After serving a dozen years on the Lake Orion Community Schools? Board of Education, Trustee Bob Gritzinger is ready to hand off the baton.
With a new position at work, increased travel and a heavier share of responsibility, Gritzinger said he wants to spend what little free time he has focused on family endeavors and other interests.
‘I’d love to be able to give my son his diploma in two years, but it’s probably more important to coach baseball and help out with the marching band,? Gritzinger said, noting he’s also involved in the American Legion and other community organizations.
But he didn’t hesitate to point out other parts of the equation in his decision to hang up his school board hat, either.
‘The last three years have been very trying,? he said, citing a number of difficulties with former Superintendent Ken Gutman, as well as former School Board President Bill Walters.
Gritzinger’s seat is just one of five up for grabs in the May 3 Board of Education Election. Those who wish to run must file with the Oakland County Elections Division no later than 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 8.
Neither Janet Wolverton nor Kelly Weaver had turned in necessary documentation as of Monday, but both said they plan to run for four-year terms.
Trustee Steven Drakos, who opted to pay a $100 fee in lieu of collecting signatures,’also plans to run; he’s registered at the county clerk’s office and is seeking a two-year term.
Trustee Tiffany Weber-Phillips did not return a phone message inquiring about her candidacy status.
Those who prefer can turn in nominating petitions. For a district the size of Lake Orion, potential candidates must collect a minimum of 40/maximum of 100 signatures from qualified and registered electors of the school district, or the $100 nonrefundable filing fee.
In addition to current board members, three additional candidates tossed their hat in the ring thus far: Terrie Campbell, Birgit McQuiston and Melissa Miller are each seeking a four-year term.
School Board President Mary Jo Burchart, originally elected to the board in 2000, and Treasurer Jim Weidman, first elected in 2001, are both currently serving terms ending in 2013.
A candidate who wishes to seek election to the board as a write-in candidate must file a Declaration of Intent no later than 4 p.m., April 22
Questions regarding the election of school board members can be addressed to the
Oakland County Elections Division, 1200 North Telegraph Rd. Pontiac MI 48341
Call the Division at 248-858-0564 or Email elections@oakgov.com