Candidate Q&A: White Lake Treasurer Jay Brendel

To kick off election coverage, White Lake-Highland Patch has sent out a survey to candidates running for office in White Lake and Highland. The following is the Q&A response from White Lake Treasurer Jay Brendel. Brendel, a republican, will be facing off against Mike Roman (R) in the August primary election.

Patch: How long have you lived in White Lake?

Brendel: I have lived in White Lake Township for 56 years.

Patch: What community and civic organizations are you currently involved in?

  Brendel:

• Christmas in April, now Rebuilding Together.
• Involved in rejuvenating the Dublin ball field and concession stand.
• Involved in purchase of property on White Lake Road to create a new public park and construction of new baseball field. 
• Contributor to the White Lake Tree Lighting Ceremony, and Quake on the Lake.

Patch: What drew you to run for Treasurer?

Brendel: After years as a Trustee, I felt my business experience, strong work ethic and financial knowledge would be a good fit for this position. I was appointed to the position by the White Lake Township Trustees and have enjoyed serving in this capacity.

Patch: What personal and professional experiences make you qualified to hold that position?

Brendel: 37 years of owning and operating a small business, 14 years as a White Lake Township Trustee and certified training through the Michigan Municipal Treasurer’s Association.

Patch: What is the most important issue facing the township and what do you intend to do about it during your term in office?

Brendel: Keeping costs down and being fiscally responsible. I am currently working to reduce costs and will continue to do that if I am elected.

Patch: In recent years there has been discussion about contracting either police services or dispatch services with the county. Do you think the police department should be turned over to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department? Why or why not?

Brendel: No, it is nice to have our own police department dedicated to White Lake Citizens. Keeping our neighborhoods safe is one of my priorities and we are doing that with excellent police and fire services.

Patch: What is your vision for White Lake Township, where do you see the township in 10 or even 20 years, and what does the township need to do now to realize that vision?

Brendel: To be proactive toward small businesses and encourage them to locate in White Lake. My vision for the next ten years is to see more businesses on M-59 and more parks and pathways.