Newcomer Candidate Seeks Novi Mayoral Seat

The mayoral seat is up for re-election in Novi on Nov. 5. Candidate Joseph Samona is running against Mayor Bob Gatt and fellow candidate Jason George Wellington Dorsch. 

Samona answered questions from Patch about his campaign platform. 

Could you tell us about your education, relevant to this position?
I am a student at Wayne State University with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology. I plan on starting law school in August 2014 and plan to practice trial law (primarily Criminal Defense). I am also a realtor which you can learn more about how that can help the people if you read further to question 2. 

Could you tell us about your personal or professional background, relevant to this position?
I am a realtor with Real Estate One Max Broock and I am a multimillion dollar producer. I am very well involved with many commercial and residential developers who could and would bring more opportunities to our fine and growing city.

How long have you lived in Novi?
I have lived in Novi, with my Parents and Grandmother, since 2003. 

Do you have an activity relevant to this position or an endorsement which you would like readers to know of?
I have been active in many Church Activities as well as school student council. I believe I possess great leadership qualities. 

Could you summarize why you are running for mayor?
I love to be involved directly in the city to try and help the people of the city. I am running for mayor because I feel the city is being taken off track and needs some positive direction in directing it to success. 

What do you think are the greatest issues facing the city? How would you handle them?
The number one sole greatest issue is public safety. I have said this time and time again. I would sit down with the police chief and examine the policies and processes that are currently in place to try and derive a better plan of action. I definitely would like to see more police activity with the public and businesses. Unfortunately, some people including but not limited to police officers, do not realize that being an Officer does not just mean writing a ticket or arresting people. It needs to be more such as helping people rather than scourging them for an incident. 

What questions do you have for Samona? Tell us in the comments.