The West Bloomfield Democratic candidates for town office are (left to right) Birgit Coffey, Tim Schiefen and Julie Eveleigh. Photo by Leon Schaefer
Residents of the Town of West Bloomfield have been seeking common ground as they look toward their local election in November. Led by Birgit Coffey and Julie Eveleigh, the group saw large numbers turn out for educational presentations on how to run for office and the responsibilities of Town officials. The combined campaign of three first-time candidates of varying viewpoints on the Democratic ticket reflects this growing effort to bring residents together in service to the Town.
Birgit Coffey, a candidate for Town Board, has been a West Bloomfield resident for 27 years, alongside her husband Michael and their two daughters, both graduates of Bloomfield Central School. Coffey is a math instructor at RIT and was a regular parent volunteer with the school district for many years. With gratitude for the Town’s past summer recreation opportunities for youth, she is eager to give back by serving as a Town Councilmember, bringing together her skills as an educator and dedication to public service on behalf of all West Bloomfield residents.
Julie Eveleigh is a candidate for a seat on the Town Board and a 27-year resident of Bloomfield. She currently represents the Town of West Bloomfield on the Ontario County Democratic Committee. Eveleigh and her husband Stephen have two children who graduated from Bloomfield Central School. Twenty-five years ago, Eveleigh sought approval from the Town of West Bloomfield when she began a small business out of her home which is still operating today. She is motivated to support others seeking to open a local business, and to be responsive to those with ideas about the needs of the town. Her goal is to play a role in “helping West Bloomfield continue to develop a strong sense of identity with an enhanced town center—a place that balances its rural charm with a forward-thinking vision.”
Tim Schiefen is a candidate for Town Supervisor and is also running on the Common Sense party line. Schiefen hopes to put his experience as the operator of two area businesses and his skills as a communicator and collaborator to work for the community. A West Bloomfield businessman for over 25 years, he and his wife Kelly have raised two children in Bloomfield. He has served for 23 years as a Scout leader with West Bloomfield Pack and Troop 56 and is the recipient of Scouting’s prestigious Silver Beaver Award for adult volunteers. Schiefen is a trustee with the West Bloomfield Historical Society and has been involved with the Ionia Fall Festival as a supporter and enthusiastic announcer for the Antique Tractor parade.
In addition, the Democratic caucus voted to support Republican incumbents Brenda Thompson for Town Clerk/Tax Collector and Jeff Ball for Town Highway Superintendent.
