League of Women Voters: Amy's Candidate Forum Remarks

Good evening, everyone. My name is Amy Heutmaker.

Lately, it feels like we’re being pitted against each other — even in small towns like Russell. Algorithms decide what we see, reinforcing what we already believe. This is called confirmation bias, and it can make us think our neighbors are our enemies. These systems reward outrage over understanding, clicks over conversation — and they’re working all too well.

In talking with many of you, I’ve heard your frustration: collapsing properties, lack of accountability from Trustees, and fear when neighbors threaten violence just for being different.

But despite our differences, we all want the same things: safety from police, fire, and EMS; good roads; the removal of eyesore properties; and transparency from our township government.

As a volunteer firefighter, I learned that when the call comes in, you don’t ask who voted for who — you just go. You trust the person next to you with your life and act for the greater good.

As a mental health counselor, I’ve spent years helping people listen — really listen — even when it’s hard. I live by the principle of Unconditional Positive Regard: meeting people where they are, not where I wish they were. That means respecting people with values different from mine, simply because they’re human.

These experiences shape how I want to serve Russell Township. I’m not running to represent one group — I’m running to represent all of us.

This township doesn’t need intimidation. It needs oversight, clarity, and connection. It needs someone who can quiet the static and focus on what matters: fiscal responsibility, working infrastructure, and leadership that listens.

We can’t fix division overnight — but we can start here, together, by stepping outside the algorithm and into real community.

I’m asking for your support — not just for me, but for a better way of doing government. A way that listens before it reacts. Builds before it blames. And remembers we’re neighbors before we’re anything else.

Hello Neighbor