The Oxford Leader’s endorsements for the Tuesday, Aug. 5 primary election are as follows:
Oxford Township Board
Supervisor ? For nine years, WILLIAM DUNN has offered problem-solving with a personal touch. Whether he’s meeting with residents face-to-face, hiking through a muddy field or answering phones at the office, Dunn doesn’t put on airs and offers genuine concern. His consistent presence at village meetings has helped improve relations between the two governments. Dunn has a strong work ethic and a get-it-done approach to government. We need that.
Clerk ? CURTIS WRIGHT proved his effectiveness and leadership skills as a public official when he served as township supervisor from 1994-98. He understands the inner workings of the township office and should ease back in with no problem. A lifelong Oxford resident, he’s a work horse and that’s exactly what the clerk’s office needs. Wright’s also well-respected in the community and it’s high time someone made government worth respecting again.
Trustees ? MIKE SPISZ would help bring a fresh perspective to the board. He’s not been involved in all the political battles and personal vendettas that have divided the board over the years. He’s an average resident who’s ready to get involved and help his community. It’s time for new voices with new ideas and Spisz fits the bill.
JOE BUNTING would bring the experience of being a Birmingham police officer for 10 years to the board. His inside perspective would be most helpful when it comes to overseeing the fire department and dealing with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Dept. It’s important to note he’s absolutely no relation to village attorney Bob Bunting.
DON SILVESTER’s nine years of experience on the planning commission would be a valuable asset to the township board. Silvester’s a very detail-oriented person who’s concerned with following proper procedures. He would definitely be a taskmaster when it comes to helping keep his fellow officials focused and on track.
SUE BELLAIRS is a gadfly and every board needs one of those. Although her manner ruffles feathers at time, she asks good questions, makes relevant points and isn’t afraid to speak up regardless of the issue.
Addison Township Board
Supervisor ? BRUCE PEARSON represents the change in leadership that Addison’s needed for a while. He served the township quite well as an Oakland County Sheriff’s deputy. He knows the people, he knows the problems, he knows the issues. Pearson gets our vote and he should get yours, too.
Trustees ? LINDA GIERAK is no stranger to local government. Her experience working for both the Village of Leonard and the Polly Ann Trail Management Council would be an invaluable asset to the township board.
E. JOE SCHNUR is familiar face around the township as an appointed park ranger and chairman of the parks and recreation committee. Schnur’s committed to keeping Addison rural, which is important to residents out there, and we feel he would properly reflect the people’s views and serve their interests to the best of his ability.
JOHN BOEHMER is also no stranger to township government having previously served on the planning commission and continuing to serve on the ZBA. He seems to have a good grasp of the issues, a willingness to serve his community and the necessary skills to make sound judgments.
We have chosen not to endorse a fourth candidate for trustee because the only three candidates left are all incumbents and we don’t feel any of them deserve our vote based on past experiences. ? CJC