(This story was updated to add links to other election stories)
Voters in Monroe County have several contested races to decide in the Nov. 4 general election. The Monroe News sent questionnaires to the candidates in contested races. Profiles of the candidates will be published over the next weeks.
Below are the responses from the candidates for Monroe City Council Precinct 3: Incumbent Kellie M. Vining and challenger John Gonta. One will be elected in November.
Kellie M. Vining
Age: 56Occupation: Library clerk
Family: Proud mother and grandmother
Government experience: Monroe City Council member, Citizens Planning Commission, River Raisin Heritage Corridor Advisory Commission
Volunteer and community service: Coordinator of Selma Rankins Community Garden; founding member of Monroe Juneteenth Family Reunion Celebration; longtime community advocate for children, families and neighborhoods
Why are you running for this position?I am running because I believe voters deserve a representative who listens, lifts their voice and carries their concerns and ideas forward.
What is the main challenge facing Precinct 3, and what should be done?
Precinct 3 is experiencing exciting growth with new infrastructure, housing, businesses, park improvements and the upcoming library and education center. However, key challenges remain. Housing is a top priority. We need more attainable options by attracting developers, following the city’s housing plan and offering incentives to bring quality homes to our community. We must also strengthen our response to mental health and substance abuse, which affect families across our city, both directly and indirectly. This means supporting grassroots organizations already doing vital work while also pursuing innovative, proven treatments and resources that lead to real solutions.
Why should people vote for you?
People should vote for me because I bring both experience and heart. I know our community and have dedicated much of my adult life to serving Monroe’s children, families and neighborhoods. I have proven my commitment through years of public service, advocacy and hands-on work alongside community members. I am excited to continue building on the unique opportunities in the city, ensuring progress while keeping people at the center of every decision.
John Gonta
Age: 60
Occupation: Attorney
Government experience: Army National Guard, Monroe, 1993-2008, recruiting sergeant, awarded Army Commendation Medal
Volunteer/community service experience: Chairman of Pro Bono Committee; Monroe Bar Association (free legal services to the poor); member Board of Directors and Legal Counsel for Humane Society of Monroe County; member and sponsor for Monroe Chamber of Commerce/Business Alliance
Why are you running for this position?
I am running because we can do better to attract businesses which will create jobs. As a council member, I will recognize that excessively raising taxes, fees and rates will discourage development. I will strongly adhere to this principle when voting on issues on City Council.
What do you think is the main challenge facing the Precinct 3 and what should be done about it?
Job, jobs and jobs! Under my plan, the way to encourage businesses to locate to Monroe is to understand that raising taxes, fees and rates doesn’t necessarily raise revenue for our city. It could reduce the number of jobs created by causing business to leave. We need to make our residents happy by encouraging businesses to locate here while still providing excellent municipal services.
Why should people vote for you?
I am not a politician. Through education and military service, I overcame poverty. I hold a Master of Science (1988), Master of Arts (1999) and a Law Degree (1991). I recruited many people to join the National Guard and invest in their future. I am well qualified to represent the residents of the city of Monroe as I am also an active member of the community. As a City Council member, I will promote our historic city and focus on attracting businesses.
— Contact reporter Suzanne Nolan Wisler at swisler@monroenews.com.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Monroe County 2025 election guide: Two running for Monroe City Council Precinct 3
Reporting by Suzanne Nolan Wisler, The Monroe News / The Monroe News
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