MARQUETTE — Two Democratic candidates for the Marquette County Treasurer will compete in the primary election on Tuesday for an opportunity to appear on the general election ballot on Nov. 3

The Marquette County Treasurer serves a four-year term and is responsible for property tax collection as well as receiving, recording and investing all money received by the various county departments, according to the Marquette County website.

The Mining Journal asked each candidate two questions and asked them to limit their responses to 100 words for each question.

Russel Pomeroy is the former Manistee County Treasurer.

In your view what is the most pressing issue for Marquette County Treasurers office at present?

Pomeroy: In light of the current global pandemic causing financial hardships for many Marquette County taxpayers, unstable revenue streams for all local units of government and a recent Supreme Court decision that will change the way tax foreclosures and blighted, abandoned properties are dealt with in the future, I feel the most pressing issue for the Treasurer’s Office is ensuring that someone with experience, expertise and leadership is elected to the office.

When the prior Treasurer and Chief Deputy left the Treasurer’s Office to take other positions within the County it left a large void in that office and I feel my many years of experience will fill that void.

If elected as a Marquette County Treasurer, how do you propose to address that concern?

Pomeroy: I have over 30 years of experience in governmental accounting and finance, with over 22 years of county government experience, the last 12 years as a County Treasurer. I would use my experience, expertise, strong work ethic and leadership ability to meet the unexpected challenges that are facing County Government and specifically the Treasurer’s Office. I have always been able to work collaboratively with administration and other elected officials to address all new situations as they arise. I have worked closely with the former Marquette County Treasurer, through the Michigan Association of County Treasurers (MACT), and still maintain a good working relationship with her…. (This answer was shortened by The Mining Journal due to word limit.)

Nicholas Benson is the incumbent Marquette County Treasurer.

In your view what is the most pressing issue for Marquette County Treasurers office at present?

Benson: I believe the biggest issue facing the Marquette County Treasurer’s office is residents facing financial hardships, particularly owner-occupied properties.

If elected as a Marquette County Treasurer, how do you propose to address that concern?

Benson: It is my goal to help everyone I can. I have been able to assist numerous taxpayers this year, whether it was through granting a hardship extension or making them aware of various programs available that can assist in bringing delinquent taxes current. In an especially difficult year, I am proud to report we did not see a spike in foreclosures. If retained, I will continue working with Marquette County residents to make sure they have a place to call home.

Lisa Bowers can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 242. Her email address is lbowers@miningjournal.net.