Meet the Candidates: Jim Talpos

Jim Talpos

Education

I am a proud graduate of Michigan State University, having graduated with a BA degree, and a major in Accounting, in 1973. In November, 1975 I attained my Certified Public Accounting certification, after having passed the national CPA examination.

Professional background

My professional career spans nearly 40 years of business experience, in both public accounting as a CPA, and in private industry as a VP of Finance and Administration. As a CPA, I function as an advisor and consultant to my clients, as well as providing the customary financial and tax compliance filings. With respect to my vast experience in City government, at this November City Council meeting I’ll begin my 6th, three year term on the City Council. During those 15 years, I have not only been a City Councilman, but many of my colleagues on the Council have seen fit to elect me as the Mayor or Mayor Pro Tem.

How long have you lived in town and where? Do you live with family?

My wife, Kitty, and I have lived in Orchard Lake for 23 years, and we feel very fortunate to of had the opportunity to raise our three adult daughters here also. Even though our daughters live out-of-state, they too feel fortunate to have been raised here on Orchard Place.

Affiliations or endorsements

Due to the City Charter, I have not been on the City Council for the past 12 months. However, I have maintained an affiliation by continuing to be a member of the Personnel and Finance Committees. Endorsements are not typically handed-out by any organizations, when there is no competition.

Explain why you're running for city council

I am seeking my 6th term to the City Council because I feel I add value to the Council. With my 15 years of Orchard Lake City Council experience, I have learned what needs to be done, and more importantly, how best to “get it done” in the most effective and cost efficient manner. Additionally, since this is a nonpartisan political position, the Council is able to do what is best for our residents. In other words, the Council has no “hidden agendas”, and in most instances, the members of the Council work together to accomplish our objectives.  Finally, I enjoy being a councilmember, and at the risk of being too self-serving, I know I am good at it. Given these feelings, the City Council provides me with an avenue where I can give back to my community.

Could you share key points of your platform and any changes you'd like to make to accomplish your platform?

As I mentioned previously, the City Council is a nonpartisan elected body. Therefore, there really isn’t any “Platform”. I will, however, strive to maintain our pristine environment that is provided by our lakes, woods and tree canopy over our roads that we truly enjoy as we drive through the City.  

What do you think are the biggest issues facing the city? How would you handle them? 

1. With the ever decreasing property values and revenue stream, how will the City maintain its high level of service to its residents?
2. With the ever decreasing property values and revenue stream, how will the City ensure that our beautiful lakes maintain their pristine nature, and do not become contaminated with pollutants?
3. With the ever decreasing property values and revenue stream, how will the City address the issue of traffic congestion and traffic flow?

In my opinion, these are the three biggest issues that will be confronting the City Council over the next twelve months, and as you can see, they are greatly affected by the annual decrease in property taxes. Until property values start to improve, the Council must continue to work diligently and closely with the City Managers/Administration and the two unions that represent the employees at City Hall to ensure everyone understands the position that the City is in. Cutting unneeded expenses and reviewing fee schedules must be a top priority objectives for everyone. Also, another wage and benefit freeze should be implemented, once again.