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"Today I am formally announcing my candidacy for District Judge of Sanilac County in the upcoming 2008 Election," said Dennis Reid in an announcement last week. "I am currently in the process of gathering the required signatures and anticipate a filing with the Bureau of Elections sometime in January. This will be a controversial election year but I am prepared for challenges facing me."

Reid is the only candidate so far to announce for the position. The incumbent, Judge James Marcus, has not said if he'll seek re-election. Marcus has sat on the 73rd District Court bench for 24 years.

The election for the non-partisan post will be held in Nov. 2008, unless more than two candidates are on the ballot. If more than two run, there will be a primary election in August to narrow the list to two, according to County Clerk Linda Kozfkay.

Reid led the petition drive that forced a referendum on the county's plan for a $16.5 million jail project. The proposal will be on the ballot in the Aug. primary. As an alternative to the 200-bed jail plan, Reid has proposed that voters turn down the drug task force millage when it comes up for renewal in a couple years, and instead pass a tax to renovate the existing jail.

Reid promises a "vigorous" campaign for judge, and will campaign on a platform that includes the jail, the court budget, and a call for "reform" in county government.

"I am preparing the final touches on a plan which will reduce the financial cost of housing our county inmates and increase the revenue generating capabilities of the jail. I am a firm believer in alternative sentencing. which places the burden and financial cost of punishment back on the shoulders of the law breaker where it belongs and not on the struggling county tax payers," said Reid.

He said he also has a "plan to streamline the processes within our District Court, and make the court more efficient, both in services and costs to the tax payers...Each and every position (in the court) will be reviewed and evaluated for necessity. Each and every service and expense of the Court will also be reviewed and cuts made wherever possible to lower operating expenses and yet ensure the efficiency of the court and the public safety."

Reid stated, "I am also calling upon residents from every district in Sanilac

County to come forward, announce your candidacy and run for the Board of Commissioners and sheriff's position. Candidates for either require no

specialized education or training, nor a state certification. There are

many talented and experienced business people living in Sanilac County.

Watching the actions and in-actions of the Board of Commissioners on the jail issue this past year has proven one thing to me, your friends and neighbors need your skills and experience in Sanilac County government now. There is nothing to be afraid or shy about. Bring your new ideas and join me on the campaign trail.2008 can be a year of reform, if we work together we will make them happen."