Q & A With New Macomb Chairwoman Vosburg

Chesterfield Township resident Kathy Vosburg made news earlier this month when she was appointed the first Republican—and third woman—to chair the Macomb County Board of Commissioners. Vosburg answered questions from Patch about the new role, her background and ties to the lakeside community she's lived in since 1975.

What are you looking forward to most about chairing the Board of Commissioners?

This is an exciting time for us in the county, where we are re-inventing the way we do business on a daily basis. It’s a fresh start and I look forward to moving Macomb forward as the Board of Commissioners works in conjunction with the County Executive under our new charter. This board has a new dynamic, and I know we can work together effectively.  

What specific issues do you anticipate the county will deal with this upcoming year? 

Much will carry over from recent years, such as the ever-present task of balancing the budget and operating as efficiently as possible. Another key objective is improving the economy in Macomb so that our business can grow and succeed and create more jobs for our residents in the process.

How do you think the county will better define its identity under this new government system?

When the voters approved the charter, I think they did so because they saw this as an opportunity to elevate Macomb’s influence in the region. What they will discover is that Macomb County was, is, and will continue to be a great place to live, work and play. With a spotlight on our new form of government, it’s easier to get that message out to the region.

You're from Chesterfield Township and have been involved in the community for years. What do you see as important matters in the township and is there anything in particular you plan to champion at the county level this year?

Chesterfield Township has one of the county’s biggest assets, Lake St. Clair, as one of its borders. As the county finds ways of promoting the lake and encouraging tourism, recreation and business development, I think that will benefit the township as well. I will also continue to champion water issues for a healthy environment and improved quality of life.

What is your personal leadership style and how do you think citizens of Macomb County will benefit from it?

My personal leadership style is to involve the very people who will be affected by any decisions made. I invite participation from community leaders and elected officials. In addition, I plan to host informal “meet and greet” events so that the residents of the community can share their ideas and concerns with me. I want to be accessible and to hear what’s really being said out there. Residents can benefit from this because they will know that they have been able to have their concerns heard, and that their ideas are valuable and important to me as a commissioner.  

What inspired you to get into politics? 

My parents taught me from a young age that if you think something needs to be changed, or if you have an idea that you want to see embraced, that you have to get involved in the process of making the change and being heard. Being part of  the solution process is more useful to the community than complaints or indifference.

What do you like about living in Chesterfield Township? 

I like the proximity to a variety of venues and communities. We get the best of everything—the water, rural areas, shopping, the freeway. Within minutes you can be at an eatery in downtown Mount Clemens, shop on M-59, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts or the zoo, plus you benefit from a comfortable, friendly community.

What are you favorite hangouts in the community and why?

When I am fortunate enough to spend time at home, I like hanging out with the family, playing games, and backyard cookouts. I also enjoy the trails in Chesterfield and the Metroparks. We are grateful to have lots of outdoor recreation options nearby, and go kayaking at Stony Creek and biking at Metro Beach, and relax at . Regionally, we enjoy concerts at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which is another one of those things that isn’t too far away.