In the Village of Schoolcraft, voters will choose a council president for a two-year term from among three candidates: incumbent Michael J. Rochholz and challengers Jeremy Mutchler and incumbent Trustee Shawn Rance. In the village Council election, three candidates are running for three four-year terms: Incumbents Joseph Beck and Kathy L. Mastenbrook are seeking re-election. Patricia Lupina is seeking the post held by Todd Carlin, who is not seeking re-election. Another two-year vacancy created by the resignation of Kirk Bergland will be filled by appointment. The village accepted applications for the post through September. That partial term will end December 1, 2028.
Rochholz provided a statement for his contested race. Mutchler and Rance did not. Mastenbrook also provided a statement.
Michael Rochholz
I am proud to currently serve as president of the Schoolcraft Village Council and am seeking re-election to continue serving our community in that role.
My public service includes serving as Prairie Ronde township clerk, and 18 years on the Schoolcraft Community Schools Board of Education, including five years as president. I also served twice as president of the Michigan Association of School Boards and continue to work with school boards across Michigan on governance, leadership, and ethics.
As village president, my priorities are responsible infrastructure planning, strong and efficient village operations, sound financial stewardship, and open, accountable government. I want Schoolcraft to remain a community where residents are heard, employees are supported, and decisions are made thoughtfully with our long-term future in mind.
Kathy Mastenbrook
My husband, Mark, and I have lived in the Village of Schoolcraft for 36 years. This community has been an important part of our lives, and we have had the privilege of watching it grow, sharing in its successes, and experiencing the strong sense of community that makes Schoolcraft so special.
My decision to run for office comes from my deep commitment to Schoolcraft and the people who make this community their home. I believe effective leadership begins with listening—-to families, seniors, young people, local businesses, and all our neighbors. Every resident brings a unique perspective, and every voice should be heard.
I value thoughtful, long-term planning that builds on success while also preparing for the future. I believe working collaboratively with our neighboring villages and townships, provides an opportunity to share ideas, address challenges, and make responsible decisions that promote a viable and sustainable community for generations to come.
I am very grateful for the people, experiences, and sense of community that have made Schoolcraft such a special place. I would be honored to serve our village and help preserve the qualities that make it a community we are proud to call home.
