City Council Chairman Doug Geiss was the top vote-getter among those running for council and now returns to serve his third term on the legislative body.
He graduated first in his class from Truman High School in 1988. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in engineering and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Michigan.
After receiving his engineering degree, he went to work for the Ford Motor Company, quickly moving up the ranks to management by age 29.
Geiss served for three terms as a Michigan state representative, from 2009 to 2014. While in Lansing, he fought to expand state incentives for companies that make advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles leading to investments of nearly $6 billion in Michigan and generated more than 63,000 jobs.
While on the Education Committee, he led the effort to increase the drop-out age in the State of Michigan, from 16 to 18. This change has resulted in fewer high school drop-outs and an increase in the State graduation rate.
His “Next Michigan” legislation led to the creation of the Detroit Regional Aerotropolis Corporation, a public-private organization that drives economic development in the region.
Prior to joining the Michigan House in 2009, he served on the City Council, first as chairman pro-tem and then as chairman. During that time, he helped balance the budget by reducing overtime expenses and the use of city-issued cars, rather than raising taxes. He helped establish an early storm warning system and created a pedestrian-friendly walking path at Heritage Park.
He also implemented a city ethics ordinance for employees and elected officials to ensure that elected officials always keep our residents' best interests in mind.
Geiss is a lifelong resident of Taylor, where he lives with his wife, State Senator Erika, and their two children, Michael and Ella.
Experience and Education:
- State Representative for the 22nd District (2009-present)
- Taylor City Council Chairman (2005-2008)
- Taylor City Council Chairman Pro-Tem (2001-2005)
- Engineer at Ford Motor Company (1993-present)
- Masters in Business Administration, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (2000)
- B.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (1992)
- Valedictorian, Truman High School (1988)
- Campaign Staff for Congressman William D. Ford (1985-1993)
- Received the Douglas A. Fraser, UAW Scholarship (1988)
- U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Page (1986-1987)