About Tom Semaan

Personal Background

Mayor Tom Semaan’s life is a testament to the American Dream, rooted in the journey of his immigrant parents and his own deep connection to New Baltimore, Michigan. Born in Detroit to Aziz and Shammemta Shaouni Semaan, Tom’s father. Aziz, arrived in the United States as part of a family seeking opportunity after immigrating from Iraq in 1929, navigating the challenges of a new country with determination. He married Tom’s mother in 1949 who brought warmth and resilience to their household. In 1963, when Tom was just three years old, the family moved from Detroit to New Baltimore, drawn by the promise of a close-knit community along the shores of Anchor Bay. Growing up in a bustling household as number eight of eleven children, Tom learned early the value of responsibility and teamwork. A proud Chaldean-American, he carries forward his family’s cultural heritage marked by traditions of hospitality and faith while embracing his identity as a lifelong New Baltimore resident. Tom’s mother, Shammemta, worked very diligently as well as raised 11 kids in the family grocery store downtown New Baltimore that was called Art and Mary’s market. Here is a signage from the store.

Professionally, Tom has spent over 26 years as a Director of Business Development and Partner at Michigan Case Management, where he cultivated expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, and building partnerships. This experience, combined with his innate leadership skills, has equipped him to guide New Baltimore into a future of sustainable growth and prosperity.

Family

Family is the cornerstone of Tom Semaan’s life, reflecting both his personal values and his ties to New Baltimore. Raised in a lively home with ten younger siblings, Tom often took on a guiding role, helping his parents manage the demands of a large family. His father, Aziz, worked tirelessly to provide for them, while his mother, Shammemta, nurtured a household grounded in love, discipline, and Chaldean traditions—such as gathering for homemade meals featuring recipes passed down through generations. Six of Tom’s siblings remain in the Anchor Bay area, a testament to the family’s enduring bond with the region. Today, Tom continues to prioritize family, drawing inspiration from his parents’ legacy of perseverance and unity. Though private about his personal life, he has often spoken of how his upbringing shaped his commitment to fairness and community welfare values he instills in his own interactions as mayor. His family’s story, from Detroit’s urban streets to New Baltimore’s waterfront, mirrors the city’s own evolution, making Tom a living bridge between its past and future.

Community Involvement

Tom Semaan’s dedication to New Baltimore is not just a role he plays as mayor—it’s a lifelong passion evident in decades of service. His political journey began in 1987 when he was elected to the New Baltimore City Council, serving until 1991 and gaining early insight into the city’s needs. After a break from elected office, he returned with renewed vigor, winning the mayoral election in November 2021 and earning re-election in 2023 with strong community support. Beyond politics, Tom’s volunteerism stands out: he spent nearly 30 years with the New Baltimore Fire Department, responding to emergencies and training alongside fellow firefighters to protect the city he loves. His commitment extends to local organizations like the New Baltimore Lions Club, where he has helped organize events such as the annual Winterfest Festival, and the New Baltimore Goodfellows, where he’s supported holiday assistance programs for families in need. As a member of the Sons of AMVETS – Post 52, Tom honors veterans’ contributions, while his involvement with the New Baltimore Civic Club has fueled initiatives like park cleanups and youth scholarships. One of his proudest achievements as mayor has been spearheading the revitalization of the downtown waterfront, including upgrades to Walter and Mary Burke Park, alongside fostering small business growth. Known for his approachable demeanor, Tom maintains an open-door policy at City Hall, hosting regular “Coffee with the Mayor” sessions to hear residents’ ideas—whether about improving infrastructure or preserving New Baltimore’s small-town charm. His vision blends progress with tradition, ensuring the city remains a welcoming home for all.