TALK MIDLAND w/ Logan Richetti

Running for Larkin Township Clerk: Mary Draves' Vision for the Future | #94

TALK MIDLAND Season 1 Episode 94

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0:00 | 37:12

The decisions made at the township level impact your roads, parks, fire protection, elections, zoning, and future growth—but many people don't know how local government works.

Logan sits down with Mary Draves, candidate for Larkin Township Clerk, to discuss her lifelong connection to Larkin Township, her 30+ year leadership career at Dow, and why she's running for office.

Mary explains the responsibilities of township government, the role of the Township Clerk, and the challenges facing one of Midland County's fastest-growing communities. From water taps and fire protection to long-term planning and community engagement, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions shaping Larkin Township's future.

In this episode:

  •  Mary's career at Dow and leadership experience 
  •  Growing up in a fourth-generation Larkin Township family 
  •  What a Township Clerk actually does 
  •  How township government works 
  •  Water taps and future development 
  •  Fire protection and long-term planning 
  •  Why communication with residents matters 
  •  Supporting local businesses and economic growth 
  •  The importance of community service 
  •  Why informed local elections matter 

Whether you live in Larkin Township or simply want to better understand local government, this episode provides valuable insight into how decisions close to home affect everyday life. 

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Chapter Notes

00:00 – Meet Mary Draves
Growing up in a fourth-generation Larkin Township family

04:15 – A 30+ Year Career at Dow
Leadership, sustainability, and building experience

10:45 – Family Business & Community Roots
Why Midland has always been home

17:30 – Why Run for Township Clerk?
What motivated Mary to seek office

24:10 – How Township Government Works
Understanding the roles and responsibilities

31:30 – Water Taps & Community Growth
Planning for Larkin Township's future

39:45 – Fire Protection & Long-Term Planning
Preparing for the next generation

47:20 – Communication with Residents
Keeping citizens informed

54:00 – Leadership Through Service
Why community involvement matters


Keywords

Mary Draves, Larkin Township, Larkin Township Clerk, Midland Michigan, Township government, Local government, Elections, Community leadership, Dow, Midland County, Fire protection, Water taps, Economic development, Local politics, Talk Midland Podcast