Justin Fischer For Novi City Council

EDITORIAL: Endorsement - Novi.org

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Justin Fischer, a life-long resident of Novi and past Chairperson of Novi's Zoning Board, brings several years of city-related experience to the table. He also has the strongest list of supporters we've ever seen, including our State Senator, Representative, Mayor, Council Members, and former Speaker of the State House. Fischer works hard, and those he's worked with in the past, those who know him best, are his strongest supporters. That tells us something about his character and ability. Fischer has earned and deserves our support, and would make an outstanding addition to Novi City Council.

EDITORIAL: "Supporting the Positive Candidates" - Kathy Crawford, Novi City Council

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:57:00 +0000

Campaign rhetoric speaks volumes. Candidates espousing everything they are AGAINST do not make effective leaders for this city.

Candidate comments that plant seeds of doubt about the honesty and integrity of people currently serving on Boards and Commissions as well as city administrators, are irresponsible, naive and insulting.

When I read from this year’s various campaign literature pieces, I noted statements such as the candidate will: “introduce fiscal responsibility to city government”, “always consider the taxpayer first”, “processes should be transparent and open. Residents’ concerns should be taken seriously, not ignored or dismissed”, “promote open government” . “will provide leadership you can trust” and many others.

Do these people truly believe that this city ignores and dismisses its citizenry and it never occurred to us to be fiscally responsible or trustworthy?

My support is definitely for candidates who are positive and tell me who they are, their experience, what they have accomplished and what they hope to accomplish. These candidates are: Mayor David Landry and for City Council Terry Margolis, Brian Burke and Justin Fischer.

EDITORIAL: "For Fischer" - Jay Dooley

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:52:00 +0000

Being a volunteer for the city has allowed me the time to reflect on the many virtues bestowed upon me. Are we doing the right things? Are we building and shaping a culture for success? Are we engaged? Will we support the right folks to lead us toward this path?

I am writing this letter on behalf of Justin Fischer, who is seeking our trust and vote as City Council Member on Nov. 3. The book “Character is Destiny” by Russell W. Gough speaks to five virtues: Thought, Act, Habit, Character and Destiny. Justin has instilled these traits in himself which are required to become a better person and enduring leader. As a City Council member, know and trust Justin will be there for us and will look out for our best interests.

Justin wants to encourage folks to think about improving their personal convictions in terms of our own personal character. In the kind words of Jean Paul Richter, one person never describes their own character so clearly as when they describe another’s. This is notable in all positive leaders.

Justin provides financial leadership to the Novi Parks Foundation, a wonderful charitable organization in our city. He has been treasurer of the foundation for two years — with serious responsibilities as the foundation’s key keeper of funds. He shares the financials in a way that finance professionals and even those without a finance background can understand.

One of Justin’s most admirable traits is simply the fact that he sticks to his word. When Justin says he will get something done, he means it. Running a nonprofit requires numerous state and federal filings. Justin has always ensured we stay in compliance. He brings a fresh set of eyes and a new perspective to the board meetings. He offers new and creative ideas, and listens attentively to others during our discussions. He is willing to compromise when necessary, always keeping the best interest of the foundation in mind. The work ethic and experience Justin will bring to the City Council will serve our city well.

Thank you, Justin Fischer, for everything you do to ensure that we are indeed doing the right things — and for building the culture for success within the City of Novi. Excellence in character is habit. Attitudes and gratitudes are contagious. Justin Fischer’s are indeed worth catching. You have our vote.

EDITORIAL: "Fischer for Council" - Charles and Becky Staab

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:46:00 +0000

On Nov. 3 the voters of Novi will have the opportunity to elect three city council members from a slate of six candidates. It is important that all voters know that Justin Fischer is a well-rounded individual who has been involved in the Novi community for many years. He has served as chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals, has served as treasurer of the Novi Parks Foundations and has worked one-on-one with community members to help them better understand developments proposed or underway in our community.

It is unusual for a young person to jump so quickly into community service, but our observation of Justin’s work indicates that he is capable of working with people of all ages and that he has a keen ability to assess issues and/or problems while working with others toward a mutually agreed upon solution. Justin has demonstrated his desire, potential and capacity for service as a council member. We are convinced that he will continue to seek opportunities to work with others for the common good.

Over his years of public service he has demonstrated a responsibility and commitment, which is seen by all those who have worked closely with him. Justin possesses a truly warm and caring personality. His outstanding balance of determination, confidence and caring far surpasses many individuals much older than he. Justin is a rare type of person who the city of Novi will be proud to have on city council.

It is our honest opinion, based upon years of working with young people in our community and personal contact, that Justin Fischer is THE candidate for Novi City Council who will put the interests of all citizens first. It is without hesitation that we encourage each of you to vote for Justin Fischer for Novi City Council on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

EDITORIAL: "Backing Fischer" - Herb James

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:40:00 +0000

I have known Justin Fischer for many years. From this perspective I can tell you that Justin is an effective and passionate advocate for important issues including fiscal responsibility, the preservation of an open and transparent government, and for shining a perspective light over our beautiful city.

Justin has always been driven and goal-oriented. His ability to balance responsibilities in all aspects of his life is phenomenal. In the last 10 years Justin has been able to work his way through Michigan State University, work towards his master’s degree in business, and maintain employment at Ford Motor Company in the accounting office. With many goals scratched off his to-do list, Justin has let it be known that he is ready to start a new list of goals directed toward his passion of our city government.

Justin’s experience not only on the Zoning Board of Appeals, but as chairman of the board, is my biggest reason for supporting Justin. Our city is blossoming, and Justin’s work on the board has been phenomenal. Along with his hard work and creative thinking, Justin has been instrumental in helping to make decisions that enhance our city’s welfare, while being economically sound. As a fiscal conservative, Justin is the first one to speak up on reducing government costs yet improving the reputation of the Novi community.

Personally, I feel we can all benefit from supporting Justin Fischer. He has already proven that he is able to provide our city with the experience we need, and the leadership we can trust.

Former Speaker of the House Craig DeRoche endorses Justin Fischer for Novi City Council

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 01:17:00 +0000

September 12, 2009 - Press Release

Former Speaker of the Michigan State House of Representatives Craig DeRoche today announced his endorsement of Justin Fischer for Novi City Council in the November 2009 election.

DeRoche served in the State Legislature from January 2003 until December 2008, and held the position of Speaker of the House from 2005 until 2006. DeRoche was the first Speaker of the House elected from Oakland County since 1867, and the first from Novi. Prior to his election to the Michigan State Legislature, DeRoche served on Novi City Council for 5 years.

DeRoche said "Justin Fischer has the background and possesses the vision that Novi needs. I am certain his experience and leadership skills will be an asset to the city and its residents. Justin is clearly the right choice for Novi at the right time."

The former Speaker of the House also noted, “Justin’s dedication and commitment to the City of Novi is unwavering and I believe his finance and business acumen will serve us well as our city and region faces unprecedented economic times.”

“I have always had tremendous admiration for Craig's accomplishments, and it is an honor to have the support and approval of Former Speaker DeRoche," said Justin of the endorsement.

The support for Justin from one of the former top leaders of the State adds to an already impressive list of endorsements Justin has earned. He has also received the official endorsement of State Senator Nancy Cassis, State Representative Hugh Crawford, Novi Mayor David Landry, Novi City Councilperson and Former Senior Program Director Kathy Crawford, Novi City Councilperson Terry Margolis, and numerous other appointed officials in Novi.

Parks Foundation Continues Support of Scholarship - Novi News, July 23, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:11:00 +0000

Novi News
July 23, 2009

The members of the Novi Parks Foundation want every child in Novi to have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities in the city.

And with money being tight for several families, the non-profit corporation continues to donate money to the City of Novi’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Scholarship Program so that children from families who demonstrate a need are not left out.

The foundation recently donated $2,500 to the program, pushing the total amount of money donated by the foundation to the program over 10,000 since 2007.

“It’s important that every child is given the opportunity to participate in parks and recreation,” said foundation treasurer Justin Fischer. “It builds character and is critical to the development of children.”

Each qualifying Novi family can receive up to $500 to be used toward city-run recreation program, and since last year, 23 children, who qualified for more than $4,500 have benefited from it.

Randy Auler, director of parks, recreation and cultural services, said the income requirements to receive money are similar to the school lunch program, and since its inception three years ago, the program has gotten a favorable response from residents.

“We want to make sure that youth are not turned away or not able to participate because they or their families cannot afford it,” he said.

For more information about the Novi Parks Foundation, visit www.noviparks.org.

ITEMS OF INTEREST: Novi City Council - Novi News, March 12, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:10:00 +0000

Novi News
March 12, 2009

On behalf of the City of Novi, Mayor David Landry recognized Tim Shroyer for his service on Planning Commission from 2001-2004 and Zoning Board of Appeals from 2005-09; and Justin Fischer for his service on Zoning Board of Appeals from 2004-09.

No Rest for Politics in Novi - Novi News, January 29, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:09:00 +0000

Novi News
January 29, 2009

Novi politicians are throwing in their hats, announcing candidacies for upcoming elections in 2009 and 2010.

Mayor Pro Tem Bob Gatt announced Monday his candidacy for the Michigan Senate, representing the 15^th District of Commerce, highland, Holly, Lyon, Milford, Rose, West Bloomfield and White Lake townships, and the cities of Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Walled Lake and Wixom.

Sen. Nancy Cassis, who currently holds the position, is term-limited and will vacate the seat December 2010.

“We need strong leadership in Lansing, and I have prepared my whole life for this opportunity,” Gatt said. “Michigan is in a fiscal crisis. I honestly believe that I am the right person, at the right time, with the right background, the right education and the right work experiences to help fix our problems.”

A former employee of the Novi Police Department, Gatt currently serves as chief of operations for Oakland County Community Corrections.

“During my 34 years of law enforcement experience, it has become abundantly clear that our state prison system is broken. It’s going to take someone with my background to fix it,” he said. “The state is bleeding money through the Correction’s department. We need fresh, innovative ideas about how to house our prisoner population.”

Representing the Republican party, Gatt has already received endorsements from Novi Mayor David Landry, Oakland County Commissioner Kim Capello and Blair Bowman of Rock Financial Showplace, among others.

In preparation for a more immediate race, Novi Zoning Board of Appeals member Justin Fischer announced his candidacy for Novi City Council in the November election.

“I am running for City Council to give back to a city that has given me so much,” he said. “I want to ensure that Novi remains the best city to raise a family, run a business and enjoy retirement.”

In addition to Zoning Board of Appeals, Fischer serves as treasurer of the Novi Parks Foundation and volunteers as treasurer of his homeowner’s association.

As a financial analyst for Ford Motor Company, Fischer believes his experience will be beneficial in tackling economic issues facing the region, state and country.

Council members Terry Margolis, Andrew Mutch, Brian Burke and Mayor Landry are up for re-election in November.

EDITORIAL: Let the Election Races Begin - Novi News, January 29, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:07:00 +0000

Novi News
January 29, 2009

So the race begins.

It seems the new year has prompted Novi residents to catch the election bug.

In the past couple of weeks, two Novi residents have announced their intention to fun for political office.

First up, Justin Fischer let residents know he will be running for city council this November.

“I am running for city council to give back to a city that has given me so much,” he said. “I want to ensure that Novi remains the best city to raise a family, run a business and enjoy retirement.”

In addition to Zoning Board of Appeals, the financial analyst serves as treasurer of the Novi Parks Foundation and volunteers as treasurer of his home-owners association.

Council members Terry Margolis, Andrew Mutch, Brian Burke and Mayor Landry are up for re-election this year.

Fischer recently applied as a candidate to fill former Mayor Pro Tem Kim Capello’s vacant seat, however Brian Burke was selected for the partial-term position.

Mayor Pro Tem Bob Gatt announced Monday his candidacy for the Michigan Senate, representing the 15^th District of Commerce, Highland, Holly, Lyon, Milford, Rose, West Bloomfield and White Lake townships, and the cities of Northville, Novi, South Lyon, Walled Lake and Wixom.

Sen. Nancy Cassis, who currently holds the position, is term-limited and will vacate the seat December 2010.

“We need strong leadership in Lansing, and I have prepared my whole life for this opportunity,” Gatt said.

Gatt was recently elected mayor pro tem of the City of Novi, is a former employee of the Novi Police Department and currently serves as chief of operations for Oakland County Community Corrections.

So who’s next? Former Speaker of the House and Novi resident Craig DeRoche looked pretty casual at the State of The City address, maybe he is gearing up for a big announcement?

We may not have the answers yet, but we do know this will be an interesting year in Novi politics.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Novi Parks Foundation Executive Board - Novi News, January 29, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:07:00 +0000

Novi News
January 29, 2009

The Novi Parks Foundation introduces its new executive board of 2009: President, Linda Blair; vice president Jay F. Dooley; treasurer, Justin Fischer; and secretary Brian Bartlet. For more information regarding the foundation, visit www.noviparks.org.

EDITORIAL: Justin Fischer Announces City Council Candidacy - Novi News, January 29, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:05:00 +0000

Novi News
January 29, 2009

I am writing to formally announce my candidacy for Novi City Council in the November 2009 election, and ask for your support.

As a lifelong resident of Novi, - having attended Novi Community Schools – I understand the values important to our city and its residents. I am running for City Council to give back to a city that has given me so much. I want to ensure that Novi remains the best city to raise a family, run a business and enjoy retirement.

I currently serve as the treasurer of the Novi Parks Foundation, a charitable organization committed to raising non-tax dollars to support Novi Parks, Recreation and Forestry. Additionally, I have served on the Zoning Board of Appeals for the pat five years, including the position of Chairman two of those years. While on the Zoning Board, I maintained a 98 percent attendance record. My strong sense of community involvement is also shown by my willingness to serve as the treasurer of my homeowner’s association, and I have also worked in the offices of State Sen. Nancy Cassis and U.S. Congressman Mike Rogers.

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and am currently pursuing a Masters of Business Administration from Michigan State University. I am proudly employed as a financial analyst for Ford Motor Company.

My experience in the area of finance will play a crucial part as we tackle the tough economic times facing our region, our state and our country. My experience at Ford, the Novi Parks Foundation and my homeowner’s association gives me a great breadth of knowledge from which to suggest innovative solutions for the city and its residents.

It would be an honor to serve you on city council. I am confident that my education, civic involvement, professional experience and working relationships with current council members would allow me to step in and work productively on your behalf from day one. It is my goal to continue to build on our past, with an eye toward the future and the many opportunities that lie ahead.

I look forward to meeting many of you to hear your thoughts on the successes and challenges that we face in our great city – and to work tirelessly on your behalf to continue to maintain the positive reputation and quality of life that we value in Novi.

Justin P. Fischer

Novi

Novi Residents Touched by Son's Spirit of Giving - Novi News, December 4, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:03:00 +0000

Novi News
December 4, 2008

Gene and Mary Drafta looked into purchasing a new Ford Fusion, but due to the recession, thought it best to wait until next year.

“We were waiting until 2009, to see how the economy would be,” said Gene Drafta. But thanks to Tim Holzer Ford, the Novi Parks Foundation and the Drafta’s son, Ron, 2009 came early for the 22-year Novi residents.

After purchasing three raffle tickets at the Michigan 50’s Festival in July, Novi resident Ron Drafta’s name was selected at the Novi Parks Foundation’s annual gala Nov. 8 in the grand-prize drawing for a pre-paid lease on a vehicle from Tom Holzer Ford.

And since the 52-year-old resident recently purchased a 2009 Mercury Mariner, he chose to give the vehicle to his parents.

“Our son actually won the car, but he as a Taurus and a Mariner, which is a new car,” Gene said. “We were planning on buying a Fusion anyway.”

The couple has been driving a 1998 and a 2002 Ford Taurus and were looking to replace one of the vehicles with a Ford Fusion, which they selected for its size and gas mileage.

“It’s black, with charcoal interior and leather heated seats,” Mary said. “That really impressed me.”

As a former employee of Ford for 38 years, Gene couldn’t be happier with the vehicle selection.

“I think it’s great, we really appreciate it,” Mary said. “I think it’s so nice that the Holzers donated the lease.”

In memory of the late Tom Holzer, the Farmington Hills dealership donates a vehicle with a pre-paid lease in exchange for naming rights to one of the baseball diamonds at Ella Mae Power Park.

Parks Foundation treasurer Justin Fischer said this was the second year in a three-year naming rights agreement between Tom Holzer Ford and the Novi Parks Foundation.

During a six-month span, Fischer said about 400 raffle tickets were sold at a variety of venues including Fall for Novi, the Michigan 50’s Festival, local sporting events and through Parks Foundation board members.

Deadline Nears to Fill Upcoming City Council Vacancy - Novi News, December 11, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 04:01:00 +0000

Novi News
December 11, 2008

Novi residents interested in serving the remainder of Kim Capello’s term on the City Council have until Monday, Dec. 15, to apply. Public interviews of the applicants are scheduled for the same day, at the Novi City Council meeting.

“The people will be interviewed for the vacant council seat Dec. 15, beginning at 6 p.m.,” said Novi City Clerk Maryanne Cornelius. “The deadline to apply is Dec. 15, of course if people get their application in ahead of time, council will have the benefit of reviewing their application ahead of time, but somebody could apply right up until that day.”

As of Monday, Cornelius reported four candidates for the position.

Board of Review member Marjorie Nanian is one of the candidates vying for the vacant council seat.

“I’m on the Board of Review and dealing with taxpayers’ concerns about their decreasing property values and increasing property taxes is the perspective I will bring to the board,” she said. “To be on City Council you have more input on city policy planning and I think that’s important in a bad economy.”

If appointed, Nanian would have to give up her current position on the Board of Review, which she has served for four years.

Zoning Board of Appeals member Justin Fischer is another applicant who has thrown his hat in the race for the open council seat.

“I’ve always enjoyed being a part of the decision-making process,” said Fischer, who also serves as treasurer of the Novi Parks Foundation.

Looking ahead, Fischer believes funding will be an important issue faced by the council in the upcoming year.

“Tough decisions are going to have to be made to make sure the budget is balanced,” he said.

Other applicants for Capello’s seat are Planning Commission member Michael Meyer and Novi resident Leland Prince.

There is no prerequisite to serve on Novi’s City Council, Mayor David Landry said anybody who lives in the City of Novi, and is a voting age, can apply for the interim position, but personally he will be looking for someone who is aware of city issues, is a forward thinker, analyzes issues, blends well with the rest of the council and is a good listener.

Capello was elected Oakland County commissioner of the 9^th District in November, requiring him to terminate his council position one year shy of its tenure.

According to Landry, when there is an open seat on the council, the current council members vote for who will fill in for the remainder of the term. A candidate must receive a majority vote, at least four votes, to be appointed.

As mayor, Landry will have the sole responsibility to appoint a new mayor pro tem.

Landry anticipates the council will probably not vote on a replacement until January, when Capello is officially sworn in as Oakland County commissioner.

Capello's Onward Journey, Open Seat - Novi News, November 6, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Friends of Justin Fischer) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:59:00 +0000

Novi News
November 6, 2008

As Novi City Councilman Kim Capello prepares for the journey to Pontiac, the Novi resident and business owner is leaving behind an empty seat at the council table.

“It’s time for me to go,” said Capello, who has served a combined 15 years on the council and Planning Commission. “I’m leaving Novi in great hands.”

According to unofficial election results, the current mayor pro tem won 13,936 votes in Tuesday’s election for Oakland County commissioner of the 9th District, which includes most of Novi and the Oakland County portion of Northville.

Election results are unofficial.

“Personally, I’m just looking to learn about a different level of government,” Capello said. “But it’s definitely going to be hard. I’ve worked so hard and we’ve worked as a team.”

After seven years on the council, Capello is terminating his position one year shy of its tenure.

“When there is an open seat on council, the rest of council will vote for who will fill in for the remainder of Kim’s term,” said Novi Mayor David Landry. “Whoever is appointed to his seat, will have to run next fall.”

Landry said anybody who lives in the City of Novi, and is of voting age, can apply for the interim position. Members of council will hold public interviews of the candidates.

“It’s totally a majority rule of City Council,” he said, meaning a candidate must receive four votes to be appointed.

Landry anticipates Capello will be involved in the interviewing process, but said council will probably not vote on a replacement until January, when Capello is officially sworn in as Oakland County commissioner.

“We will not vote on his replacement while he’s here,” Landry said.

As mayor, Landry will have the sole responsibility to appoint a new mayor pro tem.

Although Capello said his departure is bittersweet, he hopes his replacement will be compatible with the current city council and courteous and polite at the council table.

Vying for an open seat

Although there is no prerequisite to serve on Novi’s City Council, pat and present members have a history of serving on various boards and commissions, such as the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Landry, Capello and Councilman Andrew Mutch all served on Planning Commission, and Councilman Bob Gatt is a former Zoning Board of Appeals member.

Former Planning Commission member Lowell Sprague, and Zoning Board of Appeals member Justin Fischer were candidates in the last contested race for Novi’s City Council in November 2005, while Zoning Board of Appeals member Mav Sanghvi and Planning Commission member Victor Cassis served interim council positions in years past.

But the question remains, who’s throwing their hat in the race?

“I’m just waiting to see what happens with Kim, but it would be an honor to be considered,” Fischer said Tuesday.

Although Planning Commission member Brian Burke has been named a potential candidate, nothing has been confirmed.

Landry said he personally will be looking for someone who is aware of issues in the city, is a forward thinker, analyzes issues, blends well with the rest of the council and is a good listener.