Welcome to the GRT Dems Website!
We are thrilled to have you with us, whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time supporter.
This November, we have a unique opportunity to elect a dedicated and talented team committed to serving everyone in the Grand Rapids Township community, no matter what side of the aisle you stand.
Join us in making a positive impact!
Change is on the horizon TO BUILD A BETTER GRAND RAPIDS Township, and that’s a good thing!
Our Township’s population has grown almost 36% over the past 25 years. While we are rapidly changing, our township government has remained stagnant, risking the future of our community. Whether you are politically homeless, tired of the current establishment or a tried and true Democrat, we hope you rally behind:
Leadership that is transparent & easy-to-access
Support for our local firefighters
Better sidewalks, safer roads and nicer parks in our Township
how will new leadership improve life for township residents?
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![Ensuring every resident’s voice is heard and acted upon.]()
Transparency and Accountability
Ensuring every resident’s voice is heard and acted upon.
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Optimal Emergency Services
Guaranteeing our fire, police, and EMS services are fully equipped to serve you.
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Expanded Sidewalks and Bike Lanes
Promoting a more walkable and bike-friendly community
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Park Improvements
Enhancing our beautiful township parks for everyone to enjoy
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Road Safety
Keeping our roads safe and well-maintained.
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Innovative Growth
Bringing fresh ideas and proactive solutions for sustainable development.
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Fair Elections
Protecting the integrity of our elections.
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Efficient Use of Funds
Identifying and eliminating wasteful spending to better utilize our tax dollars
Seven impressive Grand Rapids Township residents are running on the Democratic ticket for all Township positions.
Meet our endorsed caNDIDATES
ALL CANDIDATES ARE ALSO ENDORSED BY
GR TOWNSHIP
FIRE FIGHTERS!
jUSTIN sHELDON
Candidate for tOWNSHIP sUPERVISOR
A Grand Rapids Charter Township resident since 2012, Justin grew up in a middle-class, single-mom household in the Jackson, MI area. His upbringing surrounded him with civil servants, instilling a passion for community service. As a former professor of Multi-Cultural Diversity and US History at Grand Valley State University, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. He holds a B.A. in History from GVSU and an M.A. in American History from Central Michigan University. In 2021, Justin took a bold step in civic engagement by spearheading a club sanctioned by the Michigan Democratic Party. This dynamic platform attracted nearly 200 members and allowed Justin to achieve a historic milestone: bringing together talented neighbors with a brighter vision to contest every Grand Rapids Township board position.
Teri Stapleton
Teri, a true Michigander, spent her formative years in Northern Michigan. She graduated from Mancelona High School as Class President and Valedictorian. Continuing her education, she earned a Bachelor of General Studies from The University of Michigan, with emphases in Political Science, Psychology, & Sociology. Teri’s resilience shines through her journey—she acquired her Masters in Higher Education during her cancer recovery. For many years, Teri called the Canton, MI area home. Her professional path led her to the automotive industry, where she held roles in Finance and Research. With 24 years of marriage, Teri shares her life with a loving husband and three amazing adult children. Since 2015, they have made their home in Grand Rapids Township. Teri is now semi-retired but has continued her work in education as a parapro since 2013.
Candidate for cLERK
Krystina Orzechowski
As a dedicated mother to a vibrant 3-year-old and someone living with an invisible disability, Krystina recognizes the pressing need for change every day. With a career spanning over a decade in government policy, budget management, business processes, and software development, she has amplified citizens’ voices to create real-life solutions. Her technical background empowers her to leverage technology for our Township’s improvement. Krystina and her family call the township’s 1839 historic farmhouse home.
Candidate for Treasurer
Lori Kirkhoff
Candidate for Township trustee
Lori Kirkhoff has lived in Grand Rapids Township since 2005. She and her husband, Jesse, have three kids. Joseph (2015) and Nicholas (2023) are proud graduates from Forest Hills Northern High School. Jacklynn is currently attending Forest Hills Northern. Lori herself obtained a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Indiana University & Juris Doctor Degree from Michigan State University College of Law. She has worked as a public servant for the past 23 years. Lori was the former Chief Assistant Prosecutor of the Ionia County Prosecutor's Office, where she worked for 14 years. Since 2015, she has been the Executive Director of the IM SAFE Child Advocacy Center, a non-profit that works with children who have been physically and sexually abused.
Tim Russ
Candidate for Township trustee
Tim Russ is a seasoned public servant with a rich history in education, community service, and advocacy. A former teacher and UniServ Director for the Michigan Education Association, he has been a staunch supporter of educators and students. His passion for community work is evident from his time as an Outreach Coordinator for the NorthWest Initiative and a campaign leader for local political campaigns. With a background in social justice, Tim has also contributed to labor movements and social work organizations. His military service as an Infantry Soldier in the U.S. Army underscores his commitment to his country.
Andy Shackelford
Candidate for Township trustee
A lifelong Democrat, Andy was born and raised in Grand Rapids and is a sales representative for Walsworth, a top North American publisher of books and magazines. Andy holds a BFA from Michigan State University, has been happily married to his high school sweetheart Lynn for over 34 years, and is the proud father of 3 children. Andy treasures his family time, enjoys playing drums, and looks forward to serving his community.
Jose Teixeira
Jose received his B.S. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, MA. He completed post-doctoral training at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School and is currently a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology in the College of Human Medicine at Michigan State University, where he is principal investigator for a laboratory studying diseases profoundly affecting women’s health. A classical music enthusiast and proud dog dad, one of the driving missions in Jose’s life is to contribute positively to the world and leave it a little better than he found it, and that includes the Grand Rapids Township community.
Candidate for Township trustee
We hope you will join us and invest in this historic opportunity to build a better township by supporting and voting for our endorsed candidates for grand rapids township board of trustees.
