GOOD GOVERNANCE
Job #1 for a new board will be to right the ship. I believe we need to return county business to best practices in hiring, promotion, and procurement. Ottawa County citizens want their county government to be steady, competent, and to serve the needs of everyone in the county.
HOUSING
Homeownership is the cornerstone of the American Dream. Homeownership builds family wealth, is important to childhood development, and creates communities. A recent study shows, Ottawa County is short 9,000 homes that we need to meet demand. I believe the county can help by collaborating with multiple units of government and partnering in public/private partnerships to create the amount of housing hard working families need here in Ottawa County.
GROUND WATER QUALITY
Ottawa County faces a ground water problem with implications for development and agriculture. Most water used in Ottawa County for households and irrigation of lawns and crops comes from underground aquifers. It appears the aquifers in Ottawa County are not replenishing themselves requiring drilling deeper to reach water. At least one Ottawa County township already has a moratorium on new developments unless they can connect to municipal water/sewer service. Ground water quality is a complex problem that will require co-operation and collaboration with many stakeholders to reach a good outcome.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Providing protection and safety is a core responsibility for Ottawa County government. As a commissioner, I will always support the men and women that serve us in public safety. I will always make it a priority that law enforcement has the training and equipment they need to support their mission of service to the citizens of Ottawa County.
Jim is an independent thinking conservative Republican who’s only contract is with 1st District voters.
Elected Republican Precinct Delegate from Park Township since 2010.
Active with Ottawa GOP as former Vice Chair, Treasurer, and Campaign Co-Chair.
Leadership roles with Huizenga for Congress since 2010.
