Candidate Profile: Richard Karlowski, Royal Oak Commissioner

ROYAL OAK, MI — There are three seats open for Royal Oak Commissioner in November's general elections.

To help readers make informed choices, Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Richard Karlowski is running for Royal Oak Commissioner. Here's how he filled out his candidate profile:

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Age (as of Election Day)

63

Position Sought

Royal Oak Commissioner

Family

None

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

BS, Michigan Technological University; MSIE, University of Michigan

Occupation

Recently retired engineer (40+ years in the automotive and defense vehicle industry, including electric propulsion) with experience and knowledge in program and project management. Know how to analyze data and financial projections

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

None

Campaign website

www.electrick2021.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am running for the city commission because I am deeply concerned about plans to change the Master Plan and Zoning Ordinances to allow additional multi-family dwellings and backyard rental units in all single-family neighborhoods. Duplex/multi-family buildings usually become rental units, which studies have shown result in lower property values and less stable/family friendly neighborhoods. Equally concerned .about Royal Oak's structural budget deficit which, if not addressed, will result in the need to raise taxes.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

From the last budget meetings, we have a structural deficit that will result in a negative cash flow in a few years (we are currently using rainy day funds to cover the shortfall), even if the Public Safety Millage is renewed. This issue must be addressed NOW before the only alternative is ever escalating tax burdens on residents and business. We need to review ALL newly created positions (like our new deputy city manager position) and expenditures on a cost/benefit basis., and not continue to give tax breaks and give-aways to developers.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I do NOT believe we need to re-write the city Master Plan that has resulted in a city that is diverse, safe, and family friendly that is in-demand. instead, let's modify the plan as required for de facto changes to certain areas, and not loosen single family zoning requirements that have served us well.

I have worked in industry where maintaining a budget while getting the job done was a required skill. Know how to analysis items from a cost/benefit/need view, and the potential long term costs of signing up for "free money".

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

We gave away $5.5 million in cash and sold a $1 million plus piece of city property to a developer for $1. We have a highly desirable city, yet we act like the cheap date when developers make demands. We need to enforce our current zoning ordinances with regard to density and set-back requirements so those who already invested in our city can continue to enjoy their time here.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

• Ban new multi-family and auxiliary structures in zoned single-family neighborhoods.
• Strengthen rental and AirBnB license requirements to make landlords more responsible for tenant actions.
• Require any land usage change requests have a sign placed in front of the property so everybody in the neighborhood knows what is being proposed, not just those getting a letter who live within 300 ft.
• Make parks a priority - fix the drainage issues and add amenities like disk golf courts.
• Upgrade the Senior Center - incorporate workshops and more social events. Increase senior bus service hours.
• Develop programs to address flooding issues and support permeable surface/set-back requirement.
• Schedule regular Townhalls to make citizen feedback easier.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have spent 40 plus years in project management in a demanding industry, I know how to assess proposals and alternatives

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Put a little aside every week for the future. Allowed me to retire this year.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Resident for over 14 years. Own a 120 year old home near downtown. Currently a member of the RO Traffic Committee and treasurer of the RO Historical Commission; formerly a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Also volunteers at Pan Equus Animal Sanctuary in Oxford, Michigan. Moved to Royal Oak because of it's older home choices, numerous parks, great Farmer's Market and friendly downtown.