Katie DeBoer is a constitutional conservative running for reelection for Kent County Commissioner in District 4. District 4 includes Cannon Township, Courtland Township, the City of Rockford, and the southern portion of Nelson Township.
Katie is deeply concerned about government overreach in our daily lives, the health and development of our children, and the overregulation for small businesses. Government is meant to “secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.” Katie aims to reestablish the blessings of liberty here in Kent County.
Katie is a down-to-earth passionate local patriot who earnestly desires to rightly represent WE THE PEOPLE. She has a fighter’s spirit, a humble heart, and an astute mind.
I believe we’re doing a disservice to our constituents if we’re not readily advocating for lower millage rates. I also get frustrated when I hear that a savings will be a less tax burden because it almost always gets reallocated elsewhere. I’m proud to share that most of our caucus held the line against an increase in your property tax, and I also voted against the millage renewal entirely. I will continue to advocate for a lower tax burden for my constituents.
Over these last two years, there were many times I was frustrated with the direction of our administration, sometimes even feeling as though I didn’t have a voice on matters. I do not believe this is how it should be. Commissioners are the representatives of the people, not those in bureaucratic positions. I will continue to advocate for the authority of the Board of Commissioners. I feel this is an incredibly important issue and can bring about much better governance to our county.
Counties have many statutory responsibilities that are our “essential” services. We should be fully funding and prioritizing these services first. For instance, public safety must come before other discretionary spending. It is our duty to provide what is required by law, then to consider other worthwhile services.
I’m thankful that Kent County, in my opinion, does a good job being fiscal stewards. Kent County readily seeks grant opportunities instead of using taxpayer money for new services. Kent County also has a AAA bond rating and keeps bond debt quite low. I will continue to support and advocate for good fiscal stewardship of taxpayer money.
I would not be where I am today without my children. Having kids is one of the best character builders in life. Sacrificing personal aspirations for the sake of another teaches humility. It is a small representation of what Jesus Christ did for us. I fervently believe that life begins at conception, and that a baby is always a blessing.
Our Children's Wellbeing
Over the last few years, I believe we have decimated our children's wellbeing. During Covid, I don't believe masks should have been required. Critical Race Theory has no place in a K-12 classroom. However, we must not disengage. We must stand up and respectfully voice our concerns. The answer is replace bad leaders with good ones. Get involved!
We must stop voting for politicians with extreme arrogance, deep personal struggles, and addictions. You can't truly lead from behind. While I still struggle, I am relatively healthy, have a good marriage, and am a loving and present mother. The public must be actively informed and hold hold their politicians accountable. Have conversations with and question your representative on why they vote as they do.
Every American has the right to practice religion as seen fit, and the government should have no say in it. Yet, our state has shut down church services during the pandemic. In doing so, our government has acted as a religious and spiritual authority. Our country's history is rich with Christianity, and the state must not prohibit the free exercise of religion.
It confounds me how some politicians, many with good intentions, believe that more regulations, more laws, and more policies are necessary. Regulations' main purpose should be to protect the rights and liberties of individuals, not to complicate the life of law-abiding people. Americans are suffering from the growing epidemic of political regulatory arrogance. The regulatory environment is far too complex and impractical for most people, especially business owners. Our liberties and freedoms are a prerequisite for success.
I wholeheartedly support your second amendment liberties. However guised, it seems the fear of the unknown is the basis for most gun control arguments. The greater education, familiarity, and comfort one possess with gun use, the more likely one is to support the second amendment. Education is key. I cannot, will not support, nor fully understand, politicians who advocate for gun control without ever personally controlling a gun. Before even thinking of such policy, every advocate of gun control should have the experience and education to make such a decision.
I'm dumbfounded how many people are unwilling to work hard, challenge themselves intellectually, or learn a new skill. If we aren't wiling to put in earnest effort into what we do, we are doomed. Due diligence, hard work, and learning opportunities must always be prioritized over entertainment. I have quite humble beginnings, but we have been mildly successful due to our grit, long work days and nights, and ability to learn quickly. I'm thankful for the opportunity to give back to my community.
No autonomous adult needs another person making medical decisions for them. Medical mandates are in direct opposition to the liberties on which this country was founded. Your body is your own, not someone else's. You make the decisions. (Also, FYI, an unborn baby has its own body; it is not the mother's body.) Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and cutting down on sugar can do far more for your long-term health than a vaccine ever can or will. Be responsible for your own health.
Kent County Board of Commission: January 2023 – present
Kent County Legislative & Human Resources Committee Member: January 2023 – present
Network 180 Board Member: January 2023 – present
Kent County Veteran Services Committee Member: January 2024 – present
Michigan Association of Counties Finance and General Government Committee: January 2023 – present
Kent County Township Liaison: January 2023 – December 2023
Cannon Township Board of Trustees: September 2020 – December 2022
Cannon Township Zoning Board of Appeals: January 2019 – December 2022
Cannon Township Parks & Recreation Committee: January 2020 – August 2020