I support and celebrate the uniqueness of each of our neighborhoods. We need to continue to see that they thrive and that residents feel safe.

Twenty-four years ago my father, Francis Hamilton, ran on the issue of intergovernmental cooperation. Unfortunately after 24 years, we are still not there. In these tight economic times, I strongly believe in intergovernmental cooperation. We can no longer afford to work in isolation of one another. There are many ways to work together that will save all of our governmental entities money. I would hope that this county could become a shining example for Michigan as to how communities can work together for the betterment of the entire county.

My 8 years background as a Kalamazoo Public School Board trustee has given me a firm belief that the city and its schools need to work together for successful students who can in turn become successful employees and leaders. I have always been amazed and appreciative of Kalamazoo’s dedication to our educational system. The community continually steps up when needed to support the bond issues and the educational needs of our community. Through my work with Kalamazoo Communities in Schools Foundation I have seen many service organizations in Kalamazoo pulling together for our students, our future workers. It is this type of synergy that will get students the services they may need and free the teachers to teach.

There are no quick or simple solutions to city issues. Most of the successes will take place one step at a time through a lot of hard work and cooperation. My pledge to the citizens of Kalamazoo and the city is to work diligently and cooperatively while trying to move Kalamazoo forward.