Plymouth City Commission Candidate Profile: Ed Hingelberg

Name:
Ed Hingelberg

Age:
56

Occupation: 
Director of Operations, Cass Community Social Services

Previous public office experience?:
My other office in Plymouth was vice chair of the Downtown Development Authority.

Education:
I have an undergraduate degree from Adrian College and a master's from Boston University.

How long have you been a Plymouth resident?:
My wife Julie and I have lived in Plymouth for six and a half years.

What made you decide to seek office?:
Actually, this will be the first time that I am running for office.  A former city commissioner moved out of the state and I was asked to fill his position.  

I must say that it has been a great experience and  I look forward to continuing. I'm especially excited to to continue my relationship as the commission liaison to Old Village, chairing the new fire services advisory board and overseeing the Plymouth Area Youth Advisory Commission.

One recent issue that has been identified in Plymouth is the availability of public parking downtown. What steps should the city take to address this issue?

Let me begin my parking comments by saying this is a great problem to be dealing with.  How many other communities would love to say they are having problems finding parking spaces for all those wanting to come shop, dine and socialize?  

I think the DDA and city administration are doing a fine job dealing with this issue.  They are currently looking at potential properties, employee parking issues as well as a possible valet service.  One day there will be adequate funding for a more permanent solution.  Until then, we are on the right track.

The city will begin its joint fire operations with Northville in 2012 after previously working with Plymouth Township. In what other ways can the city consolidate services, and what are the benefits of doing so?

The emergency services plan is huge and I am excited to be a part of it.  Beyond that, the city administration continues to look at ways to consolidate with other communities in a number of ways.  Plymouth doesn't consider itself to be an island unto itself and is always open to seeking unique ways to bring costs down.

This is a good place to say how proud I am of City Manager Paul Sincock and the great team he has assembled.

Aside from parking, can you identify one other issue in the city and any plans to address it?

The one main thing that people think of when they think of Plymouth is its great downtown.  While I love and support all that downtown has to offer, there is more to the two square miles I call home.  

I have spent a great deal of time working with Old Village and will continue to do so. It is a wonderful section of our city and its continued growth and vitality is a top priority for me.

Editor's note: Candidate responses have not been edited.