Positions

Because Livonia deserves leadership that listens, plans, and delivers.

A Vision Worth Building: Why I Support the Livonia Bond Proposal

Livonia has a proud tradition of investing in its future through millages—and the upcoming $150 million bond proposal is no exception. While I understand some residents have reservations, I believe this initiative is not just necessary—it’s transformational.

This bond would rebuild our outdated police station and modernize all five of our fire stations, most of which were constructed before today’s safety and accessibility standards. These upgrades are essential to ensure our first responders have the tools and facilities they need to protect us.

Beyond public safety, this proposal lays the foundation for something Livonia has never had: a true city center. The 27-acre site would be prepared for forward-thinking development—removing aging buildings like the old courthouse and senior center, and making room for a more efficient city hall and a modern, accessible library.

I attended one of the City Capital Outlay meetings and saw firsthand the detailed, thoughtful work being done—dissecting budgets, addressing concerns, and listening carefully. Some argue that public safety should be separated from new civic buildings. I respectfully disagree. This isn’t about tying things together—it’s about building a future we can be proud of, one that makes sense structurally, financially, and strategically.

In my work today, I focus on building transformational relationships, not transactional ones—and I believe the same principle should guide Livonia’s growth. We can’t delay these improvements forever. Public safety buildings, city hall, and our library will have to be addressed. Let’s do it now—and do it right.

I encourage every Livonian to show up this August and have your voice heard. This is a moment to choose vision over maintenance, momentum over gridlock, and legacy over patchwork.

Let’s build the Livonia we all deserve—together.

Livonia/Sheetz Proposal

I believe in smart growth — development that respects neighborhoods, supports our economy, and reflects the voice of the community. That’s why I support the Sheetz proposal, with clear standards and expectations.

At the recent Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, I listened closely to residents, Sheetz representatives, and fellow board members. I heard concerns — and I also saw an opportunity.

Here’s why I support moving Sheetz forward:

1. Thoughtful Economic Development

Sheetz represents a significant private investment in Livonia at a time when many national companies are bypassing inner-ring suburbs. This project can:

Generate new local tax revenue
Create dozens of jobs
Bring well-lit, clean, and modern facilities to a corridor that needs revitalization

While it’s not a silver bullet, it’s a step forward in attracting commercial attention and foot traffic to areas that have been overlooked.

2. Design That Respects Livonia’s Character

One of my biggest takeaways from the ZBA meeting was this: Sheetz listened. They presented detailed plans, took questions respectfully, and clarified misconceptions.

This isn’t a generic gas station plopped down without care — it’s a purpose-built site with:

Controlled access to limit traffic impact
Thoughtful landscaping and building orientation
Design standards that align with Livonia’s development guidelines

3. Community Voice Matters

Some residents expressed valid concerns — especially about noise, traffic, and the precedent being set. I take those seriously. But I also believe we can hold developers accountable to high standards while still welcoming growth.

The Planning Commission and Council will have further opportunities to shape final decisions. My support is not blind — it’s based on Sheetz meeting expectations and earning community trust through transparency and follow-through.

4. A Practical Path Forward

I believe Livonia should be a place where reasonable, high-quality development gets a fair chance, especially when:

It revitalizes underutilized parcels
It provides services residents already seek outside city limits
It doesn’t place undue burden on our infrastructure or neighborhoods

Sheetz is not about choosing big business over community — it’s about choosing progress with purpose. I support Sheetz moving forward because I believe Livonia deserves smart, respectful development — and because I believe in setting the bar high for what gets built in our city.