We Can Do Better
We Can Do Better
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I know we all have our thoughts on things our government could do better. The current tension over data centers highlights how frustrated some citizens are becoming with their government. We don't feel like our interests are being looked after and need more than a three minute public comment to discuss the issues. I want to create a forum where concerned residents can share thoughts about issues in Lodi that may need attention. Here are a couple issues on my mind.
ZONING ADMINISTRATION- During her tenure as Supervisor, Jan Godek also took on the role of Zoning Administrator. Our appointed interum supervisor has continued this arangement. I don't know the reasoning behind this decision, but its problematic and should change.
The zoning administrator (ZA) reviews all construction projects for "zoning compliance" and issues certificates that builders or homeowners need to get the building permit from Washtenaw County. This includes everything from a new home to a pole barn or a simple deck. If you're a Lodi resident and have ever had to apply for zoning approval, you had to go to the supervisor, who you may or may not be politically alligned with or favored by. That has made many people uncomfortable.
The ZA also supports the Planning Commission (PC) in their work and attends PC meetings. The Supervisor recommends and appoints members to the Planning Commission, but they are NOT supposed to influence the work of the PC. When the supervisor also serve as ZA, however, they attend every PC meeting and sit in the room while the PC tries to work. Often, they provide information and opinion that can guide a matter before the PC. This work should be done by an objective, experienced zoning official not the supervisor.
If elected, I will review our budget and find support to create a stand-alone ZA position and find an experienced candidate to serve in that role.
RECYCLING- Not long ago Lodi residents were given a recycling card that allowed us to drop off our recycling at one of the Ann Arbor yards without paying the standard fee. Recently we switched from that system to locating a recycling drop off container at Township Hall. I thought this was a great alternative, being a more convenient, shorter drive. However, I was dissapointed to learn that the company providing this service does not take glass! And if we put glass in the container it will end up in the landfill. That's not acceptable.
Glass and metal are the two most important household materials to recycle. Plastics often do not get recycled, especially colored plastics. Glass can break in the sorting process and potentially damage some machines recyclers use, but they need to find a way to make this work. Now, if we want to drop all our recycling in one trip, we are back to driving to the drop-off station AND paying the fee.
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