Donald DeRoche

MICHIGAMME — Four Democratic candidates will face off during Tuesday’s primary election for Michigamme Township Trustee. The candidate who garners the most votes will appear on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.

The candidates are Julia M. Anderson-Leake, Laura Mattson, Ed Olson, and Donald C. DeRoche. The four candidates were given the opportunity to answer two questions posed by The Mining Journal. DeRoche was the only candidate who responded prior to Mining Journal press time.

1. In your view what is the most pressing issue for Michigamme Township at present?

DeRoche: Bringing the townspeople and the board back together as a cohesive community. I want all parties to have a say on issues, and to have the right to voice their opinions on major decisions.

2. If elected as Michigamme Township Trustee, how do you propose to address that concern?

DeRoche: Michigamme is an exceptional place with extraordinary people. We have so many talented and intelligent people in this community that I consider it a waste of precious resources if we forget to engage our stakeholders. I would personally canvass voters to see what their views and opinions are on important issues. I would like to see Town-hall Meetings on a quarterly or semi-annual basis. We should also hold special meetings whenever important decisions such as land sales, sewer issues, usage fees etc. to get community input. A town is only as good as its leaders allow it to become.

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