The board needs to partner, whenever possible, with area governments and organizations on initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the region. While somewhat pristine, the township is not isolated and regional changes will have an impact on our well-being.

The board needs to have a voice in guiding those transformations.

Participation

I believe that government works best when it's most accessible to the public. For that reason, I favor strict adherence to Michigan's Open Meeting laws. I would ensure that agendas and meeting minutes are posted on the Park Township website and made available for viewing at the township office in a timely manner. The public record should reflect citizen comments that occur at meetings. On key issues, public-opinion surveys should be conducted and interpreted by professionals. Township residents should be encouraged to participate in their government

Preservation

I want to preserve the natural beauty of Park Township. To accomplish that goal, the township needs an impartial professional planner who can help refine the land-use plan with input from citizens. With a planner and plan in place, the township can better address the challenges of future development. We should inventory and catalog our green spaces and take steps to preserve them. The township also needs to be a leader in reducing phosphorous runoff into Lake Macatawa because it retains more frontage on that body of water than any other governing unit.

Partnership

As a new graduate of the Chamber's Leadership Holland program, I have come to recognize the importance of area governing units and organizations working as partners on issues that cross boundaries. Among the most far-reaching issues are transportation, schools, public pride, parks, fine arts, job creation, and clean water. Addressing those together, we can enhance the quality of life for all citizens in the region.