2009 Election Contents Page

Coverage before the certified candidates were named. . . . 08 Sep 09 Recap . . . Post Election Comments

Candidate Pages (in the order received) Dave Poulton . . . Pat Capello . . . . Jim Rasor . . . . Andrew Androff

Commissioner Candidates Forum . . . School Board Trustee Forum

Liquor License Moratorium . . . What's being said about the candidates . . . Questions & Answers

What the candidates are saying . . . November Ballot . . . Issues being debated . . . Emagine Comments

What's being said about the Candidates

DISCLOSURE 1
Unlike everywhere else in this website, I will permit unattributed input here. The reason for the exception is straightforward. Individuals may feel that comments about people, rather than about issues, however important to the election dialogue, can sour friendships or disrupt social circles. A first look at how voters see the candidates was published in a campaign recap two or three weeks ago.

You will be disappointed if you are one of those individuals who provides no identification or false identification. If I don't know you or can't confirm your identity, your comments will not be published.

As always, I shall continue to identify comments coming directly from me, such as the indented paragraphs below.

DISCLOSURE 2
Because I have in the past and will in the future praise or criticize this year's five candidates for elected office, it may be helpful to VersagiVoice readers if I describe briefly my relationship with each of them. With most of them, the relationship long precedes their candidacy, and -- over time -- I have had not-for-publication, background, conversations with all of them. Two of the five, for a short time, mistook my criticisms to mean I disliked them personally. Also, most of them have "used" me (really VersagiVoice) to get a message out.

Andrew Androff
Andrew is the only candidate, besides Jim Rasor, with whom I have had a background conversation after he declared his intention to run for commissioner (He came close to winning a seat in 2007.). On the non-political side he, his company, is working with my wife, Muriel, as the Historical Museum prepares to move from Churchill to the Fire Station.

Pat Capello
Pat and I are civic friends. She and my wife, Muriel, might be considered personal friends, because of their involvement with the Woman's Club and the Historical Society. Almost every time we encounter each other in civic gatherings, Pat and I end up exchanging opinions and impressions about political matters and personages. We don't always agree. Then there's the fact that Pat is an activist animal lover, and I can't stand 'em.

Jim Ellison
Many readers agree that Jim, running unopposed for mayor, is "too nice." Some consider that praise, others criticism. Because Jim attends as many civic gatherings as his day job permits, I am not alone in having had many brief on- the-spot conversations with him. And there has been an occasional longer chat, not always about civic/political issues. Our relationship is personally and politically cordial, although we occasionally learn later how careful both of us are not to unintentionally relay information which we had individually obtained confidentially.

Dave Poulton
Dave is one of those now-public figures whom I tease with, "Hey, I knew you before you were somebody!" I served under his chairmanship of the Charter Review Committee; he and I have had several brief political discussion during civic encounters. He demurred once when I labeled him a Democrat, and I suspect he would prefer to be considered a center-left Independent.

Jim Rasor
Jim and I have conversed at some length in my home and in his office. I was on his side when he was charged with inappropriate behavior during the ZBA/Bordine Affair and I attended the celebration in his home the day the charges were dismissed. I can really rile Jim by complaining that he too often employs lawyerly techniques in the volunteer arena. He's Left and I'm Right, so we continue to have disagreements about civic and political matters.

§ Nonpartisan? Hah!
Jim Rasor leads his press release with an endorsement from the Democratic Lieutenant Governor. He brags that moveOn.org is his favorite website. The guy is throwing his Democratic credentials in our faces.

§ Interesting how all the candidates are suddenly middle-of-the-roaders. They all use the same pitch. "I'm fiscally conservative but a social liberal."

§ Come off it, Frank. Stop trying to pretend you're objective. You're avoiding making the obvious point that if Androff gets a seat on the commission, he'll replace Miller in joining up with Andrzejak and Semchena to form a bloc vote. You called them "The Threesome." I called them the "Unholy Trinity."

§ Isn't it sexist to say that we need women on the commission to improve their behavior?

§ About Jim Ellison, running unopposed, his admirers comment favorably on his decision not to campaign actively but to appear at as many civic gatherings as he can. His, frankly few, detractors complain that he is "smug and condescending."

§ I will be supporting Andrew Androff and Dave Poulton in the upcoming elections for City Commission...both believe in the importance and strength of our neighborhoods...although one is in favor of the Liquor Transfer Moratorium and the other is against it...I am in favor of a Moratorium at this time and for the opportunity this community needs to, once again, catch its breath and let the new Bistro Ordinance have a chance to bring more balanced entertainment to our community. -- Kathleen Klein

Questions & Answers

VersagiVoice readers continue to ask questions about the election. Here, I answer what seem to me to be the most urgent questions as the weeks go by.

Will you, as in the past, tell us who you will vote for?

Probably. The week before Election Day.
All the candidates are civic colleagues of mine, and all of them and I are broadminded enough to set aside any unavoidable anger or disappointment caused by my endorsement. And there's the real world fact that some VersagiVoice readers who might be undecided will not vote for any candidate I favor!

What will be the impact of partisan politics on the election?

Everyone maintains that the election for commissioner and mayor is nonpartisan. It is and it isn't. Each of the two major parties customarily offers at least in-kind support, and sometimes indirect but legal financial support, to a candidate or two of its choice. In terms of whom to vote for, if you want to influence the conservative-liberal mix of CITCOM, here are my thoughts.

To tilt CITCOM's political temperament Center-Left, vote for only Rasor and Poulton. To tilt the philosophy Center-Right, vote only for Androff and Capello. Practice what is called "plunk" voting: Although there are three seats open, vote for only two. No sense in increasing the vote for someone you don't want to win.

No, I haven't yet decided for whom I'll be voting. -- fjv: 28 Sep 09

Let's say I take your advice and "plunk" by voting only for two commission candidates. But I want one candidate from each philosophical camp. What coupling do you recommend?

No way. To suggest a specific "coupling" could be interpreted as an endorsement, Obviously, if you don't or can't separate the candidates by their stand on specific issues or their philosophy, you are left with selecting them by personality, primarily how you think they will get along with the mayor and incumbents. Naming the possible combinations, though, does bring personality and temperament into focus: Androff/Poulton . . . Androff/Rasor . . . Capello/Poulton . . . Capello/Rasor

§ READER:
I'm confused. I saw your name on a piece of Jim Rasor's literature, then you oppose his election. What's up?

VERSAGI VOICE:
That was my wife's name on Jim's promo piece. Both Muriel and I like Jim, and we agree and disagree, with him and with each other, about some civic/political matters. We differ mostly about whether he will prove effective or disruptive sitting at The Table with the three incumbents who have publicly taken shots at him. I assume we'll have a split vote in our household.

QUESTION:
"I see nothing wrong with candidates sending out postcards or literature in the last week of a campaign. Why did you feel it necessary to warn us that some might be coming?"

VERSAGI VOICE:
Add emails to the discussion.
I have no problem with late mailings or literature drops when the message reminds me of the candidate's positions on issues or of his qualifications. A late attack on opponents, though, is unseemly, a cheap shot. Presented late, there is no time for rebuttal. That same attack might deserve some attention earlier in the campaign, when the target of the attack can reply, giving voters enough to-and-fro so they can knowledgeably take sides.

What the Candidates are saying
(at Forums, in the Press, in any Literature dropped on my porch)

Andrew Androff
"Seniors don't have a mouthpiece, someone that stands up and fights for them."
"If you bring a bar to the community, that's great, but let's have . . . the type of establishment that doesn't require police enforcement, a bouncer." --Observer & Eccentric
"I will NOT support any attempt to increase property taxes." -- LWV Profile

Patricia Capello
"There is too much infighting [at the commission table]. I want to help re-direct efforts towards actual issues.
"I don't think commissioners can dictate how the downtown is populated. The market determines that." --Observer & Eccentric
"Residents and business people frequently complain about our business processes. We need to re-engineer our processes." -- LWV Profile

Jim Ellison

Unopposed for Mayor

David Poulton
"Our City Commission should be focused on public safety and vital city services -- NOT personal squabbles. -- Campaign Literature
"I'd be willing to hear the presentation, stand up, and be prepared to make each decision on liquor license transfers on a case by case basis." --Observer & Eccentric
"Transparency: Our residents and businesses need to know what their elected officials are doing and how their tax dollars are being spent. . . . I propose the city televise and make available online additional committee and board meetings." -- LWV Profile

Jim Rasor
"Promote and expand our recreational facilities while promoting downtown growth and neighborhood services." -- Campaign Literature
"We don't want to hang a big 'Closed for business' sign on city hall. This 'us versus them' mentality is not the way to move a community forward." --Observer & Eccentric
"Jobs: I will seek out and recruit business to locate and create jobs in Royal Oak. I will require developers to use local content when possible. These businesses will eliminate the blight of empty buildings in our commercial corridors and enhance our revenue." -- LWV Profile

As of 08 Sep 09
2009 Campaign Recap
In the beginning, there were 14 candidates for commissioner and 3 for mayor. VersagiVoice listed them in the order they pulled petitions.
I predicted that there would be no more than 5 remaining candidates for commission. There are 4.
I predicted that there would be 2 remaining candidates for mayor. There is 1.

Early-on, Dunstan, Makarewicz, Dunlop withdrew. Just before deadline, Ginotti withdrew. Others fell by the wayside for one reason or other, leaving Androff, Capello, Poulton, Rasor standing for 3 commission seats and Ellison unchallenged for mayor.

The November ballot will also include a proposed charter amendment and a proposed liquor license ordinance amendment.

Reaction
Here are generalized impressions from VersagiVoice readers.

Androff, Poulton, and Rasor, 3 of the 4 running for commissioner serve on the Zoning Board! . . . That means the best way to start a political career in Royal Oak is to get appointed to the ZBA. . . . Neither Poulton nor Rasor had any name recognition at all before the ZBA mess. . . . Should they be forced to resign, or at least step down, while they're campaigning? . . . They were on opposite sides [not re most issues] at the ZBA. How will they be at the commission table? . . .

Androff hurt himself by remaining absolutely silent during the Bordine Affair. . . . His silence makes clear which political camp he's in. . . . There is no political camp on the ZBA. Those who claim to see one have their own partisan agenda. . . . Politicians can't win. They are criticized for speaking out and criticized for remaining silent. . . . " Political camp. Social circles. I gather there really are people who have never disagreed with a friend!"

Poulton hurt himself by waffling after publicly stating he had been improperly lobbied re his vote on the Bordine matter. . . . Bull. David acted on principle and got caught up in a legalistic procedural counterattack. . . . Which he should have expected, being a lawyer himself. . . . Let's wait and see how he campaigns.

Rasor is a dynamo, full of ideas and raring to go. . . . Rasor argues for the sake of argument. If he wins a seat, we're in for long debates over trivia. . . . He's a Democrat's Democrat. . . . Agree or not, where did Party come in when he took sides on the liquor license moratorium or even on the Bordine matter? . . . "His attack on the liquor moratorium petitioners gives us a notion of how he would operate in commission meetings," was an immediate reaction to Jim's suggestion of illegal procedure by petitioners.

Capello has been helped, Capello has been harmed by Ginotti's last minute decision not to run. . . . Helped, because she knows enough to hit the ground running and is the only candidate who doesn't need to work through a learning curve. . . . Harmed, because those who want to clean house consider her part of the old crew and now have a choice to go for three new faces. . . . Pat is sure to win because she's a woman.

"Those of us" who really hoped to clean house will not vote for Ellison, even though he's the only one on the ballot for mayor. If we reduce the number of votes he receives enough, he'll be more vulnerable the next time. [Saying "Those of us" implies there's an organized focus. There is definitely Ellison-fatigue out there, but I have seen no evidence of an organized effort to replace him. -- FJV]. . . Nonsense, Ellison is a straightforward volunteer public servant. He's there for as long as he wants to be. . . . Or, like Cowan, until he realizes his time has run out.

VersagiVoice readers have opinions about a couple of the dropouts, too.
What does it say about Ginotti that he was among the last to pull petitions and waited to the deadline to announce he won't be running? . . . Lately, you [VersagiVoice] have referred to Carlo as a "swing voter." You may consider that a good thing. I/we don't. . . . Ginotti has other aspirations. He wants [to run again for state office, to run to replace Judge Sawicki are the guesses]. . . . Carlo's not running. Get off his back. . . . [Unless Judge Sawicki resigns, Ginotti and other lawyers hoping to replace him have about three years to wait. If he does resign, the Governor will appoint his replacement].

Whether Miller wins or loses his lawsuits against the city and against Drinkwine, Ellison, Lelito, and Ginotti, he's dead politically. . . . How much sense does it make to sue to recover a seat which you then choose not to run for? . . . Miller is being short-changed and maligned. . . .He was cleared of the charges against him. Rasor was also cleared of the charges against him. What makes Miller a pariah and Rasor a hero?

Speculation
As some of the personality-focused reaction suggests, there are concerns about which voting blocs might form on the new commission. Already voiced:

A victorious Androff would re-establish the Threesome, with him replacing Miller by joining Andrzejak and Semchena on most split votes.

A victorious Capello would replace Ginotti to join Drinkwine as an issue-oriented swing voter.

If Poulton and Rasor are elected, CITCOM will have three lawyers. All deliberations will become long nit-picking, legalistic, debates.

Foursomes are conceivable: Rasor, Poulton, Capello, Ellison . . . or Rasor (or Poulton), Drinkwine, Capello, Ellison . . . even Rasor, Poulton, Drinkwine, Ellison.

If all these people are as principled and independent as they claim, we'll experience the delightful chaos of no voting blocs on controversial issues. [No matter who wins, VersagiVoice will reactivate its tracking of split-votes.]

So it goes, even before the certified candidates begin to address issues. -- 08 Sep 09

Individuals who have pulled petitions

Four terms expire at the end of 2009: Mayor Ellison and Commissioners Ginotti, Lelito, and Miller.

for Commissioner
(3 open seats)

Andrew Androff
Jay Dunstan (withdrew)
William Karagitz
Art Makarewicz (withdrew)
Steve Miller
James Rasor
Cheryl Murray
Dave Poulton
Sean Dunlop** (withdrew)
Cynthia Merritt
Kyle DuBuc
Paul Spurgeon
Patricia Capello
Carlo Ginotti

for Mayor

Jay Radloff*
Jim Ellison
John Tenney

* The name is unfamiliar in civic circles. A "Radloff J" is listed in one telephone directory, with an address on Wyandotte Avenue. There is the possibility that Radloff has pulled petitions for someone else. . . . Ellison is the incumbent.

** Dunlop uses his full name in posts on www.royaloaksoundoff.com. Posting has become yet another way to gain name recognition for political aspirants. Joining service clubs, volunteering for groups and events, and writing letters and guest columns for the press are traditional methods.

One politically savvy VersagiVoice reader suggests not putting "too much stock in names until they make a public announcement."

And Deputy City Clerk Cathy Pinkos reminds us, "Everything is unofficial until they return the signed petitions."

The City Clerk's Office answers more questions:
There is no deadline for pulling petitions.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009 at 4:00 PM is the last day to file petitions and affidavits of identity, along with $35 filing fee. (Charter Chapter Four, Section 2)

Candidate Withdrawal deadline is Friday, September 4, 2009 at 4:00 pm (MCL 322a). A candidate may withdraw their petitions and remove their name from the list by filing a written statement to the City Clerk before the withdrawal deadline.

Communication from the Candidates

Dunlop

Esbri

Lelito

Poulton

Rasor

Candidates who have withdrawn

Dunstan . . . Makarewicz . . . Dunlop

Candidates certified to appear on the ballot

Poulton . . . Rasor

Two candidates speak during Public Comment
Andrew Androff and Jim Rasor spoke at last week's CITCOM meeting. By itself, that would not deserve comment. However, readers who disagree about whether candidates should be banned from Public Comment were of one mind about the significance if both of them are elected.

Here's the flow of conversation: They both serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals. . . . They were on opposing sides of the controversial ZBA/Bordine Affair. . . . Rasor was accused, then cleared, of inappropriate behavior by a couple of sitting commissioners, with whom he would be serving. . . . And he has been sniped at by the third 2011 incumbent. . . . Androff has been silent about the ZBA matter, but he is perceived as being in the camp of those same sitting commissioners who went after Rasor. . . . During each of their five minutes at Public Comment , Androff and Rasor disagreed about the need for a liquor license moratorium. Visualize them all at The Table.

Candidates' petitions have to be filed no later than 4 p.m., 01 September. That's one week away, and soon after that we will know which petitioners (besides Rasor and Poulton) will be on the ballot. For really intense city hall observers, the campaign has begun. -- 24 Aug 09

Comments from readers
or VersagiVoice

§ Some VersagiVoice readers are suggesting that the early start of campaigning for CITCOM is a direct result of voters' disenchantment with the surly tone which characterizes too many of the commission's deliberations.

Other readers disagree, maintaining that the tenor of the times (recession and falling house prices, and the like) is driving a general dissatisfaction with anyone in power.

Still others tell me that the results of the 2009 Royal Oak election will be mainly determined by voters' feelings about the incumbents.

Whatever the cause, 2009 CITCOM campaign activity has begun. -- FJV: 04 Feb

Update 1: It's early March, and three or four possible candidates are thinking out loud to friends if this is a good time to seek election or whether it would be easier to beat those incumbents whose terms will expire next election -- no matter how well or badly CITCOM handles the current budget challenges.

Update: 25 Mar 09
"It has been a quiet week in Lake Wobegon." That opening sentence, used for years in every radio broadcast by Garrison Kellor, applies to the Royal Oak political campaign. Probably because attention is focused on CITCOM, itself, and on the ZBA and DDA, about all we hear is that two or three potential candidates are having third thoughts about running at all. "I'm not sure I could make any difference up there," reflects the tone.

§ 01 Apr
As I write this, the 8th prospective candidate for city commissioner has pulled petitions, a William Karagitz. That comes at a time when a couple of petition-pullers are having second thoughts, essentially wondering whether they want to become part of the existing, angry, city commission.

I hear two reactions from existing and prospective petition pullers to the possibility that former commissioners may enter the race. Some think the coattail effect would make it easier for a newcomer to win. Others say that would cause them to drop out. -- FJV

Update: 15 Apr
The city commission's split-vote decision to remove Jim Rasor from his ZBA seat is seen by differing political observers as hurting or helping him in his run for commissioner. Hurt him: "Scandal this early in the game, justified or not, will cut him off from support." Help him: Having that particular crowd trying to bring him down will generate new supporters for him."

2009 Campaign feels impact of Rasor Affair
VersagiVoice's coverage of the Jim Rasor Affair has mentioned more than once that Royal Oak's 2009 Election will be impacted by ongoing events. Consider:

Counting Rasor, there are three members of the Zoning Board of Appeals who may be running for commissioner. As it happens, Andrew Androff and Dave Poulton were sitting as Alternates during the second Bordine appeal. One voted for, one against granting the second variance. The now-confirmed investigation into alleged attempts to influence votes at the ZBA places the two young men in an uneasy limelight. But, hey, their name recognition is sure to increase. In any case, city hall observers will be paying more attention than usual to the ZBA.
About Rasor himself, some feel the entire Bordine/English Gardens episode, followed by the dismissal of charges against him, almost assure him of winning a slot. Others fear the highly publicized negative charges may hurt him, especially since the hearing which cleared him wasn't televised.
Commissioner Miller' resignation provides CITCOM the opportunity to appoint a replacement for the remaining five months of his term. Will politics play a part in the selection? Of course. Realistically, a newbie wouldn't be much use at The Table, so reaching out for a past commissioner might make sense. Newbie or old pro, appoint someone who publicly pledges not to run for office this year. Or leave the seat empty for the rest of the year.
Ten people have pulled petitions for the three open commission seats. Ginotti has not yet announced whether he intends to seek re-election. With Miller out, I expect the 10, now 9, to drop to 5, even if two more who are considering it join in. If Ginotti runs and those two go for it, the current crowd might drop to three or four, including a couple who ran the last time.
And, this from a respected and authoritative insider: "I take this [the ZBA/Rasor brouhaha] as nothing more than posturing for the 2009 municipal elections. Different factions are positioning to take majority control of the city commission in November." That comment can obviously be coming from the Right or the Left. -- 08 Jun

Update: 16 Jun
Probably because of the hope that "Anybody can do better than those guys," the body count of would-be candidates for city commissioners has reached 12, for 3 seats. The latest 2 residents to pull petitions are Kyle DuBuc, 702 N. Alexander and Paul Spurgeon, 1634 Woodsboro.

Still to be heard from are two or three who may be confident that their name recognition and civic/political résumé are enough to overcome a deliberately late start.

Conspiracy-lovers guess (1) that the latecomers are looking at the math: If enough unknowns enter and each grabs a few hundred votes, the well-known latecomers will benefit. (2) Newcomers don't expect to win, but are simply building name recognition which will help them the next election. Whatever.

24 Jun
It has been suggested that VersagiVoice have a coffee conversation with every one who pulls petitions. Too much work! I'll decide later whether to seek a chat with every individual who gets on the ballot. For now, prospective candidates are welcome to submit their communication data and to provide announcements and preliminary position statements, as several already have done.

Stephen Miller has indicated that however his legal battle ends in his challenge of CITCOM's refusal to recognize his rescission of his resignation, he will seek re-election. (We can be sure the lawyerly argument will be raised that since he is no longer a commissioner, he cannot claim to be seeking "re-election.")

David Poulton has announced his Campaign Kickoff Party for Commissioner. It's scheduled for 5:30-7:30, Thursday, 25 June, at Sangria. For further information: 248. 435.4479 or poulton4cc@gmail.com.

Jim Rasor, cleared of ZBA-related charges, in essence began his active campaigning during his Public Comment presentation at the 15 June CITCOM meeting. In the eyes of some observers, Jim crossed the line separating citizen's comments from campaigning, but Mayor Ellison was wise to avoid any suggestion of attempting to control free speech.

07 July
Should CITCOM adopt an emergency resolution forbidding anyone who has pulled petitions from addressing the commission? They can have a family member or friend present any civic, non-political, thoughts they think need attention.

Carlo Ginotti will run for re-election. He has pulled petitions. If Steve Miller stays in the race, there will really be only one seat open. And the bets are that the bid for that seat by a former commissioner diminishes the possibility of "new blood" -- which will disappoint those voters who are hoping to replace all incumbents.

Side-bets are being placed, based on whether Jim Rasor and Miller -- and, now, Dave Poulton have been helped or hurt by their respective roles in the ZBA/Bordine Affair. -- FJV

13 July
Worthy of comment is that Steve Miller is so far the only prospective candidate for commissioner about whom Soundoff bits and at least one letter-to-the editor have appeared in the local press. All the comments so far have been favorable.

Where the 2009 Campaign stands
Commissioner Carlo Ginotti's decision to run for re-election has acted as a catalyst for public interest in the campaign for city commissioner, speeding up speculation about the possible winners and losers. Coincidentally or not, one of the newbies withdrew within a day or two after VersagiVoice reported that Ginotti had pulled petitions. Now there are widespread expectations that (1) other newbies will soon withdraw, or (2) a few will not publicly withdraw but will not bother gathering enough signatures to get on the ballot, or (3) There won't be any more people pulling petitions..

Staying with the chemistry metaphor, here are the impressions which the catalyst has precipitated. The immediate focus is on an handful of individuals with high, or newly increasing name recognition -- positive and negative.

Carlo Ginotti has moved from being a part of the perceived Republican cadre with Andrzejak, Miller, and Semchena to being an occasional swing voter on controversial issues. His admirers attribute his behavior -- seeming to distance himself from that threesome --to acting on principle. They hate to think Carlo might be caught up in the off-with-their-heads mood of those voters who want to get rid of all incumbents. His detractors complain he is an opportunist, a flip-flopper who contributes little and won't be missed.

Speculation continues to be mixed about whether Jim Rasor's election prospects have been helped or hurt by his being charged with, then cleared of, questionable behavior in the ZBA/Bordine Affair. Has the positive publicity coming out of the Administrative Hearing overcome the negative publicity generated when the charges were filed? Rasor's name was relatively unknown prior to all that publicity, except among civic activists and the Democratic Party.

Parallel speculation is out there about Stephen Miller. Has he been helped or hurt by his several public emotional outbursts attacking this or that colleague? What is the impact of his suspected role in the ZBA/Bordine mess? Did the way CITCOM expelled him generate sympathy? Will his participation in helping the city sort its finances overcome any antipathy caused by his perceived impulsiveness and lack of people-skills? Both those who admire Steve and those who detract him share a concern about his tendency to take all disagreement personally and to assign unworthy motives to anyone who challenges him. More than most, Steve's campaign behavior will be a frequent topic of street talk.

David Poulton has received praise and criticism for his role in raising the issue of possible improper pressure on the Zoning Board of Appeals during the Bordine debate. More criticism than praise followed his delayed decision to file a formal, written, complaint. Probably an Independent, Poulton is perceived to be in the Democratic camp by those who preach, to whoever is willing to listen, that the entire ZBA/Bordine fiasco was a partisan fight. Like Jim, Dave's name recognition is increasing because of his involvement in the ZBA/Bordine tiff.

Patricia (Pat) Capello's decision to run has acted as a second catalyst. Pat's fans contend: Because she is a, recent, former commissioner, she will need no learning curve and will be ready to participate immediately in CITCOM deliberations and on assigned committees. Because she is a woman, she will bring badly needed feminine moderation to the excessively macho tone of CITCOM meetings. Those who dislike Capello maintain that during her term on CITCOM she was the "chief nit-picker" and that her dislike of one or two of her colleagues was obvious. Like her or not, the off-with-their-heads crowd fears that if both Pat and Carlo are elected the city will not benefit from badly needed new blood.

Among the remaining potential candidates, only Andrew Androff has the most name recognition, recently because he is the third potential candidate who serves on the Zoning Board of Appeals, but primarily because in his 2007 run for commissioner he came within 354 votes of winning a seat.

The other potential candidates will need a combination of hard campaigning and voter dissatisfaction with the current commission to overcome the incumbency of Ginotti and Miller and the entry of former commissioner Capello.

Both Poulton and Rasor are attorneys, and VersagiVoice is hearing, "My God, can we live with four lawyers on the commission?!" The two would be joining Ginotti and Chuck Semchena, former city attorney.

This is the place to mention that although elections and deliberations about most city matters are non-partisan, political predisposition does color the debate on some controversial issues and does affect the tone of relationships among elected officials. These people do selectively associate with each other in political circles and socially.

So, it is understandable that partisan-minded citizens wonder whether the Democrats will offer their -- unofficial and behind-the-scenes -- campaign support to Rasor or to Poulton. There have been persistent rumors that at least one other known Democrat has been told there would be no support coming from the Party. More gingerly, there is speculation about whether the Republican Party will support or remain neutral about Androff whose ZBA vote on the Bordine variance was opposite Poulton's.

And there is understandable uneasiness in Democratic circles that, even if Miller drops out or loses and Ginotti and Capello win, the election of another conservative would move non-partisan CITCOM in the wrong philosophical direction.

COMMENTS CONTINUED


10 Aug 09 Do Candidates abuse Public Comment? One of the Public Comment speakers at the meeting above is a candidate for city commissioner, and one sitting commissioner complained that he was campaigning. Other declared-candidates have spoken at previous CITCOM meetings. Probably because the 04 August speaker has recently been in the public eye, reaction has been immediate. The "Readers Say" comment, at right, is an example. Let's think it through. To begin with, I see no reason to deny *prospective* candidates the right to speak during Public Comment. Until they turn in their petitions and are certified to appear on the ballot, they are not yet candidates; they are simply citizens. But what about certified candidates? Why would we want to deprive the public of hearing what they have to say -- about everything and anything? Every candidate has equal opportunity to appear. They must follow the same restrictions the mayor announces when opening each Public Comment session. Except that questions can't be asked, Public Comment makes for one great "candidates forum," where we can get some notion of how well-prepared they are for office, and where we are exposed to their ability to project their thoughts intelligibly. Campaigning in City Hall: Talk about transparency in government! Residents don't become second class citizens when they choose to run for office. -- FJV	Frank, § I am disturbed by the Public Comment usage of an individual actively running for a seat on the City Commission. Especially with regards to comments about ethics. This, I believe, is campaigning. Perhaps not the official definition of the term, but stepping up for public comment and advocating your position is a form of campaigning in my eyes. Dare I say that it is unethical. This is where the irony comes into play. If the CITCOM is to tighten the ethical code, they should look at this behavior. Perhaps those running for a seat on CITCOM or as Mayor should not be allowed to utilize public comment. The exception would be if the individual is advocating for the Committee, Board or Commission that the individual serves. This should also be documented as a majority vote of that particular Committee, Board or Commission assigning the individual in question of this task. -- Bob DiVico [See another viewpoint, at left.] Frank, I think John Tenney actually ran against Mike Andrzejak and Bill Urich for mayor -- or at least I didn't think he ran against Jim Ellison. (I could be totally mistaken on this, too -- let me know if I am - thanks!). -- Deb Anderson You're right, Deb. Commissioner Andrzejak also remembers that Tenney once pulled petitions to run for commissioner but didn't follow through. -- FJV

From The Candidates

Dunlop . . . Dunstan . . . Esbri . . . Lelito . . . Makarewicz . . . Poulton . . . Dunlop withdraws . . . Rasor


Clyde Esbri Frank, I will not be running for CITCOM again in November. As much as I enjoyed the process and feel I could be a contributor at the table, I simply am not in a position currently to devote the time necessary to run an effective campaign". -- Clyde Esbri Arthur J. Makarewicz Frank, just wanted to give you an early heads-up that I've pulled my petitions for the upcoming City Commission race. I sent a formal announcement earlier today to the Mayor and Commissioners letting them know of my intentions and wanted to make sure I kept you in the loop. Like we did for the last race, I'll make sure to set aside some time for a one-on-one over breakfast/lunch. -- Arthur J. Makarewicz 22 Jun: Makarewicz has withdrawn. At his request, the link to his website, soon to be taken down, has been removed Sean Dunlop Dear Royal Oak, Goals provide a foundation on which to build and grow. Without goals, we lack focus and direction; without focus and direction we are working towards no defined end. Goals demand action and inspire thought. Set your goals high and they will stimulate creative and dedicated thought. However, a goal is nothing more than a dream if you do not consciously plan on how to achieve it. I am running for City Commissioner because, as a lifetime Royal Oak resident, I want to contribute to our city's future health and prosperity. I believe in planning for success by setting realistic goals and then harnessing the city's energies in pursuit of those goals. Especially in these troubled times, the City of Royal Oak needs a plan that will allow it to become a Beacon of Opportunity in Southeastern Michigan. The harsh-reality is that, like so much of Michigan, our city is strapped for cash. We are slashing services, cutting employees, and cannot realistically burden our residents with increased taxes. We must develop an entrepreneurial culture that encourages economic growth within Royal Oak. Despite the obvious challenges of the current economy, I believe that Royal Oak is well positioned for a vibrant future. Geographically, the city is centrally located and easily accessible from surrounding communities; it has solid and attractive neighborhoods and a vibrant city center; more than any other nearby municipality it displays a youthful vitality that can provide the momentum necessary to ensure its continued social, cultural and economic health. My personal goal is to lend my energies to Royal Oak, working with like-minded individuals and groups to build a future that will not see our best and brightest leave to make their futures elsewhere. Royal Oak needs to plan effectively for its future and elect City Officials who believe in Progress. Regards, Sean R. Dunlop www.SeanDunlop.comunlop.com Dunlop withdraws Dear Royal Oak, In recognition of the need to focus my energies on other priorities in the upcoming months, I have reluctantly decided to end my bid for the position of Royal Oak City Commissioner. I thank all those who supported me and I offer apologies to those who may be disappointed that I will not be a candidate this year. Fortunately, it appears that the residents of Royal Oak will have a number of talented and passionate individuals from whom to choose this November. Our city is in dire need of elected officials who care deeply about this community and are committed to advancing and enhancing its image. Royal Oak is striving to emerge as a progressive entrepreneurial region and needs the support and encouragement of our local government. This means planning for the future; we need a master plan developed by a cooperative coalition of residents, businesses, and elected officials that can guide us into the next decade. My commitment and service to our community will not end with my withdrawal from the race for elected office. I will continue to push for Royal Oak to lose its isolationist attitude and join collectively with other Metro-Detroit communities for the mutual betterment of the region. To this end, I will support any candidate, resident or business whose agenda is progressive and demonstrates potential for success. I ask our elected officials to remember why they were chosen for the offices they hold: not to focus on internal political differences, but to focus on the community and find excitement in working and debating with each other to advance Royal Oak. Our city, our region, and our state are faced with the greatest economic challenge of the last 75 years. However, I am optimistic that the candidates for office in 2009 will set aside petty disputes and selfish agendas to embrace this challenge and do the hard work required to build us a better future. Feel free to contact me to discuss local issues. I intend to offer my voice and energy in support of the many citizens who wish to see our community on the cutting edge, transforming and revitalizing the region. Thank you for your support. I wish the rest of the candidates the very best in the election and cordial engagement with one another. We really need passionate residents representing this great community. Sincerely, Sean R. Dunlop Jay Dunstan 18 June 2009 Frank-- Earlier this week I returned, unopened, my election packet to the city clerk's office. I appreciate all those in the community who were enthusiastic about my potential candidacy. But at this time I feel it more important to concentrate on The Historical Society's move into the Fire Hall, the continued re-growth of The Oak Apple Run, and my increased participation within The Royal Oak Optimist Club and The Royal Oak Chamber. It is in these areas where I feel I can have the greatest impact within the community. -- Jay Dunstan	Date: 03 August 2009 Poulton Becomes Royal Oak’s First Official Candidate for City Commission (Royal Oak) The Royal Oak City Commission race has officially begun as David Poulton became the first candidate to submit the required number of signatures to the city clerk and will appear on the November 3, 2009 City Election Ballot. Poulton currently serves on the Royal Oak Senior Citizen Advisory Committee and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and is a former Chairman of the Charter Review Committee. He also serves on the Royal Oak Zoning Board of Appeals, where he has made the issue of transparency in city government a priority. “Residents and businesses must know what our leaders are doing when issues come before the city. Open, honest, efficient government is a necessity for the home owners and business community of Royal Oak.” The Poulton campaign has recently picked up several major endorsements, most notably Dave Gorcyca, a former Royal Oak City Commissioner and former Oakland County Prosecutor. Poulton also received the endorsements of Jay and Patty Dunstan, 2008 Royal Oak Citizens of the Year. “The support from the entire Royal Oak community has been amazing. I have enjoyed walking throughout the neighborhoods, greeting people at their homes and listening to their issues and concerns. I look forward to representing the interests of the community as a member of the Royal Oak City Commission.” If you have any questions or comments for David Poulton, please feel free to contact him at (248) 435-4479. Date: 16 March 2009 Business Minded Board Member Announces Candidacy for Royal Oak City Commission As a member of three different Royal Oak boards and having a shining attendance record on each, keeping busy has never been a problem for David Poulton, the former Chairman of the Royal Oak Charter Review Committee. However, this has been a very aggressive week for the long time Royal Oak resident. Just days ago, Poulton cast a decisive vote as a Zoning Board of Appeals member hoping to bring a new business, Bordine's Nursery, to Royal Oak. On Saturday, Poulton and his family attended the Royal Oak St. Patrick’s Day Parade where he was selected to be a parade Marshall and on Monday he and wife Jennifer attended Beaumont Hospital (Royal Oak) where they added another child to their family (Grant Joseph Poulton) in addition to their twins, Ella and Jackson. Poulton still has another ambition in mind and today has announced his intentions to become a candidate for the Royal Oak city commission. "I was truly humbled that so many elected officials and members of the community have asked me to run for city commissioner" Poulton stated. After attending the Royal Oak Business Expo last week it inspired me to work hard and do everything in my power to bring new businesses into the city. I had the opportunity at the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting and could not justify voting against the project and allowing a new business to go to some other community. Poulton continued “I exercised my vote in favor of bringing additional tax revenue and a new business here to make Royal Oak their home, too! I am confident this decision would have significantly benefited the community. Unfortunately, the measure was voted down despite Poulton’s objections. I really feel I can be of further service to the community I love and have chosen as the home for my family and I look very forward to meeting all the residents as I currently am doing”. If you have any questions or comments for David Poulton please feel free to contact him at (248) 872-5352. David Poulton has announced his Campaign Kickoff Party for Commissioner. It's scheduled for 5:30-7:30, Thursday, 25 June, at Sangria. Suggested donation $50/Person. For further information: 248.435.4479 or poulton4cc@gmail.com. Gary Lelito's Farewell Address I can’t believe almost four years have gone by and an election is on the horizon. When I ran for City Commission the first time in 2003, and lost, I was devastated, but I took it well at the same time. I went on with my life still serving on the DDA, Crime Prevention Council, and actively involved with the Optimist Club. Then 2005 came around, my partner and I moved from downtown Royal Oak (condo) to the North-end of Royal Oak (house), took on a new job, and decided to run for City Commission again. Wow that was a year to remember. My intent was always to serve one term, stand for what I believed in, and still believe today: 1) Promote our downtown and keep it vibrant. (sounds cliché but its true) 2) Keep our neighborhoods safe with the best Police and Fire the city can provide. 3) Don’t limit liquor licenses based on population (Old law that doesn’t work), but approve concepts that would enhance our downtown with some fine dining or alternate food experiences. 4) Keep redevelopment of Royal Oak going and prevent others from trying to stifle progress. 5) Do not put limitations on the types of business. Encourage entrepreneurship - Creative Businesses that attract new customers to the downtown. Well now it’s April 2009, and I never thought I would have to publicly announce that I wasn’t going to run for another term, but I have thought long and hard about it. My decision to run or not is not just my decision, but a family decision. I decided it was only fair NOT to run for another term as a city commissioner. My partner and I are ready for the next chapter in our life together. We will still be committed to the community we love and enjoy. Thank you to all the people who supported me in 2003 and in 2005. I am forever grateful for your friendship and support. Royal Oak truly is “the center of the universe.” Sincerely, Gary Lelito It's Official: Rasor Becomes Official Candidate for Royal Oak City Commission Candidacy Certification Proves Rasor's Campaign Has Early Community Support ROYAL OAK- Today, Jim Rasor officially became a candidate for Royal Oak City Commissioner, having been nominated by over five hundred registered voters and officially accepting that nomination at City Hall. Jim Rasor has a long record of public service in Royal Oak. He is currently a member of the Royal Oak Zoning Board of Appeals and is a former member of the Downtown Royal Oak Association. He is a strong supporter of the Royal Oak Historical Society and the Royal Oak Nature Society. As a resident for more than 15 years, a local entrepreneur, and as a craftsman who has restored three vintage homes here in Royal Oak, Jim Rasor has deep roots in the community and is committed to leading change that matters in Royal Oak. "I'm grateful to the volunteers who helped me gather the hundreds of signatures we needed," Rasor said. "I've valued the opportunity to talk with voters and learn that our message of change that matters is their top priority." The "Jim Rasor for Change" committee has raised over $10,000 for the campaign, and is confident that it will have the resources to communicate Jim Rasor's vision for Royal Oak to the voters of our community. "We need to change the culture of our City Hall so that we work with residents and business owners to bring their vision to life for their homes and businesses." Rasor said. "As a successful entrepreneur, I believe I bring the right type of sound financial management and customer service skills to Royal Oak. We need to rededicate ourselves to a City Hall committed to sound financial principals and designed around the customer, our taxpayers." Rasor's campaign is focused on three things: 1) Professional Leadership in Royal Oak; 2) Transparency, Ethics and Accountability in Government; and 3) Creating Jobs in our Community "I am grateful for the confidence of the nominating voters and their commitment to change in Royal Oak!" Rasor said. "From now until the election we will be going door-to-door talking and listening to voters' concerns, and earning their support in the November election. Anyone interested in more information or volunteer opportunities can go to www.rasorforchange.com or call 248.548.0100."