Meet the candidates: Supervisor

Matthew A. Gibb
Street: 930 Lakewood Dr
Family Info: Fifteen years ago, I married my college sweetheart Deborah, we have three children, Emma (9), Megan (7) and Ian (almost 3).
Employment: I have been practicing law for fifteen years, owning and operating my own business, Gibb Law Firm, P.C. in Shelby Township, MI. I work in real estate, land use, litigation, contracts and domestic issues.
Education/Background: Alma College BA -1990. University of Kentucky College of Law JD -1993. Admitted to State of Bar of Michigan. Elected Orion Township Trustee 2004.
Clubs/Organizations: Numerous, some where I’ve held leadership; Chair – Polly Ann Trail, Vice Chair ? Presbyterian Village North, President ? Federalist Society, Elder ? University Presbyterian, President- Zeta Sigma Fraternity.
In your mind, what are the biggest issues the next township board will face?
The rising costs of employee benefits and township services, against static or declining revenue, means tough budget decisions while pushing for lower taxes, fees and costs. Orion’s land use/master plan, as we strive to remain competitive in the attraction and retention of businesses providing tax base, employment, and complement to our well-developed core. The potential landfill expansion. Maintaining and staffing Orion’s existing and developing park/trail network. Limitations to our own facilities.
Why are you running for supervisor?
We have great assets and potential in Orion, but we need focused leadership. I am committed to finding optimism in our challenges, and I am running for supervisor to provide the leadership and dedication required to support the vision we share for Orion. I’m a parent, a business owner, an advocate and a proven leader who seeks office not for the title, but because I see the possibilities in Orion, and I’m ready to lead.
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David F. Hodges
Street: 204 O’Connor
Family Info: Married to Linda for 36 years. Two married daughters and three grandchildren. Lake Orion lake resident for 31 years.
Employment: Business owner
Education/Background: Senior class president ?1969? from LOHS. Two years at O.C.C. study of Horticulture. I’m still seeking my degree at UHK (University of Hard Knocks).
Clubs/Organizations: Volunteer Fireman with the Orion Township Fire Department 1979 to 1983. Working 12- to16-hour days only left time for my family.
In your mind, what are the biggest issues the next township board will face?
Our community will have to deal with the potential loss of revenues we are going to experience with the current economy. Some of these effects we may not see for a few years. It is important we don’t overspend now so we can maintain what we have and improve the services we’ll need in the future. The extra resources we have on hand currently will be needed for the financial shortages we may encounter later.
Why are you running for supervisor?
I have lived here for 57 years and have seen a lot of changes. I would like to work with the state and county authorities to improve our north & south corridors that run through our community. Some of our current buildings need to have upgrades and improvements. Our township roads need to have monthly inspections directed by the supervisor’s office. The improvements property owners want to make need to move forward without unnecessary delays.
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Daniel Myslakowski
Street: 2566 Browning Drive
Family: Married 27 years to wife Dee; two children, Daniel and Ryan.
Employment: Manager/Project Manager ? Contract GM. Worked my way through college. 4 1/2 years on the Dodge Main Car Assembly Line. Mandatory nine hours per day, six days per week! Experience ? Elected Macomb County Commissioner. Former Finance Manager, managed 80 people, Multi-Million Dollar P & L responsibility.
Education/Background: Master’s Degree Public Administration ? Central Michigan University. Bachelor of Science Degree – Business ? Ferris State University. Associate’s Degree Dental Technology ? Ferris State University.
Clubs/Organizations:Coached Orion/Oxford Soccer League. Eucharistic Minister, St. Joe’s Lake Orion. Served on the Keatington Home Owners Association & Beach Mgr. Team Leader Lake Orion Friendship Park Playground Project.
In your mind, what are the biggest issues the next township board will face?
The biggest issues the next board will face are a very weak economy/jobs market, declining home & property values, declining revenues from state, county and local tax bases, record high utility bills. This will translate into less money for the next board to work with! Therefore, we will need to plan, manage, and work better, be MORE efficient, and make our township dollars go farther! I have the experience & integrity to lead Orion forward!
Why are you running for supervisor?
Orion needs an experienced supervisor to manage the township with optimal efficacy, balancing budgets, and eliminating wasteful spending like unnecessary lawsuits! I will: 1) Maintain and protect our precious local natural resources. 2) Work with community and business leaders to create an environment that will keep and encourage new investments, job growth. 3) Meet with representatives of Orion’s utility providers to plan, and monitor optimal, efficient service levels to support the community, and property values!