The following is Watershed Voice’s candidate questionnaire for November’s Colon village trustee election. We will run all completed questionnaires from candidates in contested general election races in the order they’re received prior to Election Day.
Matthew Smith filled out our questionnaire. These are his answers. Smith, a challenger, faces incumbent Mickey Blashfield and fellow challengers Donald Scott D’Water, Jan Jones, John Sterlini, Keith M. Stickley, and Carl Thornton. The seven candidates are running for three village trustee offices.
Name: Matthew Frederick Smith
Age: 45
Address: 216 South Saint Joseph Street Colon, Michigan 49040
Party affiliation: N/A
Are you an incumbent? No
Family (optional): I am married and a Dad of 6 kids
Background/Bio:
I was raised in Colon, Michigan, and I graduated from Colon High School in 1998. I moved to Seattle shortly after graduating. While on the West Coast, I worked for Boeing (787 Final Assembly) and the USPS (Mail Carrier) and experienced many things that have helped shape me into the man I am today. I recently moved back to Colon after the passing of my Dad in September 2023. I am now working with the USPS here in Colon.
Why did you choose to run for village trustee?
The village of Colon is a special place for me. When I heard that the council needed a few new members, I knew it was something I needed to pursue. I value honesty and integrity more than anything – other than my faith in God. These are attributes I bring into everything I do – working on the village council will be no exception.
Have you previously held public office, or have you served in a public leadership role? If so, what is your experience, and what are some of your accomplishments?
I have not worked or served in a public leadership role or any other public office – I have, however, pursued personal development throughout my entire adult life and I know I would be a positive addition to the council.
What are the three most important issues facing your village and constituents?
The village council must work together to find common ground solutions and do what is best for the people of Colon and the village as a whole.
Every resident has something to add and we must listen with the desire to understand them and ensure they are heard in order to make any informed decisions.
We must follow through in a timely manner to every request or complaint or idea that is presented – we must do what we say we will do. Every time.
How will you work with your fellow village citizens, village leaders, and/or county leaders if elected?
If I am elected to serve on the council, I will bring a common sense approach to any issue or proposal that is presented. I am capable of looking at any situation objectively to help find the best possible outcome for all involved. Effective communication, as a team, is essential in this process. I will bring my love for this little town along with honesty and integrity and do whatever is required as a member of this council. to make Colon a better place for all who live, work, and play here.
How would your term in office differ from previous terms, including your own, if applicable?
N/A
Is there anything else your prospective constituents should know about you, your platform, your views, or your background?
I pledge to do the duties of a village council trustee to the best of my ability and strive for growth – personally and as a council, for the betterment of the village of Colon. I would be honored to be a part of that process. Thank you for your consideration.
