GoodParty.org candidate

Michelle Bolzenius

Franklin County: Prairie Township Trustee

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About the Office

The Township Trustee, sometimes known as Township Supervisor or Township Councilmember, is a member of a multi-person board charged with general governance of the township and execution of legislative, executive and administrative powers.

Term Length

4 years

Election Date

Nov 4, 2025

About Me

Party

Independent

Occupation

Self Employed

Fun Fact

I volunteered through Franklin County’s Dog Shelter and Adoption Center, caring for ten dogs over two years and ultimately adopting two. Providing stability to animals in need was a rewarding experience and another way I chose to support vital public services in our community.

Past Experience

{"skills":"I am a proud graduate of The Ohio State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. During my time at OSU, I worked as a research assistant on various academic studies and was awarded university funding to conduct my own independent summer research project—an experience that fueled my passion for evidence-based solutions. Service has been a guiding principle throughout my life. While at OSU, I volunteered as an HIV test counselor at the university’s Student Wellness Center, providing confidential, compassionate support to fellow students. After graduation, I joined the Franklin County Child Support Enforcement Agency as a Support Officer (caseworker), assisting families as they navigated complex legal and financial systems. One of my most meaningful moments was receiving a heartfelt letter of appreciation from a client, which my supervisor shared with me—proof that small acts of compassion can have lasting impact.","achievements":"I also understand the critical role that first responders play in our community. That’s why I completed both the Central Ohio Volunteers in Public Safety and Support program and the Hilliard Division of Police Citizens Police Academy. These programs gave me the opportunity to work directly with first responders and gain valuable insight into their work and the challenges they face. I highly recommend these programs to anyone who wants to better understand public safety from the inside.","responsibility":"Since 2015, I’ve been proud to call Prairie Township home. I bought my first house here as a single mother with two children under the age of two—my youngest born with special needs. Being a single parent is never easy, but being a single parent of a child with special needs is an entirely different challenge. It means facing hurdle after hurdle, constantly seeking solutions, researching resources, and advocating fiercely. Still, we persevere. Even while navigating those personal challenges, I’ve remained committed to staying involved in our community. I’ve had the honor of coaching youth basketball at the Prairie Township Community Center, and for over a decade I’ve worked at polling locations across Franklin County—most recently serving as a Voting Location Deputy. Supporting our democratic process and mentoring young people are privileges I don’t take lightly."}

My Top Issues

Promoting efficiency and accountability in government spending

As a steward of public funds, I will not support spending proposals without first demanding clear evidence, exploring alternative solutions, and ensuring fiscal responsibility. I am committed to seeking grants and outside funding to move our community forward—without placing additional tax burdens on our residents.

Enhancing pedestrian infrastructure, such as crosswalks and sidewalks

Safe, walkable communities are essential to quality of life. I’m committed to addressing the high speeds on many of our roads by implementing traffic-calming measures, expanding sidewalks, and adding crosswalks where they’re needed most. These improvements will protect pedestrians and make our township safer for everyone.

Support urban revitalization and redevelopment

I support revitalizing our community through smart, community-driven development—improving aging infrastructure, creating safer streets, and bringing in new opportunities without displacing longtime residents. Let’s grow responsibly, with the people—not just the plans—at the center of progress.

Who I'm Running Against

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