As the Presidential race garners increasing attention, intriguing campaigns are being waged in Oakland County as Tuesday, August 7 marks the primary election for many elected officials. One election of particular interest is the race for the 18th District for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Democrat incumbent Craig Covey squares off against fellow Democrat incumbent Helaine Zack due to the re-drawing of district maps. The winner faces Republican Steven Zimberg of Huntington Woods in November’s general election.

Now, most citizens recognize Commissioner Covey as an equal rights champion through his advocacy work with the LGBT community. The long-standing image of Commissioner Craig Covey: activist for LGBT rights, cultural diversity, supporter of ecological issues and other matters of importance to progressives. Because of these issue stances, some perceive Craig Covey as just another left-wing democrat preaching social progressivism. Not true.

Did you know that Craig Covey “opposes senseless partisanship?” Today, public cynicism on the national level is at an all-time high as our U.S. Congress men and women fail to work together out spite for the opposition. This sentiment filters down and penetrates state and local elections as well. However, here in Oakland County, we are fortunate to have an elected official that not only supports human rights and equal treat, but one who is financially responsible for tax-payer dollars and who is willing to work with the opposition to create sensible public policy. Tax and spend liberal? Not at all. Craig Covey resisted raising taxes during his time in Ferndale. Furthermore, recall that during his tenure as Ferndale mayor, Craig Covey made difficult choices to lessen the city’s payroll and even supported his own salary reduction as county commissioner.

Craig Covey is far from your typical democrat. Commissioner Covey is the embodiment of a well-balanced politician. Sound fiscal ideas, social justice proponent, and a dedicated community leader. Ferndale is a better community because of his years of leadership and Oakland County is just beginning to reap the benefits.  Moreover, his re-election will allow for the continued evolution of Oakland County as the best place to live and work in Michigan as public transportation is high on his list of agenda items. As reflected by his voting record, Commissioner Covey is dedicated to Oakland County’s development by supporting transportation and “complete streets” initiatives that are designed to create urban environments which are not only safe and functional, but which are also harmonious, fluid, and environmentally sustainable.

Commissioner Covey is the personification of public service. I was taught that public service is a duty of all citizens to act in a selfless manner. Government is to be responsive to the public’s needs and engage citizens to take ownership of government and the world around them. Beyond exceptional academic competence and governance experience, a public servant must demonstrate loyalty to the local community’s mission and the diverse population it serves. The extraordinary quality I find in individuals working for public interest organizations and local communities is their willingness to work tirelessly for policies and programs they truly believe in. These are just some of the characteristics I believe Commissioner Covey embodies and promotes. A leader that emphasizes accountability, integrity, and ethics as the foundation for successful public service. Whether you are a Democrat, Republican, or Independent, Oakland County needs the continued leadership of Commissioner Craig Covey. Vote Craig Covey for Oakland County Commissioner on August 7, 2012.

Anthony Bronner, Resident of Ferndale

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