Four candidates running for two commission seats in East Grand Rapids

By Madison Bennett | MLive

East Grand Rapids has three newcomers and one incumbent running for two open seats on the City Commission.

Katie Favale is running against the incumbent, First Ward City Commissioner Diana Schad, while Michael Naltner and Brian Walters are running to take over Third Ward City Commissioner Jeff Dills' seat. Incumbent Second Ward City Commissioner Claudine Duncan is running unopposed.

City commissioners are limited to two four-year terms. Dills is finishing his second term, making him unable to run again.

The East Grand Rapids City Commission is a nonpartisan body made up of six commissioners, two from each of the city's three wards, and is headed by the mayor.

First Ward

Favale, 50, 2557 Hall St. SE, is employed by Keller Williams Realty as a real-estate agent. Her political experience stems from serving as a board member on the East Grand Rapids Board of Review and Community Foundation.

"I am thrilled to live in East Grand Rapids and truly believe it is a special, unique community. I believe that EGR is so special because we have active, involved residents that work hard to make it so," Favale said.

"I hope to serve as commissioner because I want to give back to our amazing community and work hard to keep EGR a 'Better Place to Live.'"

If elected, Favale hopes to collaborate with residents and businesses to build a business district that serves its residents; strengthen the partnership between the city and schools; and improve Manhattan Park and the school playgrounds.

Schad, 48, of 488 Cambridge Blvd. SE, was appointed to the City Commission in February 2017 and currently works as an attorney and community volunteer.

"The last eight months, I have enjoyed learning the inner workings of our city and working with an incredible staff and commission. For our city, I would like to see intentional development while retaining the charm of our town," Schad said.

"Safety remains a priority for our residents and children, and I would like to continue our collaboration with our schools to provide top-notch facilities and activities to our families."

In addition to the City Commission, Schad has served on the Board of Review, Infrastructure, Waste to Energy, and Finance committees.

Third Ward

Naltner, 37, 1661 Fisk Road SE, is the founder and leader of EGR Renew, an organization committed to preserving the rights of homeowners in East Grand Rapids to enhance and improve their properties. He also works as an executive sales representative for Eli Lilly & Co.

"Our schools, lakes, parks and library must remain second to none and we have to efficiently manage the resources necessary to keep our streets and sidewalks in excellent condition," Naltner said.

"I am committed to smart development, specifically promoting a vibrant Gaslight Village and maintaining residential renewal, which are both crucial to our city's continued success.

If elected, Naltner's top priorities include preserving safe and walkable neighborhoods and excellent schools, as well as prudently managing the city budget.

Walters, 44, of 1039 Pinecrest Ave. SE, is an attorney and partner at Varnum LLP. He does not come from a political background but is running for office as a "volunteer looking to serve the East Grand Rapids community," he said.

"I have experience as an attorney dealing with many of the types of issues the City Commission faces. I have also served in leadership positions on several nonprofit boards," Walters said.

Walters' top priorities are a strong partnership with East Grand Rapids Public Schools; a vibrant Gaslight Village; providing outstanding city services within a balanced budget; and maintaining East Grand Rapids' high quality of life.

Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. A list of polling locations in Easts Grand Rapids can be found on the city's website, www.eastgr.org. 

This post originally appeared Sunday, Oct. 22 2017 on MLive.com.