Brandon Twp.-Current Brandon Township Treasurer Linda Owen says she will seek a fifth term in the November 2004 election.
Owen served as a part-time Brandon Township Deputy Treasurer in 1983 and was elected Treasurer for the first time in 1988. She was reelected to the office in 1992, 1996, and 2000.
‘One thing that I am most proud of is being the elected treasurer all these years, and the fact that our township’s financial position is solvent,? said Owen.
Owen said that often residents will come into the township office with a problem regarding a tax bill or question regarding a policy or law.
‘We’ll work with the resident to assure a payment is received or assist where possible,? said Owen. ‘We offer a host of methods to make it easier for taxpayers including credit card payments or installment coupons.?
During her years of service, the township’s general fund has grown from $700,000 to now more than $2 million. Simiarly, the population has also increased from about 3,000 to more than 6,200, factors, says Owen that require changing demands on the township accounting system.
‘I love this community,? said Owen ‘It’s a great place to raise a family yet it continues to grow at a rapid rate.?
‘Many laws have changed over my years in office, and it’s my duty to keep residents aware of every change that may affect them,? she continued.
‘As treasurer I have controlled my office with close control over all incoming funds and depositing procedures, handling over $21 million annually, observing each check I sign for outgoing purposes and approval by the township board members.
In addition to being a Certified Public Administrator, Owen has served as secretary treasurer, vice president, and president of the Michigan Treasurers Association. She served on the board of directors for Rainbow Connection and board of directors for Brandon Groveland Youth Assistance. She also served as chairperson for Brandon Groveland Camp program for local youth, a monitoring program with Brandon Groveland Youth Assistance, attended Nortary Law Institute and was treasurer for the D.A.R.E. program, classes at Oakland Community College.
‘The laws have changed drastically,? adds Ownen. ‘It’s a continual process to keep people aware.?