Schoolcraft Township voters will elect all members of the township board in November. There are primary races for two positions: Supervisor Don Ulsh faces Toni Elgersma-Rafferty for the Republican nomination in the Aug. 6 primary. Following the decision of longtime Clerk Virginia Mongreig not to seek election, Joanne Wiley and Deputy Clerk Eska Brown are competing for the GOP nomination. Treasurer Theresa Scott and Trustees Tamra Stafford and Jennifer Sportel are unopposed in the Republican primary and the Nov. 5 election. All are four-year terms. Compensation for the elected officials: Supervisor, $52,500; clerk and treasurer, $55,335; trustees, $125 per meeting.
Don Ulsh
I have roots in the Village of Schoolcraft. My grandparents lived in the village several years. My aunt and uncle graduated from Schoolcraft High School. My uncle was president of the village for several years. I have been fortunate to have served Schoolcraft Township in several capacities: Planning Commission, trustee, clerk and now supervisor. I became involved in the township in 1992. Those that know me know I am a man of my word and integrity is very important to me. I love meeting with people and solving any issues they may have. Prior to my fulltime work at the township, I was the mill manager at the Simpson paper mill. I have lived in this area most of my life and all of my children have graduated from Vicksburg High School. I sincerely hope that I will be re-elected so I can continue to serve the residents of Schoolcraft Township.
Toni Elgersma-Rafferty
I have lived in Schoolcraft Township for over 20 years. My husband James and I have two children. I have been an office manager for 8 years for two different businesses where I work closely with customers, employees and vendors. I currently serve as president of the Schoolcraft 4th of July Committee, helping organize the parade and fireworks celebration; deacon at the First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft; and a director of the Schoolcraft Friday Pack organization. I am an experienced organizer, problem solver, communicator and listener. I promise to use my skills to follow through on all responsibilities of the Schoolcraft township supervisor and help lead the way for the next generation. Since living in Schoolcraft, I have been actively involved with my community and adore all our history. As Schoolcraft township supervisor, I want to lead us to be a more cohesive community and be more responsive and educate our constituents on what is going on in the township. I will ensure information is given timely and accurately. I feel complete transparency is important and, if I am elected, I will work diligently to make sure Schoolcraft Township becomes more transparent.
Eska Brown
I have lived in Schoolcraft for 27 years. My husband, two children, and I are Schoolcraft High alumni. Schoolcraft Township has employed me for 15 years as office administrator. I have knowledge of the day-to-day workings of the office and have been the deputy clerk since 2015. I have helped conduct elections, maintain the voter registration data base, assist families with cemetery needs, and other duties. My experience will ensure a smooth transition for the Township. I believe in providing our residents with as much information as possible about township projects and the resources available in our area. I am a fair listener who will ensure your ideas are heard and considered. In office, I would like to educate new and first-time voters on the process of going to the polls and how to request an absentee ballot if needed. Having cemetery information available online for individuals who are studying family history is another goal of mine. I will use all of the resources available to me to help residents with questions they may have. Please consider electing me your next township clerk.
Joanne Wiley
I am running for Schoolcraft Township clerk. I will bring a fresh outlook to our township by taking the time to listen, follow up, and follow through on the concerns and needs of our citizens. I will work with our neighboring villages and townships as a voice for the citizens of Schoolcraft Township. My family has been in Schoolcraft Township for over 118 years. The country and township have been great for us. I would like to share what that means to me by showing my dedication and commitment to the citizens of Schoolcraft Township by treating them with integrity, respect, and professionalism as their township clerk. I have over 20 years of management experience working in conflict resolutions to find an agreeable middle ground for both parties involved. I also have over 15 years of accounting experience working with for-profits, non-profits, and municipality entities. What has made me successful in my management and accounting activities is my attention to details. I believe Schoolcraft Township is ready for a change. I will bring new ideas to help continue to make Schoolcraft Township the wonderful place my family calls home.
