Kim Corcoran, mayor of Ironwood, is a Democratic challenger to state Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, in Michigan’s 110th District.

IRONWOOD — Kim Corcoran of Ironwood is the Democratic candidate for Michigan House of Representatives in the 110th District, which covers the western portion of the Upper Peninsula.

The seat is held by state Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, who is seeking reelection.

Corcoran has served on the Ironwood City Commission for the past 15 years, seven of them as mayor.

“I am proud and excited to announce my candidacy for the 110th,” Corcoran stated in a news release. “Strong and effective leadership is crucial for getting things done. I will represent the people of the western Upper Peninsula with the energy and tenacity they deserve.”

As an educator and retired school principal with the Michigan Department of Corrections, Corcoran said she has firsthand knowledge of the basic everyday struggles that can face the average Yooper. She has experienced directly how the economics of state government has impacted western Upper Peninsula towns.

During her time on the commission and as mayor, she has worked with city staff to incorporate positive change. Successful projects include a new park/splash pad in the downtown area, a road millage that led to a significant number of roads being upgraded and paved, and a new water treatment plant.

Corcoran has served on multiple governing boards and also volunteers during community events. Her causes include affordable health care, quality education, and sustainable housing.

Corcoran said she will strive to listen to the needs of the people in her district and be a voice that is present and heard in Lansing. Her platform prioritizes:

— Education: Ensuring that students and staff are afforded the resources they need to be successful. Addressing mental health issues faced by students.

— Economic development: Thinking long-term sustainability and socioeconomic growth by focusing on a multitude of factors including infrastructure, broadband, small business development, housing and placemaking strategies.

— Health care: Exploring better ways to offer more affordable health care and a plan to offer flexibility with service areas. The closure of the Ontonagon hospital is a concern to be addressed, especially with the CopperWood Project on the horizon.

Corcoran pledged to listen to residents and work collaboratively with dedication and passion to advocate for the voices of the people of the Upper Peninsula.

The campaign can be reached at kcorcoran110@gmail.com.

The 110th District includes Iron, Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton and Keweenaw counties and the western part of Dickinson County — the cities of Iron Mountain and Kingsford and Breitung and Sagola townships.