Randy Ritari

MARQUETTE — Marquette Township Clerk Randy Ritari, a Democrat, has announced his candidacy for the Marquette County Board of Commissioners District 3 seat.

The commission’s District 3 seat is currently held by Fred Benzie, who was chosen by the commission to replace Commissioner Steven Adamini after his resignation in March. District 3 encompasses Marquette Township, Marquette City District 1 and part of Powell Township. November’s District 3 county commission election will be a special election, with the winner serving a two-year term from Jan. 1, 2027 until Dec. 31, 2028.

“Ritari brings 22 years of local government experiences, a record of transparent public service and a commitment to pragmatic solutions that support families, businesses and the natural resources that define Marquette County,” said his campaign announcement.

“As township clerk, I’ve worked every day to make local government more accessible, accountable and efficient,” said Ritari. “I’m running for the county board to bring that same focus on fiscal responsibility, transparent decision-making, and common-sense problem solving to countywide issues — from infrastructure and public safety to economic opportunity and protecting our natural resources.”

Ritai has served as Marquette Township Clerk for 16 years. This role included administering elections, modernizing records and improving municipal customer service.

Ritari listed his campaign priorities as “stewarding county finances responsibly while maintaining essential services; improving roads, bridges and broadband access to support residents and small businesses; promoting economic development that balances job growth with environmental protection; supporting public safety, emergency services and mental health resources for families across the county and expanding transparency and citizen engagement in county government.”

“As county commissioner, I will listen first, collaborate across communities and prioritize projects that deliver measurable benefits to our residents,” said Ritari. “Marquette County is strongest when local leaders work together to protect what we love and prepare for a prosperous future.”

Information about Ritari can be found by calling him at 906-362-1025, emailing him at randyritari@gmail.com or visiting his facebook page “Randy Ritari for Marquette County Commission District #3.”

The partisan primary election for the county commission seat is Aug. 4, and the general election is Nov. 3.

Annie Lippert can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. Her email address is alippert@miningjournal.net.