Writer supports write-in candidate’s campaign

October 19, 2026

Dear Editor:

I am writing in support of electing Ross Field as the representative for Shelby and Ferry townships on the Oceana County Board of Commissioners. Ross has thrown his hat in the ring as a write-in candidate for a seat that became vacant recently when a commissioner resigned before his term ended.

Ross is the ideal candidate for this position. His roots in Oceana County go back five generations. He is a graduate of Shelby High School and Michigan State University. An avid outdoorsman who spent his career as a real estate appraiser, he knows this county like the back of his hand.

His public service has been long and varied. He served as chairperson of the Village of Shelby Planning Commission, past president and current vice president of the Shelby Optimist Club, past president and board member of Shelby Area District Library, board member of Dogwood Community Development, Village of Shelby Council, and many boards at Shelby Congregational United Church of Christ.

Ross’s goals for the county commission are good stewardship of the $14+ million county budget, maintain close relationships with state and federal representatives to continue to bring more economic and recreational opportunities to Shelby and Ferry townships and Oceana County, protect the land and waters of Oceana County and increase opportunities for all to enjoy them.

So, voters of Shelby and Ferry townships: write in Ross Field on the line under county commissioner Second District. And don’t forget to fill in the vote oval next to his name. Don’t miss this opportunity to put a supremely qualified representative on our county commission.

Julie Stivers

Shelby

Editor’s Note: The Second District county board seat was vacated by Joel McCormick. It is a partial term ending Nov. 20, 2028. Field is running as a “no party affiliation” candidate. Other write-in candidates vying for the position include: Republican Andy Near of Shelby, Republican Micah Johnson of Shelby and Andrew Heykoop of Shelby (no party affiliation). There are a total of five seats on the Oceana County Board of Commissioners.

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