Clare County interviews David Manson for vacant commissioner seat; agenda approved by voice vote

At a special Clare County meeting, commissioners interviewed David Manson, a candidate for the county’s vacant commissioner seat, and approved the special-meeting agenda by voice vote. Chair opened the session and introduced Manson as the first of three applicants; commissioners discussed whether to vote on an appointment today so the chosen candidate could be sworn in before the next meeting.

Manson described his background in engineering and sales and said he has lived in the area for about five years, with his wife serving as the Green Wood Township clerk. He said he wants to serve as a steward of the county’s natural resources and to give back to the community, telling commissioners that “someone has to do the heavy lifting” of public service and that he believes his experience in teamwork and communication would help the board.

Asked about the board’s primary responsibility, Manson said it is to “responsibly allocate money, time and assets” and to be able to explain decisions to constituents. On county challenges he highlighted attracting and keeping qualified workers, encouraging small manufacturing and supporting small businesses, and ensuring public-safety spending is well used.

When commissioners raised practical questions — including the time commitment given the annual commissioner stipend of $12,000 and whether an appointee would run for election — Manson said he is willing to devote the necessary time and indicated he plans to run in the upcoming election, though he acknowledged that could change. On making difficult budget decisions, he said he would study the original reasons for funding, consult colleagues and prioritize balanced decisions required under state law.

A commissioner offered immediate follow-up help for Manson’s contacts: one commissioner told the candidate that the county’s small-business program can provide loans up to $30,000 and directed the friend seeking startup help to county resources and the Small Business Development Corporation. Commissioners also discussed providing orientation materials to any appointee before the next meeting.

The commission approved the special-meeting agenda after a motion and second carried by voice vote. The interview of Manson concluded; commissioners planned to continue interviews of the remaining two applicants at the same meeting before determining whether to vote on an appointment.