League of Women Voters' Dearborn Election Guide

League of Women Voters
Dearborn / Dearborn Heights
DEARBORN - VOTER GUIDE

August 6, 2013 Primary Election
The purpose of the primary election is to reduce the number of candidates to two (2) candidates for every one (1) opening. If your candidates do not make it through the primary election, their names will not appear in the General Election on November 5. Your vote will make a difference!
Mayor 5 candidates (vote for 1) City Clerk 3 candidates (vote for 1) City Council 21 candidates (vote for 7 or less)
The Voter Guide - Publication of this guide is solely in the interest of public service and in no way is to be construed as an endorsement by the League of Women Voters. The League takes no responsibility for any of the views or facts stated by the candidates. Candidates words are printed as submitted including any misspellings. Every effort was made to contact the candidates for response by email, phone and letter. For the latest information, go to
www.VOTE411.org.
The League of Women Voters - Founded in 1920, the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. The League never supports or opposes political parties or candidates. Membership is open to all men and women citizens of voting age. The funding of printed voter guides depends upon generous civic-minded donors. For more information contact info@lwwvddh.org or call 313-278-6476. Website is: www.lwvddh.org Voter Guide 2013, LWVDDH 1|Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR

See page 2 for duties (below)
Ziad Abdulmalik Tahir Hassan Alaragy Edward Binkley
page 3 page 4 page 5
Nofila J. Haidar John B. OReilly Jr.
page 6 page 7
CANDIDATES FOR CITY CLERK

See page 8 for duties
Kathleen Buda Khalil Dakhlallah
page 8 page 9
Mark Jess Dawdy
page 10
CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCIL

See pages 11 for duties
Robert Alex Abraham Jane Ahern Michael D. Albano Tarek M. Baydoun David W. Bazzy Mo Berro Bob Bochenek Susan A. Dabaja Stephen S. Dobkowski Jr. Sharon Dulmage Steven J. Guibord
page 12 page 13 page 14 page 15 page 16 page 17 page 18 page 19 page 20 page 21 page 22
Maureen McIlrath Patrick A. Melton Brian C. ODonnell Mary K. Petlichkoff Colette Richards Mike T. Sareini Mark C. Shooshanian Thomas Patrick Tafelski Kristyn Taylor Robert W. Watson
page 23 page 24 page 25 page 26 page 27 page 28 page 29 page 30 page 31 page 32
The Duties of the Mayor

The Mayor serves as the City's chief executive. Among the duties are conserving the peace, enforcing all laws and ordinances, preparing and administering budgets, hiring and firing the appointed positions, creating and maintaining relationships with local businesses, maintaining city parks and city roads. 4 year term Vote for 1 (5 candidates names appear on the ballot)
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MAYOR Vote for 1

There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? What plans would you recommend to attract businesses, residences and visitors to Dearborn? Rental property: How would you enforce/change rental ordinances and tax collection for rental property to improve neighborhoods?
Ziad Abdulmalik
Student Business partner
Education: I am pursuing a bachelors degree in Accounting. I have a new found passion in politics and hope to expand my knowledge with a graduate degree in Political Science.
Currently, I manage an auto repair shop and am business partners in a restaurant and car wash. Thanks to my parents I was raised with a strong work ethic. I started working at the age 14. I have had many different occupations ranging from blue color work to management.
Offering a clean, safe and affordable City. Providing well managed and maintained infrastructure through proactive and reactive services, excellent stewardship of public assets and a variety of cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities that enhance the quality of life. Creating and maintaining effective partnerships to promote employment opportunities and individual and business success. Advancing a model of professionalism that ensures the delivery of high quality products and services, continuously improves efficiency and removes barriers for future development.
Rental property in Dearborn is a big topic. With many homes being rented out across our city, comes various changes in our social climate, one of the biggest differences impacted by rental property can be reflected on income tax rates, occupancy inspections and other costs on the city. Many citizens or homeowners currently own homes and rent them out undocumented. By doing so they are side stepping many laws. I will work progressively to audit current deeds records and target individuals who are circumventing these laws, in order to correct the titling of these homes and bring these property owners to proper justice.
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MAYOR Vote for 1

There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. Born 01/07/1969, Iraq, immigrated to US 1994, Married with 4 Childerns ( Adam, Mosa, Fatimah, Sarah ) Wife is Hala Nasrallah JOBS: Commercial Mortgage Broker, Real Estate Investments & Brokerage Firm Owner, Foriegn Embassy Trade Liason, Financial & Investments Consultant HOBBIES: Reading ( Forbes Magazine, Financial Times, Global Finance Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Money Magazine, The Economist Magazine, International Finance Magazine, Global Trade Magazine, The Entrepreneur Magazine, The Washington Post, USA Today, AND all other national & International Financial publications. Also, sports/ Soccer How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? By choosing the right candidate with a backround in Financial, Economics and Management that has better knowledge, Consciousness and Future Vision For the life most critical needs, and capable to move in fast informative steps forward better future What plans would you recommend to attract businesses, residences and visitors to Dearborn? Rental property: How would you enforce/change rental ordinances and tax collection for rental property to improve neighborhoods?
Tahir Hassan Alaragy

Financial and Investments Consultant
Education: Bs Finance, Diploma Education Persueing MBA & MA in International Economics
For Economic necessity and the culture make up of the city, Dearborn needs a Mayor with native & original Middleastern backround, that has native & original thinking, awareness, consciousness & knowledge of Midleastern history, culture, customs, life, manners & behaveiours, that candidate is capable of attracting millions of visitors, tourists, business, investments & entrepreneurship to city of Dearborn that it should and should had to become the midleastern capital of United states, Canada & south america for midleastern cultural & historical tourism & since I have the above original, educational & occupation qual
My election pledge is to let the residents of the city of Dearborn be reimbursed for thier Real Estae Tax bills as whole or part and NOT to raise taxes or water & sewage bills. How ?, that is my job, I will let national & international businesses, investments & Entrepreneurships flow to our dear city of Dearborn
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MAYOR Vote for 1

Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? I would post something on the internet hold meetings and post them in the newspapers and let the citizens have there say before I take before the council to vote on it. make then appropriate decision based on the peoples demands not my own and there will not be a rubber stamped council What plans would you recommend to attract businesses, residences and visitors to Dearborn? Rental property: How would you enforce/change rental ordinances and tax collection for rental property to improve neighborhoods?
There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order.
Edward Binkley
Handyman
Education: Graduated from Farmington Senior High School class of 1982 and also attend HenryFord Community College studied bussiness management in the 1990's Occupation: currently stock shelves at the bp on mason and michigan ave and do some landscaping as I owned and operated a landscape company that was registered in wayne county for 15 star landscaping and painting
I have lived in many cities during my childhood, & graduated from high school.Came here to dearborn every summer and on weekends lived with grandparents.My family has been here for over 100 years.If you want to know more check the story titled complications in the Dearborn best stories volume 2 available at the museum. I wanted to run for office so that I could make changes keep the Historical museum operating, re-open the snow library so your children won't come in to danger crossing the busy streets to get to the bryant branch. Keep the pools open,fix the fountain, parking meters,&Will also not have police/fire dept.cu
try and purchase the old arsenal buildings and have a bigger campus for the museum then the museum can have all items on display and have the commandants quarters open all the time, movies again at the museum.have a cityscape in east,south,north,and west dearborn of flower boxes have a city tour of historic areas and add shuttle to henryford museum, keep the city clean even if i have to clean it up myself. plant flowers and parades back in west dearborn where they belong.would like to have a visitor center that someone is there all the time not when they want. would set up at the new museum site or mcfadden rosshouse
I would Make sure all rentals are up to code including fire inspections, would even do at random times to make sure they are following the all codes or they get a fine if they recieve 3 strikes then the city may use force such as makethem cease operation until there up to code we can't cut there grass anymore its not our property. There will not be anymore blight or dirty streets in the city i run if i have to i would hire out the people that are in jail to clean especially the parking lots behind the bars we just need to keep our property and streets clean!
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MAYOR Vote for 1

Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Currently Residents of Dearborn are welcome to sit in at city council meetings as well read meeting minutes online. Yet, there seems to be a big gap between the residents and the decision making process. There is not enough communication between the city and the residents in a time where the internet has become the main form of communication. By keeping up with the times, we can use these resources to connect the residents with the city. Having a great city is a team effort which can be accomplished through a new communication plan. What plans would you recommend to attract businesses, residences and visitors to Dearborn? Rental property: How would you enforce/change rental ordinances and tax collection for rental property to improve neighborhoods?
Nofila J. Haidar
Business Owner
Education: Bachelors in Criminal Justice, UofM Dearborn
I am Nofila J. Haidar, a proud American of Lebanese descent. I have been a resident of Dearborn for 21 years. I am a mother of two beautiful daughters. I have been in business for eleven years; I have a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice, minoring in communications and Urban & Regional Studies. Dearborn is a beautiful city full of diversity and culture. I grew up here and I would love for my daughters to do the same. I am running for office because Dearborn is our home and I would like to revitalize it to ensure my children and everyone's children a good future in a beautiful, secure and healthy city.
Great cities attract ambitious people and ambitious people generate amazing ideas and businesses. To attract residents, businesses and visitors to Dearborn, we must have a great city. A home is a reflection of the homeowner, and a city is a reflection of the residents. A visitor can sense the energy of the city, through the residents words, behaviors and overall maintenance of the city. An extreme burst of positive energy will attract visitors, residents and businesses. This burst will only occur if the city is secure, well maintained and education is a top priority.
Rental property laws should be enforced citywide to protect the homeowners and tenants rights. Credit checks and background checks as well as a lease or rental agreement must be required when renting a property. Tax collection for rentals could be lowered or divided between the homeowner and the tenant to encourage landlords to report rentals and to stay up to date on tax collections. Reporting a rental property will help enforce keeping the property up to city code for the benefit of the city as well as the tenant and landlord.
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MAYOR Vote for 1

Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? We have already implemented a spirit of transparency with the posting of all pertinent financial information online. We try to use every possible communication tool to disseminate information to everyone. That spirit will continue as technology changes. Citizens are welcome to serve in many different ways on Boards and Commissions. In developing a plan for the future, I brought together representatives from many different interest groups in Dearborn for input and approval. I intend to continue to solicit input from a broad array of citizens on the many critical issues especially when it involves proposed changes. What plans would you recommend to attract businesses, residences and visitors to Dearborn? Rental property: How would you enforce/change rental ordinances and tax collection for rental property to improve neighborhoods?
John B. OReilly, Jr.

Mayor, City of Dearborn
Education: Doctor of Law and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Detroit School of Law and Undergraduate respectively, Associates of Arts from Oakland University .
After 17 years on City Council, I sought this job with the intent to insure that Dearborn remains a strong and stable community. The unanticipated challenges of the recent recession and collapse of housing values make that goal more important than ever. Together with the City Council we have been progressive in stabilizing and improving Dearborn's financial position. I have a vision for developing Dearborn into a vital community in Southeast Michigan that will reward its property owners and attract new investors well into the the future. We have begun many important initiatives I hope to see them through
Our major challenge is to bring in new businesses to occupy all of the existing office space that was used by Ford employees and related or other industries. That is going well and will provide new customers for existing businesses. We need to stabilize our neighborhoods and owner occupied residential. Several actions have been taken to make many of our older neighborhoods more attractive while strengthening residential values and neighborhoods citywide. Workers who come to Dearborn and people that live and shop here need to know that they are safe and new statistics show that public safety is improved citywide
Dearborn has some of the most effective policies on rentals. All rentals must be registered and they are posted on line for neighbors to verify. We also closely monitor and inspect vacant property. We have worked with professionals to develop policies that can find and punish property owners that illegally rent property or maintain unsafe property. We use modern tools to find tax cheats. The most effective tool is to make demand for property so strong that homes have more appeal for home owners making them less appealing to landlords. I also know that Schools are the other key tool to driving residential demand.
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The Duties of the City Clerk

The City Clerk chairs the Election Commission and administers all elections in the city, including preparation and distribution of ballots, appointment and training of election officials and workers, tabulation and certification of results. In addition, the Clerk serves as Secretary to the Council to record and distribute minutes, maintains official documents and files, and performs a variety of other functions. 4 year term Vote for 1 (3 candidate names will appear on the ballot.)
CITY CLERK Vote for 1

There are 3 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. Dearborn has been my home for over 50 years. I have served as City Clerk since January 1, 1998 and am now seeking my 5th term. Experience includes receiving the coveted status of Certified Municipal Clerk in 2005. I have served as treasurer, vice-president and president of the Wayne County Clerks Association. I have administered 32 elections and have a deep desire to continue my dedication and service to our diverse community. What information could the clerk's office make more accessible online? How could voter registration be better encouraged and voter participation increased? The next presidential election is 2016 during your term of office, if elected. What changes if any would you work for? Last year's presidential election was unprecedented in that it involved 2 double sided ballots. There were some lines but the voters were very patient. We had additional booths and extra tables set up. Clerks across Michigan have banded together to do what we can so it never happens again. I am of the belief that the privilege of voting is always worth the wait.
Kathleen Buda
Dearborn City Clerk
Education: 12 years at Dearborn Sacred Heart, 2 years at HFCC and a B.A. from Mercy College of Detroit
Just about everything has been made available online throughout my 4 terms. We have recently contracted with VitalChek which enables people worldwide to order records of births and deaths that occurred in Dearborn.
The League has been very active with registering voters and I applaud their participation. I encourage people to visit the Clerk's office to insure that all information is correct. In Michigan, when you change your address on your driver's license, your voter registration will also be changed. It can't get any more convenient than that! Voters need to take responsibility and express their opinion at every single election.
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There are 3 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. Khalil Dakhlallah, time in the city 35 years, married with four grown children and one grand child. I plan to continue to uphold the high standard and professionalism that has been the office of city clerk for the past years.To be honest, as fragmented and controversial as this job has been for the last few years,I still like to do it.It's a good connection for me with the community.My extensive knowledge of the life and health insurance industry. My strong knowledge of computer fundamentals.I want to encourage people to become more involved.We have a history of uncontested elections. What information could the clerk's office make more accessible online? How could voter registration be better encouraged and voter participation increased? The next presidential election is 2016 during your term of office, if elected. What changes if any would you work for? I would bring the City Clerk's office into the 21st century, in order to speed up the election process at the polls and reduce the waiting time. My platform is simply this:I will be committed full-time to the city clerk's office and position. As I stated earlier, I will uphold the high standards and professionalism that has been the office of city clerk for the past years
Khalil Dakhlallah
Student Services Liaison
Campaign website: Facebook Education: BBA in Management. Occupation: Dearborn Public Schools/ Student Services Liaison. City of Dearborn Rec. Dept.(Park Ranger/ Manager). 19th District Court Work Program Supervisior. Served 5 years as a Dearborn Police Reserve Officer.
Make it easier for the Dearborn community to get involved in the political process by posting,requirements, important dates and forms on the website.Post the results of all local elections on the website. Refrain from promoting myself at taxpayers expense. Keep all informational materials non-partisan without promoting any political parties or candidates over others.
I want to encourage the people to be more involved.By holding a frequent voter registration work shops at different community meetings and at the local high schools to encourage the voter participation.Dearborn's Clerk's office is ready for real change.
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There are 3 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. Lifelong (49 years) Dearborn resident. Alumnus of Fordson, HFCC and Lawrence Tech. Lifelong member of St. Barbara Parish where I serve as President of Ushers and Lectors Club and as a Eucharistic Minister. I am married 24 years to my wife Diane, and we have two wonderful children through adoption, Adam, 16, and Ashlynne, 12. Community involvement through Fr. Patrick OKelley KofC, St. Barbara Parish, DHS Bosster club, and Director of Dearborn's Mustang Baseball, Coach for both Dearborn and Sacred Heart Baseball, and former Scout Leader. I am running to make the Clerk office more user friendly, online and in person What information could the clerk's office make more accessible online? How could voter registration be better encouraged and voter participation increased? The next presidential election is 2016 during your term of office, if elected. What changes if any would you work for? I would work with the state of Michigan to make all voting polls a user friendly place, using the latest technology to make voting faster, safe and less complex.
Mark Jess Dawdy

Operations Manager Ambit Land surveying and Engineering
Campaign website: www.Markdawdy.com Education: Graduate of Fordson High School, Associate degree - Henry Ford Community College, Lawrence Tech University school of architecture, post graduate business classes from Henry Ford Community College Occupation: Operations Manager Ambit Land surveying and Engineering licence builder, Owner of Dawdy Designs and Construction L.L.C
Most functions can be set up on a user friendly system to help all the residents of Dearborn with access 24 hours. For example you could apply for a dog licence or a garage sale permit by filling out an easy online form. You could also pay and print out the permit along with an all city ordinance.
More education, you could send someone to the schools to inform students on the importance of voting.
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Before you vote, go to the online Voter Guide. How to find your races on www.VOTE411.org
Put in your address Click on the green bar Get Personalized Information Map of your home Click on blue Find My Information bar Your races pop up
Keep checking VOTE411.org for updates.
The Duties of the City Council

Acting as the legislative branch of city government, the 7-member city council sets policies, adopts budgets and enacts legislation. All 7 seats are up for election every 4 years. Members are elected at-large, not in districts. 4-year term Vote for up to 7 (21 candidate names appear on the ballot)
The remaining pages are devoted to the 21 City Council candidates.

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CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Utilizing all the recent technology and social media, together with traditional channels of communication, I am approachable and open to listen you each issue and problem. As a Councilmember since January 2002, I have been transparent with the budget decisions and my position on many controversial issues that have affected our City. It takes everyone to improve our Cityeach voter, business and resident must be accountable and take pride in their neighborhood. Using traditional media, the city website, attending public meetings and speaking directly with me people can stay informed about all the events and issues. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The purchase the new City Hall property demonstrates a clear long-term vision and plan to reduce operating expenses, unnecessary costs and therefore provide more resources for general services, like recreation, parks, pools, libraries and the museum. Leaders must make the tough decisions (the right decisions), even if they are not always popular choice for special interest groups. I have demonstrated an ability to lead and make decisions based on the facts and information. I will continued to support the essential programs that provide a unique distinction between Dearborn and other communities in this area.
Robert Alex Abraham

Chief Financial OfficerVirginia Tile Co.
Education: Graduated from Fordson High School-1985; Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Computer Science from Hillsdale College-1989 and received All-American honors in Track. Certified Public Accountant. Occupation: In 1991, Abraham was licensed by the State of Michigan as a CPA. Abraham successfully owned and operated the Dearborn CPA Firm. Currently, the CFO for Virginia Tile Co. in Livonia, Michigan.
As I complete a third term of office on the City Council, I still bring fresh ideas, energy and a professional financial perspective from pre-911 and post-911 eras. I tend to be more of a "financial advisor" and decisionmaker" than a politician. I am actively involved in a variety of Community Service Organizations: member of the Henry Ford Community College Foundation (Board Member and Treasurer), Fordson Varsity Club (Board of Directors and Treasurer), ACCESS, and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants. I also support the Dearborn Goodfellows, Exchange Club, Rotary Club, Optimist Club and more.
I truly understand the Citys financial challenges and the tools available to solve these problems. I work hard to understand the service mix and priorities for neighborhoods; maintaining the high quality service is my biggest challenge during a time of financial cutbacks and shrinking revenues. Throughout the budget process I strive to balance the needs and wants of everyone. This establishes a clear direction for the administration. My goal during this term is continue to have strong, positive influence on the budget process and prioritization of service, programs and activities used by all residents.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Community task forces, such as one I recently participated in 2010, examine issues of concern to all of us, such as revenue enhancement, improving the citys reputation and administrative efficiency. In 2011, I also took part in workshops for the citys 25 year master plan. More recently, the city asked for citizen comments and recommendations in planning for the new intermodal rail station. Such opportunities for engagement allow those who live in our city to raise questions, to learn, and to make informed suggestions that our leaders will hear. Neighborhood associations offer one path for discovering these forums. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The councils biggest job is to pass an annual budget. Given that we are emerging from one of the largest economic downturns in the last century, prioritizing city services has been a difficult and thankless task, but the council has passed budgets that continue to make Dearborn known for residential services. The decision to purchase the former ADP building as our new city hall also shows forward thinking. The building is energy efficient and cost effective. These kinds of decisions influence our bond rating and thus represent smart planning that enhances Dearborns stability.
Jane Ahern
Community Volunteer
Campaign website: ahern4dearborn.com Education: University of MichiganDearborn, Bachelor of Arts, Political Science Occupation: Community Volunteer
Communication between residents and the city is vitally important; a vibrant city is one where everyone can participate in civic life. When residents participate in Dearborn's neighborhood associations, they gain that knowledge and have a voice. As a leader in the Highland Neighborhood Association and a regular participant in the city's umbrella group, the Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations, I have seen how community groups help our citizens to access city services and events, and to communicate concerns and interests we all share. I will build on these relationships between citizens and our city.
One of the biggest issues confronting the city is a shift in revenue sources. For example, residential taxes make up the greatest proportion of taxes collected at a time when state government revenue sharing is declining. More business activity in our city will improve the revenue stream. In order for businesses to start up or to move to Dearborn, we need to trumpet the great things happening here . The intermodal train station, for example, will effectively connect the Dearborn and Ann Arbor campuses of U of M. College campuses offer great potential for incubating businesses that will last.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Citizens should read everything they can about Dearborn and city hall decisions, as well as get involved, as I have, in city commissions, task forces and committees. They should also attend every council "Meeting of the Whole" and regular Council Meetings, and regularly communicate with our council, mayor, and department heads as I do, so we know what is happening in our city. While the mayor and council are our elected representatives, their job is to represent the wishes of the people of Dearborn, and they cannot do that well without the input of the people of Dearborn. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? Shutting down 2 pools and the Snow Library had a major negative impact on the city, as most Dearborn Master Plan respondents stated they wanted to keep all our pools and libraries open. People, especially children need neighborhood recreation and libraries, and our Show Library was in a working class neighborhood where many visited it to use a computer - something many do not have at home. Closing Whitmore Bolles and Hemlock pools forces children to cross major roads to swim, and is dangerous. Our pools, libraries and other services have made Dearborn unique since the 20th century and should be restored.
Michael D. Albano
Self-Employed Wireless Consultant
Campaign website: www.albanoforcitycouncil.com/ Education: Associate in Business from Henry Ford Community College Occupation: Self-employed wireless consultant for research firms that cater to investors, investment and brokerage firms since 2007.
In the wireless industry since 1984 in sales, marketing, operations, sales management, start-ups and turnarounds. Communication Depot wireless owner-founder 1993-2007. Freelance writer, regular guest writer Dearborn Press and Guide since 2008, guest writer with own blog on the Dearborn Patch. City of Dearborn Telecommunications Commissioner, founder and co-host of The CDTV Telecom Show, Rental Task Force Commissioner, DFNA member. Running for office because I want to further pay back Dearborn for all it has contributed to my life by helping the city prosper and be accountable to it's residents and businesses.
I possess extensive business start-up and turnaround experience, and my business experience will help our city balance a budget, and turnaround the city finding solutions to reopening, repairing and funding beloved amenities and services, and more. My business background will also help locate new desirable businesses to open up in our struggling business districts. I believe the biggest difference I will bring if elected, is that since in September I am retiring, I am willing to work fulltime as a council member meeting with the people and businesses of Dearborn regularly to help implement their vision of Dearborn
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? More residents need to be welcomed to participate in the process of local democratic governance. Too often, many questions go unanswered, and much misinformation has led to the undermining of trust in certain decisions made by City Government. A more effective effort must be made to provide residents and business owners direct communication to and from their City Council members. More outreach by Council members is just as important. Residents' needs and desires must be sought out by the members of the Council. Council Members are elected not just as part of an oversight body, but also as advocates. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? Council voted to authorize an increase in property taxes without a specified use for the additional revenue, while nearly simultaneously voting to to eliminate funding for Libraries and Parks and Recreation. All residents, especially our taxpayers and our youth, are negatively effected by such decisions. Furthermore, the ability of City officials to make the case for additional funding, if and when it becomes necessary has been greatly hindered, and every single new expenditure is now scrutinized and blasted by some residents who feel they were duped into voting for a tax increase to save services that were then cut.
Tarek M. Baydoun
Attorney
Campaign website BaydounForDearborn.com Education: Dearborn Public Schools, Fordson High School Graduate, B.A. in Political Scince from the University of Michigan- Dearbon, Juris Doctor(J.D.) from the University of Toledo College of Law. Occupation: Baydouns Law practice has focused on the Real Estate and Business practice areas. Baydoun has structured small and large business deals that have brought jobs and economic activity to Dearborn.
Baydoun was born and raised in Dearborn. After graduating from the University of Michigan, he studied law full time at the University of Toledo, worked full time and got married. Baydoun is now an attorney and community advocate. Baydoun and his wife Noha are blessed with a beautiful 2 year old daughter Eman. Baydoun takes personal responsibility to help keep our City great and provide the greatest possible value to Dearborns residents.Through his work in Government and the private sector, Baydoun developed an understanding of the role City Government can play in helping to improve the lifestyle of our resident
Property values and taxation: As the regional and national economy turn the corner Dearborn is uniquely positioned for growth and prosperity. Baydoun believes in Dearborn. With the right knowledge base, strategies, dedication and work ethic, Dearborns City Government can enhance and implement programs leading to growth and opportunity for our Residents, promoting our investment, and improving our quality of life. Baydoun's 5-Point Plan on Property Values and Taxation, "Moving ForwardProtecing Dearborns Services And Quality Of Life By Maintaining And Promoting Property Values" is online at DearbornFirst.com.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Citizens should become invested in neighborhood associations as well as emailing the members of the City Council, while participating in council meetings.Keep involved in local organizations throughout the community and join the many groups that work and support their city. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The single most important issue on the council was the vote to put the temporary 3.5 mill increase on the ballot. This millage increase saved many city services. These millage increases speak to the fundamental #1 function of the City Council today which is of reviewing, adjusting, and approving an annual budget. This function more than any other, has a direct impact on the number and level of services residents receive year in and year out. The second item would be the intermodal train station, which will bring visitor growth and business opportunities to West Dearborn.
David W. Bazzy
President & Chief Operating Officer of Kenwal Steel Corp and Kenwal Pickling, LLC
Education: BA - University of Michigan - Dearborn, MBA - Wayne State University Occupation: President & Chief Operating Officer of Kenwal Steel Corp. and Kenwal Pickling, LLC. .
Married, 3 children. I have lived in the City of Dearborn for 55 years, being an active community leader the last 20 years. My broad base background makes me an exceptional candidate with eight years Recreation Commissioner, Five years Zoning Board of Appeals, Chairman for Dearborn City Charter Commission, Current City Council member. I am seeking office because I believe that Dearborn will continue to face daunting financial struggles in the near future. With Dearborn facing the PPT Rollback in 2015 along with the temporary millage expiration in 2016, financial leadership will be important the next four years.
The keys to strong cities are good neighborhoods, I will continue to push forward on the Rental Task Force to make sure we are registering all rentals, and holding the owners of the rental properties accountable for the conditions, as well as the activities at these homes. I will also continue to visit and respond to the issues in the neighborhoods as I have done in my tenure on the council, making sure we tear down eyesores and keep Dearborn clean.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Well, if I am their Councilman they will have direct access to me with their concerns and their opinions on where they stand on issues and I will always take their decisions into serious consideration because I am a resident also and want to benefit from anything we vote on that effects our Great City. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? Many issues are on my mind, what stands out of course I must say are the cuts to Police and Fire, we need to maintain our Public Service with Good Benefits so they can provide us with Good Service! The decision to purchase a new City Hall may be a decision that should of been placed on the back burner, Do we need a new City Hall now? These two decisions are facts that effected our city in a negative perspective.
Mo Berro
Retired Dearborn Police Officer, Now Realtor
Campaign website: berroforcouncil.com Education: College degree, special training certificates Occupation: Retired Dearborn Police Officer, Now Realtor
As a retired police officer and serving the city I was born and raised in for over 25 years, I feel the need to complete my commitment to the Citizens of Dearborn. I have also provided the citizens with respect and integrity,fairness and pride as a Police Officer. I worked beside the late Mayor Michael A. Guido as a Liaison Officer with the Community. I feel and know I will be a great asset to the Citizens as their Councilman.
Keeping are fiances stable and are taxes from increasing, so we can protect ourselves from any major cuts that have been made in the past that effect our City Services and living conditions. I want to make Dearborn's Economy Boom again as it has in the Past!
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Citizens can be better informed by staying involved and informed in the decisions made at City Hall. In this day of electronic news, gathering information is much easier and I plan to use that as a tool to help the citizens of Dearborn stay updated regarding the city's business. More importantly, I plan to encourage and empower the citizens to use the information they have and to speak up to the elected officials so that those officials can represent the ideas and opinions of the citizens more accurately. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? One of the decisions made by the Council was the purchase & renovation of a new City Hall. This angered a majority of citizens and left many unanswered questions. The big question now is how much will this cost the citizens of Dearborn & will this be resolved before the election? Another decision was the fact that Council refused to settle lawsuits brought by (3) 19th District Court employees. These lawsuits were mediated for a fraction of the cost but the Council refused the judgement and 2 of them proceeded to trial. The city is now liable for this & it will end up costing the city hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Bob Bochenek
Retired Dearborn Police Officer,Sales Consultant, Work Program Supervisor, Deputy Sheriff
Education: St. Alphonsus High School, Henry Ford Community Colllege,Mercy College of Detroit, Detroit Metropolitan Police Academy Occupation: Retired Dearborn Police Officer (25years), Work Program Supervisor 19th District Court (6 years), Oakland County Deputy (4 years) Sales Les Stanford Chevrolet (3 years)
I am a lifetime resident of Dearborn and I have the experience of working for the city for more than 34 years in various capacities. I am familiar with how the city is run and I have implemented programs that have worked in the past that have been an asset to our city. I also have experience fighting for state & national funds that have helped to advance the city in the right direction. In addition, I have other ideas for programs that will save Dearborn money, improve the neighborhoods, and help cut crime & accident rates. I will work to bring business to the city and to aid as a watchdog for the citizens.
I feel I can make a difference if elected simply by being able to hit the ground running upon election because of the experience I possess about the operations and functions of a city government. When electing city officials, in particular council members, there has always been a time period allocated for a new member to learn the workings of the city government. With my previous experience, I would be able to step right in & get right to work without having to waste any time, money, or other resources.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? I have always believed that an informed citizenry is an empowered one. Our residents have many options to keep them informed about City Hall. We have local newspapers, our city website and cable channel, and social media outlets like Facebook and blogs. When elected, I will use all these tools and add one other important one more face-to-face, two-way communication with residents. As councilwoman, I will host citizen forums where I will listen to citizens and where they can ask me my position on various matters. I will encourage citizens to attend council meetings and meetings for other boards and commissions. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? One is the proposed merger with Melvindale's fire department. While sharing services to create efficiencies is the future, a thorough performance of due diligence was instrumental on this issue. The consolidation may provide for increased coverage on the city's west end, but there are rightful concerns about the future viability of this agreement. Another major issue was council's approval to purchase the ADP building for the relocation of city hall. This was a very difficult and emotional decision, and important deliberation continues as the council weighs the transfer of city hall to Artspace.
Susan A. Dabaja
Attorney
Campaign website: www.susandabaja.com Education: Edsel Ford High School, Class of 1995; University of Michigan Dearborn, Bachelor of Science, 2001; University of Detroit - Mercy, School of Law, Juris Doctorate, Magna Cum Laude, 2004 Occupation: Attorney - Dearborn, MI
I am a life-long Dearborn resident who graduated from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and finished first in my class at the University of DetroitMercy School of Law. I have worked as a successful attorney for a Dearborn law firm for the past nine years. But I am most proud of my role as "mom" to my three beautiful children. I am running for office because I want my children to have the same experience growing up in Dearborn that I had. I will bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to City Hall, and will work diligently to move Dearborn forward and be responsive and accountable to the citizens of our city.
One of my platforms is to develop strategies to strengthen our businesses and create jobs. My goal is to have vibrant business districts with high occupancies on both the east and west ends of city as well as throughout Dearborn. My background as an attorney working with small local businesses has helped give me a keen understanding of the challenges and issues our business community faces in trying to compete and succeed in what has been a tough economy. My experience in this area will help the city shape new policies and programs that will assist Dearborn firms in growing their businesses and sustaining job growth.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. Son of the late Josephine and Stephen Dobkowski Former business owner. Life time members of St. Barbara Parish who is "Pro-Life." I will bring to City Council an important quality. That quality is best described as "having outside eyes" when it comes to Public Policy decisions. As a business owner I had to make daily decisions. I found that decisions have to be constantly reexamined since new facts and problems develop that control whether you can pay your business bills and make a profit. That quality doesn't seem to exist with the present Council. They seem to just "go along." Let's talk, call 313-9185389. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? We in Dearborn are kept in the dark. All Council meetings including study sessions and City Commision meetings must be on Cable TV so all can see and hear how decisions are made. Citizens are paying the bills and they have a right to know the facts and background of City decisions. Council members don't understand that they are a co-equal branch of City Government. Council rarely stands up to say "NO!" As a group they have little confidence in themselves as leaders. If citizens know more of city Government operations they can help strength the backbone of Council members to ask questions and stop bad decisions. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? A bad decision was made by the Council to ignore the City Charter manning level for the Police Department. The City Attorney told me when I questioned her at a Council meeting that State Law allows a labor contract to ignore a City Charter. I think that is a bad decision as it reduces safety in Dearborn. If we have the money for a new City Hall why can't we invest in Police Protection? A good decision was made to require rubbish collection containers. Not only did it save money but it has reduced the RAT PROBLEM caused by mild winters and trash sitting on the ground for animals to mess with before collection.
Stephen S. Dobkowski, Jr.

Salesman
Education: BA Michigan State University, attended Henry Ford Community College, St. Mry High School, Orchard lake, Mi. and St. Barbara Grade School Occupation: printing salesman
The most important problem in Dearborn is the "WAR" that is being conducted against local governments by those in power in Lansing. For several years State Government has balanced its Budget on the backs of local Cities, Townships, Counties, and School Districts. State Revenue Sharing and appropriation cuts are stopping local government units from providing needed local services. I will work to develop a "Coalition of Michigan local Government leaders" to force the Legislature and the Governor to return Revenue Sharing to local governments. Together we can end the "War" on Dearborn and the Dearborn Public Schools.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Talking less and listening more is key to citizen involvement. Citizens should have every opportunity to be informed and to provide input before decisions are made. I would suggest that additional study sessions be held and televised. Since I have served in an elected position in the past I understand how it should work. I believe that the more information that is made available and explained and the more opportunity for input from the citizens help with acceptance of decisions that sometimes are difficult to make or difficult to accept. Sometimes a citizen can bring forward an idea that has not been explored. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The sale of Dearborn Towers and the purchase of a building to relocate City Hall were two that immediately come to mind. The sale of the Florida property brought some income and I have not heard too much about that but the purchase of the building for City Hall has certainly caused some divisiveness. There are many other decisions made that have an impact on Dearborn such as the new train station, University of Michigan Student Housing and renovation of the pool at Levagood Park. All decisions have an effect, some more than others.
Sharon Dulmage
Registered Nurse
Campaign website dulmage for dearborn city council Education: RN,HFCC Bachelor's Business Administration, Detroit College of Business and Graduate work CMU Occupation: RN Case Manager for Fidelis Secure Care, work with geriatric, mentally and physically impaired and mentally ill patients. Work part time for Great Lakes Caring Hospice
Dearborn resident for most of my life. Volunteer activities include PTA's, Scouts, Exchange Club, HFCC Alumni Pres. Rotary, Kiwanis,AAUW, Goodfellows, Oakwood Hospital Clinical Ethics Committee, Dearborn Education Foundation and more. I served on the Board of Trustees, Henry Ford Community College and Dearborn Public Schools for 22 years. I have vast experience with public funding, grants, developing and managing budgets exceeding the city budget. My experience, community service, ability to think and act independently make me the right person to move the city I love forward. Progress is achieved through compromise!
I would like to see the business districts grow. We need retail. As part of my job I drive through many communities throughout southeast Michigan. I pay attention to the retail and make mental notes about what I would like to see in Dearborn. I have some great ideas and when elected would approach growing business in a systematic way. The vacancies need to be identified, organized by size and what would be a good fit for potential use. Next, I would work with the city to streamline the permit and occupancy process,provide incentives to new businesses and lastly I would go knock on doors and invite them to Dearborn.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? The first step to more input and being better informed is bridging communications between citizens and City Hall. Now if elected, I would make myself available to the Dearborn citizens through an open forum in which communication will be shared. This weekly event would help bridge the communication gap. There are also study sessions that are held regularly and are open to the public. These sessions could be better communicated in order for citizens to have a louder voice. Strengthening neighborhood associations can also help communication and empower people to be more involved in every aspect of City Government. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? To pin point one or two decisions in the past four years is something we can not change. However, I'm running to be a positive voice for the people of Dearborn. I'm determined to hold City Council members and City Administrative Departments accountable with timely follow through and solutions. There has been a disconnect in communication within the past 4 years leading to stagnant growth. Example 1 -A family complained to the City Council 2 years ago about a disruptive business in their neighborhood. Nothing was resolved. Example 2 Increase in parking rates in the West District, I voted against this being on the PAC.
Steven J. Guibord
Business Owner
Campaign website www.stevenguibord.com Education: 2nd Generation Divine Child Alumni, Albion College -Bachelor of Arts with a major in Economics and Management, Covidien Healthcare's Emerging Leaders Executive Management training program Occupation: 15 years of Medical Device sales experience. Left Corporate America to focus on the City of Dearborn and to dedicate my time implementing positive solutions.
3rd generation Dearbornite, Member of a number of City committees including: West Dearborn Downtown Development Authority, Design Review Committee, Parking Advisory, Ambassador to the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors for the Dearborn Goodfellows , member of the Dearborn Rotary club. Im running for City Council to further my involvement in the City that I love and have a passion for. Im confident that I have the skill sets it takes to listen to my fellow citizens, hold city government accountable and be a leader in the community who believes in a philosophy that actions speak louder than words.
If elected I will make a difference though business development. My goal is to create thriving downtown districts in both East and West Dearborn with distinct identities. By connecting our local businesses to our City assets we can all work together and benefit from each other. Example Buddies Pizzeria success with The Henry Ford. They capture a portion of the 1.7+ million visitors through their ticket marketing campaign. Could this success be benchmarked? Ultimately successful business development will result in higher property values for both residential and commercial properties.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decisionmaking process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? Well of course there is always the budget and where tax money is going. I like everyone else that lives in Dearborn would like to make sure that our resources are being used in the most effective and beneficial way for the Community. City Hall move, yes it is a great Historical building and the fact that it will be preserved by Art Space I think is a fantastic thing. The fact that the City will have a building that costs less to operate and will be more functional and is more centered for the Dearborn Community is also a good thing. I'm about resources and utilizing what resources we have in the most sustainable way
Maureen McIlrath
CEO/Founder The Going Green Foundation
Education: St Benedictine High School; Henry Ford Community College; Westen Michigan University; Schoolcraft College; Kaplan.
From the age of 21 until the age of 39 Maureen was the manager of Chaplin's Comedy Clubs becoming Executive Manger of Clubs in Detroit, Plymouth, Chicago, Windsor and Canton. Then she was the manager at Kicker's Complex in Livonia and Joey's Comedy Club. After that she became licensed in Life Health and Accident as a producer and worked on large group benefit enrollments for 8 years at the same time perusing her other interests in film production and the environment leading her to starting a nonprofit in Dearborn MI in 2009 that now runs a 2.5 acre farm in Crowley Park, Providing organically grown foods locally.
They can become involved in the community or do what I did first I joined the Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations this is where I meet John Cascardo liaison for the Mayor on neighborhood and citizen concerns and many others that were able tosend me in the right direction I also became a commissioner for the Telecommunications Commission and also the City Beautiful Commission which allowed me to have more news about the City I live in and who to talk to if a concern arise. This is what has leaded me to run for council I want to help make the decisions that affect Dearborn's future.
I want to live in a sustainable community one that will be around for future generations one where people want to live and stay for generations. I want to make sure that the community I live in pay my taxes in and volunteer my time in and entrust my childrens future in. I love the sense of community that Dearborn has given me and I want to share my talents with the community and I want to make sure that I live in a community that is thinking about the best way to use its resources for future generations as well as the present ones. Sustainably!
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Attend council meetings and ask questions of their City Government and make suggestions of what they think is best for the City. Citizen involvement is important to the growth of the City. I want to be the voice of the people. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The City extended the walking and Bike trail which will have a positive effect on the City. It will be another top notch recreation opportunity in the City of Dearborn. The Citizens of Dearborn are used to the top notch street cleaning. With the outsourcing of this service the citizens have noticed a signifcant decline to service in recent years. With the City canceling the contract with the current street sweeping company gives hope that a new company will do better or going back to the City of Dearborn doing Street Sweeping itself. This can only benefit the citizens of Dearborn.
Patrick A. Melton
Wayne County Sheriffs Department
Education: Henry Ford CC University of Michigan Dearborn Occupation: Director of Law Enforcement and Business Outreach Wayne County Sherriff's Department
I am a life long resident of the City of Dearborn. Attending Public Schools Nowlin Elementary, OL Smith JR High, Edsel Ford HS and Dearborn HS. I have a degree from Henry Ford CC in Law Enforcement and attended University of Michigan. I am a US Army Veteran, serving 10 years from 8898. I am a Wayne County Sheriff Deputy, where I have 25 years of service and now serve as Director of Law Enforcement and Business Outreach. I am running for City Council to ensure that we keep our public safety a top priority. I will support our children with activities and top schools. Provide our Seniors support for their daily needs
I can make difference with Public Safety Services. Ensuring the safety and security of our citizens. I can do this because I know the costs of those services and understand both labor and management positions along with the needs of the citizens of Dearborn. My experience in this area gives me a unique understanding that no one in Dearborn City Govertment has and I believe that understading all sides of the public safety issues that Dearborn deals with allows me to be able to make sure that our public safety is #1.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? The decision making process in Dearborn is extremely open, and citizens are welcome to and encouraged to participate in the process. Unfortunately, often times after a series of open meetings with very little to no citizen participation; a council decision is made. It is only then that citizens seem to get engaged in the process and then begin to question why the decision was made. In summary, our citizens will be able to have more input into the decision making process by getting involved earlier in the process by attending the meetings and then voicing their opinions to the members. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The first major decision was that the minimum staffing of public safety was not put on the ballot, which I supported. Dearborn needs an anchor in these tough economic times, and having a top notch Police and Fire Department with very quick response times are paramount. Note: The police and fire unions have decreased their budgets this year versus last. The second decision was to not move forward with a stronger rental policy. I have no problem with rental properties within reason, but I should not be able to tell the difference between the maintence of a rental and owner occupied home in the city.
Brian C. ODonnell
Operations Manager
Education: Bachelor of ScienceBiology and a Masters of Business Administration
I am forty years old, married to my wife Julia, and have two children, Sean (6) and Cece (3). I am a graduate of Divine Child High School; I have been awarded a BS and MBA. Prior to being elected on council, I was the Vice President of the Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations, and a City Beautiful Commissioner. I am currently employed in Operations management for a large pharmaceutical company; I have found my past experiences aide in m council deliberations. I am running for re-election to continue the work of helping to ensure that Dearborn remains a wonderful place to live, work and play.
The issue that will need to be addressed moving forward simply stated is the budget. The next council will have to deal with many continuing negative economic pressures. For example, millages will be expiring, and very tough decisions regarding pools, libraries, police, fire department, consolidation, outsourcing, city services, and just about every other aspect of any activity the city engages in. I will make a difference by continuing to be being open minded, and not beholden to any person or group of people. I will continue my practice of being accountable to, and answer to, all the citizens of Dearborn.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? I suggested and worked with the City to develop a tracking tool to share a variety of progress reports with DFNA membership detailing many neighborhood issues. This tool provides timely information targeting current issues, policy changes and resolutions. It allows for input and feedback from the associations. It may have broader implications of use to promote effective communication across the City. I will continue to represent the community in this manner. I never rely on just talk but have always engaged in producing meaningful delivery of service. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? Two major decisions have been the CSO project changes and the move of City Hall. These decisions held large financial implications with short term and long term impact citywide. Responsible budget management requires challenging decisions incorporating all the factors. Both decisions affect every member of the community, choices made should be explained clearly with realized long term goals accounted for. We should see revenues saved as well as future efficiencies in service. Balancing community priorities requires practical knowledge, common sense and a desire to work for the common good without personal agendas.
Mary K. Petlichkoff
community activist
Education: U/M Dearborn 1975-79 psychology major Occupation: Past management position, banking industry-City Nat'l; First of America 1979-88
Married to a lifelong Dearborn citizen; Dearborn Board of Education 2008-2011; Dearborn Charter Commissioner 2005-2007; City Beautiful Commissioner 2004present, Chairman; Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations, President; Budget Task Force; Rental Task Force My active involvement with both the schools and the neighborhoods provides a critical voice that represents the varied needs and concerns of our community. I bring years of experience and understanding that includes effectively working with multimember bodies while connecting with our local residents in addressing their concerns.
As a past School Board member I worked on overseeing a multimillion dollar budget and making policy for the District. As a Charter Commissioner I helped revise the Citys Constitution. As President of Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations and a 25 year East end resident I have experienced all of the problems concerning neighborhoods from traffic ,crime, rentals/vacancies and property maintenance to quality of life ordinance issues. I have worked with the City to help reflect not only the challenges but also vigorously participated in finding realistic solutions to support our neighborhoods.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Citizens must first want to be informed. Those that want that can attend Committee of the Whole meetings and/or City Council meetings or should contact a City Council member. I believe if citizens ask City Council members questions either by phone or email, that they should be answered within a reasonable time frame. Attend the public hearings that are offered to become better informed as well. Don't be afraid to ask any questions of your elected officials. The process isn't always black and white and citizens need to educate themselves on the issues. I'd rather have questions than assumptions from our citizens. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? My 2 decisions are the closing of pools and a library and the purchase of the ADP building for a new City Hall. While it may have been necessary at the time to close down two pools and a library, it seemed like there wasn't much communication with the citizens until it was too late to bring them back. Children were left with nowhere to go nearby to read or enjoy the summer. We need to provide better alternatives for the kids. The ADP building purchase is still effecting us today. We won't know just how much this will effect us in the future but money being spent on this could have been better spent elsewhere.
Colette Richards
Dearborn Public Schools Media Secretary
Campaign website: coletterichards.com Education: San Diego Community College Associates of Science 1993, Eastern Michigan University - 1987-1988, Mercy High School - Diploma 1987 Occupation: Work with students of all ages and staff at 3 different schools. Must be organized and a hard worker. Library check out/in, shelving books, reorganizing Library for a better student friendly place.
Special Ed Parent Advocate 6 yrs, PTA member/leader-local/district level 9 yrs, MI PTA Board of Directors 2 yrs, Relay For Life Team Captain 6 yrs-Planning Committee 5 yrs, City Beautiful Commissioner 3 yrs, Crowley Park Neighborhood Assoc. President 1 yr, Dearborn Rotary Club 3 yrs-Board of Director 2 yrs, Campaign Manager-Roxanne McDonald-School Board 3yrs, Campaign memberGeorge Darany's City Council run 2009-office administrator State Rep run 2010. I am a hard worker, independent yet a team player. I love Dearborn, have a strong sense of community and want the city to prosper. I know I can help make that happen.
My one issue is "connection" between City Government and the average citizen of Dearborn. I'm the average citizen in Dearborn. I live in a small home, I'm not wealthy by any means, I do the best I can do to provide for my family. I look at the city differently, through the eyes of a child with a disability. When I look at issues, I look at all sides to come to a sound decision as to what is best for ALL concerned. People are not alike, everyone is unique and each situation should be treated as such. I want to bring my unique ability to see all sides of an issue to the City Council. Each citizen can connect with me.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? As a Councilman, if elected, I will have an open door policy. I believe in accountability and transparency and welcome your phone calls about any concerns you have. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I always respond to my calls. I do take representing you very seriously and will work hard to earn your trust. Also, I do encourage all residents to attend as many council meetings and study sessions as possible and to utilize the city web page and social media to get information and to connect with their local officials. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City?
Mike T. Sareini
Salesman, Attorney
Campaign website sareiniforcouncil.com Education J.D. Thomas Cooley School of Law B.A. University of MichiganDearborn Occupation Salesman, Attorney
I am 41, married with 5 children and lifelong Dearborn resident. As a child growing up in Dearborn my parents taught the importance of community service. It is my turn to give back and to continue the legacy of serving the people of Dearborn. My 18+ years of sales experience has taught me the people skills needed and my Law degree affords me the knowledge necessary to make those critical decisions that are in the best interest of Dearborn as a Councilman. I am a very passionate person that sets goals and achieves them. Dearborn is a great place to live and raise a family. I am asking for 1 of your 7 votes August 6th.
Clean and safe neighborhoods are my priority. Like you, my home is in Dearborn and I am raising my family here. I believe that rental homes in our city should be held to the same high standards that owner occupied homes are held to. Like you, I want to insure that my children live in a clean and safe environment. I will work hard to maximize our resources and take advantage of opportunities to reduce the cost of services without losing the quality and streamline the process for residents to access the services that are paid for by their tax dollars.
Dearborn is the forefront of many exciting projects that will enable us to become an environmentally-friendly and energy efficient community. This along with the new Intermodal Passenger Rail Station, plans for new student housing in Dearborn and the partnerships formed between the city and both East and West Downtown Development Authorities, I feel optimistic about our future. The direction we are taking to share services with other communities will help ensure that we can maintain our high level of services and the quality of life that residents have come to expect in Dearborn.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? I encourage citizens to become more involved by educating themselves on the issues at hand. People can do this by attending council meetings, contacting city leaders and making a true effort to obtain the facts. Individuals are quick to believe blogs which oftentimes only represent one side. In addition, active involvement in community clubs and organizations is a great way to keep a pulse on the issues. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? For the past four years, the City Council has collaborated with the federal government on the new high speed rail system. As part of this project, Dearborn's train station will be a destination point on the new rail system. The City Council has also worked with the University of Michigan - Dearborn to develop student housing which will come to fruition this fall. Both projects will have a positive economic impact on our city by bringing in visitors and new residents. These two decisions will not only have an immediate effect on our local businesses, but also set the stage for future city growth.
Mark C. Shooshanian
Teacher
Education: Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University and a Master of Business Education from Eastern Michigan University. Occupation: Athletic Director and Work Coordinator at Fordson High School
Dearborn has been the place I've always called home. I am a product of Dearborn schools and graduated from Edsel Ford High School in 1972. After college I was fortunate enough to obtain a job with Dearborn Public Schools where I have been teaching ever since. I am proud to have raised my three children in my hometown. After serving on the council for 20 years, I have seen the city go through good and bad times. Our city is facing challenges like every other city in Michigan and tough decisions still have to be made. I am running for office to continue my ongoing commitment to the residents of Dearborn.
As I've said before tough decisions are on the horizon for our city. We cannot continue to take money from our "rainy day fund" to balance our budget. Next year we will be forced to make cuts. Therefore, prioritizing city services will be imperative as we go through this process. My decisions will not be based upon special interest groups but what is best for our city at large.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decisionmaking process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? The recent decisions to move City Hall without due diligence and playing football with our neighborhood pools instead of working cooperatively with our residents, in my view, involve significant mistakes that have long term ramifications. This is especially so given that we've not utilized our best practices in reaching these decisions. For me, public service is just that, service to the public with no agenda except that of taking care of the peoples business.
Thomas Patrick Tafelski

Dearborn City Council President
Education: The University of Michigan Ann Arbor B.S. Occupation: Financial Advisor/Registered Representative - AXA Equitable and Dearborn City Council President.
I am a lifelong Dearborn resident, having experienced the richness of both the east and west ends of our city. I attended Maples Elementary and Junior High, and Fordson High School, graduating in 1988. I earned a Bachelors of Arts degree from The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor in 1992. The father to three sons, I have always and will continue dedicating myself to ensuring that Dearborn is -- for all who live and do business here -- vibrant, secure and known as a community with a great future.
Since 2001, my priorities have always and will continue to be: a) Ensuring that the Citys budget process is efficient and wisely uses taxpayer dollars as well as any publicprivate partnerships that we may arrange; b) Development and implementation of strategies enhancing the Citys east and west downtowns attraction of new business and reinvestment; and, most important, c) Ensuring strong and stable neighborhoods. This is best done through the effective delivery of city services to every Dearborn neighborhood. The only real way to implement these and any priority is with commitment,energy and decisiveness.
For me, what I can best do as City Council President is to listen and ask the right questions.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? This is an important issue and the cornerstone of my campaign. I know what it is like to be a concerned resident and run into closed doors at the city level. I believe we can make the best decisions for our city when more people are involved, not less. I have already helped to open these doors and increase resident involvement through Dearborn Residents for Accountability, where we educated ourselves and other residents on the budget process and the decisions made that impact how taxpayer money is spent. Lines of communication must go both ways, and I intend to ensure those lines are always open as your Councilmember. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? First, the Council approved the closure of small pools and a local library. This continues to impact the character of Dearborn, has lasting impacts on the value of Dearborn's neighborhoods, and little impact on the budgetary concerns they were set to address. I would instead be creative about how to manage the financial concerns while maintaining the treasures that make Dearborn unique. Second, the ADP building purchase was made at the last minute, and decisions since with very little information. Greater transparency and accountability are required with decisions of that magnitude and it is my mission to ensure both.
Kristyn Taylor
Law Clerk
Campaign website: kristyn4council.wordpress.com Education: Juris Doctor Wayne State Law School 2013, Master of Science: Integrated Marketing Communications Eastern Michigan University 2009, Bachelor of Science: Electronic Media and Film EMU 2007 Occupation: I am currently a Law Clerk at Joseph Kallabat and Associates. I take the Michigan bar exam in July, 2013 to become a licensed attorney. Before law school, I worked in Marketing.
I am 26 years old and grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. I moved to Dearborn in 2008 and got involved right away. I ran for Dearborn City Council as a write-in in 2009. Since then, I have brought issues forth in my neighborhood association, and encouraged others to get involved. I have served as a voice for the Dearborn pools, and brought the resident's voice to the City Council on the budget, new City Hall, and other issues. I have also fought against discrimination with and for our Arab American community. I am running to bring the voice of the residents to the City table and I ask for your vote for City Council.
It is critical that Dearborn residents trust they have the ability to voice their concerns, and that their voice is heard and considered in city decisions. I know I can make a difference in all issues impacting Dearborn by bringing the resident's voices to the table. This means being proactive about informing residents of city business so that those who have something to say are given the chance to say it. It also means being involved with and aware of what the city departments and committees are doing. I won't have all of the answers but I will ask whose voice is not being heard to ensure we make smart decisions.
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There are 21 candidates listed in alphabetical order. Please provide biographical information and experience, and explain why you are running for this office. How can citizens have more input into the decision-making process and be better informed on the decisions made at City Hall? My decision to run for council is to become a more "involved" Council Member. I believe the Citizens of Dearborn should have more say and influence in the decisions made for our city. One way I feel is very important is forming Committees to help lead our city in the right direction. Using our cable network to poll our citizens would help tremendously. The internet also provides a tool that citizen can have access to council as well as helping share information with our citizens. I find a well informed community is a great asset. Name one issue where you feel you can make a difference if elected, and explain your answer. What are two major decisions made by the Council in the past 4 years, and what effect do you think these had on the City? 1. Sale of the Dearborn Towers. I believe the sale of the Dearborn Towers generated a much needed cash flow for our city. City Council made a good business decision. Many departments benefited from the sale. 2. Dearborn Police Department. The Dearborn Police Department remains fully staffed. This is extremely important to the backbone of our community. Our citizens, businesses, schools, places of worship are all directly affected. A strong Police Department promotes a thriving city. We are very fortunate to have such a department.
Robert W. Watson
Building Official
Education: Attended Wayne State University, HFCC for Associates Criminal Justice and Building, Obtained Residential Builders License and Building Official with Plan Reviewer through the State of Michigan, Occupation: Employed by the City of Detroit as a Building Official and Plan Reviewer. Chairman Commissioner of the Dearborn Demolition Board of Appeals.
I'm running for council because of my ties to this community as well as my desire to see Dearborn become so much more. My father moved our family from Windsor to Dearborn because of the strong community. I followed my father's lead to raise my family here. I'm proud that my Children chose to raise their families in Dearborn because of the schools as well as the city's amenities. I was appointed to the board of commissioners because of my background in city planning as well as my ability to work to keep our city strong. I know my background with the City as well as my commitment to Dearborn make me a strong candidate.
I want to be part of a new and changed business district. I have had the pleasure of helping many business communities grow and thrive. I feel Dearborn should have a strong "downtown" business district. I have researched thriving cities such as Royal Oak, Rochester, Wyandotte, Ferndale and many other and believe Our Dearborn can be much greater. Contacting small and large businesses and making our downtown a place to bring your family is an important part of community growth. The unique and different businesses work well to lower unemployment and taxes. Our Dearborn has the potential to do so much more. I have ideas!
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League of Women Voters' Dearborn Election Guide

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League of Women Voters' Dearborn Election Guide

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League of Women Voters

Dearborn / Dearborn Heights

DEARBORN - VOTER GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS CANDIDATES FOR MAYOR

Ziad Abdulmalik Tahir Hassan Alaragy Edward Binkley

page 3 page 4 page 5

Nofila J. Haidar John B. OReilly Jr.

CANDIDATES FOR CITY CLERK

Kathleen Buda Khalil Dakhlallah

Mark Jess Dawdy

CANDIDATES FOR CITY COUNCIL

The Duties of the Mayor

MAYOR Vote for 1

MAYOR Vote for 1

Tahir Hassan Alaragy

MAYOR Vote for 1

There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order.

MAYOR Vote for 1

There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order.

MAYOR Vote for 1

There are 5 candidates listed in alphabetical order.

John B. OReilly, Jr.

The Duties of the City Clerk

CITY CLERK Vote for 1

CITY CLERK Vote for 1

CITY CLERK Vote for 1

Mark Jess Dawdy

Keep checking VOTE411.org for updates.

The Duties of the City Council

The remaining pages are devoted to the 21 City Council candidates.

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

Robert Alex Abraham

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

Stephen S. Dobkowski, Jr.

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

Thomas Patrick Tafelski

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

CITY COUNCIL Vote for 7 (or less)

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