By By JOHN EBY / Dowagiac Daily News
CASSOPOLIS – In contrast to a dramatic Jan. 8 deadlock, Robert Wagel Thursday night sewed up his sixth term as chairman of the Cass County Board of Commissioners 8-6 on the first try.
Edwardsburg Democrat David Taylor was absent.
Wagel, a retired Union High School guidance counselor, is in his 14th year on the commission in two stints dating back to 1989.
He won the chairmanship by acclimation in 2008.
"I really appreciate those of you who supported me," said Wagel, R-Wayne Township.
County Clerk-Register Barbara Runyon was on her honeymoon during the "Impasse in Cass," when a deadlocked Board of Commissioners caucused and voted for three hours, producing 11 7-7 ties between Wagel and former chairman Johnie Rodebush, D-Niles.
She returned home to find herself temporarily the county board chair.
Commissioner Ed Goodman, D-Silver Creek Township, who unsuccessfully challenged Ron Francis, R-Cassopolis, for vice chairman, addressed his colleagues before what was also an 8-6 party-line vote.
"I will work with Bob and all of the members of this board to bring us together and get things done for this county," Francis pledged.
"We're the pulse and the heartbeats of our districts we represent," Goodman said. "Republicans. Democrats. Independents. Conservatives. Liberals. And moderates. I believe our board is as diverse as our county.
"We have business people, Realtors, an attorney, building tradesmen, retirees, unemployed, education, unskilled and farmers.
"How important are the chair and vice chair of this board?" Goodman asked. "The chair sets the agenda for our meetings, our workshops and intergovernmental forums. He appoints committees and more or less sets the tone. He can make the board divided or unified."
"I believe the position of board chair is too important to be left to partisan politics and party bosses to manipulate and divide this board," Goodman said. "You and I were voted commissioners by our constituents to serve our community in unity and to represent them for the betterment of Cass County.
"Yes, I voted for change because it's needed," Goodman continued. "We need fresh ideas, new faces. Otherwise, we become complacent, lazy and followers rather than leaders. Frankly, I believe everyone on this board is qualified and should have the opportunity to serve, if they so desire. We should encourage change – not discourage it, as I see today. We shouldn't look at each other with distrust and contempt, but as fellow county commissioners as diverse as we are with respect and gratitude. Face it, all of us are here because we care about our community and we're willing to serve."
Goodman said the position of chair "should not be held with a tight fist, pushing others down or away, but with an open hand, sharing responsibility…"
Democrats in the audience applauded, then Goodman was followed to the podium by Cathy LaPointe of Volinia Township.
"We need a bipartisan team to bring Cass County together," she said. "One which represents all citizens. Cass County is falling behind in southwest Michigan in many categories, and partisan politics is partly to blame.
"As our new president said, 'It's time to put away childish things.' It's time to grow up and do what's right for Cass County. We have great resources, great people, great potential. We, the citizens of Cass County, will be watching and we will hold you accountable."