Stephen Schlaack for Owosso City Council
As a native and dedicated member of our community, I am running for Owosso City Council to bring new ideas, pragmatic solutions, and a collaborative spirit to our local government. My platform is built on the pillars of community engagement, economic development, public safety, inclusive growth, and improved transportation. By working together, we can create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I ask for your support and your vote as we do the responsible thing. Let’s fight for Owosso!
My Platform
Listening to the Community: I believe that a successful community is built on active participation and open dialogue. I will ensure that every resident of Owosso has a voice in our city’s decisions through regular town hall meetings, community surveys, and open forums to foster a transparent and inclusive decision-making process.
Increasing Transparency with City Finances: Transparency is essential for building trust between the government and its citizens. I will advocate for clear and accessible financial reporting, ensuring that city finances are managed responsibly and that residents are informed about how their tax dollars are being spent. This includes making budget reports and financial statements readily available and understandable to the public.
Boosting Local Businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. I will advocate for policies that provide support and incentives for local entrepreneurs, making it easier for small businesses to start, grow, and thrive in Owosso. Programs like Match on Main, which offers up to $25,000 in funding for new or expanding businesses, are crucial. Additionally, resources from the Downtown Owosso Resource Guide, such as low-interest loans and tax credits, will be actively promoted to support local businesses.
Attracting New Opportunities: By leveraging our strategic location and community strengths, I will work to attract new businesses and industries to Owosso, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. This includes working closely with state and regional economic development organizations to market our city as a prime location for investment.
Enhancing Public Safety: I will work closely with our police and fire departments to ensure they have the resources they need to keep our community safe. This includes supporting community policing initiatives that build trust and cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
Promoting Health and Wellness: Access to quality healthcare and wellness programs is essential for a thriving community. I will advocate for initiatives that improve public health, including mental health services, recreational facilities, and programs that promote healthy living. For example, supporting the Shiawassee Area Transportation Agency (SATA) ensures all residents have access to affordable and efficient transportation options, which is critical for accessing health services and other essential activities.
Ensuring Affordable Housing: Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to live. Through my work on the Planning Commission, I have already worked on increasing housing development in Owosso. I will continue to address housing affordability issues, promoting policies that support the development of affordable housing units and prevent displacement.
Supporting Education and Youth Programs: Investing in our youth is investing in our future. I will champion initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and youth programs, ensuring that our children have the resources and support they need to succeed. Collaborations with local organizations, such as the Small Business Development Center and The Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, will be crucial in providing educational and training opportunities.
Increasing Access to Local and Regional Mass Transit: As a newly elected council member of the Rail Passengers Association and a vocal advocate for passenger rail, I understand the importance of affordable and accessible transportation. Owning a car is becoming increasingly expensive, and studies show that if a family can rely on one vehicle instead of two, they can save thousands of dollars annually. I will work to expand local and regional mass transit options, including enhancing bus services and advocating for improved passenger rail connections. By making mass transit more accessible, we can reduce transportation costs for families, decrease traffic congestion, and promote a more sustainable environment.
Embracing a Time of Possibility: I loved growing up in Owosso, but one thing I will never forgive the adults around me for is the impression they gave me—that Owosso would always be on the decline and never again be as nice as it was in the past. As I grew up, not only did I find this to be untrue, but I see active progress happening around us. Downtown Owosso is more vibrant and full than it has been in my entire lifetime. While we see some businesses leaving, it is important to note that more are coming to the area than leaving! The farmer's market is more active than ever, car shows and other amazing local sports and activities have returned post-COVID, and there are initiatives making trade schools and community college more affordable than they have been in decades. We live in a time of possibility, and we need to make sure Owosso is positioned to say "yes" when opportunity knocks.