A 6 Pack of Questions for County Candidates- Drain Commissioner

Today we move to the race for Drain Commissioner and the responses from 2 of the 3 candidates running for the office.
Once again, early voting begins this Saturday and runs through Sunday, August 4th. Election Day is Tuesday, August 6th. Absentee Ballots can be obtained until Monday, August 5th at 4pm.
"The act of voting is one opportunity for us to remember that our whole way of life is predicated on the capacity of ordinary people to judge carefully and well.”-Alan Keyes

Dale Twing
I am a fourth generation lifelong resident of Newaygo County, a graduate of Grand Valley State University and a past local businessman. My wife Sue and I are blessed with three married daughters Honorable Melissa Dykman, Jenny Hanna and Becky Bergakker. I value our community and serve wherever I feel I can make an impact. I am currently serving on the Fremont Area Community Foundation Economic Development board, Human Trafficking Task Force, Newaygo Community Autism board and NCRESA board president. 
My Philosophy has been and will continue to be developing relationships and collaboration with agencies and organizations to make and keep Newaygo County the great place we love to live.

Adam Campbell
I grew up in Bailey, Michigan, and attended Grant Public Schools. I graduated from Grant High School in 1997. In 2001, my wife and I purchased my family farm in Grant where we raised our two sons.
After graduation, I started working and utilized the welding skills that I acquired from the Newaygo County Career Tech Center. I was hired by Plummers Environmental Services to construct their industrial wastewater treatment plant, where I discovered my interest in the water treatment industry. This field opened the door to my lifelong career. Over the years, I have co-owned an environmental company and currently work as a Street Supervisor and Waste/Fresh Water Operator in the City of Newaygo.
Throughout my career, I have obtained state licenses in wastewater, freshwater, and stormwater certifications, as well as gained valuable experience in drainage systems.

Why are you running?
Campbell:
I'm running for Drain Commissioner because I believe I can make a difference in our community. With over 28 years of experience in the Environmental and Drain industry, including almost 10 years with the City of Newaygo, I am committed to improving our local drains and environment while supporting our community.

Twing:
 I want to continue the really great projects we have started. I have years of experience and excellent relationships that I want to continue for the benefit of Newaygo County. The best part of my work is being effective through collaboration, and we've made great progress in protecting our Waters by working with Lake boards, MSU extension soil conservation, and Fremont Area Community foundation. Another term helps me to see the projects through to completion. My experience and work ethic allows me to connect and collaborate with many different groups which gets the work done more effectively and efficiently with less tax cost for citizens.

What makes you the best candidate?
Twing:  
My work ethic allows me to connect and collaborate with many different groups which gets the work done more effectively and efficiently with less tax cost for citizens.I have the required Qualifications for serving as Drain Commissioner: EGL Certification, StormWater Management, Soil Erosion Control SEC, Hazardous Waste Clean-up Management. A big part of my job is to be responsive to all calls and problems, and if they aren’t In the Drain Office Authority, to then refer our citizens to where they can get help or answers.with many different agencies and organizations allowing my office to work more effectively. 

Campbell:
I believe I am the best candidate because I am committed to listening to my community and staying focused on the task at hand. I am confident that I can bring new ideas, and with my experience, I can make a positive difference in our County. 

What do you see as the 3 main responsibilities of the post you are seeking?
Campbell:
The three main responsibilities I see are protection, maintenance, and repair. Firstly, it's crucial to protect our most valuable resource, which is water. Secondly, maintenance involves inspecting the structural integrity of our drainage systems and lastly carrying out necessary repairs. 

Twing:
 Maintain 200+ legally established drains,  issue soil erosion permits and perform inspections. Maintaining lake levels elevation established by the 27th Circuit Court, State statute requires me to be a member of the County Parks board, and six lake Improvement boards. As Chairman of Public Works I’m responsible for the coordination of recycling and household Hazardous waste collection. Applying and receiving grant funding to help support programs and reduce the County Financial commitment.

How will you serve or better serve the public, if elected or reelected?
Twing:
If elected I plan to Work with all our Lakes to inform and help them keep their lakes healthy and ensure land values. This happens through relationships with Egle (DEQ) DNR Officials MSU extension and others, writing and obtaining grants for projects that benefit the Watershed . Also recycle as State has set new goals

Campbell:
As Drain Commissioner, my primary objective is to serve the public by prioritizing active listening to the needs of the county's residents. I am dedicated to finding cost-effective solutions that not only improve the efficiency of our local drains but also better serve the public. Additionally, I am committed to protecting our watershed, and ensuring the preservation of our natural environment for the benefit of our community. 

County/State officials' responsibilities are not well known by the community members they serve.  How will you educate your constituents and help them stay informed?
Campbell:
I will establish a plan to keep our constituents informed about environmental issues and the importance of maintaining clean water and land. I aim to collaborate with local schools to educate our youth about the significance of preserving our environment. Additionally, I will utilize social and current media platforms to spread awareness and engage with the community. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier environment for current and future generations.

Twing:
Very few people understand my job and I have continually attempted to educate the public with meetings, forums and presentations. I have also used social media and occasionally speak at Public Service organizations. 

In your opinion what makes for an effective leader?
Twing:
To be an effective leader you must be a good listener to citizens, employees and partners. I understand strengths and weaknesses and hire to compensate for those attributes.. I care for the people I serve and I'm ready, willing and able to commit the time and energy to get things done.

Campbell:
Integrity, empowerment, strategic thinking, dedication, and experience are all crucial qualities that contribute to an effective leader. These qualities not only enable me to lead effectively but also empower me to make a positive impact on the community.


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