Newly Elected Ottawa County Commissioners Show Not All Are Welcome in Ottawa County by Actions at First Commission Meeting

(Grand Haven, MI) - Yesterday the Ottawa County newly elected County Commissioners moved quickly to show that the county and county government will no longer be a place for a growing community to feel welcome. Instead, it will be one based on lies and one that is not living within reality.

The agenda items yesterday were not addressing the concerns of the entire community but of only a few. For example, after the swearing-in ceremonies, the board's agenda included removing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department sending a clear message that 'everyone' is not welcome here. Haphazardly added to the agenda items during the meeting was firing dedicated employees of the county and changing the county motto from "where you belong" to "where freedom rings”. To add to their opening questionable action items they hired John Gibbs as the county administrator, who 42.9% of the county voted against and elected Hillary Scholten to the U.S. 3rd Congressional seat in the November election instead. Is yesterday's action in hiring the losing side for the race for congress a 'swipe' at the winning side?

Although most of the Ottawa County Democratic Party members were hopeful for a smooth transition, with yesterday being the first day of the new commission to use as an indicator, it is clear that did not happen. Having so many drastic changes early on is terribly disappointing and yes, unfortunately, expected.

Tim Smith
Ottawa County Democratic Party Chair

Important Primary Endorsements for Ottawa County

Please read and share this vital information regarding endorsed candidates for the August 2 Primary election. Because Michigan is an open primary state, party members may choose to vote on the Republican primary ballot when casting their votes -- often because there are no contested elections on the Democratic primary ballot, or to prevent an extremist candidate from securing the Republican nomination.

The Ottawa County Democratic Party is urging our members and supporters to select the Democratic ballot in the primary election to support two key races and OCDP endorsed candidates.

Joseph Alfonso is running as a write-in candidate in the 4th Congressional District. Bill Huizenga will run unopposed in the general election unless Mr. Alfonso receives enough write in votes. It is critical to write-in "Joseph Alfonso" in the primary election so that voters in this new district have a Democratic choice in November. Note that his name must be written in full, spelled correctly and that the box next to his name filled in. See the graphic below for more, or visit Mr. Alfonso's Facebook page.

In the 88th Michigan State House District, only one of the Democratic candidates is endorsed by the Ottawa County Democratic Party: Christine Baker. Please visit the candidate page to read about her endorsement, then cast your vote for Ms. Baker by August 2!

Absentee ballot distribution starts at the end of this month. Please share this information and help us spread the word about these key primary races!

Ottawa County Democrats Walk and Fundraise to Feed the Hungry

Saturday, April 23, 2022, enthusiastic members of the Ottawa County Democratic Party walked in the Holland/Zeeland Crop Walk. Early morning walkers were Sylvia Castillo, George Alheid, Kevin O’Brien, Gary Cole, Wanda Crowder Pierce, Robert “Bobby” Bondon, Jo and Bob Bird. Enthusiastic candidate for the 86th State House of Representatives Larry Jackson and his son walked on Sunday afternoon. This was probably the 15th year, the OCDP has chosen the Holland/Zeeland Crop Walk as a Community Service project. Fundraisers in the group: George Alheid, Jo and Bob Bird, have raised a total of $6,712.93, as of April 25. The money goes to ensuring clean water and meeting food needs for hurting families in West Michigan and around the world. 25% of the money will be distributed to these local organizations: Buen Pastor Migrant Day Care Center, Christian Neighbors, Church World Services, Community Action House, Evergreen Commons Adult Meal Program, Harvest Stand Ministries, Gateway Mission, Kids Food Basket and the Salvation Army. The rest of the funds will assist families in crises due to war, drought, famine and other natural causes.

The Ottawa County Democrats are proud to help those less fortunate. Many thanks to all of you who donated to make this year’s fundraising a success.