A Treasurer for the People.
Latitia Lamelle Sharp is a proud, native Michigander with roots right here in Washtenaw County. An alumna of Ypsilanti Public Schools, Latitia earned degrees from Ypsilanti High School (Go Braves!), Washtenaw Community College, and Eastern Michigan University (Go Eagles!).
After college, Latitia began her public service career with Washtenaw County serving in significant roles across multiple sectors of County government, including Parks and Recreation, Human Resources, County Administration and the Office of Public Defender. In a career that spans over 35 years, Latitia has done it all - she's crafted policies, implemented procedural guidelines and advocated for new initiatives that resulted in platforms, policies, and programs that produced "Good Government."
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Currently, Latitia is a Division Administrator with the Washtenaw County Public Defender. In her role, Latitia is able to tap into her passion - improving the well-being of our community. She has launched new programs, provided oversight of grant funding, and sought out new initiatives and partnerships to support the work of the Public Defender and cross county departments. Latitia stays up-to-date with Michigan's standards and regulations related to ensuring the department's funding compliance, overseeing operational activities, and managing the proper allocation and expenditure of grant funds.
Recently, Latitia's commitment to the proper management of public finances, financial reporting, and best practices led her to join the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and the National Grant Management Association (NGMA). Coupled with her expertise in Process Improvement, Policy Development, and Program Management, Latitia's membership in these organizations allows her to continue serving her beloved community in multiple capacities. Additionally, Latitia is an active member of the Neutral Zone Board of Directors and the Human Resource Committee.
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Latitia is the mother of an adult daughter and lives in Ypsilanti Township. She is a dedicated and trusted member of the Second Baptist Church of Ypsilanti, where she works as a Trustee, overseeing the church's finances, administration, and facilities. Aside from her professional and public service endeavors, Latitia created “The Sharp Steppers," a line dancing class that encourages individuals of all ages to dance for their social and physical well-being. For her personal self-care, Latitia listens to jazz music, takes long walks, and spends time with family.
Latitia and Tanya Garost, GFOA President-Elect
Latitia and Catherine McClary, Washtenaw County Treasurer
If elected, Latitia would be the first African American woman to serve as Treasurer of Washtenaw County. She understands the significance of this. For Latitia, the pinnacle of public service is to treat every resident and community member with dignity and respect. Latitia is passionate about bridging the gap between communities countywide, to support good government and community well-being. Her leadership is endorsed by retiring Treasurer McClary, and she will aim to enhance the foreclosure prevention efforts that McClary has strongly championed to maintain Washtenaw County's progressive progress.
Vote for Latitia, her experience and understanding of county budgeting, financial reporting, and public funds safeguarding to the role of County Treasurer.​
Latitia will be a Treasurer for the People!