1.) List a few details of your background you think voters would want to know. (75 words)

I am an Upper Peninsula native who has lived in Marquette since 1981. A 35-year career in health care management gave me significant experience in program development, budgeting, supervision, strategic planning and federal granting. I co-owned Campus Pharmacy for 19 years with my husband of 41 years. My years of community commitment includes service on many boards, including president of Marquette Rotary, president of U.P. Rowing, and secretary of the Harbor Advisory Committee.

2.) What do you think are the most important issues facing the city? (100 words)

The budget is the highest priority for the commission. An adequate income and tax base, combined with prudent spending, is necessary to provide the basic municipal services such as fire safety, police protection, infrastructure, utilities, roads, and snow removal.

Lake shore protection is high on the list of items the new commission will need to address. The recent devastation from Fair Street to Pine Street is evidence of the stress that Superior puts on our shoreline. Other issues that will be addressed soon are the Cliffs Dow property, closing of the power plants, and continued economic development.

3.) Why do you think voters should choose you? (200 words)

I have proven my leadership skills in the work place and in my many years of community service. I believe in public/private partnerships to leverage funds for City improvements. My commitment to the community, and the networks I have developed over the years, will add to the talents and strengths of the other commissioners. Having been a home owner in the City since 1981, I understand the consequences that commission decisions have on taxpayers. Having been a small business owner, I understand the stressors of start-up and the importance of job creation. I am committed to understanding all sides of an issue prior to decision making, and welcome conversations from City residents. A city commissioner fulfills an important civic duty, and decisions have consequences far into the future. Experience matters.