The Coverts have called New Baltimore home since 1994. But to me, it has been my lifelong home. It’s where I made my first friends, where I went to school, where I spent summers on the lake. It’s where I first met my wife Samanatha. This June, it’s where we will welcome our daughter and begin growing our family together. I’m proud to say this community is part of me and it’s helped shape me into the man I am today. 

​

Though it has changed much over the years, the character, the charm, and the community values we hold are still recognizable today. I am committed to preserving those things no matter how much the times change. But growth and our ability to attract new families is essential to the success of any town. That I have seen so many my age choose other communities to call home, the challenge set before us is clear. As a leader, I am committed to making this place the best it can be by improving our long term planning, modernizing our operations, investing in amenities, and improving service delivery. All things that residents new and old hold dear when choosing a home. 

I am running to offer voters a chance to change the way we do business at city hall. As mayor, I’ll bring with me a new perspective, a different approach to leadership, fresh ideas, and clear vision for our future. To learn more about my plans click the issues button below. As always, feel free to contact me with your questions, concerns, and ideas. I hope to earn your trust and your vote come Tuesday, August 5th. 

 

  

​

 

 

I am a lifelong resident and ABHS graduate (Class of 2008). I went on to complete my studies in International Relations with a focus on International Security, Norms & Cooperation at the University of Michigan (Class of 2012). I had originally wanted to be a diplomat, and perhaps part of me still does. While my interest in diplomacy remains, I was unable to square the challenging lifestyle with what I ultimately wanted after graduation - time and proximity to family & friends, a community, and a family of my own.  Despite heading down a different path professionally, some of the discipline stuck, helping to shape my outlook and approach. 

​

After spending 6 years in Lansing politics, I returned to New Baltimore in hopes of putting down my own roots. I transitioned work into the maritime field where I have remained since 2019. I ran for council in 2017 and won re-election in 2021. After marrying, Sam and I bought our new home together in 2023. We discovered the many “joys” of fixing up an older home and, like many residents, experienced the flood in August of that year. 

 

I am the proud son of Gary and Cynda Covert, youngest of three brothers (Kevin (Erin), Eric (Katie), uncle to two nieces (Addison and Vivian), a proud husband to Sam, and soon-to-be father to my daughter Daphne. By day I work for the Seafarers International Union (SIU) assigned to head up national recruitment for our affiliated vocational school the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship.