Roseann Marchetti is running unopposed in the election for Cass County Commissioner, District 4. Marchetti will be on the August and November ballots.

Roseann Marchetti

Office sought: Cass County Commissioner, District 4

Party: Republican

Age: Senior citizen

Residence: Edwardsburg/Ontwa Township

Education: Bachelor’s degree

Professional Background: Former teacher and builder’s representative

Occupation: Current Cass County Commissioner

Political experience: Active member of the Republican Party

Civic involvement: Commodity Day Site Director, Board Member UIA, Member Edwardsburg Chamber of Commerce, Board Member Edwardsburg Sports Complex, Founder and Member Michiana Garden Club, PJC Association Member, Lector at our Lady of the Lake

What will be your top priority if elected to office? Keeping the county financially stable which includes balancing the annual county budget, and reviewing health insurance and legacy costs, using County funds wisely. Using current county technology efficiently to benefit our residents. A further priority is promoting economic development while keeping our rural environment.

Name three core values that define your political outlook: The three core values that define my political outlook are: transparency, community involvement and accessibility to the residents. I have a reputation as the “go to” person for getting things done and I will continue to maintain that reputation.

What makes you the best candidate for the job? Commitment to the residents, getting things done, and doing my homework are three things that make me the best candidate. I stay involved by attending the Board meetings in my district. I read everything that comes across my desk. If a resident has a question or concern, I work hard to find an answer and get back to the resident.

What professional/political accomplishments are you most proud of in your life? I passed the builder’s licensing test, am a master citizen planner, and completed 37 hours in lake management. I’m proud of completing the joint master plan project with six municipalities which shows what happens when the county and municipalities work together. I am especially proud of the opportunity to serve the residents of my community for three terms.

How do you think you can impact southwest Michigan’s future? I will continue to work with municipalities within the County and surrounding counties in cooperation with SMEGA, and as secretary to the County EDC. I serve on the Kinexus Board, a regional organization of Southwest Michigan.

What is the biggest challenge our region faces? How would you address it? Jobs are a priority; we need to retain and grow our current businesses. Agriculture is super important and we must encourage those agencies like MSU Extension that support the farming community. Drug problems need Affairs, and state grants all help address our challenges.

Other comments: I attended eight different schools by eighth grade and I think the greatest thing is to live in the same place all your life. My husband’s family had a cottage on Christiana and it was a special place for us. We feel blessed to live here now. I have a great interest and affection for the community and the residents. I like being a part of the community and I want to continue to serve, to do my best for everyone.