Election 2022: County Commission District 2 race features O’Rourke vs Gallagher
Photo features James O’Rourke (R), left, and Don Gallagher (D), right
From staff reports
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners District 2 race in Elmwood Township features two would-be newcomers to County government: Democrat Don Gallagher, a cherry farmer and union electrician, and Republican James O’Rourke, a court deputy bailiff and township trustee. The seat was previously held by Republican Debra Rushton.
Democrats currently control the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners, 4 seats to 3, after Lois Bahle won a special recall election earlier this year. Will Democrats hold control, or will Republicans regain power? We asked the candidates about: their accomplishments on the Board (for incumbents), or why they are running for the Board (for challengers); their party affiliation; their thoughts on the County’s new septic inspection ordinance; their thoughts on growth in Leelanau County; the role the Commission should play in supporting early childhood education and childcare; support for workforce housing, and the recent reorganization of the County Clerk’s duties and the addition of two new county government departments. All seven Democrats responded to the questions; four of seven Republicans responded.
Gallagher responded to the Glen Arbor Sun‘s questions; O’Rourke did not.
Why are you running for the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners?
Explain your party affiliation. Why are you a Democrat?
Gallagher: Iʼve always tried to be a helping hand to those truly in need of one. In my mind, Democrats express this far better than Republicans.
What are your thoughts on the Commission’s new septic inspection ordinance? What other environmental initiatives would you pursue as Commissioner?
Gallagher: I have always been in favor of a septic ordinance, among other environmental protections. I have no environmental initiatives at this time, but as a Commissioner I will listen attentively to any presentation that comes before the Board.
What are your thoughts on growth in Leelanau County—both population and infrastructure? What role should the Commission play here?
Gallagher: Leelanau County has one of the oldest populations in the State of Michigan. There is room for population growth in Leelanau but itʼs determined by the amount of affordable housing. Regarding infrastructure, some have worked very hard to bring the Internet to more parts of our county and when finished, it will have a great impact on the productivity of our schools, businesses and families. As far as growing infrastructure, I would rather concentrate on maintaining and/or improving what is already in place, and then see what the future brings.
What role should the Commission play in supporting early childhood education and childcare in the County?
Gallagher: The Commission should respect the will of the voters and support the ECS Millage as the voters intended. With the high cost of a home purchase and a seasonal or part-time workforce, raising a young family isnʼt like what it was 20+ years ago. As itʼs been asked about combining our adult detention center with a juvenile facility and the costs involved, perhaps early childhood support would lessen the need for juvenile incarceration going forward.
What can the Commission do to support local workforce housing?
Gallagher: While there are many groups working for a solution, much is dependent on the local zoning of our townships. I would like to see the Board of Commissioners ask for a series of informal and informational meetings with all of our township Boards, separately at first and then (hopefully) combined later on. Our essential workers and younger families deserve this, so letʼs solve it.
What are your thoughts on the recent reorganization of the County Clerk’s duties and the addition of two new county government departments?
Gallagher: While our County Clerk has done a wonderful job all these years, there may be some sense in the addition of a Financial Director, we shall see. But, I have no idea what a Human Resources Director will do 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. This position was previously performed by the County Administrator and the Clerk and should remain between these 2 offices.
