ida.

Why are you running for this position? I have been looking forward for some time to serve the people of the Ida community. The vacancy for the position of treasurer is the ideal opportunity for me.

What do you think is the main challenge facing Frenchtown Township, and what should be done about it? Communication with the residents of Ida needs to remain an open door, reaching out and serving the community to keep Ida the great town that it is.

Why should people vote for you? I believe that the Ida community would benefit greatly by voting for me for treasurer. I have extensive experience working with/for the public. I am very detail oriented and vow to handle with 100% attention the accounts of Ida Township. I will bring my life experiences and work ethics as Ida Township Treasurer and serve proudly.

For more information about Monroe County’s primary election, visit co.monroe.mi.us/409/Elections .

— Contact reporter Lisa Vidaurri-Bowling at lvidaurribowling@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Monroe County election guide: Two running for Ida Twp. treasurer