Meet the Candidates- Mike Ertel County Council District 6

Eastcountytimes.com will preview some of the local races and candidates for the Nov. 8 Election. First is Mike Ertel. He is a Democrat running for County Council in District 6.

Why have you decided to run for county council?

I decided to run for County Council as I’ve been a community leader for 20+ years and think it is important that our County Council representatives understand the challenges that ordinary residents regularly deal with – such as school issues, problem rental properties, trash, crime, speeding and deteriorating infrastructure.

Baltimore County needs more high tech manufacturing jobs and I plan to advocate with state and federal elected officials to encourage manufacturers to locate here. Compared to other suburban counties, we are falling behind in many categories – student performance, rec council fields and facilities, and local upward job mobility.

The new 6th District runs from Compass Road on the east to Charles Street on the west.

What are your qualifications to run?
Community leader since 2001, served on the CCBC Board of Trustees for 8 years, chair the Loch Raven 4th of July Fireworks for 7 years, Optimist Club Chair of Baltimore City Police “Shop with a Cop” program for 19 years, was a board member of Baltimore Airport Zoning Authority Board (state) and also work every day with small business owners as a Commercial Insurance broker for the last 30 years.
I’m experienced with zoning, the county CZMP process, development issues and BCPS school issues like overcrowding and advocating for replacement school buildings.

What are some of the major issues in District 6?
We have several issues that need attention in the 6th District, but I’m most concerned with dramatically declining school proficiency levels, increased poverty in the district and increased crime.

What are your goals for your first year in office?
I’d like to begin to tackle my long list of improvements that I’ve documented as I’ve walked neighborhoods – advocating for road repaving, sidewalk replacements, run-off issues, speed humps, clean-up of trash + blighted properties.

On a countywide level, I will advocate for adding council districts, better educational outcomes and recruiting of law enforcement officers.

Background
I grew up in Hamilton and have lived in the county for 33 years. I graduated with a finance degree from Towson University and am a father of 3 grown children all who attended Baltimore County schools.

I’m a lifelong boater and we spend cherished time in Bowleys Quarters and Essex each season.

For more information, go to Mike Ertel’s website.