Novi MI, October 16, 2025

News Summary

On November 4, voters in Novi will decide on a significant school bond proposal allowing the district to borrow up to $425 million for essential improvements. Alongside this, seven candidates will vie for three City Council seats, shaping the future governance of the city. The bond aims to enhance security, technology, and school facilities, requiring an estimated cost of $150 per year for homeowners. The outcomes of these votes will have lasting implications on local education and community development.

Novi

On November 4, 2025, voters in Novi will cast their ballots on a crucial school bond proposal and elect new members for the city council amid a competitive election season. The outcomes of these votes will influence local education funding and governance significantly.

The proposed school bond will allow the Novi Community School District to borrow up to $425 million for essential school improvement projects. Approval of the bond will require an estimated millage of 2.04 mills for the year 2026, resulting in a cost of approximately $150 per year for homeowners with a property valued at $300,000. Key projects funded by this bond include security enhancements, upgraded technology, new school facilities, and improved athletic fields. The bond will have a maximum term of 30 years, with an estimated annual average millage of 3.52 mills necessary to retire the debt.

Mayoral and City Council Elections

In the upcoming elections, Mayor Justin Fischer is running unopposed for a two-year term. Meanwhile, seven candidates are vying for three available four-year terms on the Novi City Council. The candidates are:

• Joe Bertera (53) – A realtor with a BBA in Accounting from Eastern Michigan University, Bertera has lived in Novi for 25 years and aims to implement district-based voting for fair representation.
• Toby D. Brazwell (51) – The District Manager of an insurance company and a motivational speaker, Brazwell has lived in Novi for five years. He holds a B.A. in Criminology from Ohio State University and prioritizes infrastructure, affordable housing, and sustainable development.
• Jonathan Gold (56) – A project manager with 20 years of residency in Novi, Gold emphasizes maintaining the city’s infrastructure and ensuring accountability from utility companies.
• Priya Gurumurthy (47) – The current IT Director and a member of the City Council since 2023, Gurumurthy holds both a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in computer science. She focuses on enhancing public safety resources and promoting sustainable growth.
• Aaron Martinez (32) – A lifelong Novi resident and attorney, Martinez earned his J.D. from the University of Detroit Mercy. He seeks to build a safe, connected, and sustainable community.
• Ed Roney (65) – A retired resident of Novi for 40 years, Roney has a BS in Economics and an MBA, aiming to protect public safety and preserve city woodlands and wetlands.
• Brian Smith (66) – A Senior Software Engineer and current City Council member since 2021, Smith’s goals include implementing sustainability plans and enhancing non-motorized transit.

Significance of the Proposals

The school bond proposal seeks to address crucial areas of educational infrastructure, while the city council elections introduce various perspectives on local governance and community development. Voters will need to consider the importance of both initiatives in shaping the future landscape of Novi.

Conclusion

As the elections approach, the residents of Novi will play a critical role in determining the direction of their community through these pivotal votes on November 4, 2025.

FAQ

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Additional Resources

• Hometown Life: Novi City Council Elections
• C & G News: Novi City Council Candidates
• Oakland County 115: Priya Gurumurthy Interview
• Detroit Free Press: Primary Election Results
• Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan

Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER

The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.