Experienced Incumbent Seeks Another Term in Farmington Hills

As the only incumbent running for re-election in Farmington Hills, Michael Bridges said he wants to maintain the city's reputation for fiscal stability, safety and good service. 

Bridges won a special election in August of 2008, ousting appointee Robert Mason, then won a 4-year term in 2009. He said he believes the city is "in pretty good shape", but continues to face big financial challenges because of losses in property tax and state shared revenues. 

"I'm proud of the fact that we are a stable community, and we have weathered the financial storm," he said. "We have put plans in place to ensure we continue to be a safe city." 

Bridges said he walks in the community every day, and residents tell him they are very satisfied overall with city government and the level of services provided.

He and his wife, Deborah, have two sons, Chauncey, a senior at North Farmington High, and Michael Chad, a student at Ohio Northern University. 

Why he decided to run
"I believe I have the necessary experience, skills and knowledge of the city to do an effective job as a council person," Bridges said. 

Community connections
Bridges serves on the Farmington YMCA board and with the Commission on Children, Youth and Families and Transportation Riders United, which advocates for mass transit. 

Employment
After 20 years with Johnson & Johnson, Bridges now works for Mission Pharmacal, in sales. 

Campaign information
Nothing online. 

Editor's note: This is article is one in a series of profiles and issues-based articles featuring candidates in this year's Farmington Hills city council race.