Charlie Carrier

“It hit me during a budget review when I saw funds being allocated without clear explanations. I asked for more details, and the response I received was vague at best. That was the moment I realized how much our community needs transparency, and I knew I had to step up to ensure all of our tax dollars are handled responsibly,” Kevin Maas shared. This was the first time Maas realized the community he cared so much about was in need of proper representation.

For many high school graduates, the future is a vast and uncertain horizon, but for Maas, a 2022 West Ottawa High School alumnus, that journey has taken unexpected and significant turns. Once a state champion swimmer with a Division I scholarship to the University of Michigan, Maas seemed destined for a career defined by athletic success. Yet, during college, he discovered a new passion beyond the pool deck: entrepreneurship and community service.

Now, as a local business owner and lifelong resident, Maas is running for the Park Township Board of Trustees, hoping to bring fresh ideas, transparency, and fiscal responsibility to the community he’s always called home.

Maas understands that local elections matter, and he wants his community to understand that his concerns and goals focus on the success and safety of Park Township. Many people believe that elections only matter at the national level, but the truth is, what happens in local government directly impacts your life. From funding for parks and schools to decisions about public safety, small business, and education, local leaders are responsible for the quality of life in your community.

It’s important to remember that while the national government has a significant impact on our overall lives, local government’s decisions have the greatest impact on the day-to-day conveniences we often take for granted. Maas plans to station lifeguards at park beaches to enhance safety. “One life lost is one too many,” Maas explained. He also aims to expand public access to park beaches, making them more accessible for local residents. Maas promises to strive for political integrity and to honor his commitments to the people of Park Township as long as he’s elected.

Maas’s journey from collegiate athlete to business owner, and now political candidate, shows that the future is never set in stone. We can all learn from Maas’ journey: be open to the twists and turns that life throws your way, and don’t be afraid to step up when you see the need for change. No one needs to know exactly what they’ll do after high school. The most important things in life are to keep an open mind and always search for ways to apply yourself.

As Maas continues his campaign for the Park Township Board of Trustees, he encourages everyone who is eligible to vote and make their voices heard in their community. Whether you vote absentee or in person, consider the future of Park Township and choose someone who is committed to effectively improving the community.