Paul Scott is Grand Blanc Twp. resident, a graduate of Grand Blanc High School and someone who says that he wholeheartedly wants to serve his community. So it would seem appropriate that he announce his candidacy for state representative of the 51st District in next year’s election at his alma mater.

Scott, a republican, formally announced his bid to seek the seat that will be vacated when Rep. David Robertson’s (R-Grand Blanc Twp.) term ends next year during a breakfast ceremony at Grand Blanc High School on Sept. 15.

The occasion was complete with schools Supt. Michael Newton emceeing the event and expressing his support for Scott. Members of the high school marching band played when Scott was introduced and walked to the podium to make his official announcement.

It would seem like the prodigal son was being anointed, except that it seems a bit inappropriate for the superintendent and other school officials to be supporting a candidate, with the announcement on school grounds and students playing marches in the background.

The impression given is that the district — not merely the individuals — supported Scott, who is running against two Democrats, Tom McGee and Harold Ward.

Grand Blanc schools Communications Coordinator Mary Nerreter, also a Scott supporter, said she had received some complaints about the impression the announcement created as well.

“I kind of viewed it as being a private citizen,” Nerreter said. “Our buildings are community buildings, anybody can use our buildings.”

Scott’s campaign committee did pay for building rental, the breakfast for attendees and he is making a donation to the marching band for their time. Newton and Nerreter were acting as private citizens attending a function on school property. Except public officials’ actions, whether elected or appointed school leaders, really are never private.

Scott, like his opponents, is probably a good person who sincerely cares about the community. But he and all candidates and community leaders must be cognizant of the impression they leave, no matter what the venue.

City Elections
For the first time in what seems like a long time, Mayor Michael Matheny and Councilmember D. Keith Baldwin will each face a challenger in the upcoming Nov. 6 general election.

Matheny currently is serving his fifth term as mayor and will face resident Michael Byrne in November. Baldwin will run against Cathleen Buell for a four-year seat on the council. Buell is the wife of Roger Buell, director of public services for Grand Blanc Twp.

Council members Susan Soderstrom, John Freel and Steve Robinson are running unopposed for four-year council seats.

The city council is pretty cohesive group that seems to run the city, along with a highly professional staff smoothly enough that people are not showing up in droves to protest.

However, as I’ve said before, I like choices. So while Matheny and Baldwin certainly have done a commendable job, a little challenge to the cohesive establishment doesn’t hurt and gives voters a chance to appreciate what their current leaders are doing, and a chance to see what someone else has to offer.

If nothing else, it will be interesting.

Good luck to all the candidates.

More Tips