Mike Gingell announced intentions to run for re-election for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners last week, over three months before the filing deadline.
‘I’m committed to moving forward,? Gingell said of his decision to run again for the District 3 seat. ‘I think I’ve worked hard for our district and built good relationships in my time at the county.?
District 3 includes Oakland and Orion Townships and the Village of Lake Orion. Commissioners serve two-year terms.
Gingell defeated incumbent District 3 Commissioner Eric Wilson in the 2006 August Republican Primary and started at the county last January after winning the general election in November of ?06 against Kate Zielinski (D).
Prior to his election at the county, Gingell served as a township trustee for nearly six years.
‘I have focused on utilizing my common sense approach to local government at the Oakland County Board of Commissioners in order to drive efficiency, accountability and dependability in county government,? Gingell said.
He added that he is unaware of anyone else that has thrown a hat into the ring. After the mid-May filing deadline, Gingell could face opposition in an August primary (like Wilson did), with the election set for Nov. 4.
‘I am looking forward to the opportunity to represent the 3rd district over the next two years and help lead Oakland County through some turbulent times,? he said.
Three announce election intentions
Township Treasurer Alice Young has declared her candidacy for another term in that capacity.
‘I have enjoyed serving the citizens of Orion Township and am eager to continue to put my knowledge, experience, and perseverance to work for them for another four years,? Young said.
She noted that her first-term accomplishments include revamping the township’s financial reporting documents, diversifying the investments, offering charge accounts for the payment of taxes and water bills, and putting in place various policies and procedures to streamline the treasurer’s office.
She gives credit to the great staff within her office and said she is eager to continue that relationship for another four years.
In addition CPA certification, Young has a Master’s degree in taxation. While serving as treasurer, she also has attended numerous seminars and conferences, including the completion of a three-year program of concentrated studies at the Treasurers? Institute.
The filing deadline for township offices is not until May.
Current Township Trustee Matt Gibb is running for township supervisor, becoming the first candidate on record well in advance of the mid-May filing deadline.
‘I’m definitely running for Supervisor,? he said over the weekend. ‘I could file today if I wanted.?
Gibb made an informal announcement at the Republicans Club meeting last week and said he’s planning a formal announcement in March. He added that he expects to turn in official documentation by the end of the month.
‘We have such a tremendous opportunity here in Orion with our abilities, land and resources,? he said. ‘We can be more progressive with our thinking in using these resources.?
Gibb said his three years on the board have been somewhat frustrating and that he ‘can better serve the community in the supervisor’s role.?
A practicing lawyer, Gibb said he came to the conclusion to run back in December.
To date, no one has filed paperwork with the township.
Current Supervisor Jerry Dywasuk said he has not yet made a decision on running for re-election.