Kali Katerberg/Daily Mining Gazette Richard Bourdeau listens to a discussion during an Ontonagon County Board meeting. He is running as a representative of District 2.

ONTONAGON — Richard Bourdeau will appear on the ballot this November representing District 2 on the County Board and is looking to continue progress and ramp up airport improvements.

Raised in Ontonagon, Bourdeau has always tried to stay in the area despite a difficult economy that currently has him working outside the county.

“There’re no jobs around here right now to speak of,” he said, something he would like to see change. Like many residents, Bourdeau is closely watching the potential for development from biofuel and copper mining expansions in the county and says he is supportive of these efforts as a commissioner.

“That’s the whole goal, to get more jobs in Ontonagon,” he said.

Despite the difficulties, Bourdeau has remained in the area, finding work nearby.

“I’ve got roots here,” he said and also enjoys the great hunting and fishing.

On the board, Bourdeau’s main focus is working on development and improvements at the airport. Following the recent resignation of Gray Webber due to health issues, he has begun serving on the Airport Committee.

“I’m hoping to get the projects that are out there up and moving,” he said, noting that they have historically been slow moving, which he would like to change.

Harbor dredging and the reinstating the railway are also key areas he sees the board dealing with down the road.

Bourdeau has served on the board for five years now and hopes to continue his involvement if re-elected and down the road.

“I enjoy doing it and I do believe the board we have there, and even past boards, we’re doing good work,” he said.

Bourdeau also serves on the Economic Development Corporation, the Planning Commission, the Personnel Committee, the Fair Board and the State Fair Board.