KCDP Candidate Podcast #7 - Patricia Crowley

KCDP Candidate Podcast #7 - Patricia Crowley with host Katie Houston

Pat talked to us about the office of Drain Commissioner, the duties and responsibilities. She said "we try to help the crops grow, keep the water clean, the wetlands wet and the basements dry." Pat has a long list of qualifications and credentials including a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Physics and 25 years of experience. Pat wants to be drain commissioner because "we haven't put the time and energy in resource management" and she feels ready to do that. Her first priorities upon taking office are to make sure we have the resources, meet reporting deadlines and do permitting for developers done in a timely matter, but then wants to position the county into a better maintenence system than is presently in effect. Crowley believes people in Kalamazoo would like more control over their water. Pat touches on the controversy with Bill French and charges of extortion and his subsequent illness. She also said the replacement appointed by the county commission does not have the requisite experience for the job while Pat is a specialist with precisely the right experience and expertise. Pat talked about her tattoo on her wrist and the story behind where and how she got it. Pat was also in the Peace Corps and feels small around Samoans.