Fix What Matters First

“I am interested in fixing what matters first which is strengthening our infrastructure for our residents, business owners and visitors.” -Russ Gardner

Hi Neighbor. My name is Russ Gardner. I decided to re-run for Saugatuck City council because I care too much about our city’s future not to. I’ve lived here almost my entire life and with many critical issues facing the City, the stakes are just too high to not remain involved.

Though much has been accomplished during my current tenure on city council, we need to re-center our efforts and Fix What Matters First. Simply put this means putting time and investment into our infrastructure that benefit residents, taxpayers and our business community. The city has needs, it is time to move away from the wants and personal projects. See Flyer Here.

As a homeowner and parent I want to keep this town a great place to raise a family and for people to visit. I have the experience in government operations, finance and community service necessary to be an effective city council member to preserve Saugatuck’s character. I will continue to work hard and make sure your voice is heard.

My history and knowledge of this wonderful place guides me; but it doesn’t lock me into thinking what the future may be. I look forward to continuing to be a strong voice on City Council.

“I am not aware of nor a part of any organized efforts to change the existing STR caps or regulations.” –Russ Gardner, LWV Candidate Forum , Sept. 25

(scroll for a bit more about me)

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A bit more about me…

Saugatuck is my home. It has been my family’s home for over 5 generations. My wife Jen and I have immense gratitude to be living and raising our daughter here. This gives me a unique perspective in my role as a city council member in service to our citizens.

A graduate of Saugatuck High School, I attended Western Michigan University for both my undergraduate (Political Science) and graduate (Master of Business Administration) studies. I have been working in the corporate world, specifically health care administration for 30+ years. I am proud to be a part of Corewell (Spectrum) and before that Mary Free Bed Hospital. I have gratefully served on City Council 2021 to present. I am the council representative on the Historic District Commission and KLSWA utilities contract working group, previously I was the council representative on the Planning Commission. Prior to this current tenure I served for 5 years on City Council, which included two terms as Mayor.

I am incredibly proud to have created, in collaboration with community members and City Council, and spearheaded the Mt Baldhead Radar Station Workgroup. This collective and collaborative work resulted in the shining jewel of Saugatuck to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Now known as the Friends of Mt. Baldhead we continue to protect, preserve and promote Mt. Baldhead Radar Station and its park area.

In addition to my service on City Council and work on the Radar Station, my other community activities currently include being a EHMC at St. Peters in Douglas, the Vice Commodore at the Saugatuck Yacht Club, and volunteer routinely for various community organizations.

A devoted music lover, a life-long passion which started with a retail job at Believe in Music in the 80s and has resulted in quite a vinyl collection. I often make time to attend concerts and support and explore new music. I am an avid cyclist. You will often see me cycling around town in all weather. One of my proudest ‘dad moments’ was completing the Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinac City (DALMAC) 350+ mile bike tour with my daughter. As a family we love to travel, and try to include our dogs Cole and Moose as much as possible!

My history and knowledge of this wonderful place guides me and I look forward to continuing to be a strong voice on City Council.

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