MORGAN COUNTY — This week’s Voter Guide highlights the many contested races at the local level. Originally, the two contested trustee races were to be included, but due to space constraints, they had to be pulled at the last minute.
Therefore, we opted to include them in this week’s edition in the same format they would have been printed in the Voter Guide.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE
Matt Davidson
*Did not respond
Daniel Eberle
Occupation: Senior Investigator (Fraud Waste and Abuse)
Education: MBA, Western Governors University; B.L.S., University of Maine at Presque Isle (Political Science, Pre-Law)
Community affiliations: Jackson Township Advisory Board
Family: Married to Kristina and proud father to their 4-year-old son, Jerry
General biography: Daniel Eberle is a Senior Investigator specializing in financial fraud, waste, and abuse and a member of the Township Advisory Board. He holds an MBA and has a background in public service and investigations. He is focused on accountability, transparency, and responsible government for township residents.
Questions
Why do you want to run for this office?
Eberle: I’m running for Trustee because I’ve seen the impact the 540% tax increase has had on my family and neighbors. Township government should answer to its citizens, yet too many residents feel ignored, and disrespected. I’m stepping forward to ensure every resident has a voice and government that listens.
What relevant experience do you have to hold this position?
Eberle: As a Senior Investigator, I investigate financial fraud, waste, and abuse by analyzing data, identifying irregularities, and holding people accountable. That same approach is needed in township government. I serve on the Jackson Township Advisory Board and have experience budgeting and making financial decisions as a business owner.
Why should voters cast a ballot for you?
Eberle: Voters should support me if they want accountability and real action on the issues that matter — especially protecting taxpayers from unnecessary tax increases. Township government should respect residents, operate transparently, and focus on results, not excuses. I’m running to fix what isn’t working and ensure every tax dollar is used responsibly and openly.
My opponent voted himself into the Trustee position through the caucus process to preserve the status quo. I’m asking for your vote because local government should represent the citizens that it serves — not itself.
MADISON TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE
Larry Ellis
Occupation: Retired
Education: Some college
Community affiliations: Current Madison Township Trustee; former Madison Township Board Member and a Merit Board Member; former Board Member on the Community Taxpayer Association
Family: I have been married 45 years. We have three daughters and three sons-in-law and five grandchildren.
General biography: I grew up in Southern Michigan with three brothers. I have been a resident of Madison Township for over thirty years. I spent most of my career in the automotive business many of those years in management. I have also worked for a heating and cooling company.
Jordan Russell
Occupation: Firefighter/EMT
Education: High School, Technical School, National Fire Academy Leadership, Budgeting and Executive Officer Certifications, State Certified EMT, Leadership 100/200, National Incident Management Certifications, Public Education Certifications. Building Construction and Inspections Certifications and Fire Inspection and Investigation Certifications
Family: Happily Married 14 years to Amy Russell we have 3 Beautiful daughters: Tegan Russell, Mealah Russell and Ryleigh Russell with 1 Dog (Duke) and 3 Cats (Willow, Winston, and Wallen) who complete our family.
Rikki Lyn Woodlock
*no longer running, though still on the ballot
Questions
Why do you want to run for this office?
Ellis: I believe in small government and the right of the people to govern themselves. My administration has made significant positive changes in Madison Township in the last three years, and I would like to see the progress continue.
Russell: I’m running to bring strong, common-sense leadership to Madison Township committed to spending tax dollars wisely. I’m going to ensure services are efficient through professional budgeting, preparing and planning and not being reactive. These practices of being a good fiduciary in all aspects will set our community up for success.
What relevant experience do you have to hold this position?
Ellis: I have a proven track record of accomplishments. I renegotiated contracts and insurance policies saving the taxpayers over $400,000 over a four-year period. My administration has not exceeded the board approved yearly budgets. We have the lowest average four-year tax rate since the early 2000s.
Russell: As a firefighter and past precinct committeeman, I have attended courses in Leadership, Budgeting, Politics, and Policy. I make critical decisions under pressure and serve the public daily. My experience working in the community gives me an understanding of the needs in our community and how to address them effectively.
Why should voters cast a ballot for you?
Ellis: For the first time in 28 years, Madison Township is Debt Free! Under my administration, we have completed three major projects without incurring debt. The roof was replaced on Station #32 Landersdale Road, which was the first project completed. The concrete driveway was replaced, and the living quarters were remodeled at Station #31 Kitchen Road. Madison Township will be purchasing a new fire truck and air packs this year without incurring debt. My goal is to provide the best fire protection and EMS service in the county for our residents at reasonable costs. Experience Matters.
Russell: Voters should choose me because I bring real-world and political experience. I understand and exemplify hard work, responsibility, integrity, fiscal responsibility and service. I’m committed to protecting tax dollars, prioritizing essential services, and ensuring our offices operate efficiently and transparently. I believe in limited Government, prioritize local control and putting our community first – not bureaucracy. I will be accessible, listen to concerns, and act when it matters most. Madison Township deserves leadership that is positive, honest, accountable, and focused on results. I am committed to preserving our community’s values while working to make it stronger and safer for our future.
