Our hometown newspaper the Livonia Observer. . .

Bahr - Bahr is principled and committed to Livonia, where he was born and raised and has chosen to raise his own family. He wants to see the city attract and retain other young families like his by keeping the crime rate and taxes low and continuing to provide great services. He is a member of the Livonia Planning Commission and Livonia Community Marketing Consortium.

Dogonski - Dogonski, the Democratic nominee for 19th District State representative last November, is articulate and understands the issues. She is a resident of the south side of town, where she serves as president of the Clements Circle Civic Association. As a member of the Livonia PTSA Council executive board, she will help with communication between the city and school district.

Gierak - A political newcomer, Gierak grew up in the Clarenceville School District section of Livonia, an oft underrepresented area of the city. As a young family man and blue-collar worker, Gierak would bring a fresh perspective to council. He has the endorsement of Livonia City Council President Maureen Brosnan, Livonia City Councilwoman Laura Toy, and former state Sen. Glenn Anderson.

Jolly - A former magistrate for 16th District Court, Jolly is an attorney in Livonia who also works for Lawrence Technological University. His priorities include attracting more young families to Livonia by creating programing and events that meet their needs and get them involved in the community. His ideas include more community festivals, such as an art or strawberry festival.

King - A perennial candidate, King is probably best known as the frontman of Steve King & the Dittlies classic rock band. King served on the Livonia school board and ran unsuccessfully for city council and the state House. On the school board, he thought outside of the box and was not afraid to vote against the administration's recommendation if he didn't agree with it. A graduate of Bentley High School, King is passionate about the city and says he would work to create downtown space, specifically at Five Mile and Farmington.

Klisz - An attorney with an office in Livonia, Klisz has lived in the city since he was 2. He and his wife, Deanna, also a nearly lifelong resident, chose to raise their family here, too. Klisz offers some unique ideas including a citywide Wi-Fi network with free access in city buildings, parks and sporting arenas and developing Greenmead Historical Park into a "downtown" since it already has the feel and look of a downtown.

Kritzman - The only incumbent running, Kritzman would provide stability on the council. He has earned the respect of community leaders and citizens alike. His accomplishments include designing the Larry Nehasil Park and the Fallen Heroes Monument. If Kritzman receives the most votes, he would become the council president for the next two years. He has the vision and knowledge to be an effective leader who would bring positive change to the community.

McIntyre - McIntyre is energetic and would be a fully engaged member of council, carefully studying the issues before making decisions. A former Zoning Board of Appeals member and a current Planning Commission member, she completed the Michigan State University Political Leadership program as a fellow. Her experience as a Regional Director of Governmental Affairs for Ford Motor Co. has helped her learn how government and business can effectively work together.

White - As the retired chief assistant city attorney, White has a deep understanding of Livonia and its issues and institutional knowledge that would be useful for newer members of council. As an attorney, she thoroughly analyzes problems, knows what questions to ask and would be a good coalition builder. She supports the idea of a business roundtable to assist with economic development and would like to see the city offer more services online.