Novi Mayoral Candidate: Justin Fischer

On the Nov. 8 election ballot, Novi residents will pick a new mayor for a two-year term. Current Mayor David Landry's term ends this year.

Novi City Council member Justin Fischer is running against Novi Mayor Pro-tem for the office. Fischer submitted these answers to questions asked by Patch.

Age

28

Occupation

Executive Compensation and Equity Analyst, Corporate Financial Reporting, Ford Motor Company

Current and past community involvement

Novi City Councilmember; 2009 - Present

Zoning Board of Appeals; 2004-2009

Treasurer, Novi Parks Foundation; 2007-2009

Treasurer, Pointe Park Homeowners Association; 2008 - 2009

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Graduate

Office of Congressman Mike Rogers

Office of Senator Nancy Cassis

Education

MBA, Michigan State University Eli Broad College of Business

BA, Finance, Michigan State University Eli Broad College of Business

Novi High School

Family

Wife, Melissa

How long have you been a Novi resident? 

Lifelong Resident

Why are you running for office?

I am running for Mayor of Novi because I care about the long-term future and viability of Novi.  My wife Melissa and I both grew up in Novi, and plan to raise our children here. 

I believe that my financial background, education, and sound judgment will prove valuable as we continue to face unprecedented economic times.   I further believe that my experience giving back to the city of Novi will help me provide the leadership and fresh perspective so we can continue to build on our strengths and create the Novi of tomorrow.

Novi residents expect and deserve a Mayor who will serve with professionalism and integrity.  I would be honored to work with residents to take Novi to even greater heights.

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

The biggest issue we face as a city continues to be declines in revenue.  Thus far, I commend the city administration’s efforts in dealing with dwindling economic resources and declines in revenue, and have been proud to have been a part council while we made very tough choices over the last few years.

When dealing with declines in revenue, all options must be on the table; I believe it is irresponsible for an elected official to declare that certain services, employees, or programs are untouchable when facing falling revenue.

I am hopeful we have made all required layoffs over the past few years.  To deal with further cuts I would encourage a balanced approach with strategic cost cutting to minimize the impact to residents.  Minor cutbacks throughout the city make more sense than complete elimination of a particular program or service.  

If elected, what are some of your goals for the city?

My main goal would be to maintain the quality of life Novi residents have come to expect despite the economic times we continue to face.  I would work to ensure that Novi not only offers a broad array of services, that all services are first-rate, and that they are run in an efficient manner.

Another goal is to continue development of our sense of community.  We know that many people move to Novi for the schools.  We must further develop and showcase the many City services and amenities to attract people of all ages, from newlywed couples to seniors enjoying their retirement. 

Lastly, it would be my goal to continue diversification of our tax base while promoting responsible Land Use in accordance with our Master Plan.  We are at a pivotal time in Novi’s growth, and must always consider what we want from our city many years in the future.

Why should Novi residents vote for you?

I believe Novi residents should vote for me because of the strong, financial and business acumen that I would bring to the office.  This coupled with my dedication to serving the residents of Novi in various appointed and elected capacities shows the commitment that I have for moving our community forward.  I am not afraid to be an independent voice that will stand up for residents of Novi, not anyone else.

How can residents contact you?

Phone:  248-797-4368

E-mail:  Justin@fischerfornovi.com

Website:  www.FischerForNovi.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/JustinPFischer