Trotter Says He Would Provide a Relief Program for Businesses

Christopher Trotter said he's running for a seat on the "to show my children it's possible to make a difference in our community."

The 11-year resident owns a small tree service and said that if elected, he would bring the lessons he's learned running his own business to the table.

"I'm in tune with the economic challenges of today," Trotter said. "I plan to use my business sense to help the city run a lean, strong budget."

His campaign is focused on four areas of concern: economic development, business loss, saving homes and public safety. Trotter supports the 1.7-mill public safety millage that will also be on the Nov. 8 ballot.

"We have great support from our Police Department and Fire Department," he said, pointing out that Farmington Hills is the 30th safest city in the country. "I support the millage that will keep our city beautiful and safe." (The designation refers to the of crime statistics in nearly 400 U.S. cities.)

Trotter said that when it comes to bringing new business into the city, officials should investigate all possibilities to encourage economic development.

One aspect of his campaign, which he said makes him different from the other candidates in the race, is his emphasis on schools and education.

He plans to launch a website, "Trotter's College Initiatives," to help students looking to further their education beyond high school. He believes "putting an emphasis on communication and one-on-one interaction in our schools is crucial."

Trotter said that as a City Council member, he would not just work with school officials but would be in the schools as well.

"That's what I want to do differently," he said, "is to be more involved.

"I come from two generations that served in the Farmington school system," he said. "I'm excited about this opportunity to work with teachers and parents in the community and to hear their concerns."

Trotter said he believes that working together with the schools and with other communities is a way of leveraging resources to save money and strengthen the city.

He said that if elected, he plans to take a close look at the budget and would look to the city's management team for specifics.

"We hire the best people to handle this," he said. "And I will support and work with them."

While Trotter was unable to attend two recent public forums — held by the Council of Homeowner Associations and the — he did send members of his campaign team to read statements on his behalf.

"We all need a strong team behind us," he said. "Be assured, I will address every City Council vote and attend and support city events and functions and respond to residents' calls and concerns. I have (kept), and will always keep, Farmington Hills first."

Trotter and his wife, Tiffany, have two children, Cruise, 2, and Chris, 6. For more information about his campaign, email teamtrotter@yahoo.com.