Election preview: Three running for Whiteford Township supervisor

For the primary election on August 6, Whiteford Township presents a contested race for the supervisor position.

Those up for the position are Republicans Jeff Thomas, Darrell Rush, and Nicholas Blaisdell.

The candidates were all given questionnaires. All answers are transcribed here as given except in cases where the word count limit was ignored; those responses were edited to comply with the limit.

SUPERVISOR

Jeff Thomas

Age: 52

Occupation: Educator (History), Whiteford Agricultural Schools

Spouse/kids: LeeAnn, 7 kids, 3 grandchildren

Government experience: Avid follower of politics.  I have been involved on the local Fire Safety Committee

Volunteer/community service experience: Founding member of the Whiteford Fall Festival Committee, member of the Monroe County Historical Society, Monroe County 4H Council, active member in ministries at Bedford Alliance Church

Why are you running for this position?

With the retirement of our current Supervisor there is a need for a new leader in our township.  I love Whiteford Township, I love working with people and I want to give back to our community. I want to help move Whiteford Township forward but still preserve the rural feel that our community loves.

What do you think is the main challenge facing Whiteford Township, and what should be done about it?

The biggest issue is water in the township.  Some areas in the township are out of compliance with the safe drinking water act.  Other areas have sewage issues that can or are causing health issues.  These areas need to be addressed.  Others fear that expanding water in the township will lead to growth and a loss of the rural feel.  Businesses are asking for water/sewer so they can grow in the industrial areas of the township.

Why should people vote for you?

I am diligent, I am committed to community service, and I believe in visionary leadership.  What is “visionary leadership”?  It is developing and following a plan to make our township even better.  I plan to meet with all types of groups of citizens, businesses and farmers and see what their needs are and how the township can come alongside them and serve their needs.  I am a people person who loves to meet and talk with people.  I want to hear their hopes and problems and see how I can help.

Darrell Rush

Age: 64

Occupation: Retired plumbing contractor

Spouse/kids: I have lived in Whiteford Township my entire life and graduated from Whiteford Schools. My wife, Laurie, and I have been married for 43 years. We have three children who all graduated from Whiteford Schools, and eleven grandchildren

Government experience: Whiteford township’s planning commission, Board of Review and currently Deputy supervisor.

Volunteer/community service experience: Besides the above government board experience, I served 15+ years on Local 671 Master Plumber’s Association, volunteered time and materials for Habitat for Humanity, was the lead volunteer through Whiteford Schools Athletic Boosters in constructing their sports restroom facility, volunteered for 4H with my children, and sat on church council at Light of Christ Church in Blissfield.

Why are you running for this position?

I feel I am the best candidate for Whiteford Township’s Supervisor position.  I have the business knowledge, financial experience, past Township experience and connection to Whiteford’s past, work ethic, and love of my hometown.  I want to see downtown Ottawa Lake revitalized and all of Whiteford Township thrive. This is a full time job and I have the time to do it!

What do you think is the main challenge facing Whiteford Township and what should be done about it?

My main focus is on blight and cleaning up my hometown. I will not be complacent and will use our available resources (ordinance officer and township attorney) to take action.

Why should people vote for you?

If elected Whiteford Township Supervisor, I will immerse myself fully into this position. Being retired, I have no other job to conflict with the business of our Township.  I will treat this position as if it were my own business and be financially responsible with our monies.  I will be available to our residents via phone, text, or email to help better this community. I will work diligently and responsibly for our residents, while being transparent and open to suggestions.

Nicholas Blaisdell

Could not be reached for comment.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Election preview: Three running for Whiteford Township supervisor