Livonia City Council Election: What You Need to Know Before November 4, 2025

Livonia residents are preparing to elect four new members to the City Council on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. This election is particularly significant as four current members will be concluding their service at the end of December 2025, guaranteeing a major shift in the city's legislative body.

The Role of the Livonia City Council

The Livonia City Council is the legislative body responsible for overseeing the city’s operations. It is composed of seven part-time members, all elected at-large by Livonia residents. The key functions include:

• Approving the Budget: The council must approve the city’s entire budget, and any expenditure over $15,000 not in the budget requires its explicit approval.
• Enacting Local Laws: The council creates and amends city ordinances, often to incorporate department recommendations or align with state laws.
• Making Zoning Decisions: The council is the final authority on all land use and zoning matters. Development and construction projects require council approval following public hearings.
• Approving Public Improvements: Projects like the construction or improvement of city roads, sewers, drains, sidewalks, and streetlights require council authorization.
• Addressing Citizen Concerns: The council holds open meetings, including Study Meetings for information gathering and Public Hearings for citizen input on proposed changes.

Currently, the remaining members are Brandon McCullough (President), Martha Ptashnik (Vice President), and Carrie Budzinski.

Why Four Seats Are Open

Four current council members will step down at the end of their terms in December 2025:

• Rob Donovic and Laura Toy are term-limited, having served two consecutive four-year terms.
• Scott Morgan is also term-limited, having served two consecutive two-year terms.
• Lynda Scheel was appointed in January 2025 to fill a vacancy but has chosen not to seek re-election.

Voter Eligibility & Registration

To vote for Livonia City Council, you must be a registered voter who resides within the Livonia city limits. Since the council is elected "at-large," all qualified Livonia residents vote for every seat.

You are eligible to vote if you:

• Are a U.S. citizen.
• Are at least 18 years old by election day.
• Are a resident of Michigan.
• Have resided in the City of Livonia for at least 30 days by election day.
• Are not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison.

Residents can register online (at mi.gov/vote with a valid Michigan ID), by mail, or in-person at the Livonia City Clerk's office. You may even register up to 8 p.m. on election day by visiting the City Clerk's office with proof of residency.

The Candidates: A Comparative Look

The election features eight candidates, each bringing a unique background and vision for the city. Below is a summary of their key positions and professional experience:

	Candidate	Background/Helpful Skills	Biggest Issue & Proposed Fix	Motivation/Inspiration
	Kayleigh Kavanagh Reid	The following is derived from available information: Executive Director of the Livonia Spree; Vice President of the Livonia Housing Commission. Actual Response: I believe my background has prepared me to serve as a Livonia City Council member. I’ve spent years involved in our community, from volunteering with local nonprofits to serving as the Executive Director of the Livonia Spree. That experience has given me hands-on insight into how city events, programs, and partnerships come together, and how local government can better support residents, families, and small businesses. Professionally, I bring a background in organization, communication, and problem-solving. Skills that are essential in city government. I’ve learned how to listen, collaborate across diverse perspectives, and make informed decisions that balance vision with fiscal responsibility. Most importantly, I’ve built relationships across Livonia. I understand what matters to our residents: safe neighborhoods, well-maintained infrastructure, and a vibrant sense of community. My goal is to bring that understanding to every decision I make, ensuring Livonia continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I was born and raised in Livonia. My husband and I both grew up in Livonia and experienced all the benefits of being raised in our great city. We have three little boys who are rough and tough and keep us on our toes. We have enjoyed raising them in Livonia and getting to experience the same events and outings that we both did but through the parent perspective. I am the Executive Director of the Livonia Spree and have just wrapped up my third Spree in charge. I have the best job in Livonia and creating this event that gives back to the community year after year is so rewarding. In my spare time, I love spending time outdoors and staying active. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends, supporting local events, and scouting out potential bands to have at the Spree.	The following is derived from available information: Issue: Poor condition of Livonia Parks and lack of activities for young families. Fix/Funding: Invest in infrastructure; ensure public buildings are maintained; advocate for smart development. Actual Response: One of the biggest issues Livonia faces is the challenge of maintaining and improving our infrastructure while keeping our city financially strong. Our roads, parks, and public facilities are aging, and residents rightfully expect safe, well-maintained spaces without seeing their taxes skyrocket. To address this, I believe in a strategic, long-term approach. That means prioritizing projects based on need and community impact, pursuing available state and federal grants, and exploring public-private partnerships where appropriate. We should also look closely at how we can modernize city operations to save money, through technology upgrades, energy-efficient improvements, and streamlined processes, so more dollars can go directly toward visible improvements in our neighborhoods. As a council member, I’ll focus on being transparent about where our money goes and ensuring that every investment aligns with what residents’ value most. Livonia has a strong financial foundation and with careful planning and smart budgeting, we can tackle our infrastructure needs without putting an added burden on taxpayers.”	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Her family, specifically her disappointment with the state of the city's parks.
	Patrick Brockway	The following is derived from available information: Federal employee for 14+ years (Management Analyst at the VA); focused on sound logic and data analysis. Actual Response: I believe my experience as a public facing employee with the federal government will help me when interacting with residents and businesses within our city. I understand the power of cooperation and being tactful in discussion. My background includes 14 years working with the fed government (currently with VA). I have a Masters Degree in criminal justice leadership and intelligence. In my spare time I enjoy reading, gaming , and wood working.	The following is derived from available information: Issue: Missing out on grant opportunities, neglecting ADA compliance, and homelessness. Fix/Funding: Pledges to utilize cooperation and logic, secure grants, and use budget control for fiscal responsibility. Actual Response: The biggest issue in Livonia is a crumbling infrastructure. I would like to utilize funds designated to the canceled city hall plan to be placed toward repairing Bennet Library and Fire stations over the course of 5 or so years.	The following is derived from available information: Motivated by the principle of "Service before self" and inspired by his father. Actual Response: I am inspired by my parents. They taught me to be respectful of others and try hard to help others.
	Robin Persiconi	The following is derived from available information: Lifelong resident, small business owner, and practicing attorney for 22 years. Actual Response: Hello Livonia Voter! My name is Robin Persiconi and I am proud to be running for city council. I am a dedicated, civic-minded leader with deep roots in Livonia and a bold vision for its future. As a lifelong resident, small business owner, practicing attorney, and active community member, I bring real-world experience, a passion for service, and a results-driver approach to city government. I am currently serving our community as the Vice-President of the Livonia Housing Commission, President-Elect and Board of Director member for the Livonia Rotary PM Club, and an Ambassador the Livonia-Westland Chamber of Commerce. I am ready to serve Livonia not just as a leader but as someone who has lived in this city, loves this city, and wants the very best for its future. To learn more about my campaign or to show your support by getting a lawn sign, please visit www.pickrobin.com. It would be an honor to earn your vote on or by November 4th. Thank you!	The following is derived from available information: Issue: Public Safety (#1 priority) and the local economy. Fix/Funding: Prioritize public safety; implement a vocational Tech program; ensure public building maintenance. Actual Response: My priorities for Livonia are simple but essential: 1. Public Safety. I believe public safety is the foundation for everything else. I am proud to have earned the endorsements from all three of our local police and fire unions and I am committed to keeping Livonia safe for everyone. 2. Economic Development and Business Support. While we have amazing businesses here in Livonia, we can always grow. A vibrant local economy benefits the entire community, bringing people into our community to live, work and play. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges that are unique to the business community, and I work to develop more partnerships with the City and it's businesses. Finally, my last top priority is to form a City Beautification Commission. This purpose of this commission would be to improve curb appeal in our residential and commercial areas by reducing blight through an improved ordinance enforcement system and enhancing public spaces with art installations and streetscape improvements.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: A "passion for service" and a bold vision for Livonia's future.
	Jenny O'Connor	The following is derived from available information: 35-year resident and volunteer; emphasizes listening and fiscal responsibility. Actual Response: I’ve spent over 20 years leading complex design and construction projects, where collaboration, problem-solving, and fiscal responsibility are key to success. As Design Director of a Livonia-based company, I manage budgets, timelines, and stakeholder communication daily, which are skills directly transferable to city governance. Beyond my professional experience, I’ve been an active community volunteer since I was 11 years old, serving on local and national initiatives and working side by side with residents and other volunteers. I understand how to bring people together around shared goals, and I believe in finding practical, creative solutions that serve the long-term interests of our city. For more information, I recommend folks go to my website: jennyoconnor.org where they can also fill out an inquiry form with any specific questions they may have. Those messages go straight to my inbox where I typically respond in 48 hours or less. I’ve lived in Livonia since I was seven years old, attended Grant, Emerson, and Franklin, and am now raising my family here. Professionally, I serve as the Design Director of a local luxury millwork and interior design firm. Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and our two kids, attending local events, and volunteering in the community. I’m also an avid reader—so far in 2025, I’ve read 70 books! Most Friday evenings, you’ll find me playing Scrabble with my neighborhood friends. My family is scattered across Michigan, so we often sneak away to Ludington or Indian River for weekend visits. I also enjoy barre classes and taking walks through our neighborhood with my husband and children. You’ll often find our family at Mies Park or supporting local arts programs. Livonia has been home to every chapter of my life, and I want to ensure it continues to be a wonderful place to live for every family who calls it home.	The following is derived from available information: Issue: Alleviating the staff shortage in the city workforce and re-building trust. Fix/Funding: Proposes redirecting $2.4 million in health insurance savings to update public safety infrastructure. Actual Response: Livonia’s greatest challenge is balancing the maintenance and modernization of our public facilities with fiscal responsibility. We need spaces that meet today’s safety, accessibility, and community needs without overburdening taxpayers. My approach is to pursue adaptive reuse and phased planning, which would include strategically and incrementally upgrading what we have while seeking grants, state funding, and public-private partnerships to offset costs. By engaging residents early and often, we can create facilities we’re proud of, while respecting the voices of voters and the city’s financial realities.	The following is derived from available information: Motivated to restore community confidence and ensure the city is there for everyone. Actual Response: I’m motivated by service and by the idea that leadership is about stewardship, not status. I’ve always believed that small, consistent acts of care can lead to big change. What inspires me most are the people of Livonia: the tradespeople, volunteers, teachers, and small business owners who give their time and talent to make our city stronger. Seeing their dedication reminds me why community matters, and why I’m running: to ensure Livonia continues to be a place where families can thrive for generations to come.
	Eileen McDonnell	The following is derived from available information: Five years as a Livonia Public Schools Trustee, she was successful using her professional skills in contract management to work with the board on the 195 million-dollar school improvement bond. Eileen McDonnell is a candidate for Livonia City Council in 2025, dedicated to open communication and community inclusivity. She champions as a voice for all and advocates for preserving Livonia’s historic buildings, libraries, and mid-century architecture. With five years as a Livonia Public Schools Trustee, she was successful using her professional skills in contract management to work with the board on the 195 million-dollar school improvement bond. Eileen McDonnell’s experience and qualifications make her a strong candidate. Actual Response: Professionally I am a retired municipal contract and proposal manager. I managed millions of dollars in nationwide city bids and contracts. I bring this experience to council to help manage the city’s spending. My husband Bob and I have been Livonia residents for 29, have two adult children, two grandchildren, one large pup and one small grand dog. We love spending time in northern Michigan when we can.	The following is derived from available information: Transparency, Accessibility, and Fiscal Management. Actual Response: The biggest issue I see is the lack of listening on the part of council and of the administration. The people should come first and need to be heard. Through discussion at the table I will help them understand that the citizens come first.	What motivates me is the response to my campaign from people in our community. They are my driving force. People want change and they are the reason why I am pushing as hard as possible to get elected. I do not have a large campaign finance account. I do however, have the people’s energy to do my best.
	Steve King	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Longtime Livonia resident. Has been a teacher, coach, school board member, business owner (Steve King & the Dittilies). Education: MS in Educational Leadership (Madonna U), BS Wayne State My name is Steve King, and I'm running to be your next City Councilman. ​ My philosophy is simple: I believe that we have a responsibility to leave Livonia better than we found it—for our children and future generations. That means making smart, fiscally responsible decisions today that will strengthen our neighborhoods, support our schools, and ensure Livonia remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. ​ As a lifelong resident, educator, school board reformer, and small business owner, I've seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing our city. I'm not a career politician—I'm a parent, a coach, and a problem-solver. I believe in transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility and working together to find common-sense solutions. ​ This campaign isn't about politics. It's about protecting what makes Livonia special. I hope you'll join me in this effort as I humbly ask for your vote this November.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Issue: The need to update city facilities and infrastructure. Fix/Funding: Opposed the $150 million bond; advocates for a "measured approach" to maintenance (e.g., repairing roofs, updating fire stations over five years). Maintaining Existing Infrastructure. Our roads, sidewalks, water systems, and public buildings are the backbone of daily life, and maintaining them should be a top priority. As a council member, I would focus on repairing aging streets, upgrading outdated water lines, and ensuring public spaces like parks and libraries stay safe and usable. Rather than chasing flashy, new projects that strain the budget, we need to invest in the infrastructure we already rely on every day. Keeping Government Transparent. Residents deserve to know how decisions are made and where their tax dollars go. I support open-door policies, accessible town hall meetings, and clear public records that are easy to access. I'll push for real community engagement—where residents can ask questions, get honest answers, and have a say in what happens in their neighborhoods.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Inspired by his parents, who taught him respect and a desire to help others.
No Image Provided	Kathleen E. McIntyre	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Former City Council member and Council President (17 years of service) with a background in private business leadership. Kathleen McIntyre is a dedicated community leader and longtime Livonia resident, with deep experience in city government, private-sector leadership, and nonprofit advocacy. A former Livonia City Councilmember and Council President, Kathleen is known for fiscal responsibility, unwavering support for public safety, and a passion for community service. After leaving council, she has remained actively involved in Livonia as a volunteer with the Livonia Senior Center and St. Aidan Catholic Church, and continues serving as a trustee with the Livonia Community Foundation. Kathleen recently completed a 13-year term on The Senior Alliance Board, where she successfully advocated for improved services for seniors and those living with disabilities. Currently, she works at the nonprofit Southeast Michigan Construction Academy, connecting students to successful careers in skilled trades. She’s running again for City Council to keep Livonia safe, prosperous, and welcoming—for today, and for generations to come.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Issue: Keeping Livonia safe, prosperous, and welcoming. Fix/Funding: Prioritize public safety; support measures to keep tax dollars local. Keep Livonia Safe. Kathleen will prioritize public safety by investing to attract and retain top-quality first responders. She is committed to maintaining Livonia’s high standards for fire and EMS paramedic certification. Kathleen supports building a modern, right-sized police headquarters equipped with the latest technology, and she believes strongly in community policing and close partnerships between law enforcement and residents. Keep Livonia Prosperous. Kathleen knows a thriving community requires a strong economy. She will cut red tape, streamline city permitting, and actively support local businesses. She supports strengthening Livonia’s workforce through education, apprenticeships, and skilled trade programs. Kathleen is committed to maximizing state and federal grants and advocating for fair legislative reforms, ensuring Livonia keeps more of its tax dollars local.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Motivated to keep Livonia safe, prosperous, and welcoming.
No Image Provided	James D. Hooper	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Principles center on securing the rights of the governed and a platform of liberty and limited government.	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Issue: Government overreach/erosion of liberty. Fix/Funding: Advocates for reducing "overburdensome regulations and bureaucracy" and focusing on fiscal responsibility to keep "MORE of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket."	No response provided. The following is derived from available information: Motivated by the "First Principle & Purpose of Representative Government" to secure and protect rights.

Sources

• Livonia City Council official documentation (Roles and Responsibilities, Term Limits).
• Michigan Secretary of State (Voter Eligibility and Registration Guidelines).
• Candidate responses from Q&As, campaign materials, and public forums (Patrick Brockway, Jenny O'Connor, Kathleen E. McIntyre, Kayleigh Kavanagh Reid, Robin Persiconi, Steve King, Eileen McDonnell, and James D. Hooper).