Putting himself through college, Jon has worked in the West Grand Rapids area for almost 20 years. Proudly employed by a local business as foreman, Jon oversaw lawn care and snow plowing for a property management company while in school. 

Following in his grandfather's footsteps, Commissioner O'Connor obtained his Real Estate Salesperson License while finishing his degree at Grand Valley State University. He still maintains his Real Estate Appraisers License which he obtained prior to starting the first of his own local businesses, West Michigan Real Estate Advisors.

Jon's entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to his community, and desire to make positive change for others, led him down a unique path that resulted in the founding of Long Road Distillers. Jon and his business partner, Kyle, met and found kinship in their shared passion for the community they both still call home today.  Now one of the most accomplished distilleries in the nation, Long Road Distillers, like their ownership, focuses on the people and the region it calls home. 

Long Road Distillers uses locally sourced ingredients, focuses its efforts on supporting regional agriculture, and proudly takes no short-cuts in creating world-class spirits. While racking up national awards, Jon insists that Long Road stays rooted in the neighborhood and community. Located in the First Ward where Jon has humbly served as City Commissioner since 2015, the distillery loves the amount of local talent they are able to employ and are quick to support local efforts being made in the community.