Open Forum Meeting on Potential New Office Building

This meeting was in a different format than usual township meetings which are comprised of the township board doing business of the township in front of the members of the township. In this town hall style meeting, emphasis was on hearing and responding to the township citizens as equals for the betterment of the community. Despite having had little forewarning (the notice was in the Lake County Star only days before the Saturday meeting), there were roughly 20 citizens present and the full board. After the pledge of allegiance, John Fairbanks spoke for awhile on his vision for a new township building. In his words, he would like to "build something low key, subdued, blends into the woods...my building that I've designed is post and beam construction...with a 6 inch concrete slab with hydronics" for a heated floor. The idea is to build something small and affordable, preferably under $50,000 so a licensed engineer would simply be able to stamp architectural drawings instead of overseeing the entire project. Fairbanks also spoke of the history of our area and the fact that our current township hall will be 100 years old in three more years. After Fairbanks spoke, Linda VanDolsen added her thoughts that the project would "probably be under $50,000...but nothing is cut in stone." There were many ideas spoken of by citizens, and many questions raised.
Some ideas involved adding on to the current structure vs. building a separate building and trying to get grants to renovate the current township hall as an historical museum. Other thoughts were to build a bigger structure to benefit the entire community with the idea of renting out the new facility for family get togethers or weddings and funerals. It was pointed out that these accumulated monies were generated and saved through many years of frugality, and we hope to see a good return that everyone can be proud of and benefit from its usage. Later talk turned to doing the work desired in phases on a pay as you go basis. It was remembered that the previous building plans which people voted down included phase options but it was determined that it cost more overall to do a project in phases. Other concerns were for how big of a building is actually needed and how many people should be accommodated. Only one bathroom is included in the new building plan, and no kitchen facilities are provided. The long and short of the meeting was that people would like to see something affordable built, but within a reasonable budget, and that they would like to have input and say-so. Suggestions for another survey to be filled out by citizens was dubiously regarded by VanDolsen, but the general feel in the community is for more informative meetings. I would love to hear your feedback and ideas...

Remember the Annual Meeting next Saturday, March 27th at 2pm!!! Stay informed and involved.