From the State of the County Address

On Thursday, March 5th, I attended Oakland County Executive David Coulter’s State of the County address. Events like this are a chance to hear where our county is headed and to learn more about the work happening behind the scenes to support residents.

Leaders from across Oakland County were there, including Attorney General Dana Nessel, local mayors, state legislators, and members of the Oakland University community. It was a reminder of how many people, across different roles and institutions, are working to support the county and its residents.

But one story from the evening stayed with me.

A widow of a Vietnam veteran was finally able to receive compensation connected to Agent Orange exposure after years of trying to get recognition for what her husband endured. The county helped her navigate the process and get the support she had been seeking for a long time.

Hearing that story was deeply moving.

My own father was also a Vietnam veteran. When he died in 2017, our family struggled for years to get recognition of the lung damage he lived with or access the mental health care he needed through the VA. Like many families, we were left navigating complicated systems and trying to advocate for someone who had already given so much.

Not every veteran’s story ends with the recognition they deserve. But hearing that one family finally received acknowledgment reminded me why the work of public service matters.

Behind every policy or program are real people trying to care for their families, navigate complicated systems, and get the help they need.

As I travel around District 55 and talk with residents, I’m reminded again and again that good public service begins with listening.

— Rhonda