Candidate questionnaires..
Recently, Mlive and Vote411.org put together a series of questions for District 3 Candidates. You can see all of them here, for both candidates. My answers to both are below.
Please indicate what, if any, affiliations and organizations assist you in decision-making.
Zylstra: As an elected representative, I am committed to making decisions based on what I believe is in the best interest of the people I represent. I do not have any affiliations or organizations that influence my decision-making process. My goal is to serve the needs and interests of the community without bias or outside influence.
Please share your thoughts on how to work with the public and the media to communicate how the Board of Commissioners is meeting the needs of the county. Are there unmet needs at election time?
Zylstra: Over my tenure as County Commisioner, I have always firmly advocated for transparency and open communication with both the public and the media. I have consistently provided regular updates on all meetings via social media channels. Additionally, I actively participate in various community forums and events to engage with constituents directly. By nurturing a cooperative relationship with the media and engaging in active outreach with the public, I believe we can best guarantee that the community remains well-informed and their voices are heard.
What is your view of good county governance (considering fiscal policies, hiring & firing practices, disciplinary processes and serving the needs of your constituents)?
Zylstra: Good county governance involves common sense fiscal policies, transparent budgeting, and long-term planning for sustainability. Hiring practices should prioritize merit and diversity while ensuring accountability. Disciplinary processes must be fair and transparent. Serving constituents’ needs is paramount, requiring active engagement, listening, and collaborative problem-solving. Overall, governance demands transparency, accountability, and responsiveness. I am committed to upholding these principles and serving with integrity.
What do you see as the function of public comments during County Commission meetings?
Zylstra: Public comments during County Commission meetings are crucial for transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. They offer residents a platform to voice concerns, share perspectives, and provide feedback on Commission matters. This direct channel ensures decision-making reflects community needs and promotes accountability. As Commissioner, I have strongly advocated for public participation in local governance and would continue to support and encourage public comments if reelected.
Do you plan to sign the Ottawa Impact “Contract with Ottawa”? Why or why not?
Zylstra: No, I do not intend to sign the contract. While I agree with many aspects of the contract, there are other aspects I do not.
What are the most important issues facing Ottawa County?
Zylstra: I believe the most important issues facing Ottawa County are the lack of housing opportunities, which I why I worked to revive the Ottawa County Housing Commission back in 2019, my first year on the Board, and worked to make sure the Ottawa County Housing Fund received the $10M in funding that it did in November of 2022.
What do you view as the role of county government?
Zylstra: I believe the essential role of county government is to provide the highest quality level of service in our mandated areas at the most affordable price tag possible. I also believe that the county is uniquely placed to work on non-mandated, but high priority items like Housing, Childcare, Broadband and Groundwater.
Should faith play a role in county government?
Zylstra: I believe our internal compasses as Commissioners, be it faith, morality, etc. should and do definitely guide our actions. However, I do not believe that elected officials’ personal faith beliefs, for example, should be a template for governance.
How do you plan on communicating and be transparent with your constituents?
Zylstra: I plan to continue communication as I have since I began as a county commissioner, through Social Media, Coffee Hours, Appearances at City Council and Area Events.
Why are you running for county commissioner?
Zylstra: I am running for County Commissioner to continue the work that I have been doing, and advocate for expanding housing opportunities, ensuring that the County continues investing in the physical and mental health of its residents, and ensuring that we’re spending your tax dollars responsibly, and then communicating that openly and transparently.
