Trustee Candidate Renee Michaels Talks 'Red Carpet' Treatment for Business, Buying Local

A 14-year resident of Macomb Township, Renee Michaels is running for her first term as a township trustee.

Michaels, 42, is one of seven Republican candidates running for the township's four trustee posts.

The co-owner of Uni-Dig, Inc., a recycling and composting facility in Clinton Township, Michaels said if elected, she would address four key issues: unfinished sub-divisions, programs for senior citizens, new business development and reducing taxes by better management.

Macomb Patch recently spoke with Michaels to learn more about the resident looking to become a first-term township trustee.

Patch: Why have you chosen to run for township trustee?

Michaels: I want the chance to make things better for both residents and businesses.     

Patch: Why do you feel you are qualified for the position of trustee?

Michaels: I have run a family business for 26 years, provide jobs, make payroll, and provide a valuable community service. As part of my duties I had to pull permits in many different Cities and Townships in order to perform work. I know how challenging it can be for businesses to get through a permitting process and the costs associated with it. My background gives me the knowledge in many different areas such as fire protection, farming, disbatching, hauling of sand and gravel materials, recycling, construction, insurance, bidding and job costing. Great customer service is a must in order to remain in business. I enjoy my customers and make sure they are smiling when they leave to make sure they return. I have a strong voice that I am not afraid to use, plus new ideas, integrity, an open mind, and will earn the respect of the residents and businesses I will represent.

Patch: What changes or improvements would you make if elected?

Michaels: Four key issues: Unfinished sub-divisions, programs for senior citizens, new business development and reducing taxes by better management.

Macomb Township needs to get back to growth as we recover from the recession. We need to fill unfinished subdivisions by making our area a choice for families to build and call home.

I will open the door to new business development. As more business develops, we can reduce property taxes with the new business revenue. 

In addition, red carpet treatment will be given to someone with the potential to build in Macomb Twp. This is done through friendliness of Macomb Twp. staffing as well as instituting the policy of asking two simple questions, “how can we help to meet their business needs?” and “how can we assist them in getting through site planning quicker?”

It would be nice if Macomb Twp. came to be known as the fastest place in Michigan to get through site planning. Do you know how many businesses would choose to locate here if we implement this idea? Every day a business is not open costs that business working capitol. Time is money. Our commercial and industrial properties will become more attractive than any where else in Macomb County. Give me the chance to show you!  

Patch: Of what personal and professional accomplishments are you most proud?

Michaels: I am proud to have always been a strong supporter of small businesses and made sure our business always favored the service for small businesses rather then large. I believe in the American Dream and I want to do my part to keep the small businesses of today and tomorrow strong. 

Patch: Is there one individual who has been most influential in your life?

Michaels: My mom is the most influential individual in my life. She is also my very best friend.  

Patch: What are key ways Macomb residents can make a difference locally?

Michaels: Give stronger consideration to shopping at our businesses that are located within the township over those that are located outside of the township. Why? because if we keep our businesses strong then we promote the growth of those businesses to stay in business. If our businesses stay successful, then the residents benefit from a lower tax base. 

Patch: What do you like most about the Macomb Township community? Do you have a favorite place in Macomb?

Michaels: I love that agriculture/farming still resides in Macomb Twp. even with all the large developments. There is nothing more beautiful then open space with miles of crops on it or horses running in an open pasture.

Patch: What are your hobbies, or interests?

Michaels: Love to play golf and my current interest is doing my part to make sure there is a future for our graduates of today. I want to promote business because I want jobs to be created. So many college students are graduating without being able to find a job in their field.

Macomb Patch intends to interview all candidates with ties to, or oversight of Macomb Township. Come back Wednesday as we profile another trustee candidate. All candidate interviews and election information is available in our Election 2012 guide.