This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Schools

White Lake Teacher Running for County Commissioner

Republican Brian Howe seeks the position to give back to the community and to the classroom.

“I’m a real person. I’m making it day to day just like everyone else," said Brian Howe. "I will look into people’s concerns, and I will go to bat for the people I represent. I will not make promises that I can’t guarantee.” 

Howe, a Lakeland High School teacher, is running for the Oakland County Commission's 2nd District, which includes Highland, Holly, Rose and Springfield townships, as well as the village of Holly. 

Howe, a graduate of Milford High School, has lived in the Huron Valley area for 29 years and has spent the past 11 years living in Highland. He teaches U.S. history and advanced placement government and politics. 

Find out what's happening in White Lake-Highlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“I think it’s a time to give back and serve,” said Howe about his decision to run. “I think it’s a very honorable calling.” 

A special election is being held May 3 to fill the 2nd District commissioner seat after the prior commissioner, Bill Bullard, was appointed to the county clerk position, which became vacant when Ruth Johnson became Michigan's new secretary of state. 

Find out what's happening in White Lake-Highlandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In order to cast a ballot, citizens must be registered to vote by today, April 4.

Howe is running along with two other Republicans, Robert Hoffman and Carolyn Belaen, in this special primary election. The winner will run against the unopposed Democrat, Mark Venie, in the general election in August. 

Howe describes his campaigning approach as a true grassroots effort. He does much of his networking through his Facebook page and website, as well as from door-to-door canvassing. 

“It shouldn’t be about how many fliers are sent to your house or someone’s ability to poster their name and face on every corner,” said Howe. “All I’m asking is for people to check out my website. If you like what you see, vote for me. If not, vote for someone else. I respect that; that’s how the process is supposed to work.” 

If elected, Howe will serve on a board with 24 other commissioners who individually represent equally populated districts of roughly 48,000 people. Board members serve on various standing committees that address a wide range of county issues. 

When asked why voting in this special election should be important to citizens, Howe explained that local governing affects people more than they realize. 

“People always see state or federal government news because that’s widely reported on in the media, but the local government really impacts people every day," he said.

"Lakes, parks, business, law enforcement ... these are all areas local governments address,” he said. 

Below are just some of the responsibilities that the Board of Commissioners oversees, according to the Oakland County website:

  • Public transportation policies regarding roads, airports and mass transportation
  • Pension matters and hospitalization benefits for retirees
  • New construction, building modifications and the purchase, sale or lease of properties and facilities in the county
  • Make decisions regarding alterations to existing social service programs to better meet the needs of citizens
  • Establish the property tax millage rate
  • Adopt the annual county budget
  • Adopt ordinances and rules

County commissioner is a  part-time position and therefore would allow Howe to be able to continue to teach.

"I'm not ready to give up teaching because I enjoy the work I do," Howe said. "I'm excited about what the commissioner experience, and first-hand local government knowledge, could bring to the classroom ... and maybe get students more interested," he said.

Residents may come out and meet Howe at his one and only fundraiser, “Burger with Brian," from 7-10 p.m. April 12 at the Weal Inn, located at Duck Lake Rd. and M-59 in Highland. Burgers will cost $5, and longnecks will cost $2. A portion of the proceeds will go to Howe’s campaign. 

“I only want to raise as much money as I am going to spend,” he said. “I believe in keeping it simple. I’m utilizing all my resources, and I have great support from my family and friends.” 

Howe has received his only sought endorsement from the Oakland County Deputy Sheriff’s Association. He plans to continue with his modest campaigning approach and encourages any questions that potential future constituents might have.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from White Lake-Highland