North Kent News

The Kent County treasurer position is up for grabs because current treasurer, Ken Parrish, a Republican, decided not to seek a seventh term.

This open position will be decided between Michigan Sen. Peter MacGregor (R-Rockford) and Democrat Beth White, an attorney. Each of the candidate's stances on key issues were reported by MLive. 

MacGregor has served the state since 2014 and currently represents the 26th District. He has achieved a master's degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University. With years of experience in state government, MacGregor has a detailed understanding of the duties that the treasurer would be tasked with. 

Sen. Peter MacGregor | #MiSenateGOP

White is the former Kalamazoo County Corporate Counsel. She was terminated after the county stated that she did not complete her work with enough speed. White brought a lawsuit for wrongful termination on the basis that the county set unrealistic expectations and time lines for work to be completed. She has served in government as legal counsel for more than a decade and has experience with the intricacies of relevant laws. 

Both candidates stated that they are in the race because of a deep feeling of obligation to serve their community and a passion for public service. MacGregor says that one of his first priorities will be expanding the benefit of his expertise beyond tax collection. He states that it's his goal to make resources more readily available for children and help push forward initiatives to provide value to the community.

White states that although she is not a politician, she feels a moral obligation to get involved in her community and effect change from within, something she says is lacking in state and local government today.