Politics & Government

Get to Know Your City Council Candidate: Dan Martin

Dan Martin, Ferndale City Council hopeful, answers a few questions from Ferndale Patch.

Dan Martin, originally from Bay City, has lived in Ferndale since 2004. Since 2007 Martin has been Chairperson of the . Martin is one of three candidates running for -- incumbent Mike Lennon and resident Sherry Wells are also running. This will be Martin's first campaign for an elected position in Ferndale.

The election is Nov. 8.

As part of Ferndale Patch's election coverage, we asked Martin to answer a few questions about not only the election, but also what he sees in Ferndale, what he thinks Ferndale needs and his favorite things about the city.

Find out what's happening in Ferndalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

During this week, we're running Q&As with the three council candidates and the two mayoral candidates who are vying for votes in the upcoming election.

Ferndale Patch: Tell Ferndale about yourself.

Find out what's happening in Ferndalewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Dan Martin: My name is Dan Martin and I am 39 years old, married and have resided in Ferndale for the last seven years. I currently work at Blue Care Network of Michigan as a Director of Physician Services and Communications. Since moving to Ferndale I have been very involved in the community and currently serve as Chairperson of the Ferndale Community Foundation. I also serve on the Board of Michigan AIDS Coalition, Ferndale’s Police and Fire Board and Ferndale Youth Assistance. I have also served Ferndale on the Arts and Culture Commission. I have a BA in Economics from Michigan State University and currently attend Oakland University pursuing an advanced degree in Public Administration.

Ferndale Patch: What are your passions?

Martin: I am passionate about my family and friends, my community and working to ensure I make a positive difference where I live. I believe in public service and giving back to the community as much as possible. Ferndale has been very good to us and I am passionate about paying that back.

Ferndale Patch: Why are you running for council?

Martin: I am running for city council to be the voice of residents, businesses and the entire community in local government. I am running for city council to bring the same energy and commitment to city government that I have as a community activist. I believe in Ferndale and am committed to its success, and as city councilperson I will work tirelessly to ensure the long-term health of Ferndale.

Ferndale Patch: What is Ferndale's biggest challenge?

Martin: The economy is Ferndale’s biggest challenge. Many people are still struggling and it is imperative that we protect the investment that the residents have made in this community.

Ferndale Patch: What is Ferndale's biggest asset?

Martin: Definitely its residents. We have a wonderful diverse community where people support each other, look out for our neighbors and truly care about the city.

Ferndale Patch: What will you do/work toward if elected?

Martin: My priorities as city councilperson is to be the voice of Ferndale’s residents on Council, promote sound fiscal policies that ensure positive and appropriate use of tax revenue, support our neighborhoods, promote Ferndale’s progressive and diverse culture, increase responsible environmental stewardship and ensure business retention and encourage responsible economic development.

Ferndale Patch: What are FIVE things Ferndale needs?

Martin:

  1. More people involved in decision making in the city
  2. Economic development in areas outside of downtown
  3. A parking solution for the downtown area
  4. An improvement in property values
  5. A more environmentally sustainable infrastructure

Ferndale Patch: What are your FIVE favorite things about Ferndale?

Martin:

  1. The people
  2. Vibrant non-profit community
  3. Downtown businesses and area
  4. The walkability of the community
  5. Summer fairs and festivals

Current Ferndale City Councilman Mike Lennon is looking to extend his time on council and is running on Nov. 8. Read how he answered our questions .

Current Ferndale Mayor Dave Coulter, who was appointed in January, is also looking to keep his seat and is running Nov. 8. Read his answers .


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