I'm Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon, and I am thrilled to serve the people of Cannon Township! I was appointed to a vacated seat on the Board on Monday, March 25, 2024 and then won the November 5 General Election. I take great pride in doing what is best for our community! It’s an honor to serve you.
My husband, Jake, and I moved here full time in 2014. (Before that, I grew up spending my summers here.) I am a mother to three boys—Blake, Dax, and Parks. Blake and Dax attend Lakes Elementary, where I’m actively involved and a member of the Parent Teacher Organization.
I am the President of Swift Printing, a women-owned, family-owned, B Corp business - where I’m a third-generation team member. In my free time, you’ll catch me at the BLI singing with the Bridge Street Band or catching frogs at turtle town with my boys. I love this community and I want to see it continue to thrive.
As a Republican candidate for this partisan position, I am committed to working with everyone to make Cannon Township an even better place to live.
Vision for Cannon Township
As a member of the Planning Commission, I understand the importance of balancing development, property rights, and the preservation of our township's beautiful natural assets. My focus is to continue prioritizing safety, maintaining quality roads, supporting excellent schools, and preserving our natural resources. I am committed to educating residents and visitors about the beauty of our community for future generations, in line with the Township's Master Plan.
I’ve always had a call to serve, whether it be organizing a fun run/walking group to meet new people or facilitating my kids' idea to build a Little Free Library for our neighborhood. I feel fulfilled when I am a good steward for our community.
In 2022, I became involved with Cannon Township, initially joining the Zoning Board of Appeals as an alternate and swiftly transitioning to the Planning Commission. I have a passion for understanding due process and a commitment to learning. (Check out my experience below.)
I believe in approaching leadership with respect for all. I value understanding the history and reasons behind decisions. I want to learn from as many people as I can. Let’s connect!
Experience
CAREER
Swift Printing Co. Grand Rapids, MI July 2014 - present
AWARDS
Crain’s Grand Rapids Business Journal Inaugural 40 under 40 Recipient. 2023
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
2025 Accepted into Michigan Political Leadership Program
Michigan State University Extension Citizen Planner Certificate, January 2024
Michigan State University Extension Introduction to Lakes and Steams Certificate, March 2024
Florida Southern College, Lakeland, FL — B.S Communication - Graphic Design & Public Relations. May 2009
West Catholic High School, Grand Rapids, MI. May 2005
BOARDS
Lake’s Elementary Parent Teacher Organization Vice President/ Board Member, 2020 - 2024
Downtown Improvement District, Board Member, 2018 - Present, Appointed Vice Chair Feb 21, 2024
StockBridge Business Association, Treasurer, June 2020 - Oct 2024, President Oct 2024 - Present
RECENT COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT/PROJECTS
Bostwick Lake Wellness Committee Member, 2020 - Present
WestSide Clean Up Planning Committee, 2022-2024
Cannon Township Planning Commissioner, September 2023 - Present
Cannon Township Invasive Species & Wetlands Committee December 2023 - Present
Cannon Township ZBA Alternate, June 2023 - September 2023
Rockford Rec Department Soccer Coach, 2019 - 2022
YMCA Walt Gutowski Sr. Golf Outing Planning Committee 2015-2017
WestSide Stride Founder & Coordinator, 2014 - Present
Red Lion Vintage Neon Restoration Project, Coordinator 2015 - Present
WestSide Corridor Improvement Authority Marketing Committee 2014-2016
