Running for Supervisor

Two candidates are running for Springfield Township supervisor.
Challenger David F. Smith is running to be the “New Generation of Leadership.”
“I am continuing my families tradition of serving the people of Springfield Township since 1837. I will be the fifth-generation to serve the people,” he said.
His major issues are protecting the quality of life, fighting high taxes, protecting the environment, and be a trrusted voice for the people.
Incumbent Supervisor Collin W. Walls is running to meet tomorrow’s challenges.
“I have the experience and knowledge needed for the position,” Walls said. “I have proven my commitment and dedication to Springfield and have been trusted by the community for years.”
The most important issues facing the voters of Springfield are the three millage questions on the ballot, he said.
“By far the most important issue at this time is question on the ballot for additional Fire millage of 1.0 mil,” he said. “This additional millage is looking to the future and improving the level of services our Fire Department is able to provide.”
The Township Board and Fire Department plan for use of the funds is to transition from a primarily paid call department to a department with on duty shift coverage in addition to the full time coverage during the day for 24/7 coverage by a minimum of two staff.
“A year ago we had staff working in a station only during the day Monday thru Friday. We currently have one person covering during peak hours after 5 p.m. but that is not 24 hours per day and will not have funds to continue if the additional millage does not pass,” he said. The request for an additional mil provides for new service levels, allows a more stable financial plan to support future vehicle and equipment replacement and the additional fire station.
“Approval of the additional fire millage will determine whether or not we will be allowed to provide the level of service our resident’s desire and deserve,” he said

Five vie for
Township Board

Five candidates are running for four trustee seats on the Springfield Township Board.
Judy Hensler is running for her third term as trustee.
“My eight years on the board have given me experience and knowledge regarding Township operations. During this time Springfield Township has grown, improved and continues to be a superior place to live. I am proud to have been a member of this Board.
“I feel my maturity, common sense and ability to be impartial and fair will go far to help the Township continue to thrive,” she said.
The major issues facing Springfield Township are public safety, commercial development and preservation of natural resources.
“I support our Fire and Rescue Department and their need to expand manpower, equipment and station locations. I want our residents to receive the highest level of service possible
“I encourage new business into the Township that are in line with our Master Plan. I would work to make our Dixie corridor an example of good planning.
“Finally, I support maintaining and nurturing our rural character. Our hundreds of acres of park land are unique and I would work with our Parks Department and Natural Resources Manager to continue protecting, improving and upgrading our amazing resource.
Denny Vallad is running for reelection to the Springfield Township Board to be a part of making decisions shaping the community where he has lived for 36 years.
He has been a trustee for 28 years, on the Planning Commission 15 years, Zoning Board of Appeals 11 years, Election Commission 20 years, and Susin Lake Improvement Board eight years.
“I feel experience and knowledge like this is invaluable when serving in a position on the Township Board to connect the past, present and future through good decision making,” Vallad said.
Major issues facing Springfield Township are the three public safety millage proposals to be decided at the Aug. 2 election.
The police millage renewal represents almost half the annual police budget.
“Without the renewal, service would most likely be reduced,” Vallad said.
The fire millage renewal represents its entire dedicated funding, 1.0 mil.
“Approval of these renewal proposals would not raise taxes,” he said.
A proposal to increase the fire millage by 1.0 mil would fund improvements over the next 10 years for fire stations, staffing, fire trucks, and equipment.
“Beyond our public safety millage proposals, business development initiatives in our Dixie corridor should continue as a priority along with conservation and preservation activities concerning our natural resources,” Vallad said. “We must continue to work to make Springfield a place where people come to work, live and play.”
Challenger Craig Spicer is running to give the township new direction.
He has in the township for 28 years, and he and his wife have raised four children. He has over 30 years in the IT industry, with the last 10 years in management.
“I have also helped my wife run a small business in our little hamlet for over eight years. I love this area, and only wish to see the best for you and myself,” he said.
Major issues facing Springfield Township include adapting to a changing future.
“Springfield is changing, as all of America is,” Spicer said. “Our issues are blending our rural roots, but preparing us for the future. For example, internet, fire, and medical support for a growing community. We need to upgrade our little downtown with its water, and septic system issues. This has been a battle for many years.”
He also would like to address changing demographics, from the older rural core of the area to weekend summer families, who are here to enjoy the lakes, parks, and laid back environment.
“As always, life comes full circle,” he said. “This area started as up north for Detroit residents, and we now have it happening again, as people purchase a second home to enjoy the lakes and parks within an hour or two of their main homes.”
He supports Springfield Parks and Rec and fire department.
“I am happy with the path we have chosen to prepare us for the growth of the area, not everyone agrees with this course. We must prepare for the future. Our fire houses are too small to park the new larger equipment in, and also we need to finish addressing the move from volunteer, to a total paid staff,” he said.
“I would like to see the return of a party store, maybe a small shop for a beverage, or an ice cream cone within walking distance of our Rotary Park or the Hart Center,” Spicer said. “This can only be done when the water and septic systems are up to code.”
Dave Hopper, board trustee for 16 years, is running to continue actions maintaining fiscal responsibility and support the level of services that make Springfield Township a special place.
“Further, I would continue to promote Dixie Highway improvements that are orderly, safe and visually appealing,” Hopper said. “My vision for Springfield Township includes efforts to balance development with natural resource protection. I know that development is going to occur but if done properly we can maintain the rural atmosphere that Springfield Township residents’ value.”
In addition, it is important to maintain fire and police services at a level that meets the needs of the township, he said.
“Through my past actions, I have shown that I am committed to Springfield Township,” he said. “Springfield Township is a special place that is highly desirable due to its unique natural resources and rural atmosphere both of which are worth preserving.”
It is important to ensure police and fire services keep pace with the needs of the community despite decreasing State of Michigan revenue funds, he said.
“We need to continue to support the police and fire departments by obtaining FEMA grants, reserving funds for personnel and equipment, and promoting new or millage renewals that require tax payer support,” he said.
According to the Springfield Township Master Plan, the Dixie Corridor remains the major commercial area. “It is important to coordinate developments encouraging aesthetic appeal and ensure safe traffic flow,” he said.
Incumbent Marc Cooper is also running for reelection. Clerk Laura Moreau and Treasurer Jamie Dubre are running unopposed.