Councilman Mutch Seeks Third Term in Novi

There are three Novi city council seats and the mayoral seat up for re-election on Nov. 5. Councilman Andrew Mutch is seeking re-election to keep his spot.

Mutch answered questions from Patch about his campaign platform for city council.

Could you tell us about your education, relevant to this position?

As someone who has worked in a field – information technology – far different from my past educational studies, many of the skills and much of the  knowledge I’ve acquired over the years have been developed outside of the traditional classroom setting. I’ve brought the same approach to my role as a city councilmember. I have relied on more than my education and professional training to set policies and provide oversight while serving as your representative in city government. I have broadened and deepened my knowledge of how city government functions and what we can do to make it work better for Novi residents.

Could you tell us about your personal or professional background, relevant to this position?

I have worked in the information technology field for almost 19 years. I have worked for three different municipal governments, the past 15 with the Waterford Township Public Library and the Charter Township of Waterford. My experience has been invaluable preparation for working on the wide range of issues the Novi City Council must resolve. Working for local government, I know firsthand the challenges that city employees faced in providing services as city revenues declined and demands for services increased. I also know the role local government can play in making our communities better places to live.

How long have you lived in Novi?

I am a life-long resident of 41 years. My wife Wendy and I live in a historic 1926 Sears Catalog house.

Do you have an activity relevant to this position or an endorsement which you would like readers to know of?

I have served on the City Council for eight years. I chair the Walkable Novi committee. I have served on the Planning Commission, the Library Board and the Housing and Community Development Advisory committee. I have been the city’s delegate to the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) and currently serve on SEMCOG’s Budget and Finance Committee

I have had the privilege of support and endorsements of Novi residents and business owners from all areas of the city in each of my City Council campaigns. Their continued support is the foundation of my election success and is greatly appreciated!

Could you summarize why you are running for city council?

Over the past four years, I’ve worked with my fellow Councilmembers to lead Novi through the challenges that came with the economic recession, cuts in local and state funding and subsequent reductions in the city’s workforce. Through difficult but necessary choices, the city maintained services to residents and businesses in a fiscally responsible manner.  Novi is well-positioned to move forward in a positive direction and to take advantage of new opportunities as the economy improves. I am prepared and committed to lead Novi forward so that Novi continues to be a great place to live.

What do you think are the greatest issues facing the city? How would you handle them?

1. Responsible Government: City government must continue to live within its means. I will insist on balanced budgets, paying down debt, prioritizing services and reducing legacy costs.  I support key investments in city facilities and infrastructure. 
2. Neighborhoods First: Novi residents expect, and deserve, safe neighborhoods with well-maintained streets. I am focused on neighborhood-centered initiatives providing affordable services and improving property values.
3. Sensible Development: Economic recovery is bringing new developments. Growth should be high-quality, adhere to the Master Plan, not detract from residential areas nor generate excessive traffic. High standards ensure new developments are compatible with existing homes and businesses. Balancing development with the preservation of woodlands and open spaces contributes significantly to Novi’s community identity and quality of life.