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Memorial Trees

Independence Day

Celebrate the freedoms of our country and enjoy the company of friends and family this weekend. City (and most other governmental) offices will be closed on Friday, July 3.

If you are travelling, please drive safely and be mindful of others who may not be as safe. Be sure to take adequate breaks during lengthy journeys.

Handle fireworks with care if you plan to celebrate with fireworks. Ensure that fireworks are used in an open environment, away from other combustible material. Keep children away from fireworks.

Have a great weekend.

CITY

Flag Courtyard

The Flag Courtyard at City Hall traditionally flies the flags of all fifty states of the United States. The City Manager recently sent a letter to every governor soliciting a donation of his or her state flag. Some governors have sent flags (and, in some cases, thoughtful correspondence), but most have declined due to costs or other reasons. Thank you to all of the governors of the states who have provided flags:

Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, New Mexico, and West Virginia

The follwoing states have responded that they cannot provide flags:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming.

The new flags will be raised on June 11 in time for Flag Day, June 14.

2009-2010 Budget

Manager Musings- Apr. 30

Soon, the flags of the fifty states will be flying again in the courtyard between City Hall and the library. Unfortunately, some of the flags are quite worn. To replace the flags, I sent a letter to the fifty governors describing Davison's history as "The City of Flags." I also politely requested a donation of a three-foot by five-foot flag of their state.

I asked for the donations to be received by the end of May, so that we could raise the new flags in honor of Flag Day (June 14). I'll let you know which states forward flags to us. After receiving those flags, I'll draft a community "thank-you" note to send to those governors. I'll have the thank-you note at the front counter at City Hall in early June.

Take the time to examine any of the flags that you fly at your home or business, and, for proper respect, please replace worn flags.

Manager Musings- Apr. 24

Manager Musings- Mar. 23

It has been much too long since I have written here. Since I was rarely receiving any feedback from my online writings, I've been devoting more attention to the offer of a weekly column in the Davison Flagstaff. Perhaps this community is more traditional and simply prefers to read a newspaper instead of staring at a computer screen. Honestly, I prefer to read an "old-fashioned" newspaper, too, but with the recent news about the Detroit papers and now the Flint Journal scaling back their hard copies to devote resources to online versions, those days of reading the newspaper with breakfast may be dwindling.

We are in the midst of preparing our annual budget now. My goal is to present a draft budget to the City Council on April 13. We'll have a work session to address Council questions and concerns before revising, if necessary, the budget and conducting the formal public hearing. The Council will then adopt the budget in early June for the start of the fiscal year on July 1. It goes without saying that money is tight, but we will continue to provide you with the quality services that you have come to expect from Davison staff.

If you have any budget issues that you would like to discuss, please contact me. 

Manager Musings- Jan. 21

This same article will appear in the Sunday, January 25 Davison Flagstaff.

On Saturday, January 17, the City Council and senior staff convened for a Goals and Objectives Work Session. This meeting began the annual budget process for the City, with the intent that the City Council set goals and objectives for the staff to develop the budget around. While the public was invited and public input was encouraged, only one resident joined the Council (thank you, Mr. Hammond). Again (perhaps this horse really is dead), it is critical that residents get involved.

The first item of business was to develop a mission statement: what is the purpose of your local government?  As far as I can tell, the City, as a whole, has never had a mission statement. Through the Blueprints for Downtown, a statement was created for the downtown area, but nothing recorded reflects how this city government should serve its people. I shared mission statements from other communities to generate some ideas. The City Council will continue to develop the mission statement. If you have any suggestions related to the mission statement, please share those with the City Council or me.

It is then the responsibility of the City Council to develop objectives that support the mission statement. From these objectives, which tend to be long-term and strategic in nature, the staff can develop specific goals to support the objectives. The City Council members can also use the budget as a tool to direct the staff toward projects and programs of their priority to support their objectives and the mission statement. Substantial time was spent during the work session to develop budget priorities.

Each department supervisor shared with the City Council a variety of issues related to their departments that could be funded and a brief rationale regarding the need for funding. The City Council then contributed several programs and projects that members wanted to be considered. The list of priorities is shown below.

Since family-related issues prevented two City Council members from participating directly in the work session and a desire to solicit additional public input, it was decided that the Council would not formally determine which priorities to further research for the budget until the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Monday, January 26 (7:30 p.m. at City Hall). After a brief discussion, each City Council member will be asked to secretly cast up to seven votes for their preferred priorities (if one issue is strongly preferred, a member could cast all seven votes for that one issue, or, in a more generalist approach, distribute their votes across several projects). The votes will be tallied and presented immediately. The staff will then research the selected priorities, determining feasibility and cost, before presenting the results and recommendations to the City Council as part of the budget process.

As with family and business budgets, our government budget will not be easy to craft this year: as with those others, revenues are diminishing and costs are rising. The City Council, the staff, and I are committed to continuing to provide the same (if not better) level of service that you have come to expect as residents of Davison. We will also look for future opportunities to expand our services and programs while remaining fiscally responsible to residents. The priorities established by the Council will be the key factor in developing the net budget. If you have something that you’d like the City to consider, please let a government representative know your thoughts.

Please consider joining the City Council and staff at the next City Council meeting.

2009 BUDGET OPPORTUNITIES

• PUBLIC WORKS FACILITIES: including renovations to existing facilities, such as the former Parks and Recreation trailer
• SIDEWALKS: including repairs to existing sidewalks and construction of new (either completing “gaps” or expanding to new areas)
• COMPOST OPERATIONS: adding new services or enhance existing operations
• WATER INFRASTRUCTURE: replacing obsolete mains, enhancements at treatment plant
• SEWER INFRASTRUCTURE: replacing obsolete mains, general improvements to system (both sanitary and storm)
• INFLOW/INFILTRATION: expanding the program to other areas of the City of Davison
• PARK DEVELOPMENT: developing new amenities (disc golf, splash pads, parking, pavilions, etc), acquiring more land for park use
• MUNICIPAL CENTER: reviewing and developing plans for re-use of current facility or a new facility
• STREET IMPROVEMENTS: resurfacing or rebuilding existing streets
• TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES: connecting to fiber network, purchasing new computers for Council/staff
• M15 HERITAGE ROUTE: supporting the development of this route through planning, signage, amenities (benches, bike racks, etc.)
• DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT: adding new streetscape and funding façade improvements
• INDUSTRIAL/MANUFACTURING DEVELOPMENT: supporting LDFA efforts to improve/expand industrial base
• GENERAL COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT: funding cooperative effort with Davison Township (Buxton study), other non-downtown related commercial development
• LAND ACQUISITION: purchasing additional land for purposes other than park development
• PERSONNEL DEVELOPMENT: funding additional training, exploring opportunities for intergovernmental cooperation
• PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS: expanding web site, newsletter, funding a community survey
• CODE ENFORCEMENT: devoting more resources to code enforcement
• RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS: contributing more funds to meet long-term contractual obligations to retirees
• COMMUNITY PROMOTIONS: purchasing additional gateway signs, banners, etc.

Manager Musings- Jan. 12

Manager Musings- Dec. 30

Holiday greetings to all! I hope that you had a merry Christmas. It was enjoyable for me as I got to spend nearly a week with my young daughters. Unfortunately, that amount of consecutive time with them is somewhat rare. We had plenty of good food, laughed with good friends, and "argued" over many games: they're starting to get too good for their own good!

The weather has definitely been interesting over the past week. From heavy snows to record rains, the Public Works employees have been busy keeping the roads clear of ice and water. Consumers Energy is struggling to get power back to several areas of the City. If you or someone you know requires power for medical support, please contact the American Red Cross (232-1401), which may be able to provide assistance. Otherwise, please be patient as Consumers Energy works to restore power as soon as possible (the latest estimate provided to the City is that power may be restored by 6:00 p.m. tomorrow, December 31).

Please celebrate the New Year responsibly. Drive defensively. Take care of your children and other loved ones and may 2009 be a better year for Davison, Genesee County, and the entire State of Michigan. We will have to work together and I look forward to having an entire year with all of you. 

Manager Musings- Dec. 18

With my recent attention focused on the financial issues facing the City as I begin work on next year's budget, Christmas has really caught me by surprise this year: it's hard to believe that it is now only a week away! So, since most of you do not consider the budget to be fun, let me discuss something that I find incredibly fun: boardgames!

My greatest hobby is collecting and playing boardgames. While my collection of over 300 games seems large, it actually pales in comparison to serious collectors, whose collections number in the thousands. My games, though, are for playing, not for collecting or investing.

Games make great gifts (if you are stumped for some last minute gifts): they are reasonably inexpensive ($40 or so) and can provide hours and hours of entertainment. Most of the games that are currently popular are not the kind of games that can be found at Toys R Us or Target. The games are usually developed in Europe (they're commonly referred to as 'Euros'), where, especially in Germany, boardgaming is as popular as video games are here. Let me share a few 'gateway games' with you: these are games that offer a great introduction into the largely forgotten (but rekindled) market of games.

Ticket to Ride is considered to be one of the top 'gateway games.' This game won Germany's prestigious Game of the Year in 2004. The game is remarkably simply to learn: on their turns, players can select more cards, play some of their cards to claim routes between cities (earning points), or draw random tickets (which earn bonus points when the two cities listed are connected by a player's routes). The game takes about an hour to play. Subsequent versions of the game offer maps of greater Europe, solely Germany, solely Switzerland, and the Nordic Countries. With its ease of learning and play, the game is approrpiate for children, too (perhaps not younger than 10, though).

Another very simple series of games (also railroad-themed and by the same designer as Ticket to Ride) are the 10 Days in... games. Maps for games in the United States, Europe, Africa, and Asia are available. These games are less expensive than Ticket to Ride, usually running about $25. Components of the games include a detailed map of each area, including country and capital names, making each game a teaching experience, too. Any of the games of this series can be played in 30 minutes or less. Each turn, players draw a tile and place it on their "Scrabble"-like rack, trying to link a series of countries together in a "10 day" journey.

Finally, Carcassonne is another highly-regarded introductory game. Players draw and place small tiles to build roads, cities, fields, and churches in medievil France, scoring points as each feature is completed: the bigger the feature, the higher the value, but watch out since it is possible for other players to "steal" the feature (and points) from you before it's completed! This game is another inexpensive game ($20) with a wealth of expansions (or add-ons) which offer more tiles and scoring opportunities. Carcassonne plays quickly, lasting about an hour. All three of these games appeal to men, women, teens, and children. They make wonder gifts to encourage family game nights.

Beleive it or not, tens of thousands of games are available, offering a stunning variety and level of play. For more information about boardgames, visit www.boardgamegeek.com: be prepared to be overwhelmed. To actually get these games (since they are not usually at mass market stores), a few local stores have a limited selection: Gamers Sanctuary and Riders in Flint Township and Hobbytown USA in Grand Blanc Township are the best local options. Stores with significantly larger selections are located in Howell, Livonia, and East Lansing. If you wish to shop online for games, I'd strongly recommend www.fairplaygames.com. This is a family business operating out of the Lapeer-area. If you order a game, you can usually have it delivered the next day.

You have one week to finish your shopping. Consider buying a game for someone. Then take the time to learn, play, and enjoy not only the game, but strengthen the ties with family and friends. If you want to learn more about my gaming experiences, go ahead and contact me.

Finally, be prepared and be safe for the storm predicted to hit the Davison area tonight and tomorrow.

Manager Musings- Dec. 16

I was out of the office last week, taking part in some budget training sponsored by the Government Finance Officers Association. The City's budget is perhaps the most critical operational document, but our current process and format does not take advantage of the role of the budget in determining and implementing policy.

The budget can be used as a policy tool, a financial plan, an operational blueprint, and a communications device. At this time, we're not using it much more than a spending plan. I will work closely with the staff and the City Council to re-develop our process and format for the coming budget year.

The traditional budget process begins in January (the budget is required to be adopted no later than early June, in time for the start of the City's fiscal year, July 1). In mid-January, the City Council and staff will conduct a Goals and Objectives work session to establish budgetary priorities. Given the overall economic conditions, this will be a challenging budget to develop.

One of the shortcomings of the traditional budget process is the lack of public input. Most communities (apparently including past practices in Davison) hold a public hearing near the end of the budget process. This is actually required in relation to Michigan's Truth in Taxation legislation, which requires that a hearing be held to establish the taxes to be levied. That late in the process, public involvement is extremely limited.

So, given the impending budget constraints, what are your (the residents) priorities for city government? What are we doing well? What needs improvement? What services do you consider critical? What others could be considered expendable? Would you like to see the City expand any current programs or offer any new programs? Do you have any thoughts on other areas where the City may reduce expenditures? With absolutely no consideration being given to raising taxes, do you have any ideas that could generate more revenues for the City?

The City Council and staff are committed to providing the exceptional services to which you have grown accustomed. With diminishing revenues and increasing costs, we may need to re-evaluate our priorities. This is where we need your thoughts. After sharing your thoughts with me (dmartin@cityofdavison.org), I will share those comments with the City Council as part of the Goals and Objectives work session, providing a good reference for the Council and staff as we begin to prepare the next budget.

Manager Musings- Dec. 3

The City and Chamber of Commerce Christmas Celebration is this Saturday, December 6. I hope that you consider joining us downtown for this seasonal event. A new activity, a downtown scavenger hunt, is being sponsored by Amber's Attic. Other traditional activities include the parade, the lighting of the tree, and, of course, a visit from Santa. It will be an enjoyable family evening.

Through my first several months here, I have been very impressed by the variety of community events throughout the year. Parades and festivals and markets keep a wonderful level of activity percolating throughout the town. Those activities enhance the sense of community. If you missed any of the festivities in 2008, be sure not to miss them again in 2009.

Last night I had the opportunity to attend my first American Legion meeting in town (Davison Post 267). Although I have been a member for several months since transferring my membership, my scheduled prevented me from actively participating. The evening was highlighted by an annual Christmas potluck dinner, sponsored in part by the Sons of the American Legion. I had the opportunity to sit near Miss Ashley Burger, the Post's candidate for Girls' State, an annual government experience for high school girls (a partner program, Boys' State, is also available). Miss Berger had the opportunity to serve as Governor during the week-long conference. She is an outstanding representative of the Davison community.

It was also a pleasure to share a meal and the companionship of fellow veterans. The bond between veterans cannot be underestimated. The people that put on whatever uniform to serve and protect the nation are some of the best people of our nation. I was proud to have served with many of them. Many of the veterans active in veteran associations are aging, and soon, their absence will leave a great void in those willing to offer additional service to the community. If you are a veteran, I encourage you to join such an organization and continue your service to your nation and community.

Manager Musings- Dec. 1

December arrives with the first heavy snowfall of the season. I hope that everyone returned safely from any Thanksgiving activities. One of the key sources of pride for the Public Works Department is the ability of the Department to quickly and efficiently clear the streets of snow and ice. If the inclement weather happens overnight, an on-duty police officer will advise the Public Works Supervisor of the road conditions.

Please be advised that it is against state law to plow or otherwise move snow into or across a public street. In other words, you cannot move the snow from your driveway across the street to a ditch or open field. If the road had already been cleared and salted, moving more snow across the road could remove the salt or create additional traffic hazards.

Finally, the City does have an ordinance requiring that sidewalks be cleared of snow. At times, this can be a difficult ordinance to uniformly enforce (meaning that it many cases it simply doesn't get enforced). The intent of the ordinance is that sidewalks should be cleared for the safety and convenience of those who utilize sidewalks: school children, postal carriers, utility personnel, etc. Please work to keep your sidewalks clear.

If you are aware of a resident who may need some assistance in clearing their sidewalks or driveways, please let me know. It is possible that the City can recruit some volunteers to assist those in need (isn't that part of the whole community concept?) or can utilize those required to perform community service. If you are interested in helping, please contact me.

Manager Musings- Nov. 24

The City of Davison regretfully lost another leader of the community last week (Wednesday) with the passing of Ms. Margaret Littlejohn. Ms. Littlejohn served the community in a variety of ways: City Council, Board of Review, Senior Authority Board, and election worker. She participated in the PumpkinFest's annual Do-Da pageant, winning the goofy contest several times. I never had the opportunity to meet Ms. Littlejohn, but other City employees spoke of her with great respect.

As is commonly discussed as the World War II-era veterans pass away, we are losing a generation of leaders and, disappointingly, not replacing their civic-mindedness. In many schools, civics (or government) isn't even part of the standard curriculum. How are students supposed to learn about government? How are those future voters supposed to become interested in serving their communities when they eventually settle down in a community?

The City struggles to fill a variety of key positions on many of the boards and commissions needed to have the City properly function. For example, the City Charter currently has a provision of term limits related to the City's Board of Review. Unfortunately, the City has received little interest from qualified residents to serve upon this critical board (the Board of Review's prinicpal function is to hear appeals related to the work of the City Assessor), so the City is forced to violate its own charter. Both Ms. Littlejohn and Ms. Sue Cstoras, who also passed away recently, served on this board with distinction.

The City has several positions available, representing a variety of needs. Most of the boards and commissions meet monthly, if even that often. The City needs residents to serve, to take additional ownership in their community. City government is more than the City Council, which continues to serve the residents and develop policies, goals, and objectives for the community. Be a part of local government. Contact City Hall if you are interested in serving your community.

Manager Musings- Nov. 19

With the results of the annual audit in hand (as well as some precious observations), I am reorganizing City Hall. The most significant change is the move of the Community Development Department from the lower level to the main level of City Hall. I have found that the coordination between the two levels to be, at times, cumbersome. By bringing all primary staff to the same level, I believe that we will be able to support each other in a more efficient manner. Ms. Hackney, Community Development Director, will occupy the space currently used as a conference room (her current office will become the conference room- which should greatly assist with Court activities), and Ms. McGovern and Ms. Gauthier will move to desks located in the main City Hall office area. Ms. Barb McCrea will now directly support the Treasurer, and Ms. Linda Confer will assume Ms. McCrea's former duties. That change of duties will involve a minor re-arranging of desks in the main City Hall office area. I hope to have these changes formally implemented by December 1.

While these changes may have little visible impact upon residents, these changes should develop the staff into a more efficient operation. With declining revenues, we will have to become more streamlined at City Hall if we are to continue to provide the level of services that is expected. I believe that we can meet, if not exceed, those expectations.

I have been approached by the Editor of the Davison Flagstaff to submit a guest column on a weekly basis. This is an opportunity to share my thoughts and observations in a more traditional format than on this site. As with this site, though, if you have a topic that you'd like to see me discuss, please contact me.

Finally, I am scheduled to participate in emergency management training in Auburn Hills both tomorrow and Friday, so I may not be able to post Musings for those days. If I do not, please have a safe weekend.

Manager Musings- Nov .14

As pretty much everyone is aware, tomorrow marks the opening of the firearms hunting season for deer. Please be safe this weekend. It is not just the firearms that is dangerous: the travel to and from hunting locations, the weather during hunting, other activities while hunting (such as walking or climbing), and every now and then are rumors about alcohol consumption among hunters. All of these factors can lead to serious injury, and even death. Be aware of your surroundings and your physical condition.

I hope that all of you hunting do have a safe and successful hunt. I look forward to seeing you again as soon as possible.

Manager Musings- Nov. 13

The staff received the first draft copy of the City's annual audit yesterday. The draft was presented to the staff (myself, the Treasurer, and the Clerk) by representatives from Plante and Moran, the City's contracted auditing firm. Although the full report will be presented to the City Council at its next regular meeting (November 24), I'd like to share a few of the notable highlights.

First, the bottom line is that the City is in fine financial condition. The amended budget for the previous fiscal year (which ran from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008) anticipated $280,573 more in expenses than in revenues. That number merits very serious consideration when you realize that, if that ratio continued, the City's projected fund balance (savings) of $1.2 million would only last another four years. Through the efforts of the staff, though, budgeted expenditures were significantly reduced, resulting in a loss of savings of only $42,849 (leaving $1.4 million in the fund balance). That level of expenditures, although still negative, is much more acceptable than the originally anticipated loss. I expect that this year's budget, which originally projected a $276,672 loss from savings, will also be significantly less as we reduce expenditures and explore other savings opportunities.

Second, the $1.4 million fund balance represents approximately six months of expenditures for city operations. A recommended level of expenditures is between four and six months, so the City has done well to put money aside over several previous years. Those savings are now being used for what they are generally intended: to supplement declining revenues during economic difficulties.

Third, although the finances appear to be fine, we have some processes and procedures that need to be thoroughly examined. Some of our recordkeeping must be improved. New techniques must be implemented to meet the new requirements imposed on local governments by national accounting standards. These changes will have to occur before the audit at the end of the current fiscal year (June 30, 2009).

The City is in satisfactory financial condition. Yes, revenues are down due to the overall economic climate, but we are spending less money. We will continue to provide the level of services that you have come to expect from City Hall. We will explore new opportunities to attract more residents and new businesses to town in an effort to generate more revenue.

If you wish to learn more about the City's annual audit, please consider attending the November 24 City Council meeting (7:30 p.m., City Hall). 

Manager Musings- Nov. 11

Manager Musings- Nov. 10

Last month, the City Council gathered to review the goals and objectives that the Council had established for 2007-2008. Most of those original goals and objectives were reconfirmed, with some minor amendments.

The Strategic Goals for the City Council were:

• Continued Review of City Charter
• Updated Municipal Center
• Continued Intergovernmental Relationships
• Plan Integration and Education
• Infrastructure Updated
• Economic Development
• Innovative Budget Restraint

All of the strategic goals were re-emphasized by the City Council. The original objectives outlined by the City Council (to support the goals) were:

• Master Plan Review
• City Manager to become active in a civic organization
• Stay on top of cable franchise and right-of-way issue
• Address nepotism and City Council
• Left-turn issue at Flint Street and M-15
• 35mph on M-15 throughout the City
• Flint Street traffic plan

The City Council concurred with retaining those objectives. These goals and objectives will become crucial as we will shortly begin to prepare the City's 2009-2010 budget. Resident input is necessary if the City Council is to direct the City Staff towards the city of the tomorrow.

So, what programs do you want the City to emphasize (or eliminate)? What projects would you like to see completed? What services should be expanded or reduced? What are your visions of the City of Davison? As I have often discussed before, city government is YOUR government. Without your involvement, it is more difficult to determine what direction to take the City. Share your thoughts with a City Council member, visit City Hall. I look forward to hearing from you and I'll share your comments with the City Council.

Finally, please remember that City Hall will be closed tomorrow, November 11, in celebration and honor of our country's veterans.

Manager Musings- Nov. 5

Congratulations to President-elect Obama and other victorious candidates. It was truly a historic night. I look forward to working with two new gentlemen representing the Davison community: Michigan State Representative Jim Slezak and County Commissioner Patrick "Shorty" Gleason. Congratulations also to our neighbors, Mr. Soper of Davison Township and to Mr. Joseph Madore of Richfield Township. I look forward to strongly developing the regional relationship that is so strong in the Davison community.

Thank you to the residents of Davison for exercising your fundamental duty and turning out to vote on what was a lengthy ballot. I will share the election results from the City's four precincts tomorrow, both on this site and in the City's monthly electronic newsletter. To receive the monthly newsletter, please click on the "sign up for our e-newsletter" at the top of this page or provide an email address (no name required) to us at City Hall.

Finally, a very special thank you to Ms. Andrea Schroeder, City Clerk, and Ms. Beth Holm, Deputy Clerk, for running a smooth election. Most of you have no idea how much work those two put into the last few weeks before this election. Every day they worked tirelessly to ensure that voters were properly registered, that absentee ballots were distributed, that poll workers were trained, and that proper logisitics were implemented: everything to make voting easy and efficient for the overwhelming numbers of residents that turned out yesterday. Thank you also to the dedicated poll workers who worked a very busy and long day yesterday.

Manager Musings- Nov. 3

I had the opportunity to see the Davison football team play Friday evening against Fenton. Earlier in the day, I visited Hilton Screeners downtown in order to get a Davison Cardinal sweatshirt to show my support at the game, figuring that, being an away game, perhaps not many Davison fans would trek down to Fenton (and plus the fact that it was Halloween). Boy, was I wrong about that!

I got to the stadium around 7:00 and not a seat was to be found on the Davison side of the field. The fan support was incredible. The first half was somewhat slow, with Davison holding a slim 14-10 lead at the break. The second half was an entirely different game, as Davison pummeled Fenton, turning the game into a rout, 42-10. I was very impressed with the team and the fans. I only recognized a few area residents (and I think even fewer recognized me), but it was nice to be introduced to more people, whether they were from the City or the Township: it is all one Davison community. Too bad the Fenton city manager is a good friend of mine. We also share the same birthday (coming soon), so I'll be able to tease him about his football team's performance.

I would plan upon attending the game this weekend against FLushing, but I will be out of town. I encourage everyone interested in going to the game, though, to get there early if you want a seat.

Oh, yeah, I almost forgot: we have an election tomorrow. Get out and vote. Be patient. Enjoy the sense of community when standing in line and get to know a few people that perhaps you wouldn't normally greet. Be polite. Celebrate the end of phone calls and commercials! The right to vote is a immeasureable freedom and the act of voting is critical to the continued success of our nation.Do not shirk your national duty.

Manager Musings- Oct. 30

As we make our way through the last week before the General Election, please take the time to review the various candidates and issues. At the national level, we will obviously be electing a new President and Vice President of the United States. Some of the ballot includes statewide candidates for U.S. Senator, Supreme Court Justice, and university regents/trustees and two statewide proposals. The bulk of the lengthy ballot, though, covers local candidates and issues: State Representative, all countywide offices, various judges, and a city charter amendment. You have plenty of sources with which to research the candidates and issues: friends and family, the library, and several media outlets such as the internet, television, and newspapers. Consider reviewing several resources in order to get a variety of viewpoints and to increase the reliability of the information.

The polling place will be very crowded next Tuesday (voting is open from 7:00a.m. until 8:00p.m.). Absentee ballots may still be obtained and returned to City Hall ($0.59 to mail; free to drop-off). You may even consider coming to City Hall on Saturday, November 1, between 11:00a.m. and 2:00p.m. to cast an absentee ballot (if you are eligible). After Saturday, although you can still obtain an absentee ballot until 4:00p.m., Monday, November 3, you must complete and submit the absentee ballot on-site: you cannot leave with the ballot to complete and mail later.

On Tuesday, please respect the sanctity of the polling place. Please recognize and observe the mandatory buffer (100 feet) to the entrance to the polling place. Be respectful and courteous of other voters and campaign supporters in the vicinity of the polling place. Despite the contentiousness of the presidential race, our system of representative democracy has survived surprisingly intact for almost 230 years: it may not be perfect, but it's the best. Respect the newly elected leaders that we as a nation have selected to make decisions on our behalf. Revel in this wonderful and unique American electoral process (and especially the end to campaign commercials on television!). 

Manager Musings- Oct. 28

Last night's open house was, well, disappointing: not a SINGLE visitor came to City Hall (the two fellows from the press don't count). The staff work laboriously to demonstrate their professionalism and dedication to the City and its residents, and not a SINGLE resident cared enough to show up. National politics and government are definitely more glamorous and interesting than Davison politics and government, but you know what? Davison politics and government will have a much more substantial impact on your quality of life than Washington D.C. politics and government will ever have.

How often do you interact with federal (or state) government? Once a year: April 15, Tax Day (and with the state, again on your birthday to renew your driver's license), and not much more except in very special circumstances. How often do you interact with Davison government? Every single day: when you turn on your water, when you flush your toilet, when you leave your driveway. We only hear from you when those things do NOT work as expected, but that rarely happens. It rarely happens because you have a professional city staff to ensure that city services are delivered.

What happens when you have a problem with city services? You contact a City Councilmember, whose name, phone number, and address you probably know. You can approach your elected officials at the gas station, at the grocery store, in the park, or at a school function and voice your concerns. Can you approach federal and state officials the same way? At the city level, every resident is a name and a face; at the federal and state level, you are nothing more than a faceless number (and, at this time of year, a voter to be wooed).

Both presidential candidates are calling for change. Why can't that change hit closer to home and have a greater impact on your community: get involved with local government- YOUR government.