Previous Forum Notes 17DEXTER FORUM NOTES
January 18, 2025 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Caryl Burke 1. Retrospect on Topics of Interest: These topics have been discussed at the Forum. Listed are ways to follow-up. a. Washtenaw Commission on Aging. This relates to the ‘senior millage’ passed in November 2024. Jason Maciejewski presented information on December 21, 2024. For those wanting more information please visit Washtenaw.org/(3402)/Commission-on- Aging. Find Zoom meeting days and times, minutes, studies, etc. b. Our Home Our Voice. Discussion regarding 400 acres of Proposed Solar Farm Development by the DNR. How does this mesh with decisions about land use? c. SEMCOG. Their [email protected] provides the ‘year in review’ of the 2024 legislative session in Michigan. d. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s office lists of daytime, overnight shelters, and weather havens on washtenaw.org/2789/Winter- Warming-Centers. 2. Priority Update: Unfortunately our speaker was in an auto accident on I-275 on his way to speak with the group. The update will be rescheduled. 3. Law for Michigan Wage-Tipped Employees: Representative Conlin explained this very complicated legislation which must be decided by February 21, 2025, or the law of 2018 will go into effect. 4. City of Dexter City Council Resignation: Zach Michel resigned from the Council. There will be a replacement selected to fill out the term until elections in 2026. Dexter City residents are eligible and need to fill out a form that is on the City of Dexter website and submit it for consideration. 5. Dexter Senior Center: Anna Pekrul was present. She is the new Executive Director of the Dexter Senior Center. Anna is getting to know the community, planning a look forward, and seeking a new Program Manager. 6. Riverview Restaurant: It has been closed but is expected to reopen under new ownership with perhaps a new name. 7. Oligarchy: This was brought up for discussion, but it will continue at another meeting time as this meeting time has expired. 8. Announcements: a) Contact City of Dexter Council member, Sanam Aldag about informal interested resident meetings. Sanam can be reached at [email protected]. b) Rotary Club has an informal meeting at Aubree’s from 5-7 pm on January 30, 2025, to learn about the Club and how to join if so inclined. c) A memorial in Washtenaw County celebrating Catherine McClary’s life and years of public service was held at the Washtenaw County Learning Resource Center in Ann Arbor. d) The Ark will be having two festivals in February. On February 21 st @ 8:00 pm is the 38 th Annual Storytelling Festival - Liars Contest. On February 22 nd at 8:00 pm is the 38 th Annual Storytelling Festival. Visit the website at https://theark.org for ticket information. A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit it by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use the ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Badges: If you are new to the Forum or you have lost or never had a badge, I will be delighted to make one for you. I do like to have six to make as this is cost effective for ink and badge material. You may email me with your name (how you would like it on your badge) to [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line so it’s recognizable why I am receiving this email and prevent it from becoming spam. Thank you. Respectfully submitted Lois Beerbaum ======================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES January 4, 2025 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Chuck Hughes 1. Update on the Pelham Project: Permits and other paperwork is moving ahead and groundbreaking could be soon. Also, we can expect the roundabout work at that intersection late 2025 or early 2026. 2. Priority Waste: They should have a representative join us next meeting. 3. Mineral Extraction (also Gravel Mining and the DNR's 400 acre solar plan): There was a lot of discussion on these topics but more questions than definitive answers. The core issue is local control vs state control of things like placing gravel mines in communities. Rep Carrie Rheingans provided insight from the state level. Local townships for now will control gravel mining but the issue will come up again legislatively, most likely. Apparently the DNR has made a decision to lease 400 acres of land near Gaylord for a solar farm without informing the legislature. This may also be a topic in the upcoming session. We should expect some grid lock and partisanship. We then morphed to a discussion of government transparency in the upcoming session. 4. Many Hands Life Sharing Community: Kerry Kafafian, the founder and executive director of Many Hands gave a very thorough update re: development of the parcel on Baker Road. The Scio Township board is not moving ahead but she feels that the board does not understand the proposal well enough and better educational efforts are needed. 5. Senate Bill (SB) 707: SB707 was a Michigan State Senate initiative for the state to regulate dis- and misinformation in electoral speech. Some of its wording seems to conflict with the First Amendment. It passed in the Senate, died in the House and most likely will not be revived next term. 6. Announcements: Mark Olexa shared about a dozen of the usual Farmer's Market, Thrift Shop, Community Events, Recycling etc announcements and also a comment re: a local family business in Dexter that may be closing soon. Respectfully submitted, Tom Charis (standing in for Lois Berrbaum, whom we sorely missed) ============================================================================ DEXTER FORUM NOTES December 21, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Caryl Burke 1. Senior Millage Update: Jason Maciejewski, Washtenaw County Commissioner for District 1, was present and shared his thoughts on the millage passed in November 2024. Striving to improve help for seniors has been a long steady process via the Commission on Aging for the county and other interested parties. The millage vote demonstrates the need, e.g., meals on wheels and other senior directed activities. Washtenaw County will be the 73 rd county to have a senior millage. The millage is expected to provide $11 million to the county for senior enhancements. There are eight senior centers in Washtenaw County and $200,000 is contemplated for each center on a yearly basis. (See the website sayyestoseniors.com and review the documents under the VISION tab.) Jason looks forward to having a strong manager in place who will focus on the community, and not on bureaucracy. There should be an RFP process for programs that impact the community to include capital projects and plans to meet transportation, specifically door to door, as well as socialization and recreation needs. Jason also looks forward to collaboration and cooperation among the parties involved in senior services. The review group will be the Commission on Aging. The timetable for the Commissioners to begin organizing and planning along with the Commission on Aging should be early 2025. To follow the developmental process, connect with Washtenaw.org/3402/Commission-on-Aging. You have access to meeting minutes and agendas, reports and a Zoom connection for the meetings. 2. Dexter Senior Center Update: Ron Millar reported that the walk through of the new building went well. The Board met this past week and had concerns about an approximately $90,000 shortfall. This will be because of monies being available but not accessible. 3. Announcements: Mark Olexa and others. a) Shout out to DCS for the music programs for the students. It’s above normal for school music programs. b) Gordon Hall will have an ‘open house’ on December 27 th from 6 – 8PM for individuals to see the holiday decorations themed Woodland Fantasy. The suggested donation is $5/adult. c) ‘Back to the 80’s’ New Year’s Eve Party at the Dexter American Legion, 8225 Dexter-Chelsea Road, Dexter, MI, on December 31, 2024, 7:00 PM – 1AM January 1, 2025. Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for non-members. The ticket cost includes, an hors d’oeuvres bas, one free drink coin (wine, beer or well cocktail) plus a champagne toast at midnight. You can stop in at the Legion or reserve tickets by calling the Legion at 734-426-4511. d) The Ninth Annual Conference on suicide known as Kevin’s Song will be held at St. John’s Resort in Plymouth, MI on January 23 – 25, 2025. For more information, consult kevinssong.org. e) There will be multiple business and library closures until after New Years Day. f) Via Mark, Debbie Dingell forwarded these kind words, ‘Please give everyone my love…we voted tonight, coming home in the AM. Please tell them Merry Christmas and I will see them on January 4, 2025’. A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit it by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Badges: My printer is back for printing color. So, I can print badges again. If you are new to the Forum or you have lost or never had a badge, I will be delighted to make one for you. I do like to have six to make as this is cost effective for ink and badge material. You may email me with your name (how you would like it on your badge) to [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line so it’s recognizable why I am receiving this email and prevent it from becoming spam. Thank you. To all: Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Joyful Holidays!! Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ========================================================= DEXTER FORUM NOTES December 07, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Steve Bemis *Catherine McClary: Catherine Clary has been the Washtenaw County Treasurer for Some 20 years. She did not run again and would retire. To everyone’s astonishment, Catherine passed away this last week. Many complementary comments were mentioned about Catherine’s dedication to her job. But most of all mentioned was her dedication to improving the process for keeping residents in their homes other than undergoing foreclosure. Good people will always be remembered and will place a mark on those who knew them. *NEW Senior Millage: The new Senior Millage passed for Washtenaw County on November 05, 2024 was discussed.. No plan was presented about how or who would be responsible for dispensing the funds. Hence, Washtenaw County Commissioner, Jason Maciejewski will attend a meeting to explain the process. *Lame Duck Session in Lansing: The House is now 56 Republicans and 54 Democrats as of January 2025. Every representative needs the be there so Legislation can go forward. Topic of concern currently surrounds interfering with local control by preemption and radioactive dumping control. *Road Funding: Due to fewer miles being driven and EVs on the road there is less revenue entering the state under the gas tax methodology, Suggestions, such as, tolls, raising registration fees, or miles driven, are up for discussion. This is likely to be up for discussion the 2025 session. Federal dollars, previouslty available, will not be available, at least temporarily, from the Federal government. *Dexter Senior Building Update: A closing on the sale is scheduled for Dec. 27th. A certificate of occupancy is expected in January. There is still some work to be done on the interior and the move in should be by April 1st. There is $850,000 from the Federal government for non-structural matters including programming. *Events: (a) Paul Ruthenberg, Priority Waste’s municipal representative for our area, will join the Dexter Forum on December 21st. Be prepared to share your complements and concerns about trash trash/ recycling. Thanks to Laurence Kloss for his efforts in making this happen. (b) Representative Carrie Rheningans lists these events, (1) Community Town Hall with Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Representatives Morgan, Rheingans, Conlin, Brabec and Senators Shink and Irwin. There will be insight into the election and electoral process, updates on legislative policies passed this year and priorities during the lame duck session with input from community on issues that matter to them. This will be Tuesday Dec 17 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM at the Michigan Union, Wolverine Room (3rd Floor) Located at 530 S. State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (2) HAPPY HOUR Dec. 20 from 4:00 - 5:00 PM at the Uplift, 210 S 1st Street ( Suite 100n), Ann Arbor, MI 48104 with Representative Rheingans. *A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing of flyer. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum” in the subject line for identification purposes. *BADGES: My printer is back for printing color. So, I can print Badges again. If you are new to the Forum or you have lost or never had a badge, I will be delighted to make one for you. I do like to have six to make as this is cost effective for ink and badge material. You may email me with your name ( how you would like on your badge) to [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line so it’s recognizable why I am receiving this email and prevent it from becoming spam. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ========================================================= DEXTER FORUM NOTES November 16, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Bob Van Oosterout 1. Post Election Discussion: Congresswoman Dingell was with us today and the group asked her about her thoughts on the election outcome. The Congresswoman pointed out the following items and each engaged discussion from the people assembled: 1. The largest increase in voter numbers in Michigan was in the age group over 60. 2. Civility has been severely eroded with death threats uttered to the Congresswoman and Michigan Senator Shink and a few colleagues. This equates to bad feelings ending in hate. Bob Van Oosterhout suggested to review on-line the Courageous Conversation Media Lab at https://www.courageousre.com and Braver Angels at https://braverangels.org/rise. These organizations can help folks handle bullies and how to present information. 3. A few appointments to date are likely to face opposition during U.S. Senate Confirmation Hearings. These are Gaetz for Attorney General, Gabbard as Director of National Security and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr for HHS. 4. Why did the Democrats not prevail? Congresswoman Dingell suggests that during candidacy presentations there was not enough emphasis placed on the economy and immigration. These items were of importance to the public. Points that were made were not expressed with significance. 5. There was some conversation on the use of ‘recess’ appointments. Are they useful and what is their real intent? 6. The Encore: Cheryl Willoughby informed the group that there will be a special presentation on ANNIE on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at 3:00 PM. This presentation is a sensory-friendly or ‘relaxed performance’ specifically designed for audience members who may benefit from a more accommodating theater environment. There will be softer lighting, lower sound levels, and a flexible, welcoming atmosphere where movement and vocalizations are embraced. Call (734) 268-6200 or visit the box office (Tuesday-Friday from 10AM – 2PM) to purchase tickets. -A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. -Badges: Due to a plugged nozzle on my printer, I have not produced badges in a while. I have three folks on my list. However, if you have lost or never had a badge, I will be delighted to make one for you. I do like to have six to make as this is cost effective for ink and badge material. You may email me with your name (how you would like it on your badge) to [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line so it’s recognizable why I am receiving this email and prevent it from becoming spam. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ==================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES November 2, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Caryl Burke 1. Announcements: a. Mark Olexa let us know weekend events. He also let us know that, (1) the Dairy Queen is closed, (2) streetside cafes will close by Monday, Nov. 4 th i.e., Aubrees, Dexter Pub. b. J.D. Boydston let us know that BE A HERO at the Big House will happen on Sunday, November 17 th . You can sign up to join the organ donor and/or the bone marrow registry. Entertainment, activities, giveaways special guests and more are available throughout the day. https://www.michiganmedicine.org/events/blood-donation/be- hero-big-house/2024-11-17-0 is the web site to sign-up or volunteer. It also provides more information. c. Dexter Township needs volunteers for the ‘film plastic’ recycling program. Contact the Office Manager at 734-426-3767 ext. 151. Lois Beerbaum has participated in this program for 2 yrs. and is retiring given age and possible surgery in early 2025. d. An update from Priority Waste is anticipated at the November 16 th meeting. 2. Stump Speech: Jason Maciejewski is running for Washtenaw County Commissioner for District 1. He is currently in that position. He is the CEO of the Senior Alliance which is an administrative program for older and disabled adults. Jason is and has been an active participant in county and township activities. He likes to work on small things that impact everyday life. 3. Ann Arbor Independent: Jim Davis wanted to know more about this publication. As he investigated today’s progressive movement, he noted disturbing messages regarding county officials. It reminded him of ‘muckraking’ of years past. Muckraking is a type of investigative journalism that aims to expose corruption and social problems. Comments from those in attendance indicated that the news is a product of a service organization in Ann Arbor. There appear to be no journalistic standards. The organization is run by a former county employee with an ax to grind and the coverage is unethical. 4. Anti-immigrant Sentiment: Ed mentioned that hearing such expressions does not help. His experience with immigrants has been positive. 5. Prop. A in Ann Arbor: This proposition looks at the possibility of Ann Arbor being its own utility. This is a thought process making its way through the thought process. Discussion at this point but no answers. 6. Election Security: Michelle Stamboulellis, Clerk in Dexter Township, was with us. She expressed confidence in the process with all the checks and balances provided for the voters. A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ========================================== |
column 2DEXTER FORUM NOTES
October 19, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink 1. Literature: Ed F. stated that he discovered antisemitic literature on his driveway after the last Forum meeting. Others also said that the literature was left on several driveways in the Dexter area. 2. Stump Speeches: a. Amy Reiser: Amy is running for the DCS School Board. She has been a resident of the area since 2012. She has a 6 th grader and a freshman in the DCS system. Amy is an assistant prosecuting attorney. Amy has experience as a mediator. She has participated in various local organizations supporting fire fighters, police officers and scholarships for children in various jurisdictions. Amy is running for a non-partisan position but is supported by the Democratic party. b. Latitia Lamelle-Sharp: Latitia is the Democratic candidate for Treasurer of Washtenaw County. Latitia has been a Washtenaw County employee for 30 yrs. She has been in positions that allowed her to have experience in managing revenues as well as safeguarding and protecting dollars. Latitia, during her working experience, has also been involved in community connections. c. Phyllis Risdon: Phyllis is running as a Republican for the position as Commissioner for District 1 in Washtenaw County. Phyllis is a lifelong resident around District 1 and raised her family there. She is a graduate of Ferris State and worked 10 yrs in the DCS. Phyllis has also been an active participant in the community. d. Heather Smiley: Heather is the Republican candidate for Congress for District 6. She put herself through college and worked for Ford Motor Company for 32 yrs. Before retirement, Heather worked in the data analytics area to assist parts of the world work together on Ford projects. These activities saved Ford $290 million dollars. Heather considers herself a problem solver and statesperson. e. City of Dexter Charter Amendment: Ron Miller and J.D. Boydston represented the Friends of Mill Creek Park and spoke for the proposed charter amendment. The team explained the recreational, economic value and environmental impact to the city and surrounding areas as well as recognizing the citizens as the stewards of the park. 3. Candidates for Office: Stump speeches are welcomed at the Dexter Forum. The presentation should concentrate on who you are, the office you seek, the party you are associated with and your positions on issues of interest to the community. However, the custom of the Forum is to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. A NOTE: If you have an event you would like listed, please submit the information in writing. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ========================================================= DEXTER FORUM NOTES- October 5, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Tom Morris 1. Events: Mark Oxela listed the current events for the community. 2. Announcements: a. Kiwanis: Dale Leslie announced that in the last fiscal year the Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor grossed $2 million from its Thrift Sale. Net proceeds go to charitable organizations. b. State Legislature Supplement: $120 million to public schools for mental health and safety, identification of children with dyslexia and training for teachers working with dyslexia children. Three percent SOM contribution to the teacher’s retirement fund was returned. c. Warning Sirens: The last testing of the warning siren test will be today October 5 th for 2024. 3. Stump Speeches: a. John Scharf: John is currently the Treasurer for Webster Township. He is running for another term not affiliated with a party. He is a chemical engineer and worked for businesses that allowed him to bring expertise globally. He is a certified municipal Treasurer and a member of the Board for the Dexter Senior Center. As Treasurer, John has reduced errors on resident tax bills and found investments with FDIC insurance. His goal is always to do the work of the residents and provide fiduciary leadership. b. Carrie Rheingan: Carrie is the current Democrat representative for the House of Representatives, District 47. She is seeking a second two-year term. Carrie has interests in restoring teacher bargaining rights, gun safety and public health options for academic institutions. c. Gary Munce: Gary was here to present information on the Senior Millage proposal in Washtenaw County. This millage would support older adults in the community for health, independence and vitality, and transportation. Although non- profits supply assistance for seniors, it is becoming insufficient because there are more people over the age of 60 than under 18. Seventy four of the 83 counties in Michigan have a senior millage on the books. The millage would be 0.5 mills for each $1000 of taxable value amounting to an additional $4 to $10 dollars a month depending on the resident’s home taxable value. The Board of Commissioners will determine the distribution between non-profits and service providers. If passed, the first distribution is likely in 2026. 4. Candidates for Office: Stump speeches are welcomed at the Dexter Forum. The presentation should concentrate on who you are, the office you seek, the party you are associated with and your positions on issues of interest to the community. However, the custom of the Forum is to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 5. Amy Reiser was not able to do a Stump Speech due to lack of time. She will be scheduled for October 20 th . Amy is running for a DSC School Board position. A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ======================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES September 21, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Tom Morris 1. Proposal 3: Ann Davis advised the group that this proposal is to support senior activities and services. Census data show approximately 20% of county residents are 60 or older. This population has eclipsed the number of people 18 or younger. The millage proposed is 0.5 mills. That amounts to 50 cents per $1000 of taxable value. 2. There are Four Stump Speeches Today: a) Brant Savander is a Democrat candidate for Trustee in Webster Twp. He and his wife are both naval architects and have their business in Ann Arbor. b) Jennifer Conlin is a Democrat for the Michigan House seat for District 48. Ms. Conlin is currently the representative for District 48. c) David Daily is a Republican candidate for Trustee in Webster Twp. He is a mechanical engineer with 30 yrs. of leadership roles in automotive. His leadership roles have allowed him to participate globally. d) Ray Tell is a write-in candidate for the Dexter City Council. Ray has held this position previously and opted to participate again. 3. Candidates for Office: Stump speeches are welcomed at the Dexter Forum. The presentation should concentrate on who you are, the office you seek, the party you are associated with and your positions on issues of interest to the community. However, the custom of the Forum is to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 4. Town Halls: Sanam Aldag and a Dexter City Council colleague are initiating Town Hall sessions on a monthly basis. The first event will be September 22 nd at the Dexter Library. The following monthly dates and locations will be announced later. 5. Petition to Dexter City Council: This topic remains on the agenda as there was insufficient time at this meeting. 6. Events: In Marks Olexa’s absence, no events are available for the record. An attempt to submit events via email by another person failed. --A NOTE: If you have an event, you would like listed, please submit it in writing or flyer. You may also submit by email to the recorder at [email protected]. Please use ‘Dexter Forum’ in the subject line for identification purposes. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ======================================================= DEXTER FORUM NOTES September 7, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Bob Van Oosterhout 1. Priority Waste: Paul Ruthenberg spoke to the group about the issues brought forward by the group and provided information about the recycling efforts since the purchase of GFL. The transaction included 530 pieces of equipment from GFL. However, 60 had to be scrapped and 200 were not road ready. The 200 ‘not road ready’ needed repair at a cost of $20 million. These vehicles are now starting to return, for our area, out of the Romulus, MI yard. Ten vehicles returned to service on Tuesday, September 10 th . The costs to maintain one trash vehicle per month is circa $10000. Employees have been working 10-12 hr. days and 6-7 days per week since the acquisition. Priority believed that the period for the transition would be 30 – 90 days. Crews are available but waiting for equipment. The vehicles use GPS and have 5 camera each. Hence, missed pick-ups can be identified. Credit for user accounts was unknown by Paul at this time. The issues with calls, on hold, not called back, etc. Mr. Ruthenberg stated that improvement should be noticeable given an update of the phone system. If you have further questions, contact Mr. Rothenberg at the Romulus yard. The phone number is (855) 927-8365. Mr. Ruthenberg plans to return and report to the group at one of our October meetings. 2. Special Education Millage: Elise Bruderly, President, Dexter BOE spoke about the millage for special education. The current millage expires fo is up for renewal on the November 2024 ballot. This IS NOT an increase but, rather a RENEWAL of the current millage. This millage is county wide and affects 1 in 7 children in the county. For DCS, 37% of required funding is covered by the millage. What the millage does not cover is covered by the general funds for the DCS. All communities in Washtenaw County will be voting on this millage in November. The number of children affected in DCS was not available at this time. 3. Candidates for Office: Stump speeches are welcomed at the Dexter Forum. The presentation should concentrate on who you are, the office you seek, the party you are associated with and your positions on issues of interest to the community. However, the custom of the Forum is to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 4. Happy Birthday: Attendees of the Forum were reminded that Albert Ruhlig will be celebrating his 103rd birthday this month. Albert was a regular attendee of the Forum for many years. He currently resides at Brecon Village. 5. Election Comments: Robert Kennedy, Jr. has removed himself from the Presidential race. Questions now arise whether he can be removed from the ballot. This is now a state issue and legal opinions in each state are sought. The second question regarded removing individuals from the voting roles and how that is done. In Michigan it is lengthy and difficult and has some variability in each county. The Secretary of State office is ultimately responsible for this process via the QVF (qualified voter file). Clerk Michelle Stamboulellis from Dexter Twp. helped the group understand the process in Michigan. 6. Events: Mark brought the group up to date regarding upcoming events for Dexter and the surrounding area. Longer time range events are listed below: -a. Huron River Methodist Church Fall Rummage Sale is September 27th and 28th . -b. Faith Lutheran Church on 9575 N. Territorial will have a Blood Drive on September 24 th from 1PM – 7PM. -c. 41 st Annual Webster Fall Festival on September 28 th from 10AM – 5PM will occur at 5583 Webster Church Road. There will be exhibits, live music and performances as well as food available. -d. Arise United Methodist Church at 11211 Dexter-Pinckney Road, Pinckney, MI 48169 will have a Dogfest from 10AM – 4PM on Saturday, September 14 th . A NOTE: If you have an event you would like listed and Mark does not have the information, please write a note or supply a flyer for the note taker so it can be published. Thank you. Respectfully submitted, -- Lois Beerbaum-- ======================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES August 17, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Bob Van Oosterhout 1. Baker Road Update: The activities are ongoing from Main to Grand. Abiding by state ending date, completion and opening of the now closed portion of Baker should be as scheduled, i.e., August 23 rd . 2. Trash Hauler Change Issues: All residents with service from GFL. have been disappointed with the transition to Priority. Trash is not being picked up in many areas, promised call backs do not occur, on hold for 20 seconds then disconnected. Suggestion was to take trash to the transfer Station on Werkner Road in Chelsea. Drop off is $3.50 per bag. 3. Primary Election: Concern was expressed regarding the closed primary concept used in Michigan vs. the open primary concept used in other states. This was a concern for political offices below perhaps state level. Discussion ensued and other methods e.g., non-partisan voting, perhaps below state level, were discussed. 4. Homelessness in Washtenaw County: Barb Fuller is noticing that it is increasing. Others have noticed it also. More living/sleeping in cars and panhandling at highway exits and in major parking lot entries. Many groups are involved, e.g., veterans, the old and the young. How much of this involves the lack of affordable housing? How much is behavioral or economic? Is our county thinking about this in a comprehensive way and planning answers? Immediate thoughts on helping were opined. 5. Update from Debbie Dingell: The Congresswoman updated the Gaza protest issue. She also commented on the upcoming Democratic Convention in Chicago. 6. Events: Mark brought the group up to date regarding upcoming events for Dexter and the surrounding area. 7. A Reminder for Candidates: It is the custom of the Dexter Forum to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450 ====================================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES August 03, 2024 This Forum was moderated by Caryl Burke and Bob Van Oosterhout. It was the Saturday before the primary election on Tuesday August 6 and, not surprisingly, we had 3 stump speeches. All were competing for their spot on the November ballot. Brian Ignatowski was running as a Republican for State House of Representatives in the 48th District. Shelly Vrsek ran as a Republican for the Webster Township Board of Trustees. And Samantha Strayer ran as a Republican for Washtenaw County clerk. Customarily, we do not summarize the comments of candidates in the Forum notes. If you want to learn more about any candidate, you can visit vote411.org, a nonpartisan website run by the League of Women Voters to ensure voters have the information they need to successfully participate in every election. There was a lively discussion about the recent Supreme Court decision on Presidential immunity, and we also talked about election integrity. We learned from Barbara Fuller that Washtenaw County is close to completing its effort to provide broadband service to all. When asked about political sign-stealing, she also noted that the best strategy is to report it to the police. In response to a question about how a decision is made to repair a sidewalk, we learned that municipalities have defined processes for this and you should look up the process for your particular area. As always, many thanks for Mark Olexa and the attendees for catching us up on upcoming events in the area. Respectfully submitted, Caryl Burke 734-476-5232 ======================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES July 20, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink and Caryl Burke 1. Baker Road Update: The activities are ongoing from Main to Grand. Turn lanes were reconfigured from 16 – 12 ft. wide. There will be a crosswalk at Forest. A bit of help at the Post Office. Completion is projected before Labor Day. 2. Trash Hauler Change Issues: All residents with service from GFL have been disappointed with the transition to Priority. The numbers that clients have been given to call are not answered and calls are not returned as requested. Officially the Priority answer is GFL had faulty trucks that do not run, and Priority must get them repaired. The contradiction for the clients is how come the trucks broke down at transition time but worked fine while GFL was operating?? Some folks have changed haulers due to this failure. 3. School Budget (DCS): The student funding allowance did not increase from other savings nor did teacher pensions or health provisions. Senator Sue Shink shared the school budget (on paper). Voting against a line item votes against the entire funding. It is an omnibus bill. The student amount is $9608 each for 2024 and 2025. Help was provided for ‘at risk’ school districts. ARPA grants for safety were not meant to be on-going. DCS received $125000 for SRYLS (mental health). Going forward, there is opportunity to readdress items of interest. 4. Stump Speech by Brant Savander: Brant is on the Democratic ticket in Webster Township for Trustee. Brent and his wife are naval architects. They now operate their own business as a consulting firm for naval architecture. Brent has an interest in the township’s Master Plan. NOTE: It is the custom of the Dexter Forum to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 5. Bicycles and Traffic Laws: A concern regarding bicyclists riding on sidewalks in the City of Dexter. An ordinance does exist regarding this activity as being illegal. However, enforcement is not apparent. There are signs that are ignored and the question regards enforcement with tickets written and 6. Dexter City Council: There are three openings but no candidates!! 7. Blog: Bob Van Oosterhout has a blog on mediaeducationlab.com/events. It is a six-week course on Perception, Fear and Media: Roots of Polarization. It is also on YouTube. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ====================================================== Forum Notes- July 6, 2024 The meeting was Chaired by Karl Fink 1. The Presidential Debate: There was considerable discussion about the debate. Comments regarding the reporting of the debate were raised with concern regarding focus on one candidate and not the other. An understanding of the preparation of the debate process, i.e., a review of practice performance before the actual debate. Finally, some discussion regarding the importance of debates, i.e., do they matter at all? **There are two stump speeches today. 2. Tawn Beliger: Tawn is a Republican candidate for Michigan House Representative for the 48 th District. Tawn lives in Northfield Township and has been a Trustee in that township. Tawn presented information on her background and items she is interested in if elected. 3. Peter Stevens: Peter is a Democratic candidate for Supervisor in Webster Township. Peter is a long-term resident of the township. Peter presented information on his background and items of interest if elected. NOTE: It is the custom of the Dexter Forum to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 4. Bicentennial: Again, kudos and accolades were provided to Cheryl Willoughby and the many folks who provided a memorable celebrationand party. 5. Announcements: None presented due to time constraints. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ======================================================== DEXTER FORUM NOTES June 18, 2024 The meeting was Co-Chaired by Bob Van Oosterhout and Caryl Burke 1. Review of Issues: Lois Beerbaum reviewed some issues of interest to the Forum. (1) Property Taxes: Overall, Washtenaw County is the highest in Michigan, (2) The Outdoor Warning Siren System is functional between March and October. Remember, the siren system not only warns of weather events, but also of other local emergency that requires immediate protective action by the public, e.g., a hazardous materials accident or an attack on the U.S. whether imminent, underway or has recently occurred, (3) a case wherein the Board of Canvassers in Delta County, Michigan did not want to certify an election based on the results of the election rather than its specific duties under the Michigan Constitution and the Michigan Election Law. 2. Rob Zimmerman, Republican Candidate for Treasurer in Washtenaw County. Mr. Zimmerman presented his stump speech. He is a CPA with an MBA in Finance and is an experienced CEO. NOTE: It is the custom of the Dexter Forum to not attempt to report the content of a Stump Speech. If you are a candidate for office and would like to present a Stump Speech at the Dexter Forum, please contact [email protected] or 734-478-0450. 3. Dexter Bicentennial Reminder!!: The event is June 20-23, 2024. By the time these notes arrive in your email, the event will have ended. Hopefully you were able to attend many of the events scheduled over the four days. It is hard to envision the planning, work and effort that occurred to make this a memorable event. Many, many thanks and kudos to Cheryl Willoughby and her minions who worked so diligently to make this a happening. Also many thanks to the Dexter businesses that contributed to the events. Get ready for the Semiquincentennial in 2074!!!!! 4. Washtenaw Road Commission Update: It finally happened, the Zeeb/Miller Rd. and N. Territorial/Dexter-Townhall construction and reconstruction are completed. The N. Territorial/Webster-Church reconstruction is scheduled for completion by June 28 th . Check the WCRC website for updates on other road projects. 5. Report on 3045 Broad Street Development Meeting: The June 11 the meeting was a good start. Each table of 6-8 attendees had a facilitator to collect visions with a requirement that not more than 20% of grass space and not a park. It’s a conceptual involvement of interested citizens to look at this development in a new light. Of the 50-60 folks present, many were interested in the ‘park’ concept. 6. Bell Road Bridge: This is a turn of the century bridge that is in storage and is to be repurposed for the continuation of the B2B trail connection. 7. Senior Center: The meeting with the City of Dexter Zoning Commission will take place June 17 th at 7 PM. This meeting is to seek a variance from the zoning that requires an entrance on Baker Road. Update: At the meeting, the variance was approved. The entrance requirement will not be required. An entrance on Baker Road would not be used by individuals using the Senior Center Building and a compliance entrance would cost many dollars not available in the current funding. 8. Dexter Local Businesses: There was a brief discussion regarding the support of local businesses as there have been several businesses closing in recent years. More discussion on this topic will ensue. 9. Announcements: Unfortunately, the recorder was unable to get the notes ready in time and Mark’s list of announcements occurred. Please review the May 18 th Notes for recurring events as well as the Sun Times and other sources of event listings. Respectfully submitted, Lois Beerbaum ======================================================== =================================================================== Dexter Forum Notes- and more- are on "Previous Forum Notes... back to the start of the Dexter "Previous Forum Notes Page 1 to 16--- Enjoy... =========================================== . - |
