Forum Previous Notes 15
=======================================================
Season 09, Episode 10 #201 June 17, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Karl Fink introduced Gordon Smith as the co-chair for today’s session.
Given the question regarding the property at Baker Road and I-94, Scio Twp., a representative from EGLE was present to speak with the group today regarding discharge systems. The water resources division of EGLE. Issues permits for ground discharge and some pre-discharge water to the state open drain ground water, rivers, and streams. Some discharge systems are privately owned while others are municipality owned. If the former, when something goes wrong, the owner is responsible for correcting the issue. A permit is required for preparing/building the system for discharge purposes. There must be a perpetual funding mechanism. When the operation is private an escrow account is required that contains enough funding for 5 years of operating costs. EGLE has inspection requirements at a high and low level. If a problem is noted, samples are required for testing on a monthly basiswith a testing report submitted to EGLE in order to ensure that corrective action brings the discharge system into compliance. A licensed operator is required to monitor the system. There must be a back-up unit or plan if compliance cannot be achieved. This may require hauling on a temporary basis. It is noted that reginal systems can be better because of increased dollars to fix problems.Geotechnical studies are required by the developer before a discharge to ground system can be initiated. More information on this issue can be found on Michigan.gov/EGLEOnsitewastewater.
Zach asked for comments on the outside dining in the City of Dexter. A few comments follow:
- Wonderful
- Parking issues
- Draping banners over barricades seem to be OK
- Small town flavor
If you have other comments, please share them with Zach.
Please be aware that the preclusive mining bills are now active and share your thoughts regarding the release of municipal authority to the state. These are senate initiatives so contact your state senator and house representatives.
Gordon updated us on the happenings to fund the Dexter Senior Center (DSC). Federal and state appropriations have been requested to fund the purchase of the Dexter Wellness Center. The Dexter Community Schools will be the governmental body responsible for the ongoing processes. The ‘center’ will be multigenerational with the DSC occupying a specific space within the building. Ongoing meal services would be maintained via Bates School which has a kitchen. Membership at the DSC has increased from 154 to 376 since January 2023. Although the current lease ends 12/31/2023 at the Encore building, Encore is willing to work with the DSC to possibly extend the lease. Meanwhile, other activity space is being evaluated while funding challenges are being pursued. Other corporate partners are being approached as well.
Mark listed the many ongoing events in the Dexter area.
Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum
=======================================================================
Season 09, Episode 09 #200 June 03, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Karl Fink introduced Caryl Burke as the co-chair for today’s session.
Jim D. reported extemporaneously on the policy meeting that occurred on Mackinaw Island this past week. A major concern was the brain drain in the State of Michigan. Since Representative Rheingans attended, she added that recruiting jobs to Michigan was highlighted. Moreover, there is a ‘growing population’ task force to be appointed as Michigan is 50th in growth.
Ray asked a question about the sewer/septic plans for the property at Baker Road and I-94. Scio Twp. did approve the developer’s intention to abide by what the State of Michigan requires. More information can be obtained from EGLE. There will be an on-site sewer.
A question was asked about the Chinese factories being planned in the Grand Rapids area. There are no plans to report on currently.
The Pelham Project received a lot of interest from the group. At the Forum’s last meeting, the project was misplaced as being behind the Dexter Library. However, it is on the site between the fire station and the railroad tracks where a sporting goods store once stood. Many folks were concerned about this project. It was suggested that emails be sent to Dexter City Council members as well as showing up to express concerns at Council meetings and Planning Committee meetings.
Ann Davis gave an update on the proceedings at the Dexter Senior Center. The project will need to be associated with a governmental entity. The consortium of townships and the City of Dexter did not materialize. Hence, the most likely partner is the Dexter Community Schools. Hence, grant funding is being pursued both federally and via the State of Michigan. The focused property is the Dexter Wellness Center which is up for sale. That is because the market value of $7.2 million (including some renovations) is far more conservative than building new at a cost of $20 million. Kerry Kafafian, founder of Many Hands Lifesharing Community, stated that when their project (currently the Sloan-Kingsley property) is completed it will include a 20,000 square foot activity center. Consequently, talks regarding housing for the Dexter Senior Center are possible.
Larry Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk, brought the new Washtenaw County Directory for all members of the group. Those not present can contact the County Clerk’s office to obtain a copy. Mr. Kestenbaum discussed the 2024 primary. Because of the requirements of the new law passed by the voters in November 2022, it appears that the 2024 primary will be held the second Tuesday in June rather than August. ELECTION WORKERS ARE NEEDED!!! You are paid!! There will be 9 days of voting per the new law which will begin with the 2024 primary.
Cheryl Willoughby reported on the activities of the Bicentennial Committee. 1500 postcards were distributed during the Memorial Day Parade. There was lots of good representation for the Bicentennial event during the parade. Help is needed going forward so contact Cheryl to volunteer.
Mark shared the local event update.
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 08 # 199 May 20, 2023
Ron Miller was introduced as Karl Fink’s co-chair.
We were reminded of the retirement of Dr. Moore who was the band director of DHS. The celebration was held yesterday evening and was enjoyed by all attendees.
John Sharf, Webster Township Treasurer, explained the construction at Joy and Mast Roads. One area will be an overflow space for CMR while the other will be for LaFontaine new vehicle storage of trucks predominantly.
Parking in Dexter is an issue. There was no discussion at this time.
A question was asked about the property behind the Dexter Library. A plan was presented to Dexter City Council. That plan includes 3 buildings, one of which is a parking garage. All buildings would be 5 stories high, which is 2 stories higher than the library. The other 2 buildings would be multifamily housing with 60-80% designated as affordable housing. The public benefit would be water extension. Public input is welcome at Council meetings and during the Planning Commission hearings as they are announced. Interested parties can also email or call Council and Planning Commission members.
Zach advised us that Finlandia University in the UP will be closing. They are concerned about the housing of their heritage documents. It was suggested that Finlandia contact the Bentley Library at the University of Michigan.
State Representative, Jennifer Conlin, discussed:
· The new law regarding distracted driving….no phone in hands, must be mounted.
· Tuition extension benefits for families of MI National Guard personnel. This is primarily so that they do not leave the state. Grayling will not be able to expand due to environmental decisions.
· The sand and gravel bills have gone quiet. Much opposition came forth regarding the proposal. There is a request to have mapping done so that those operations may be done safely and not disrupt community life.
Along with these state issues, one attendee inquired about standardization of car seat parameters for all manufacturers to ease transition from one car to another and common attach mechanisms.
Ed Francis described his wins in rapier and dagger during the European Martial Arts activities in Ohio. He is ranked 17th out of 102. He has done reenactments for some 25 years, and he hopes to compete during a musket event in July.
Cheryl Willoughby reported on the preparations for the Dexter Bicentennial.
· The first David Zin mural is up. It is 8x8 and hidden for folks to find. More will be posted as the year progresses.
· The celebration days are June 20 – 23, 2024 with events leading up to the event and more during the year of 2024. Advertising will intensify after June 23rd due to confusion. However, posters are ready to post in businesses and committee members will be in the 2023 Memorial Day Parade as well as the ukelele players and choir from the Dexter Senior Center.
· There will be school involvement, There will also be an online presence via Facebook, Instagram, etc. The Dexter Forum will be represented with folks talking about the issues of the day 200 years ago.
· Ann Arbor is also celebrating a bicentennial at the same time and so some friendly competition is being planned.
· Postcards will be available soon so residents can share with friends and family.
The Dexter Memorial Day Parade will be May 29th with a 10 AM start. There will be speakers and singers at Monument Park at 11 AM.
The last concert before summer break by the Dexter Community Band will be Sunday, May 22nd at Dexter High School.
Review:
In the May 6th edition of the Dexter Forum notes, a short mention was made of group interactions. One group that was mentioned is Courageous Conversations. However, another group available is Braver Angels. You may also want to view Bob Van Oosterhout’s websites bringtruthtofear.org and / or bobvanoosterhout.com.
Respectfully submitted,
Lois Beerbaum
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 07 #198 May 06, 2023
Dexter Forum Notes
May 6, 2023
Kerry Kafafian, Founder of Many Hands Lifesharing Community provided an update on the Sloan-Kingsley property which will include diverse uses to the area. Read more in the Sun Times for May 3, 2023, Vol 141, Issue 8.
This is the day for the Coronation of King Charles, III. James Davis, as a historian, gave us a US history review of the ‘rhymes of the ages’. This demonstrates the need for our inner fabric to be strengthened. Hence, we need to build from the bottom up by conversations between people. Think of interacting with groups that work toward these goals. One that was mentioned is Courageous Conversations.
Julie Samuelson, a mostly lifelong resident of Dexter, will be moving to Redford after the death of her mother, to live with a good friend who lost her husband not long ago. Both of Julie's parents, Ethel and Harold, were long time teachers in the Dexter Schools. Julie was an employee at Busch's Supermarket in Dexter for many years. She will continue to work at Busch's but in Canton, MI. Julie expressed her fondness for Dexter and wanted to say goodbye to its residents.Folks with not positive intentions have been interfering with the towers that transmit our emergency signal operations. This is dangerous because when needed they may fail. Congressperson, Debbie Dingell, was with the group today and will help to make connections to entities that can help resolve the problem.
An extended discussion on the intersection of AI, privacy and control ensued with the conclusion that there are many facets to the issue that need to be pursued by many entities working together.
Fire Chief, Doug Armstrong, discussed the challenges for fire service and security in a growing community and budget planning. The first step is to improve the ISO process one step at a time. The improvements will be noted by insurance companies and reduce the cost of fire insurance for individuals. Other plans include improved customer service through education, provision of 10 yr. smoke detectors for the aged, young and disabled. Discussion also revolved around EVs and the fire-resistant battery packs in vehicles, e-bikes, hover boards and other EV items. Disposing of lithium batteries is also an issue. Fire departments and manufacturers will need to work on ways to make fires in these batteries and where they are stored an issue going forward.
The group was advised of HB 4526, 4527 and 4528 regarding pre-emption by the State of Michigan for areas with mining operations. This could influence municipalities dealing with encroachment and environmental issues affecting their communities due to mining operations.
Mark gave an update on Dexter activities reminding everyone that the Dexter Farmer’s Market opens today!
Respectfully submitted,
Lois A. Beerbaum
=========================================================
Season 09, Episode 06 #197 Apr 15, 2023
Forum Notes
Karl had the day off so John warmed the co-moderator's chair along with Gordon Smith.
We started with a question about a young child's right to withhold certain medical information from their parents. It turns out this has been true for some time particularly regarding sensitive reproductive health matters.
Our legislators were reminded that they are expected to respond to all forms of communication in a timely manner.
And then there was the still smoldering issue of where to put the fire station. Council members on both sides of the issue were present. The current station will be remodeled. The vote was 4-3. There were valid arguments on both sides but the direction is clear.
The next meeting of the Dexter Forum will be on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 8:30 AM at the Dexter Wellness Center. (That's three weeks from now since April is a 5 Saturday month.)
=======================================================
Season 09, Episode 05 #196 Apr 01, 2023
Forum Notes
There were about 35 attendees this morning. In the wake of this last week’s tragic news, we had another painful discussion about keeping our kids safe. It appears that firearms are now the leading cause of death for children in the US. Anyone who wants to understand how Dexter Schools manage their part of keeping kids safe from gun violence can query the school board, which makes those decisions. On a lighter note, first-time attender Dan Cooney noted that the Encore Musical Theatre Company is looking to hire a managing director. We also discussed how the arts, including the Encore, bring our community together and strengthen it.
Larry Kestenbaum, our County Clerk and Register of Deeds, briefed us on the extensive planning that is currently underway to implement 9 days of early voting in time for next year’s Presidential primary election. This requirement is part of a recently approved amendment to the Michigan Constitution that provides voters with a number of specific election-related rights. Who knew it would take so much planning to make it happen? Larry also made a pitch to encourage us to volunteer as poll workers for our next election. Poll workers are paid and receive training. You can now work in areas outside your own voting district, and people as young as 16 can be eligible to serve. See details at this link: https://www.washtenaw.org/320/Information-for-Poll-Workers
The administrative offices for City of Dexter have successfully moved to their new location at 3515 Broad Street. Upgrades to the site will continue as they settle in, but they seem to be pretty happy after having been crammed into their ‘temporary’ facilities for 23 years. If you missed the official opportunity for a tour (which was late in the afternoon on Feb 22 – you remember, the day of the big ice storm), just stop by and someone will be happy to show you around.
Respectfully submitted,
Caryl Burke
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 04 #195 Mar 18, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Gordon Smith and Karl Fink co-chaired this Saturday’s session.
The question was asked by Mr. Smith, What are the parts of a well-functioning community?
Many responses were generated. See them below:
- Good communication - Leadership listening and vision (listen well future needs)
- Medical screening - Accountability and respect
- Mental health access - Self sustaining
- Cooperation between government entities - Good Kiwanis club
- Great schools - Clarity of goals
- Community outreach - Recycling center
- Respect for generations - Senior service center
- Multigenerational community center - Fitness center
- Non-partisan - Financial assistance e.g. food
- Support for aging in place - Support for youth
- Medical and financial advice - Marketplace vs. independence
- Wants vs. needs. - Interagency cooperation
An extension of the community concept as a deliverer of the above included:
- Recreation (nature and people)
- Opportunity for all to include housing services and business start-ups.
- Equity - Understanding connections.
- Dialog with elected officials - Gender balance
Cheryl Willoughby updated the group on the Dexter Bicentennial. There is now a website but not complete currently.
Given the recent DTE outages due to weather, several issues were brought forward.
- Infrastructure, i.e., having our own utility system. Chelsea has such a system. Washtenaw County is looking into this.
- Create a disaster response system. There is help via the Washtenaw Emergency Services area.
- DTE outage costs are less than a preventive maintenance system.
The Dexter Wellness Center will no longer be part of 5 Healthy Towns and will be up for sale eventually. Can it be a place for the Dexter Senior Center?? Funding will be critical and grants will need to be written as well as seeking federal funding opportunities. These opportunities are being pursued. Representative Dingell’s office has been involved to date.
Events around Dexter were announced. DCS Board Meeting is 3/20/23.
Respectfully submitted,
Lois Ann Beerbaum
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 03 #194 Mar 04, 2023
Karl Fink and Gordon Smith moderated.
- we had a small crowd and had a chance to do introductions
- update on senior center:
1. they received a $25k grant to support meals on wheels
2. Actively searching for a new space
3. Large amount of growth of members is causing a need for more funds
- Kiwanis club:
1. Increased hours of sale on Saturday, now 9-3pm
2. Selling vacant lot on Jackson Rd
Fire station update
1. Current bond resolution is using 8140 Main (current location) to either renovate or replace.
2. City must get a bond out by this June
3. The bond is not site specific
Congresswomen Dingell spoke a bit about the train crash in Ohio and things that she is working on in Michigan on the topic of environmental safety.
Thanks
Abby
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 02 #193 Feb 18, 2023
Karl Fink and Gordon Smith moderated. Gordon is the new director of the Dexter Senior Center.
The first topic was construction plans in the area. We briefly discussed 3 projects that are all in very early stages of development. A senior housing development has been proposedin the corner of Baker Road and Marshall Road in Scio Twp. Two lots on Grand between Grandview and the cemetery in Dexter could become a 12-unit multistory residentialhousing development. And a new proposal for the lot across the river from the fire station in Dexter includes a 5-story residential development. Note that Washtenaw County definitely plans to construct a roundabout at that location.
A passionate discussion of the shootings at MSU followed, including the legal and cultural challenges associated with attempts to prevent this from happening again.Legislation will be introduced very soon in the House to implement universal background checks, safe storage mandates, and ‘red flag’ laws. It was noted that 60% of all firearm deaths in Michigan are suicides. For anyone interested in acquiring a gun lock, they arefree at the Northfield Township Police Department.
Finally, we discussed the City Council’s upcoming decision about the location of Dexter’s Fire Station. Different attendees supported both locations, but the strongest message was that the Council has taken too long to make this decision and its time to get the job done.
=====================================================================
=======================================================
Season 09, Episode 10 #201 June 17, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Karl Fink introduced Gordon Smith as the co-chair for today’s session.
Given the question regarding the property at Baker Road and I-94, Scio Twp., a representative from EGLE was present to speak with the group today regarding discharge systems. The water resources division of EGLE. Issues permits for ground discharge and some pre-discharge water to the state open drain ground water, rivers, and streams. Some discharge systems are privately owned while others are municipality owned. If the former, when something goes wrong, the owner is responsible for correcting the issue. A permit is required for preparing/building the system for discharge purposes. There must be a perpetual funding mechanism. When the operation is private an escrow account is required that contains enough funding for 5 years of operating costs. EGLE has inspection requirements at a high and low level. If a problem is noted, samples are required for testing on a monthly basiswith a testing report submitted to EGLE in order to ensure that corrective action brings the discharge system into compliance. A licensed operator is required to monitor the system. There must be a back-up unit or plan if compliance cannot be achieved. This may require hauling on a temporary basis. It is noted that reginal systems can be better because of increased dollars to fix problems.Geotechnical studies are required by the developer before a discharge to ground system can be initiated. More information on this issue can be found on Michigan.gov/EGLEOnsitewastewater.
Zach asked for comments on the outside dining in the City of Dexter. A few comments follow:
- Wonderful
- Parking issues
- Draping banners over barricades seem to be OK
- Small town flavor
If you have other comments, please share them with Zach.
Please be aware that the preclusive mining bills are now active and share your thoughts regarding the release of municipal authority to the state. These are senate initiatives so contact your state senator and house representatives.
Gordon updated us on the happenings to fund the Dexter Senior Center (DSC). Federal and state appropriations have been requested to fund the purchase of the Dexter Wellness Center. The Dexter Community Schools will be the governmental body responsible for the ongoing processes. The ‘center’ will be multigenerational with the DSC occupying a specific space within the building. Ongoing meal services would be maintained via Bates School which has a kitchen. Membership at the DSC has increased from 154 to 376 since January 2023. Although the current lease ends 12/31/2023 at the Encore building, Encore is willing to work with the DSC to possibly extend the lease. Meanwhile, other activity space is being evaluated while funding challenges are being pursued. Other corporate partners are being approached as well.
Mark listed the many ongoing events in the Dexter area.
Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum
=======================================================================
Season 09, Episode 09 #200 June 03, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Karl Fink introduced Caryl Burke as the co-chair for today’s session.
Jim D. reported extemporaneously on the policy meeting that occurred on Mackinaw Island this past week. A major concern was the brain drain in the State of Michigan. Since Representative Rheingans attended, she added that recruiting jobs to Michigan was highlighted. Moreover, there is a ‘growing population’ task force to be appointed as Michigan is 50th in growth.
Ray asked a question about the sewer/septic plans for the property at Baker Road and I-94. Scio Twp. did approve the developer’s intention to abide by what the State of Michigan requires. More information can be obtained from EGLE. There will be an on-site sewer.
A question was asked about the Chinese factories being planned in the Grand Rapids area. There are no plans to report on currently.
The Pelham Project received a lot of interest from the group. At the Forum’s last meeting, the project was misplaced as being behind the Dexter Library. However, it is on the site between the fire station and the railroad tracks where a sporting goods store once stood. Many folks were concerned about this project. It was suggested that emails be sent to Dexter City Council members as well as showing up to express concerns at Council meetings and Planning Committee meetings.
Ann Davis gave an update on the proceedings at the Dexter Senior Center. The project will need to be associated with a governmental entity. The consortium of townships and the City of Dexter did not materialize. Hence, the most likely partner is the Dexter Community Schools. Hence, grant funding is being pursued both federally and via the State of Michigan. The focused property is the Dexter Wellness Center which is up for sale. That is because the market value of $7.2 million (including some renovations) is far more conservative than building new at a cost of $20 million. Kerry Kafafian, founder of Many Hands Lifesharing Community, stated that when their project (currently the Sloan-Kingsley property) is completed it will include a 20,000 square foot activity center. Consequently, talks regarding housing for the Dexter Senior Center are possible.
Larry Kestenbaum, Washtenaw County Clerk, brought the new Washtenaw County Directory for all members of the group. Those not present can contact the County Clerk’s office to obtain a copy. Mr. Kestenbaum discussed the 2024 primary. Because of the requirements of the new law passed by the voters in November 2022, it appears that the 2024 primary will be held the second Tuesday in June rather than August. ELECTION WORKERS ARE NEEDED!!! You are paid!! There will be 9 days of voting per the new law which will begin with the 2024 primary.
Cheryl Willoughby reported on the activities of the Bicentennial Committee. 1500 postcards were distributed during the Memorial Day Parade. There was lots of good representation for the Bicentennial event during the parade. Help is needed going forward so contact Cheryl to volunteer.
Mark shared the local event update.
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 08 # 199 May 20, 2023
Ron Miller was introduced as Karl Fink’s co-chair.
We were reminded of the retirement of Dr. Moore who was the band director of DHS. The celebration was held yesterday evening and was enjoyed by all attendees.
John Sharf, Webster Township Treasurer, explained the construction at Joy and Mast Roads. One area will be an overflow space for CMR while the other will be for LaFontaine new vehicle storage of trucks predominantly.
Parking in Dexter is an issue. There was no discussion at this time.
A question was asked about the property behind the Dexter Library. A plan was presented to Dexter City Council. That plan includes 3 buildings, one of which is a parking garage. All buildings would be 5 stories high, which is 2 stories higher than the library. The other 2 buildings would be multifamily housing with 60-80% designated as affordable housing. The public benefit would be water extension. Public input is welcome at Council meetings and during the Planning Commission hearings as they are announced. Interested parties can also email or call Council and Planning Commission members.
Zach advised us that Finlandia University in the UP will be closing. They are concerned about the housing of their heritage documents. It was suggested that Finlandia contact the Bentley Library at the University of Michigan.
State Representative, Jennifer Conlin, discussed:
· The new law regarding distracted driving….no phone in hands, must be mounted.
· Tuition extension benefits for families of MI National Guard personnel. This is primarily so that they do not leave the state. Grayling will not be able to expand due to environmental decisions.
· The sand and gravel bills have gone quiet. Much opposition came forth regarding the proposal. There is a request to have mapping done so that those operations may be done safely and not disrupt community life.
Along with these state issues, one attendee inquired about standardization of car seat parameters for all manufacturers to ease transition from one car to another and common attach mechanisms.
Ed Francis described his wins in rapier and dagger during the European Martial Arts activities in Ohio. He is ranked 17th out of 102. He has done reenactments for some 25 years, and he hopes to compete during a musket event in July.
Cheryl Willoughby reported on the preparations for the Dexter Bicentennial.
· The first David Zin mural is up. It is 8x8 and hidden for folks to find. More will be posted as the year progresses.
· The celebration days are June 20 – 23, 2024 with events leading up to the event and more during the year of 2024. Advertising will intensify after June 23rd due to confusion. However, posters are ready to post in businesses and committee members will be in the 2023 Memorial Day Parade as well as the ukelele players and choir from the Dexter Senior Center.
· There will be school involvement, There will also be an online presence via Facebook, Instagram, etc. The Dexter Forum will be represented with folks talking about the issues of the day 200 years ago.
· Ann Arbor is also celebrating a bicentennial at the same time and so some friendly competition is being planned.
· Postcards will be available soon so residents can share with friends and family.
The Dexter Memorial Day Parade will be May 29th with a 10 AM start. There will be speakers and singers at Monument Park at 11 AM.
The last concert before summer break by the Dexter Community Band will be Sunday, May 22nd at Dexter High School.
Review:
In the May 6th edition of the Dexter Forum notes, a short mention was made of group interactions. One group that was mentioned is Courageous Conversations. However, another group available is Braver Angels. You may also want to view Bob Van Oosterhout’s websites bringtruthtofear.org and / or bobvanoosterhout.com.
Respectfully submitted,
Lois Beerbaum
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 07 #198 May 06, 2023
Dexter Forum Notes
May 6, 2023
Kerry Kafafian, Founder of Many Hands Lifesharing Community provided an update on the Sloan-Kingsley property which will include diverse uses to the area. Read more in the Sun Times for May 3, 2023, Vol 141, Issue 8.
This is the day for the Coronation of King Charles, III. James Davis, as a historian, gave us a US history review of the ‘rhymes of the ages’. This demonstrates the need for our inner fabric to be strengthened. Hence, we need to build from the bottom up by conversations between people. Think of interacting with groups that work toward these goals. One that was mentioned is Courageous Conversations.
Julie Samuelson, a mostly lifelong resident of Dexter, will be moving to Redford after the death of her mother, to live with a good friend who lost her husband not long ago. Both of Julie's parents, Ethel and Harold, were long time teachers in the Dexter Schools. Julie was an employee at Busch's Supermarket in Dexter for many years. She will continue to work at Busch's but in Canton, MI. Julie expressed her fondness for Dexter and wanted to say goodbye to its residents.Folks with not positive intentions have been interfering with the towers that transmit our emergency signal operations. This is dangerous because when needed they may fail. Congressperson, Debbie Dingell, was with the group today and will help to make connections to entities that can help resolve the problem.
An extended discussion on the intersection of AI, privacy and control ensued with the conclusion that there are many facets to the issue that need to be pursued by many entities working together.
Fire Chief, Doug Armstrong, discussed the challenges for fire service and security in a growing community and budget planning. The first step is to improve the ISO process one step at a time. The improvements will be noted by insurance companies and reduce the cost of fire insurance for individuals. Other plans include improved customer service through education, provision of 10 yr. smoke detectors for the aged, young and disabled. Discussion also revolved around EVs and the fire-resistant battery packs in vehicles, e-bikes, hover boards and other EV items. Disposing of lithium batteries is also an issue. Fire departments and manufacturers will need to work on ways to make fires in these batteries and where they are stored an issue going forward.
The group was advised of HB 4526, 4527 and 4528 regarding pre-emption by the State of Michigan for areas with mining operations. This could influence municipalities dealing with encroachment and environmental issues affecting their communities due to mining operations.
Mark gave an update on Dexter activities reminding everyone that the Dexter Farmer’s Market opens today!
Respectfully submitted,
Lois A. Beerbaum
=========================================================
Season 09, Episode 06 #197 Apr 15, 2023
Forum Notes
Karl had the day off so John warmed the co-moderator's chair along with Gordon Smith.
We started with a question about a young child's right to withhold certain medical information from their parents. It turns out this has been true for some time particularly regarding sensitive reproductive health matters.
Our legislators were reminded that they are expected to respond to all forms of communication in a timely manner.
And then there was the still smoldering issue of where to put the fire station. Council members on both sides of the issue were present. The current station will be remodeled. The vote was 4-3. There were valid arguments on both sides but the direction is clear.
The next meeting of the Dexter Forum will be on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 8:30 AM at the Dexter Wellness Center. (That's three weeks from now since April is a 5 Saturday month.)
=======================================================
Season 09, Episode 05 #196 Apr 01, 2023
Forum Notes
There were about 35 attendees this morning. In the wake of this last week’s tragic news, we had another painful discussion about keeping our kids safe. It appears that firearms are now the leading cause of death for children in the US. Anyone who wants to understand how Dexter Schools manage their part of keeping kids safe from gun violence can query the school board, which makes those decisions. On a lighter note, first-time attender Dan Cooney noted that the Encore Musical Theatre Company is looking to hire a managing director. We also discussed how the arts, including the Encore, bring our community together and strengthen it.
Larry Kestenbaum, our County Clerk and Register of Deeds, briefed us on the extensive planning that is currently underway to implement 9 days of early voting in time for next year’s Presidential primary election. This requirement is part of a recently approved amendment to the Michigan Constitution that provides voters with a number of specific election-related rights. Who knew it would take so much planning to make it happen? Larry also made a pitch to encourage us to volunteer as poll workers for our next election. Poll workers are paid and receive training. You can now work in areas outside your own voting district, and people as young as 16 can be eligible to serve. See details at this link: https://www.washtenaw.org/320/Information-for-Poll-Workers
The administrative offices for City of Dexter have successfully moved to their new location at 3515 Broad Street. Upgrades to the site will continue as they settle in, but they seem to be pretty happy after having been crammed into their ‘temporary’ facilities for 23 years. If you missed the official opportunity for a tour (which was late in the afternoon on Feb 22 – you remember, the day of the big ice storm), just stop by and someone will be happy to show you around.
Respectfully submitted,
Caryl Burke
========================================================
Season 09, Episode 04 #195 Mar 18, 2023
DEXTER FORUM NOTES
Gordon Smith and Karl Fink co-chaired this Saturday’s session.
The question was asked by Mr. Smith, What are the parts of a well-functioning community?
Many responses were generated. See them below:
- Good communication - Leadership listening and vision (listen well future needs)
- Medical screening - Accountability and respect
- Mental health access - Self sustaining
- Cooperation between government entities - Good Kiwanis club
- Great schools - Clarity of goals
- Community outreach - Recycling center
- Respect for generations - Senior service center
- Multigenerational community center - Fitness center
- Non-partisan - Financial assistance e.g. food
- Support for aging in place - Support for youth
- Medical and financial advice - Marketplace vs. independence
- Wants vs. needs. - Interagency cooperation
An extension of the community concept as a deliverer of the above included:
- Recreation (nature and people)
- Opportunity for all to include housing services and business start-ups.
- Equity - Understanding connections.
- Dialog with elected officials - Gender balance
Cheryl Willoughby updated the group on the Dexter Bicentennial. There is now a website but not complete currently.
Given the recent DTE outages due to weather, several issues were brought forward.
- Infrastructure, i.e., having our own utility system. Chelsea has such a system. Washtenaw County is looking into this.
- Create a disaster response system. There is help via the Washtenaw Emergency Services area.
- DTE outage costs are less than a preventive maintenance system.
The Dexter Wellness Center will no longer be part of 5 Healthy Towns and will be up for sale eventually. Can it be a place for the Dexter Senior Center?? Funding will be critical and grants will need to be written as well as seeking federal funding opportunities. These opportunities are being pursued. Representative Dingell’s office has been involved to date.
Events around Dexter were announced. DCS Board Meeting is 3/20/23.
Respectfully submitted,
Lois Ann Beerbaum
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Season 09, Episode 03 #194 Mar 04, 2023
Karl Fink and Gordon Smith moderated.
- we had a small crowd and had a chance to do introductions
- update on senior center:
1. they received a $25k grant to support meals on wheels
2. Actively searching for a new space
3. Large amount of growth of members is causing a need for more funds
- Kiwanis club:
1. Increased hours of sale on Saturday, now 9-3pm
2. Selling vacant lot on Jackson Rd
Fire station update
1. Current bond resolution is using 8140 Main (current location) to either renovate or replace.
2. City must get a bond out by this June
3. The bond is not site specific
Congresswomen Dingell spoke a bit about the train crash in Ohio and things that she is working on in Michigan on the topic of environmental safety.
Thanks
Abby
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Season 09, Episode 02 #193 Feb 18, 2023
Karl Fink and Gordon Smith moderated. Gordon is the new director of the Dexter Senior Center.
The first topic was construction plans in the area. We briefly discussed 3 projects that are all in very early stages of development. A senior housing development has been proposedin the corner of Baker Road and Marshall Road in Scio Twp. Two lots on Grand between Grandview and the cemetery in Dexter could become a 12-unit multistory residentialhousing development. And a new proposal for the lot across the river from the fire station in Dexter includes a 5-story residential development. Note that Washtenaw County definitely plans to construct a roundabout at that location.
A passionate discussion of the shootings at MSU followed, including the legal and cultural challenges associated with attempts to prevent this from happening again.Legislation will be introduced very soon in the House to implement universal background checks, safe storage mandates, and ‘red flag’ laws. It was noted that 60% of all firearm deaths in Michigan are suicides. For anyone interested in acquiring a gun lock, they arefree at the Northfield Township Police Department.
Finally, we discussed the City Council’s upcoming decision about the location of Dexter’s Fire Station. Different attendees supported both locations, but the strongest message was that the Council has taken too long to make this decision and its time to get the job done.
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