Westfield Washington Township needs fresh eyes

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Dear Editor:

Let’s be honest. Most people don’t pay much attention to the Washington Township Board. I really didn’t either until I started digging into what this board actually does, then I realized how important these three seats really are.

The board helps oversee budgets, compensation, township finances, fire/EMS funding, and township assistance. As Westfield keeps growing, those responsibilities are only getting bigger. Washington Township’s certified 2026 budget is now more than $7 million, with major commitments for fire/EMS, debt service, and assistance for residents in need.

I’ve seen a lot of conversations on social media about Westfield’s growth and how we are going to manage it responsibly. I think that’s a fair question. To me, that makes this exactly the time to bring some new skills and fresh perspectives to the table.

Tradara McLaurine brings degrees in Accounting and Legal Studies along with senior executive leadership. Her own campaign emphasizes fiscal transparency, data-driven planning, and long-term capital planning tied to Westfield’s growth. Those are the kinds of skills I want when someone is reviewing budgets, compensation, contracts, and financial controls and asking, “Do these numbers actually make sense?”

Bennie Britt brings decades of corporate operations, project leadership, and process improvement experience. That matters in a fast-growing community where fire protection, services, and major projects all have to keep pace. I like the idea of having someone on the board who is used to asking who owns a process, whether it is working, and how we know. Britt has specifically called for data-driven budgeting and planning ahead for fire and EMS needs rather than reacting later.

Michael Cardwell brings 32 years of Army service, leadership experience, a focus on responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and open decision making. Those skills matter when overseeing public safety, township assistance, and increasingly complex financial decisions.

One brings real financial knowledge. One brings decades of experience figuring out how organizations and processes actually work. And one brings decades of leadership and public service.

That feels like a REALLY good combination to me.

As Westfield grows, I want a township board prepared not just to react, but to plan ahead.

That’s why I’m supporting Tradara McLaurine, Bennie Britt, and Michael Cardwell. I think they bring the fresh perspective, real-world experience, and willingness to ask good questions that Washington Township needs right now.

Joey Mayer
Westfield