Pontiac Mayoral Candidates Backed By Waters, Lawrence

The city of Pontiac will elect a new mayor this year as current Mayor Tim Greimel is running for Congress instead of seeking reelection.

Two candidates have the support of longtime lawmakers of popular lawmakers from Detroit and Southfield.

Candidates include councilman Mike McGuiness; former councilman and Oakland Forward director Kermit Williams, Sheriff’s deputy and former school board president Gill Garrett; former deputy mayor Mark E. Holland, Sr.; and former Pontiac mayor Deirdre Waterman.

McGuiness and Williams are highlighting endorsements from longtime lawmakers on the campaign trail.

McGuiness is endorsed by former U.S. Rep. Brenda Lawrence. 

“Mike rolled up his sleeves because he saw a need,” Lawrence said in a statement. “I’ve had the pleasure to be his mentor and watch him grow into a man of integrity, a man of vision, and the man we are going to call the next Mayor of Pontiac.”

Williams is endorsed by Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters and Oakland County Commissioner Mattie McKinney Hatchett.

“Kermit Williams has been a consistent force for progress in Pontiac since his days with the Pontiac Area Young Democrats over 20 years ago,” Hatchett said. “His dedication to our community and his steady leadership show his unwavering commitment to making life better for families in this city.”

Pontiac Councilman Mikal Goodman tells Michigan Chronicle he’s looking for candidates who will support housing affordability and quality, small business funding and public infrastructure improvements.

Improvements to Pontiac’s downtown are already happening thanks in part to $50 million in state funds. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved a $174.5 million budget last month to launch a transformative revitalization of the city’s downtown. The move will bring 700 county workers to downtown Pontiac.

Goodman pointed to the new youth recreation center currently under construction. The McCarroll School at 191 North Glenwood Avenue sat vacant for years before the city approved a $30 million transformation last year. The facility will include a gym, multipurpose room and an indoor track or pool, the city said.

Goodman also mentioned the potential purchase of the old Pontiac Central School to serve as the new DPW building. Local leaders are inviting the public to join them on Monday, June 23 from 6-9pm on the second floor of the City Council Chamber 4750 Woodward Ave., to learn more and offer input.

Greimel joined former attorney Christina Hines and Rochester Army veteran Alex Hawkins as a Democratic candidates vying for Michigan’s 10th Congressional District seat, currently currently held by U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, who is running for governor.

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