Michael Nolan runs for Rockton Township supervisor, pledges transparency and fiscal accountability

Update: Nolan later decided not to run.

Michael Nolan is running for Rockton Township supervisor, promising a renewed focus on transparency, financial accountability, and stronger community partnerships. A longtime Rockton resident, Nolan believes the township can better serve residents by simplifying access to information, improving budget oversight, and expanding support networks for those in need.

“People deserve straightforward access to township business.”

One of Nolan’s top concerns is accessibility in local government. “Right now, if residents want to see meeting agendas or financial reports, they have to dig for them,” he said. If elected, he plans to establish a township website with easy access to budgets, projects, and meeting minutes.

Nolan also wants to increase physical postings of township updates in libraries, community centers, and other public spaces. “Not everyone is online. We need to meet people where they are,” he said.

Budget reforms and more transparent financial oversight

Nolan is calling for tighter budget controls and an in-house accounting system. “Our current financial reports are difficult to track and interpret,” he said. If elected, he plans to separate funds for specific projects—such as road repairs and cemetery maintenance—so taxpayers can see exactly where money is going.

He pointed to a recent $200,000 loss in township funds due to property deed errors as an example of why stronger financial oversight is needed. “Mistakes like that shouldn’t happen,” he said. “With the right systems in place, we can prevent costly mismanagement.”

Expanding community support

Nolan wants to collaborate with local churches and organizations to provide additional assistance for residents in need. Under his plan, those seeking help with rent or utilities through the township would also be connected to local food pantries, counseling services, and other resources.

“Help shouldn’t just be financial—it should be practical and meaningful,” Nolan said. “There are organizations already doing great work. We should be partnering with them, not duplicating efforts.”

A personal commitment to service

Nolan’s decision to run for office stems partly from a life-changing liver transplant in 2015. He says the experience deepened his commitment to public service and community involvement.

“I was given a second chance, and I want to spend it serving others,” he said. “That’s why I’m running—because I believe local government should work for the people, not against them.”

Election information

Nolan is running for Rockton Township Supervisor against current trustee Randy Johnson. Early voting begins on March 20.

Nolan priorities at a glance:

• transparency: establish a township website for budgets, agendas, and project updates
• budget oversight: implement clearer accounting with separate funds for township projects
• community support: strengthen partnerships with local organizations to assist residents