Who's Running for Birmingham City Commission on Nov. 5?

The Nov. 5 general election is upon us, and voters in Birmingham will have choices to make about city leadership at the polls.

Four candidates filed nominating petitions for the three open seats on the Birmingham City Commission, according to the Oakland County Clerk's Office.

Rackeline Hoff

• Background: Two-time former mayor and city commissioner since 2001; senior mediator with the Oakland Mediation Center.
• Top Issues: Fiscal responsibility, meeting library and senior needs, and infrastructure updates.
• Reason for running: I decided to run again because I want to continue to be involved in the decision making that is critical to maintaining Birmingham’s financial stability, its quality services/programs and its beautiful environment.

Mark Nickita

• Background: Resident of 25 years; former planning board member, mayor and current city commissioner.
• Top issues: Continuing to manage ourcity’s current economic budget demands, specifically increasing legacy costs.
• Reason for running: I will continue to work with my colleagues to set priorities and resolve difficult issues related to budgets, tax revenue and community development challenges. My experience as an architect, urban designer and advocate for enhancing neighborhoods and promoting a pedestrian-friendly downtown gives me unique insight into our community.

Stuart Sherman

• Background: Former mayor, mayor-pro tem, and current city commissioner. 
• Top issues: Vigilance with city finances, receiving community input,  and continue to address infrastructure and services to seniors.
• Reason for running: We are continuously improving our neighborhoods, our parks, and reinvigorating our downtown. We have made these improvements to our city without raising the operating millage tax rate during these difficult economic times. We have made great progress and I want to continue working for you.

Vicki Walsh

• Background: Assistant Macomb County prosecutor — child protection unit; life-long resident.
• Top issues: Senior services, start a downtown recycling program; public safety.
• Reason for running: My unique set of work and life experiences are unparalleled on the current commission, and I can, therefore, bring a fresh perspective on current issues facing the city.

Information provided by the Oakland County League of Women Voters. For more, visit the League's Voter Guides.

This story was updated to reflect Vicki Walsh works in the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office.