By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers
RIVERVIEW – Residents will decide on a local school district operating millage proposal and select three of four candidates to fill seats on the City Council.
Incumbents David Robbins and Rita Gunaga are on the ballot, along with challengers Nicole Clark and Scott Williams.
Clark and Williams provided statements explaining why they are running and explaining their priorities if elected. Robbins and Gunaga did not respond to repeated requests for a response.
Nicole Clark
I’m a homeowner and work in Riverview as well. I’ve completed several terms on the local Economic Development Corporation and the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Elected Officials Compensation Board, and am a member of the 2040 Vision Committee and the Riverview Historical Society.
With more than two decades in business management and certification as a human resources director, I’ve built a career on bridging gaps between departments, people and ideas. My goal is to bring that same commitment to the city council and to make decisions that reflect the voices of our residents and move our city forward.
I’m not running for a title: I’m running to serve. I believe in leadership that listens, asks hard questions, and acts with integrity. Together, we can ensure our city’s future is built on trust, accountability, fiscal responsibility and opportunity.
My top priorities are to develop city council leadership that listens and transparency that builds trust.
Our city is at a turning point. As we face challenges like environmental responsibility, fiscal accountability, economic revitalization and rebuilding public trust, we need leadership that brings people together, not divides them.
With respect to the responsible landfill closure and the environmental and fiscal accountability, the health of our community and its environment must come first. I’ll push for a responsible, transparent landfill closure process, one that includes consistent public updates, clear environmental oversight and long-term plans for safe land use. Residents deserve honesty and accountability at every step.
Secondly, bringing in new businesses and growing our local economy is a priority. A thriving local economy is key to a vibrant community. I’ll work to attract businesses that share our community’s values, supporting small business development, helping remove roadblocks to their success, encouraging innovation, and revitalizing underused commercial spaces, with the Commons at Fort Steet and Sibley Road being a prime example. By streamlining city processes and strengthening partnerships, we can create jobs and opportunities for all.
Third, transparency, trust, and open communication must be a priority.
Transparency isn’t just a word, it’s a promise. I will advocate for open access to information, clear and regular public updates, and genuine two-way communication with residents. My goal is for every community member to feel informed, respected and included in the decisions that shape our city.
Fourth, collaboration and community connection happens with strong leadership that starts with listening. My approach is grounded in respect and teamwork, working with council members, city staff and residents to find common ground and practical solutions. I’m not afraid to ask questions, think differently, and stand up for what’s right for our community.
Scott Williams
I’ve lived in Riverview most of my life and care deeply about the future of our city. For the past four years, I’ve served on the Riverview Planning Commission, spending the last two as chairman, where I’ve worked to protect what makes our community special while also planning for its future. I also serve on the 2040 Vision Committee, helping shape Riverview’s long-term plan as we prepare for upcoming changes.
I’m finishing my business degree at Eastern Michigan University, combining practical and academic experience so I can help to strengthen our city’s decision-making.
If elected, my top priorities will focus on redevelopment and community improvement.
I’ll work to ensure a smooth and responsible landfill closure and redevelopment plan, reusing the site to generate new revenue for the city.
I’ll also advocate for revitalizing key corridors, like Sibley Road and Fort Street, to attract new businesses while maintaining Riverview’s character.
In addition, I’d like to establish a Fort Street District that would allow the city to use Tax Increment Financing to help business owners improve and modernize their buildings.
My goal is to listen to residents, focus on progress and ensure Riverview continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family.