Jennifer Kehoe (Plymouth City Commission At-large, Michigan, candidate 2025)

Jennifer Kehoe

Nonpartisan

Candidate, Plymouth City Commission At-large

Elections and appointments

Last election

August 5, 2025

Education

Bachelor's

University of Oregon, 1994

Graduate

University of Michigan, 2001

Personal

Birthplace

Memphis, Tenn.

Religion

Jewish

Profession

Retired

Contact

Campaign website

Jennifer Kehoe is running for election to the Plymouth City Commission At-large in Michigan. She is on the ballot in the general election on November 4, 2025. She was on the ballot in the primary on August 5, 2025.^[source]

Kehoe completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Jennifer Kehoe provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on July 18, 2025:

• Birth date: May 12, 1971
• Birth place: Memphis, Tennessee
• High school: Lincoln High School, Portland, Oregon
• Bachelor's: University of Oregon, 1994
• Graduate: University of Michigan, 2001
• Gender: Female
• Religion: Jewish
• Profession: Retired
• Prior offices held:
  • City Commissioner (2021-Prsnt)
• Incumbent officeholder: Yes
• Campaign slogan: Rooted in Plymouth. Focused on the Future
• Campaign website

Elections

General election

General election for Plymouth City Commission At-large (4 seats)

The following candidates are running in the general election for Plymouth City Commission At-large on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate
		Joe Elliott (Nonpartisan)
		Jennifer Kehoe (Nonpartisan)
		Alanna Maguire (Nonpartisan)
		Kristin McHale-Johnson (Nonpartisan)
		Nick Moroz (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Jim Mulhern (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Ron Picard (Nonpartisan)
		Karen Sisolak (Nonpartisan)

---

	Incumbency information for this election was not available.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for Plymouth City Commission At-large (4 seats)

The following candidates ran in the primary for Plymouth City Commission At-large on August 5, 2025.

		Candidate
		Joe Elliott (Nonpartisan)
		Jennifer Kehoe (Nonpartisan)
		Alanna Maguire (Nonpartisan)
		Kristin McHale-Johnson (Nonpartisan)
		Nick Moroz (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Jim Mulhern (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Ron Picard (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Scott Silvers (Nonpartisan)
		Karen Sisolak (Nonpartisan)

---

	Incumbency information for this election was not available.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

Campaign themes

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Jennifer Kehoe completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Kehoe's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m Jennifer Kehoe, 54, and I’ve lived in Plymouth for 25 years. I hold master’s degrees in Public Health and Toxicology from the University of Michigan and have a background in scientific research and teaching. I’m a current City Commissioner and I’ve served over seven years on both the Planning and Brownfield Commissions. I’m proud of my efforts to manage the size of new or remodeled homes, improve walkability, and revitalize Old Village through initiatives like the Corridor Improvement Authority. I’m committed to smart, thoughtful development and making sure residents have a voice in shaping our community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Smart, Thoughtful Growth One of my top priorities has been making sure Plymouth evolves in a way that protects our small-town feel while still allowing for progress. While serving on the Planning Commission, I helped shape key policies like the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) ordinance, which helps manage the size of homes to preserve neighborhood character. I also worked on updates to the City’s Master Plan, with a strong focus on walkability, pedestrian safety, and making sure development fits the scale and needs of our community.
• Investing in Old Village As a commissioner and liaison to the Old Village Association, I’ve seen firsthand the neighborhood’s unique character and needs. I’m committed to securing funding for a better walking and biking path from Old Village to Hines Park. I’m also proud to have championed the proposed Corridor Improvement Authority, which uses Tax Increment Financing to reinvest new tax revenue from rising property values back into Old Village without raising taxes. This means we can look forward to real improvements like better sidewalks, public art, and safer infrastructure while preserving the creative, quirky, and historic spirit that makes Old Village special.
• Improving Communication with the Public I’ve always believed that government should be accessible and transparent. I believe the best decisions happen when residents have a chance to be heard. Whether it’s through public meetings, surveys, emails, or one-on-one conversations at community events, I’m always looking for ways to bring more resident input into our work on the Commission. To help with that, I created The Plymouth Scoop, a newsletter (and Facebook page) where residents can get timely updates, learn about local decisions, and stay informed about what’s happening at City Hall and beyond. It’s all about keeping the conversation going and making sure everyone has the opportunity to be involved.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about sustainability policies that make sense for a small city like Plymouth. That means supporting walkable neighborhoods, protecting green spaces, investing in safe bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and encouraging right-sized development. I believe local government plays a key role in creating long-term environmental and economic health by making smart planning decisions now. Sustainability is not just about the environment; it is about maintaining the quality of life we love in our community for generations to come.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

If you are looking for a thoughtful, community-focused approach to how cities like Plymouth can grow in a smart and sustainable way, I highly recommend exploring the website strongtowns.org. Strong Towns offers practical ideas and real-world examples of how small cities can invest in long-term financial health, support walkability, make better use of public infrastructure, and ensure development truly benefits the people who live there.

Many of the principles on Strong Towns align with how I view the future of Plymouth. I believe in prioritizing small-scale, people-centered growth that builds resilience without losing the unique charm and character that make our city special. It is a great resource for anyone interested in building a stronger, more connected, and more financially sound Plymouth.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

For me, one of the most important qualities in an elected official is integrity. That means being honest, transparent, and consistent, even when the decisions are difficult or not universally popular. I believe that public service is a responsibility, not a platform, and it requires a commitment to listening carefully, doing your homework, and making choices that reflect the best interests of the entire community.

As a City Commissioner, I take that responsibility seriously. Every decision I make is guided by one core question: Is this what is best for Plymouth, now and in the long term? Sometimes that means balancing competing needs or saying no to something that looks good on paper but does not align with our values or vision as a city. I do not approach the job with a personal agenda, and I do not make decisions based on what is politically easy. I focus on what will help our community grow in a way that is smart, sustainable, and true to the character that makes Plymouth such a special place.

At the end of the day, trust is earned. I work hard to be someone residents can count on to show up, listen, ask the tough questions, and always act with integrity. That is the kind of leadership I believe our city deserves.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe two of the most important qualities I bring to public service are integrity and vision. I approach every decision with honesty, transparency, and a commitment to doing what is right for the community, not what is easy or politically convenient. I also bring a long-term perspective, always thinking about how today’s choices will shape Plymouth’s future. I care deeply about preserving the character of our city while planning for smart, sustainable growth. My goal is to lead with thoughtfulness and purpose, always keeping the best interests of residents at the center of my work.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of a City Commissioner in Plymouth are to help shape the vision for our city, set sound policy, and ensure we are making responsible financial decisions that keep our city strong and sustainable. It is our job to look at the big picture while staying grounded in the day-to-day needs of our community. That means asking thoughtful questions, doing the research, and making decisions that balance long-term planning with short-term realities.

A major part of the role is also ensuring the city remains financially sound. Every dollar we spend is a reflection of our values, so we must be careful stewards of public resources. I believe in budgeting not just for today but for the future, so we can continue to deliver the high level of services our residents expect while planning for unexpected challenges and new opportunities.

Above all, the most important responsibility is to put the needs of residents first. That means listening, being accessible, and staying connected to what matters most to the people who live and work here. I believe public service is about trust, and that trust is earned by showing up, being honest, and keeping the focus where it belongs on doing what is best for our city and everyone who calls it home.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want my legacy to be a Plymouth that is well prepared for the future, a city that has grown thoughtfully while staying true to its character. That means a community with strong infrastructure, walkable neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and a clear vision for long-term sustainability. I hope to leave behind a city that made smart investments, listened to its residents, and planned not just for the next few years but for the next generation. If I have helped build a Plymouth that is resilient, welcoming, and ready for what is ahead, then I will feel I have done my job well.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember watching the launch of Space Shuttle Columbia in 1981. At the time, we were living in Arizona, so we were already at school when it happened. Our class gathered around one of those old portable TV carts to watch the launch live. I still remember the sense of excitement and awe as we watched the shuttle lift off successfully. It was an incredible moment to witness, and one that left a lasting impression.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job was as a sales clerk at a children’s and baby store in Portland, Oregon. I worked there for about six months, but since there was no public transportation to that area, I had to rely on my parents for rides. It wasn’t a sustainable arrangement, so I eventually found a different job that I could get to by public bus. Even though it was a short-term experience, that first job taught me a great deal. I learned how to interact with customers, stay organized in a busy retail setting, and take responsibility for important tasks like managing inventory and keeping the store presentable. Most importantly, it taught me the value of punctuality, reliability, and working as part of a team. These lessons have stayed with me throughout my personal and professional life.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

One important responsibility of a City Commissioner that many people may not be aware of is the role we play in strategic planning. While much of the public's attention is often on immediate issues like roads, development proposals, or budget decisions, strategic planning is what helps guide the long-term direction of the city. It is where we set priorities, define goals, and create a shared vision for where Plymouth is headed in the years to come.

Strategic planning is about more than just reacting to the needs of today. It is about anticipating what our community will need five, ten, or even twenty years from now. It allows us to look at the big picture and make sure that decisions we make now are aligned with our long-term goals for growth, sustainability, financial stability, and quality of life. Whether we are planning infrastructure improvements, considering how we grow our neighborhoods, or thinking about economic development, strategic planning helps us do that in a thoughtful and coordinated way.

As commissioners, we work closely with city staff, residents, and other stakeholders to shape this vision. It is a responsibility that requires listening, collaboration, and a willingness to think beyond the immediate. I believe more residents should be aware of this part of the job, because it is where many of the policies that shape Plymouth’s future truly begin. A strong strategic plan ensures that we are not just managing change but guiding it in a way that reflects the values and priorities of our community.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, I believe it is beneficial for a City Commissioner to have previous experience serving on a city board or committee. Local government is complex, and having that background helps build a strong foundation for making informed, effective decisions. Experience on a city board provides valuable insight into how local government functions, from budgeting and planning to public engagement and policy development.

Serving in this way gives future city commissioners a deeper understanding of the issues our city faces, the priorities of our residents, and the processes that guide our work. It also shows a commitment to the community and a willingness to be involved in the day-to-day efforts that keep our city running. This kind of involvement helps prepare someone to step into a leadership role with a clearer view of both the challenges and the opportunities facing Plymouth.

That said, experience should always be paired with a willingness to listen, to learn, and to collaborate. Public service is about representing the people and working together to build a stronger, more connected community. Having previous experience in government helps ensure that the decisions being made reflect a strong understanding of how to move Plymouth forward in a thoughtful and responsible way.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

As your current City Commissioner, I am deeply proud of the important role our office plays in shaping Plymouth’s future. Our City Commission, made up of the mayor and six fellow commissioners, serves as the policy-making body under Plymouth’s council-manager form of government. We are responsible for setting goals, passing ordinances, adopting the city budget, and determining tax rates, while a professionally appointed City Manager carries out these decisions with administrative expertise. This structure ensures that our government runs efficiently, remains accountable, and stays transparent. It allows us to respond directly to residents' needs while maintaining high standards of service. As a commissioner, I take pride in being a bridge between community concerns and long-term city planning, whether that means guiding responsible development, investing in infrastructure, or appointing residents to boards and commissions to give more voices a seat at the table. The City Commission plays a vital role not only in Plymouth’s day-to-day operations but also in shaping a strong and vibrant future. I would be honored to continue serving you in this role.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

State Rep. Matt Koleszar, Wayne County Commissioner Melissa Daub, The Plymouth Democratic Club, Mayor Suzi Deal, Mayor-Pro Tem Colleen Pobur, Commissioner Brock Minton, Commissioner Alanna Maguire, Commissioner Linda Filipczak, and Commissioner Nick Moroz

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe that integrity and transparency are essential to good government. Residents deserve to know how decisions are made, how their tax dollars are being spent, and what the long-term financial picture looks like for their city. Clear communication and open access to information help build trust and keep people informed and engaged in their local government.

At the same time, I believe there is a balance to be struck. Transparency should not mean that every individual decision is second-guessed or picked apart to the point where it prevents us from doing the work residents have elected us to do. City government needs room to function effectively and efficiently. That means trusting staff and elected officials to make thoughtful, informed decisions on behalf of the public, with clear processes and oversight in place.

As a City Commissioner, I take this responsibility seriously. I do my homework, ask the necessary questions, and always act in the best interest of the community. I believe that strong financial management and open communication go hand in hand, and I support policies that ensure residents have access to timely, accurate, and meaningful information—without turning every choice into a political battle. Good governance requires both accountability and the trust to lead.

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