By: Lindsey Ashley
As the latter half of 2026 fast approaches, the city has begun to discuss election information. In addition to the usual ballot items such as governor, attorney general, and secretary of state, the city will also be looking to fill the two open seats on the City Commission.
In order to be eligible for this position, candidates were required to be qualified electors of the city and receive a minimum of 25 to a maximum of 50 signatures from qualified electors on their nominating petitions.
The caveat to these signatures is that one person cannot sign a number of petitions that exceeds the number of available seats.
In this case, it means that one person could sign two petitions because there are only two available seats.
Following this, the candidate needs to file the appropriate paperwork upon petition submission. Lastly, the city inspects and verifies the accuracy of these petitions to determine eligible candidates.
Back in May, City Manager Jeremy Howard announced the city had received four eligible petitions. This means that there’s no need for a primary election in August, and the candidates can simply be added to the November ballot.
The candidates in question include the incumbent Kimberly Horwood-Bussell, Carol Santini, Damon Dubois, and Nick Winter.
Kimberly was appointed to the council back in 2023, following the resignation of Commissioner John Meyers due to a change in residency.
In addition to serving on the city commission, Bussell serves as the vice president for the Clare Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund. This organization helps individuals with cancer receive grants to afford any necessary medical expenses associated with their cancer diagnosis.
Carol Santini currently serves as the president for the Clare Arts Council. As president, Santini has organized the yearly Destination Clare Art Sculpture Walk, created the Artist Alley program, and much more.
Additionally, Santini was recently appointed to take the one-year rotational seat on the Pere Marquette Library Board when it becomes vacant on June 30th.
Damon Dubois is the owner of Michigan Rock Stop Gifts and More on North McEwan Street.
Nick Winter is a whole child coordinator for the CGRESD. As a coordinator, Winter strives to ensure that students receive both educational and mental support as they progress through their academics.
Given the distance of the election, it’s highly likely that the candidates will begin to speak more publicly as it becomes closer to the November election.
Ultimately, the city hopes to elect two board members that will use their skills and expertise to help better the Clare community.
