FeedsMears brings younger voice to council
“Charity begins at home,” said Walter Mears, the newly appointed councilman in Belleville. “I grew up in the Belleville area, I’ve always been interested in politics and I thought I could bring a little extra and get involved.”
“I think my demographic is an under represented group and with my background on assisting people and data analysis-that’s the extra I can bring to council,” he added. “Communication is the bottom line.”
Mears, 28, is a health navigator and data analyst for the University of Michigan medical school. His experience with budget preparation, process and management operations and project management, will also benefit the city council role, he said.“At the medical school, I was a part of a demonstration project to prove if we could find cost savings with Medicare patients. That’s an example of an initiative can use for council,” he said. “I’ve developed an attention to detail and the ability to manage change while—to the extent possible—maintaining consistency and respecting the opinions of others.”
That’s one characteristic Mears said will be important in his new position.
“I’m open to listening to all ideas because I think an open door policy is the best one,” he said. “Everyone has a voice and I appreciate that I get the opportunity to listen to those voices.”
Mears said the rich history of Belleville needs safeguarding while encouraging continued growth and development. The idea of keeping a respect for the past, as well as the future, is one of his major concerns for the city.
“I don’t think Belleville has reached its fullest potential. We need to capitalize on its resources,” he said. “The council must be guardians of the past while encouraging and fostering the growth and change needed to maintain it as a great place to live, work and recreate.”
“My vision is a city with the small town appeal that offers superior services and recreation,” Mears added.
His professional and personal experiences will tie in, too.
Mears is a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission, the treasurer for the Belle Villa Townhouses board, the director of fundraising for Harvest Now and a member of the Search and Rescue Outlook Services. Prior work also includes grant writing and proposal experience.
“I’m not afraid to make the tough decisions, but I also value the input required to make them and maintain an open mind until all options are weighed,” said Mears. “Professionally, I have developed the analytical skills needed to watch the bottom line and negotiate potential pitfalls.”
“It’s going to be a challenge, but I look forward to it,” he added. “There were many others involved who were qualified. I appreciate the city giving me this opportunity. I feel overwhelmed, humbled and honored. ”
Mears will serve as a councilmember until Nov. 19, 2007.
