Jeff VanNortwick, former Barry County Commissioner, who held the  District 7 seat for six years, will be on the ballot as an Independent for that district in the November election. “I just want to help,” he said on Aug. 1. “I’m middle of the road, not pulled one way or another. I’m looking forward to seeing the results in the primary with changes in the board.”

Van Nortwick said he doesn’t want to see, “another term of mediocrity. My neighbors deserve better.” A Johnstown Township resident and founder of Environmental Landscape Services, Van Nortwick said as a commissioner, he always spoke up and voted his conscience.

“I will passionately serve my people; this is not how you treat your neighbors,” he said.

Republican Heather Wing is the only candidate for District 7 on the primary ballot and will be on the November ballot. Van Nortwick was defeated by Jim Dull in a re-election bid in 2012.

Photo: Jeff Vannortwock taking part in a recent Civil War reenactment at Charlton Park.