Board of Supervisors

Meet the elected officials who serve Colfax Township and represent our community's interests.

The Township Board consists of 5 elected members. Those members include the Supervisor, Clerk, Treasurer, and two Trustees. These 5 community members work together to ensure the statutory duties of the Township are accomplished.

Please remember these are personal phone numbers. Please do not call in the early mornings or late at night. Please do be civil and respectful. Remember, we're all neighbors.

Dave Leonard

Dave Leonard

Supervisor

Email: djleonard48@gmail.com

Phone: (616) 824-8867

Serving since: January 2022

About

Dave Leonard has served as township supervisor since 2022. He has been a Colfax property owner since 1991 and full-time resident since 2011. A graduate of Grand Valley State University, Dave served as a police officer for 27 years. While an officer, Dave was president of the Grand Rapids Police Officers Association and sat on the board of the Michigan Association of Police Organizations. After retiring from law enforcement, he authored a book about his police career.

In addition to his duties for Colfax Township, Dave is the current Chairperson of the Michigan Township Association Oceana County Chapter. He is an avid hunter and sports fan, especially of his beloved Detroit Tigers!

Joni Gerard

Joni Gerard

Clerk

Email: jonimgerard80@yahoo.com

Phone: (231) 301-5685

Serving since: November 2025

About

Joni maintains official township records, manages elections, and ensures transparency in government operations. She also oversees the deputy clerk and ensures the website is maintained and up-to-date, keeping residents informed of township activities and important information.

As a former educator, Joni understands the importance of building a strong community and fostering connections among residents. In her off time, she loves spending time spoiling her grandchildren and cherishing family moments.

Shelby Branch

Shelby Branch

Treasurer

Email: shelbyhood77@gmail.com

Phone: (231) 923-8259

Serving since: [Info needed]

About

Shelby manages township finances, budgets, and ensures responsible stewardship of public funds. The township treasurer position is a natural fit for her, given her background and current work at Lake Osceola State Bank, where she brings valuable financial expertise to the community.

Shelby is passionate about providing the best experiences for the community and looks forward to creating more resources and opportunities for community members through her work on sub-committees. Her dedication to fiscal responsibility and community development makes her an invaluable asset to the township board.

Stuart Overway

Stuart Overway

Trustee

Email: Contact info needed

Phone: (616) 886-1023

Serving since: [Info needed]

About

Stuart brings community insight and helps guide township policies and decision-making processes. [Biography to be added]

Stephanie Haight

Stephanie Haight

Trustee

Email: stephaniehaight7@gmail.com

Phone: 616-232-1515

Serving since: December 2025

About

Stephanie Haight has been married to her husband, Dan, since 1992. She values time spent with family and friends and enjoys reading, volunteering, and staying active in the community. She loves experiencing all the seasons at School Section Lake, especially the summer months.

In addition to serving as a Township Trustee, Stephanie works in business development for Day & Ross, a North American transportation company.

Board Responsibilities

  • Setting township policies and priorities
  • Managing the annual budget and finances
  • Overseeing township services and operations
  • Representing the community's interests
  • Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations

Contact the Board

The Board welcomes input from residents. You can:

  • Attend public meetings (see our meetings page)
  • Email individual board members using the addresses above
  • Call the township office at (xxx) xxx-xxxx
  • Submit written comments to be read at meetings