(FLINT, Mich. – October 8, 2015) Today, the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce announced its endorsement of Dayne Walling for re-election for the Mayor of the City of Flint.
The endorsement is the result of a detailed process led by the Chamber’s Public Policy Committee (PPC). The process included completing a questionnaire and a panel interview with each candidate.
“Now that we’ve completed our evaluation process, it is our view that Flint voters will have a choice of two very smart, capable and personable candidates from which to select its next mayor,” said Steve Landaal, President of Landaal Packaging Systems and PPC Chair. “However, only one candidate can be elected mayor.
“After careful deliberation, we feel that Mayor Walling is the best candidate to lead the City of Flint over the next four years.”
The PPC based its decision on Walling’s:
- Thorough understanding of the levers of government and the funding mechanisms
- Established working relationships with government officials at the county, state and federal levels as well as the Receivership Transition Advisory Board and City Administrator
- Strong focus on the city’s new comprehensive Master Plan
Landaal added that the PPC feels that the overall quality of the two candidates in the Mayor’s race is an encouraging development for the future of civic leadership in Flint.
Chamber CEO Tim Herman thanked the PPC members for their time and commitment during the vetting process.
“The debate was spirited and professional, as you would expect,” said Herman. “The Public Policy Committee, as well as the Flint & Genesee Chamber, is dedicated to this community. I believe that’s evident in the manner by which the Committee reached its decision on the endorsement.”