Miller Won’t Seek Re-Election, Milan’s Wayne Announces Run

State Rep. Reggie Miller announced April 13 that she will not seek re-election, and a Milan City Council member has already stepped forward to run for the open seat.

Milan City Council Member Shannon Dare Wayne announced April 15 that she is running for Michigan House District 31, which includes Milan and parts of Monroe and Lenawee counties.

“This decision was not made quickly or easily,” Miller said in a statement. “Serving the people of this district has been the honor of my lifetime. I have given this work everything I have, and I will continue to do so until my final day in office.”

Wayne said she is running to bring a local, results-focused approach to Lansing.

“I’m honored to have Rep. Reggie Miller’s endorsement and grateful for her support as I run for the Michigan House,” Wayne said. “Working families in the 31st District deserve a strong voice in Lansing who understands their lives and knows how to get things done.”

Wayne has served on the Milan City Council for more than four years. During that time, she said she has worked to secure funding for infrastructure projects, including wastewater treatment upgrades, roads and parks, while maintaining a balanced budget.

She said her local experience helped shape her decision to run.

“Many of the issues we face locally are shaped by decisions made in Lansing,” Wayne said. “I’m ready to bring a focus on accountability, transparency and real problem-solving to the state level.”

Miller also endorsed Wayne’s campaign.

“Shannon is exactly the type of representative we need for the 31st House District,” Miller said. “She has proven herself as a steady, effective leader on the Milan City Council and knows how to bring people together and deliver results.”

Local officials also responded to Wayne’s announcement.

“That’s a big step up but you’ll be fantastic. You’ve served Milan incredibly well and now you’ll have the chance to represent us in Lansing,” Milan Mayor Ed Kolar said.

Milan Area Schools Board President Tom Faro also expressed support. “Great news for our community and everyone in District 31,” he said.

Wayne, a lifelong Michigander, has lived in Milan for 22 years and works at Ford Motor Co. She was appointed to the Michigan Technological University Board of Trustees and also serves as an adjunct professor at Lawrence Technological University.

She said she plans to focus on lowering costs, supporting public schools and advocating for working families.

Featured photo: State Rep. Reggie Miller, left, and Milan City Council Member Shannon Dare Wayne. Photos courtesy of the candidates