Keeping taxes low and the roads in good shape are two of Bill Patterson’s primary goals as he begins his fourth term as Oakland County Commissioner for District #1.
Patterson (R-Oxford), along with 24 other county commissioners, was sworn into office Thursday during a special inaugural ceremony held in Pontiac.
First elected in 1998, Patterson now represents Oxford, Addison, Groveland, Brandon townships plus a portion of Independence Township. His district also includes the villages of Oxford, Leonard and Ortonville.
‘I’ve enjoyed the whole six years, particularly the last two representing Addison Township,? Patterson said of his political career.
As he looks forward to another two years in office, the retired Oxford pharmacist said he wishes to continue maintaining the county’s low tax level and helping citizens get their road problems (i.e. potholes) fixed by acting as a liaison between residents and the Road Commission.
Patterson said communication is the hallmark of his style of governing. He always urges citizens to contact him via mail, phone, fax or e-mail, ‘when I can get the darn thing to work.?
‘A lot of them are surprised when I return their phone calls,? Patterson said. ‘But I make it a point to at least try to contact everyone who contacts me.?
As part of his commissioner duties, Patterson chairs the General Government Committee, Airport Committee and the committee that oversees Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
Patterson also sits on the county’s Personnel Committee.