Two candidates are vying for the Republican nomination for Cass County Commissioner in the first district. One Democrat, James Jerue, is also running for the seat. Republican candidates include Robert Wagel and Lazarus Alexander, who did not submit answers to the questionnaire.

ROBERT WAGEL

Party: Republican

Age: 74

Residence: Dowagiac, Michigan

Education: Morehead State University, B.A. in Political Science and History; Eastern Michigan Universtiy: MA in Guidance & Counseling; Eastern Michigan University MA in Educational Administration

Professional Background: High School Guidance Counselor, Michigan Professional License Counselor and Social Worker, American Red Cross Volunteer for Disaster and Mental Health Services

Occupation: Retired

Political experience: 20 years as a Cass County Commissioner; Board Chairperson for seven years; chairperson Tr-County Head Start; Chairperson Cass County Board of Public Works; Chairperson Woodlands Behavioral Health Network

Civic involvement: past president and member of the Dowagiac Rotary Club, member of the Dowagiac Peninsular Lodge 10 Free and Accepted Masons; member of the American Legion, member of Dowagiac Area Museum Advisory Board

What will your top priority if elected to office? A top priority of mine is to be an active participant in determining policies that will make Cass County efficient and financially responsible. In addition, I would like to see a Document Imaging System in our courts. This will reduce paperwork and save money. The board needs to keep maintaining and improving our park system. We need to develop a plan for the 1899 historical courthouse.

Name three core values that define your political outlook: I believe in the four way Rotary Club test of the things we think, say and do. Is it the truth/ Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? I believe in a strong fiscal policy and planning for the future.

What makes you the best candidate for the job? I am running for the Cass County Board of Commissioners because I believe I can make a difference. The challenges facing Cass County in the 21st Century require public leaders with a wide range of problem-solving skills and a variety of experiences.

What professional/political accomplishments are you most proud of in your life? I am extremely proud of serving my country for 22 years in the Air Force reserve as well as three years in the U.S. Army. I have also been honored to serve as chairperson for the Cass County Board of Commissioners for seven years. After 30-lus years in education, I retired from Dowagiac Union Schools as a guidance counselor.

How do you think you can impact southwest Michigan’s future? I believe my experience working with commissioners, elected officials and employees from surrounding counties for the past 20 years provides me with an excellent background.

What is the biggest challenge our region faces? How would you address it? There are several. However we must keep our young people from leaving. We need to provide a comprehensive economic development program that will provide skills and jobs for the future in Cass County.

Other comments: Cass County is a great place to live, work and play. My goal is to preserve and continue to grow this quality of life for the present and the future.