WATER RESOURCES COMMISSIONER – REPUBLICAN
Four-year term
STEVE JOHNSON
Steve Johnson of Highland Township is principal consultant with ICAS. His undergrad degree is from SUNY State University of New York, with a BS in business management and economics; he has an MBA from Plymouth State University.
Role of water resources commissioner
There are many laws, regulations, and guidelines, such as: Michigan State law, known as Drain Code, Act 40 of 1956, Michigan Safe Drinking Water Act, Public Act 399 of 1976, Act 451 Water Quality Rules, State and Federal Wetland Regulations, and Michigan’s Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), Part 327, declares that groundwater and surface water are one single hydrologic system. Plus, many more! These regulations give many legal definitions of responsibilities.
I would say that water is life; without it, we are nothing. We are so very fortunate to live in the Great Lakes region, which has abundant resources. The role of the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner is to protect and be a good steward of those resources. Following the laws listed above, providing enforcement as needed. Taking care of our great resources and protecting them for future generations.
Underground and surface waters
As your Water Resource Commissioner, my priority would be to conduct a comprehensive review of the latest scientific data and consult with environmental experts to fully understand the implications of such regulations. In the interim, I strongly encourage all residents and local communities to exercise prudent and environmentally conscious use of fertilizers and chemicals. By raising awareness and promoting best practices, we can make significant strides in protecting our water quality. Furthermore, I am committed to collaborating with local communities, environmental organizations and relevant stakeholders to explore and advocate for effective measures that can mitigate any negative impacts on our water resources. While I do not see myself as a lobbyist, I am fully dedicated to using my office's resources to support policies grounded in scientific evidence and ensure our water systems' long-term health and sustainability. Together, we can ensure that Oakland County remains a steward of clean and safe water for generations to come.
Septic testing at point of sale
As your Water Resource Commissioner, my commitment would be to safeguard our water resources through thoughtful and effective measures. While I am not a lobbyist, I believe in the power of collaboration and public awareness to drive meaningful change. My approach would be to launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign, partnering with industry experts, the real estate brokerage industry, home builders, construction companies and other stakeholders. Initially, we would promote the testing of septic systems as a recommended best practice during home sales. This phased approach would allow us to gather valuable data and feedback, helping to refine the process before considering a transition to a regulatory mandate. Moreover, the implementation of such a requirement would need to be meticulously planned. This includes establishing a certification process, maintaining accurate records and ensuring effective administration. By thoughtfully phasing in these practices, we can build a foundation of compliance and support within the community, ultimately leading to better protection of our water resources. In conclusion, I am committed to exploring and promoting initiatives that protect our water supplies, and I believe that a well-planned and collaborative approach is essential for success. Together, we can work towards ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of our water systems in Oakland County.
Global warming prevention
If elected as the Water Resources Commissioner, I recognize the critical role that the office plays in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. While climate patterns have fluctuated between warmer and colder periods over time, we are currently experiencing a significant warming cycle. Although this trend may not always remain constant, it is crucial to take proactive measures now to mitigate its impacts. Although our primary focus is on water management, there are several impactful actions we can take to contribute to the reduction of global warming: Promoting Sustainable Water Management Practices: By implementing and advocating for sustainable water management practices, we can reduce energy consumption associated with water treatment and distribution. Encouraging the use of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, helps to manage stormwater more effectively and reduce the carbon footprint of traditional infrastructure. Supporting Renewable Energy Initiatives: Where feasible, integrating renewable energy sources into our water facilities can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, installing solar panels at water treatment plants or utilizing biogas from wastewater treatment processes can help to power these facilities sustainably. Enhancing Water Efficiency: By promoting water conservation and efficiency programs, we can decrease the demand for water pumping and treatment, both of which require substantial energy. Public education campaigns and incentives for using water-efficient appliances can play a vital role in this effort. Protecting and Restoring Wetlands: Wetlands are natural carbon sinks that help sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Our office can prioritize the protection, restoration, and expansion of wetland areas within Oakland County, contributing to both water quality improvements and climate change mitigation. Advocating for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: As climate change leads to more extreme weather events, it's crucial to invest in infrastructure that can withstand these changes. This includes upgrading stormwater systems to handle increased rainfall and prevent flooding, which can reduce the overall environmental impact and improve community resilience. Reducing Operational Emissions: Our office can lead by example by adopting energy-efficient practices and technologies within our operations. This includes optimizing the energy use of our facilities, transitioning to low-emission vehicles, and implementing sustainable procurement practices. In conclusion, while the primary focus of the Water Resources Commissioner is on water management, we have numerous opportunities to contribute to the reduction of global warming. Through sustainable practices, renewable energy initiatives, water efficiency programs, wetland protection, climate-resilient infrastructure and reducing operational emissions, we can make a significant impact. By taking these proactive measures, we can help ensure a more sustainable and resilient future for Oakland County, regardless of future climate trends.
Major issues facing water resources commissioner
If elected as the Water Resources Commissioner, I am keenly aware of the significant challenges and opportunities we are facing in both the short and long term. As Water Resource Commissioner, my mission is to protect and manage water resources, which requires us to address emerging threats and leverage innovative technologies. Key issues we are focusing on include: Nanoplastics Contamination: Recent studies have shown that nanoplastics, tiny plastic particles, are increasingly being detected in the environment and even within human bodies, such as in testicular tissue. This alarming discovery underscores the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies. Emerging technologies offer promising solutions for nanoplastic mitigation, and I am committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements to ensure the safety of our water resources. PFAS Contamination: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent a significant environmental and public health challenge. Known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment, PFAS are found in water supplies and pose serious health risks. While existing filtration technologies provide some relief, they are not yet adequate. I am dedicated to exploring and implementing cutting-edge technologies that can more effectively remove PFAS from our water systems, safeguarding public health. Water Affordability: Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable water is a critical concern. While I currently do not have access to detailed financial information, I am committed to studying and developing a program that offers a basic allotment of water to residential customers at little or no cost. This could be structured with a graduated scale, where those who exceed the basic allotment would pay incrementally higher rates. Commercial and industrial customers would be excluded from this plan to focus on residential needs. This approach aims to balance the need for affordability with responsible water usage. Long-Term Sustainability: Beyond these immediate concerns, I’m also focused on the long-term sustainability of our water resources. This includes promoting water conservation, enhancing the resilience of our infrastructure to climate change, and protecting natural water bodies and wetlands. By investing in sustainable practices and infrastructure, we can ensure that Oakland County’s water resources remain abundant and safe for future generations. Public Engagement and Education: Engaging the community and educating the public about these issues is vital. By fostering a collaborative approach with residents, businesses, and local governments, we can build a stronger, more informed community that actively participates in the stewardship of our water resources.
Validity of voting returns
As the Water Resources Commissioner, my primary focus would be on safeguarding and managing our water resources to ensure the health and well-being of our community. The role of Water Resources Commissioner is fundamentally apolitical, dedicated to addressing critical environmental and infrastructural issues that impact all residents, regardless of political affiliation. Regarding the question about the validity of voting returns, I believe in the importance of upholding the integrity of our democratic processes. While the 2020 presidential election did appear to have an abnormal number of irregularities, it ultimately was certified by state and national authorities following thorough reviews and audits. Similarly, I have full confidence in the electoral process for the upcoming 2024 national and state elections and will respect the certified results as determined by the appropriate election officials.
It is essential to focus on the responsibilities of my office, which include addressing pressing issues such as water quality, infrastructure improvements and sustainable resource management. By concentrating on these vital areas, we can make meaningful progress that benefits our entire community.
Why vote for you?
As a candidate for Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner, I bring a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set that uniquely position me to address the critical issues facing our water resources. My extensive background in corporate management, technology, and strategic planning sets me apart from my opponents in several key ways: Strategic Planning and Business Analysis: With advanced degrees in business administration and strategic marketing management, I have a strong foundation in strategic planning and business analysis. My consulting experience has honed my ability to develop and execute comprehensive strategic plans, including market research, product development, and go-to-market strategies. This analytical approach will be invaluable in creating and implementing effective policies for water resource management. Technological Expertise: My career in technology fields, including software, industrial controls, and sophisticated systems equips me with a deep understanding of advanced technologies that can be leveraged for water management. My work has involved cutting-edge solutions for testing, data acquisition, and embedded control development, all of which require a high level of technical acumen and innovation. Leadership and Relationship Building: In my previous roles, I have successfully navigated complex legal and regulatory environments, developed brand concepts and grown distribution networks. These leadership skills, coupled with my ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders, will help foster collaboration with local communities, businesses, and government agencies to address water resource challenges. Experience in Environmental and Industrial Applications: My consulting work has included projects focused on advanced automotive technologies, mechanical test systems, and industrial computing. This experience is directly relevant to managing water resources, where understanding the environmental impact and integrating advanced monitoring and mitigation technologies are crucial. Public Policy and Regulatory Knowledge: I have a solid grasp of social, economic and environmental policies. This knowledge, combined with my practical experience in navigating regulatory environments, will enable me to effectively advocate for policies that protect our water resources and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability: Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a commitment to innovation and sustainability. I have consistently prioritized sustainable practices, from developing eco-friendly brand concepts to consulting on cause-marketing business plans for non-profits focused on food security. This dedication will be essential in promoting sustainable water management and addressing issues such as nanoplastics and PFAS contamination. In conclusion, my unique blend of strategic, technical, and leadership skills and my commitment to innovation and sustainability make me exceptionally well-prepared to serve as Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner. I am confident that my background and expertise will enable me to effectively manage our water resources and ensure a sustainable future for our community.
