Three people are on the Aug. 5 primary election ballot vying to fill the Monroe County Board of Commissioners’ vacant District 2 seat.
While Mark Brant tries to get the seat back, Republicans Dale Biniecki, Dwayne Dobbs, and Democrat Danielle Hoover are throwing their hats into the race.
The Monroe News sent questions to each candidate. Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
These are Biniecki’s answers:
What previous experience has best prepared you for this role?
I am a lifelong resident of District 2 and a graduate of Monroe Community College with an associate’s degree. I spent 47 years as a small business owner in the trucking industry and am a 31-year member of the Teamsters Union Locals 299 and 20. I have served as a precinct delegate for Raisinville Township for 10 years and as a member of the Monroe County Republican Party Executive Committee for a decade. I also serve on the Republican Executive Committees for Wayne, Washtenaw, and Lenawee counties and have represented Monroe County at the Farm Bureau Legislative Forum in Washington, D.C.
What motivated you to run for county commissioner?
I decided to run for County Commissioner because District 2 has been left without representation. Without a commissioner present, our residents had no voice in county government. I want to change that. I’m running to protect what matters most — our farmland, our schools, our public safety, and fiscal responsibility. I believe my experience and commitment uniquely equip me to serve my community.
What do you see as the county’s top three priorities over the next four years?
My first priority is responsible economic development. Uncontrolled growth can create long-term challenges, but our port and highway system are valuable assets we can leverage to benefit our community. I will also prioritize public safety and mental health, as much of the funding for these critical programs flows through the county commission. Ultimately, education must be a focus — not just for our K-12 students but also for adults seeking training and opportunities to meet the demands of future employers.
What’s your stance on zoning reform and affordable housing development?
I strongly oppose the state takeover of local zoning decisions. Unfortunately, our state representative voted against the will of her constituents, giving Lansing-appointed boards the power to approve wind and solar projects. I will use every avenue available to protect the rights of our community. Additionally, affordable housing for seniors is a growing concern. Too many of our senior citizens are being forced from their “forever homes” because of rising property taxes. Living on a fixed income shouldn’t mean losing your home. I will work to rein in county spending and seek ways to reduce the tax burden on our seniors.
How will you keep residents informed about decisions that affect them?
I live, shop, and work in District 2, and I stay in close contact with its residents. I regularly attend township meetings across all four townships in the district, and I am always accessible — my phone is always on, and I’m available to discuss issues anytime.
What steps will you take to avoid conflicts of interest in office?
Since I do not typically conduct business with the county, I do not foresee conflicts of interest. In the rare event one arises, I will respectfully recuse myself from the decision.
Why should residents vote for you?
I have spent my entire life here in Monroe County. It’s where I met my wife, raised three incredible children, and now enjoy being “Pa” to five amazing grandchildren. Family is at the heart of everything I do, and that same care and commitment is what I want to bring to the county commission. This community has given me so much — now I am stepping up to give back.
— Contact reporter Connor Veenstra at CVeenstra@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Monroe County Board of Commissioners election Q&A: Biniecki
Reporting by Connor Veenstra, The Monroe News / The Monroe News
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