Four candidates have filed to run for three open seats on the Wayland City Council in November.
Two incumbents, Tracy Bivins and Steve Stepek, will be joined on the ballot by newcomers Jerry Jansen and Grace Sefranik.
Meanwhile, Councilman Rick Mathis has decided against seeking another term after serving since 2013, completing six two-year terms.
“I have made the decision not to run for council again,” he said. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the council and I know that the city staff and the rest of council have the best interests of the community in mind as I depart.
“I have too much stuff going on in my personal life to be able to continue to serve fully. With my children involved in sports and coaching, I’ve found it difficult to juggle my time between my job, sports, coaching, family, and council.”
Bivins first was elected in 2012, but then stepped down in 2018 because of health issues. She was welcomed back in 2021 by being appointed to the seat vacated by the death of Gary Smith. She has recovered since and was well enough to seek the mayor’s post in November’s general election in 2020.
Stepek, executive director of the Kalamazoo Area Transportation Study, was appointed the seat vacated by the election of Jennifer Antel a year ago in the wake of the retirement of Tim Bala. Stepek served on the City Planning Commission for about two years.
Jansen graduated from GRCC with a degree in business administration. He has been able to stay active within the community through coaching youth football, volunteer work, as well as frequenting city’s small businesses.
“With two young daughters, the direction of the city has taken on even more importance to me,” he said. “I believe that by promoting the involvement of our community as opposed to hiding from it, we can create a renewed sense of pride in our city as well as accountability for our officials.”
Sefranik ran for council last November and was only 39 votes shy of winning in a four-for-three race. This is her second attempt. She is a frequent attendee at City Council meetings.
The deadline for filing for City Council was 4 p.m. Tuesday.