Dear editor:

These are both challenging and exciting times for the City of Niles. Challenging as we face the financial hardships and budgetary constraints that have plagued Michigan, and exciting as we move forward and continue to develop and improve our community in ever new and exciting ways.
For the last 12 years, I am privileged to have been allowed to represent you as your mayor. In that time together we have seen a number of projects and improvements to the City including the downtown streetscape, the restoration of the building facades; both enhancing the beauty and walkability of the downtown. We have seen park improvements that have helped bring kids to playgrounds and children of all ages to the riverfront. We have encouraged business development, partnered with the state to construct a state of the art law enforcement facility; constructed a new fire station and expanded the duties of our firemen enhancing the safety of our residents; we have constructed the Riverfront Trail; found and continued development of the Fort St. Joseph site; and added and improved festivals that continue to bring record numbers of people to our community. And we have done this without additional costs to our residents. In short, even in difficult times, we continue to move forward creating or enhancing our community to improve the quality of life for our residents.
In doing this, we have a great team at City Hall. We have a city staff dedicated to making our community better. As you know, the team is changing this year. After many dedicated years of service to you and the community, both Terry Eull and Neil Coulston are retiring. The council, after much deliberation, has selected Police Chief Ric Huff as the next administrator for the city. I supported and continue to support Ric as the best candidate for the position and for Niles.
For the first time in many years, I am being challenged in the mayoral election. So much so that the city will be forced to have a primary Aug. 2. The differences in candidates are quite stark. Some of the candidates would prefer that the city regress to a strong mayor, weakening or perhaps even eliminating the city administrator position. This would be devastating to the community and would limit our future growth and progress greatly. It would also require a change in the city charter, no small order. Now, more than ever, we continue to need professional management balanced and supported by a mayor and council that sets policy and direction for the community.
This year, more than ever, I need your help. I ask that you support my candidacy for mayor. I ask that you vote for Mike McCauslin in the Aug. 2 primary.
Thank you for your continued support of me and the city.

Sincerely,
Mike McCauslin
Niles