Over the past few months, here have been many statements made about Jim’s candidacy for the Niles Township supervisor’s position. Some of been negative and some positive.

Some have been accurate and many have been inaccurate.

The most recent inaccuracy came from Mr. Edquist. Jim is not returning to the Grand Rapids area if he, and the township,  lose to Officer Kidwell. Jim lived in Niles Township for many, many years and has now returned to Niles Township. He has children and grandchildren here and had always planned to return to the area  Which he has done and which is a permanent move.

It’s just too bad before some individuals make statements that they really have no knowledge about. Even Officer Kidwell’s accusation that Jim was running to “get back at him” because of a ticket Kidwell issued Jim many  years ago. Rather egotistical of Kidwell to think that Jim’s focus has been on revenge all of these years.  If you really knew Jim — Officer Kidwell — you would know that Jim is not the kind of person to seek revenge.

Jim has had many years of experience regarding Michigan townships, how best to manage them and to work with the other individuals on the team who were also “voted” into office. It is not a “one-man show” as Officer Kidwell appears to think when reporting all of “his accomplishments,” e.g. the East Main project, potential for new jobs, etc.

Supervising by intimidation and making the other members of the team appear to be “crooks” is not the way to represent the taxpayers of Niles Township.

Jim has the experience, and based on my own personal knowledge, is the best person to represent Niles Township.

How do I know this? I am his ex-wife, who was with him during some very difficult times while he was Niles Township treasurer. Jim is very dedicated to doing the best job possible in representing all of the taxpayers. The sewer project was being implemented and many individuals saw this as unnecessary. Well, I’ll bet many of those same taxpayers are very thankful to not have to deal with septic tanks and dry wells. The  entire board worked together and accomplished a very tough project, with the billing system being developed by the treasurer.

If the Niles Township taxpayers want to be honestly represented and want a Supervisor who will work for the good of all of the residents, then they will vote for Jim Stover.

Thank you.

Pat Stover Skarbek

Niles