Priorities
Dave's plan is simple and sequenced: master the fundamentals of the office, then use that foundation to give residents more voice and more visibility into city finances.
Fulfill the charter-mandated audit and oversight duties.
The Comptroller is the city’s independent watchdog over public money. Before anything else, that means doing the fundamentals well: independent audits, sound financial controls, accurate records, and honest reporting to the City Commission and to residents.
Give residents a direct hand in how money is spent.
Participatory budgeting lets neighbors help decide how public dollars get used in their community. Dave wants to expand it in Grand Rapids, so the budget becomes something built with residents rather than handed to them.
Show residents what the City pays for, and what it gets back.
Residents deserve a clear picture of where their money goes. Dave will work to show the public what the City is paying for and the return on investment for tax credits, incentives, and similar funding tools, so residents can judge the results for themselves.
A seasoned civic leader and lifelong advocate. Experience matters.
Three decades of public service as a nonprofit leader, an attorney, a school board member, and a five-term county commissioner, plus a lifetime of advocacy for accessible, inclusive communities. Dave brings the experience the office demands, and a commitment to making government work for everyone.
Pitch in, lend your name, or chip in what you can. Every bit helps build a more transparent, accountable Grand Rapids.