Gretchen holds an Associate Degree, a Bachelor’s Degree, and Master’s Degree in Nursing—each degree earned while working and raising her son. Gretchen was not born into a family of privilege. Rather, she and her family worked hard, and she remains willing to work to earn the American dream.

Two years into her service as the District One Commissioner, it is crystal clear that Ottawa County is exceptional. Gretchen believes Ottawa has a storied tradition and legacy that has made it a wonderful place to work, play and live. It is no wonder that Ottawa County is one of the fastest growing counties in Michigan.

As Gretchen looks forward to another term, the following is what she has learned about government, what she believes, and what she prioritizes for the work of the commissioners on behalf of the county.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED ABOUT GOVERNMENT

Leadership Matters: The last two years saw the effects of both good and bad leadership. It is imperative that roles from the County Administrator to the County Animal Control Officer be filled with people of integrity, who are committed to service, and aligned to the purpose, strategy, and objectives of our vision, values and plan.

Financial Responsibility Matters: Ottawa County has a great financial track record. However, having a financially healthy county does not give us permission to be thoughtless or wasteful in our funding choices. We must continue our journey of financial introspection and public engagement to create a budget that reflects the collective will of our community, but keeps spending—and therefore taxes—to a minimum.

Transparency Matters: We need to talk honestly and completely about the matters before us. Misinformation and fear are a lousy way to run a democracy. I will continue to make myself available, do all that is possible to present issues as I understand them and listen with open ears to continue to learn so that the right things are done. Anything else would be a departure from the principles of good governance and moderation. The primary victims in this scenario are the residents of Ottawa County, who face the consequences of these governance challenges.

WHAT I BELIEVE IS IMPORTANT

Community Economic Growth: The vibrancy of our community is inextricably linked to our economic engine. We must support businesses and create an environment where people want to work and invest.

Election Integrity: Democracy is a sacred right and forms the foundation of our government. We need to do everything possible to ensure that all eligible voters have the opportunity to vote and the confidence that their vote is counted equally alongside others.

Freedom of Speech: Systems, processes, and practices should promote the opportunity for productive discussion and dialogue. Although it requires more time and patience, I oppose all forms of censorship that hinder full understanding and individual choice.

Schools that Teach How to Think, Not What to Think: Schools are essential for preparing the next generation to be responsible and productive members of our society. Families are responsible for teaching values and morals. These two roles should remain distinct.

Parental Responsibility: We must be vigilant in protecting the rights of responsible parents to make decisions that are in the best interests of their children.

WHAT I PRIORITIZE FOR THE WORK OF THE COMMISSIONERS

Water: The northeast quadrant of Ottawa County faces significant water challenges. I am considering long-term solutions to meet both agricultural and residential water needs, optimizing the ample supply at our disposal.

Energy: I aim for a thoughtful, balanced approach to addressing the energy needs of our community, one that meets both immediate and long-term requirements. We will pursue innovation and apply it with practical consideration.

Housing: I am focusing on affordable homeownership to build community and personal wealth, as opposed to supporting rental properties that promote transient behavior and benefit only a few.

Agriculture: Agriculture is second only to manufacturing in generating economic value in Ottawa County. I am considering factors such as land use, water availability, subsidies, labor laws, technology and agricultural preservation.

Emotional and Physical Health: I am committed to identifying the needs of the community, ensuring funding for the most vulnerable and maintaining access to world-class healthcare services.

Fiscal Responsibility: I adhere to disciplined and needs-based budgeting processes that allocate funds efficiently and avoid unnecessary spending—keeping funds in the pockets of families who know best how to use them.

MY TRACK RECORD

During my first two years, I voted in favor of:

• The Constitutional County Resolution
• The Resolution to Protect Childhood Innocence
• The Adoption Day Resolution
• The Resolution Opposing State Control of Solar Siting
• The Heroes of Freedom Resolution
• The Resolution on Childhood Vaccine Waivers for School and Childcare
• The building/expansion of the Department of Veteran Affairs to prioritize our heroes of freedom
• Funding for body cameras for the Sheriff’s Department
• An increase in pay to comparable levels for the Sheriff’s Department, helping attract and retain    high quality law enforcement personnel

I voted to reject unneeded and sometimes harmful grants.

As a commissioner, I serve on the following Ottawa County boards and committees:

• Finance and Administration Committee, Chairperson
• Community Mental Health of Ottawa County, Chairperson
• Health and Human Services Committee, Vice Chairperson
• Insurance Authority, Vice Chairperson
• Talent and Recruitment Committee, Vice Chairperson
• Planning and Policy Committee
• Macatawa Area Coordinating Council

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS

Since my election in 2022 to be the District One Commissioner of Ottawa County, I have actively worked to align government actions with the community’s needs. Recognizing the county’s exceptional growth and vibrant community, I have championed transparent governance, financial responsibility, and integrity in leadership.

I will continue to focus on economic growth, election integrity, freedom of speech, sustainable solutions for water management, energy needs, affordable housing, and agricultural development—vital for the county’s economy.

Lastly, consistent with my extensive experience in nursing and healthcare leadership, I will continue to have a passionate commitment to public service, driving impactful governance in Ottawa County. I will serve where and as needed on boards, committees, and with the county departments to foster a thriving, resilient community.

INVOLVEMENT

• Associate, Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Nursing
• 30 years in Nursing Leadership
• Right to Life of Michigan PAC exclusive endorsement
• Precinct Delegate for Park 1
• Member of the Executive Committee for the Ottawa County Republican Party