While Independence Township Treasurer Jim Wenger announced he will seek another term, Clerk Joan McCrary has decided it is time to call it quits.
Wenger has served as Treasurer for the last eight years. He has been actively involved with the Clarkston Area Optimist Club, Clarkston Area Youth Assistance, North Oakland Headwaters Land Conservancy and the Board of the Oakland County Treasurer’s Association.
Among the items Wenger is most proud of during his eight years as Treasurer include getting the Independence investment policy certified and dealing with all issues with an open mind.
‘I believe public service in general is a roller coaster,? Wenger said. ‘When there are days I can really help someone it is a tremendously satisfying job. However, on days when it is not possible to help it can be extremely frustrating.?
Wenger believes many important decisions concerning Independence Township will need to be made in the next few years and he wants to lend his experience to the debate.
Wenger stated the senior center, parks and recreation budget and unknown funding from the state are all issues that will need to be dealt with in the near future.
Wenger taught government at Clarkston High School for 29 years before being first elected Treasurer in 1996.
McCrary decided four terms was enough. The Clerk was appointed to the vacant township clerk’s position 16 years ago and earned re-election three times.
She preceded that service with five years on the zoning board of appeals, having received her first taste of active involvement with a supervisor’s election campaign.
‘Eventually it is time to move on,? McCrary said. ‘I have elderly parents and I want to enjoy my grandchildren. I will really miss the job though. I love this job.?
The 32-year Clarkston resident will be leaving her Clerk’s position, but will not be retiring completely.
‘I plan to continue to work but just not full time. The Clerk position is a full time job and then some. It is time to move on,? McCrary said.
The filing date for candidates seeking the Supervisor, Treasurer or Clerk position is May 11.
As of Monday, March 15, McCrary stated nobody has officially filed for the positions although residents have picked up the filling papers for each position.