Three candidates are running for State Representative in the 78th District. Dave Pagel and Jim Walker are vying for the Republican nomination, and will oppose the Democrat candidate, Cartier Shields in the November election. Shields and Walker did not submit answers to the questionnaires.

DAVE PAGEL (R)

Age: 59

Residence: 3221 E. Shawnee Rd., Berrien Springs, MI 49103

Education: Bachelor’s Degree from Michigan State University in AgriBusiness

Professional Background: Established Dave Pagel Produce in 1978, a local produce storage, packing and shipping business and Dave Pagel Farms in 2004. Still manage both with my son, Jeremy Pagel.

Occupation: Owner of Dave Pagel Produce and Dave Pagel Farms; currently also State Representative

Political Experience: Elected for 14 years on Berrien Springs Public Schools Board of Education and for 4 years as Berrien County Commissioner. Member of Berrien County and Cass County Repub. Party.

Civic Involvement: School Board and County Commissioner (see above). Coached many years of youth sports. Active in local church for many years.

What will your top priority be if elected? Fixing our roads and bridges has become my top priority due to their deteriorating condition. It is a quality of life and a public safety issue, as well as being important for business. Other priorities are our economy, education and agriculture.

Name three core values that define your political outlook: I value a limited, efficient government that is a good steward of public funds. I value personal freedom and responsibility. I value integrity and accountability in public officials.

What makes you the best candidate for the job? My wide range of experience and proven leadership in our community. In my family life, my business life and in public service at three levels, I have a track record of achievement that is open for all to see.

What do you consider your biggest accomplishments? Establishing a business at age 23 and successfully growing it for 35 years. Leading our local Board of Education as president and our Board of Commissioners as Chairman, along with one term in the House of Representatives.

How do you think you can impact Southwest Michigan’s future? As State Representative, I can impact our future by helping solve our road problems, working to lower the cost of automobile insurance, promoting agriculture and education, and helping our economy to grow.

What are the biggest challenges our region faces? How would you address them? Our region needs good job opportunities for our citizens and our youth. I will promote a strong business climate that is competitive with other states, and a strong educational system that prepares our students for success.

Other: I have lived all my life in southwest Michigan, growing up on a fruit farm here. I love our region and our state, and have the experience to help creatively solve problems and lead us to a better future. I would love to see my four children find good job opportunities here, and be able to build their future here.