In updating my website this year, I chose to focus on helping residents gain a better understanding of local government and local government structure. Whether you live in a township, village or city, local government plays a key role in your life and in your future.

While school government textbooks address state and federal government structure, very little emphasis is placed on county (83 counties in Michigan) or township government (1,241 townships) as a local form of government. City (272 cities) and village (261 villages) government is the most familiar form of government, but even they differ greatly in charter and management form. (The other two forms of local government include school districts and intergovernmental districts and authorities).

It is extremely important that you know your elected officials and how to contact them to share your concerns, opinions and views. At this website, I have included several ways for you to contact me and other local, state and federal officials. Your are encouraged to contact your elected representatives personally, by telephone, email or letter.

Your understanding and involvement in local government is critical to the success of Macomb County and our community. Good government just doesn’t happen; it takes preparation, active involvement and a network of support and collaboration at all levels from ‘grassroots’ up.

I hope that this site is useful and inspires you to become more involved in local government. I encourage your input, and would also welcome the opportunity to address you, your homeowners association, service organization, etc. to discuss issues of local importance. As in years past, I will attend your local township, village and city meetings and also schedule "town hall" meetings in your area.

I look forward to meeting you personally and sharing your views.