Beaver Island to Become One Township

[Rose Gallagher]

What would have to be done for Beaver Island to become one township? I have not heard if this is still under consideration or not. Has anyone ever put a calculator and pencil to the question and estimated the financial savings for all taxpayers? It would be interesting if someone had a rough estimate on that figure. Additionally, the obvious benefits would be:
1. Smaller government without duplication of officials in each township getting paid for virtually performing identical duties.
2. More efficient and consistent government with one set of officials representing the unified views of the entire island.
3. Smaller government with less wasteful spending.
4. More cooperative relationships in government without the constant comparisons and disagreements between two townships.
5. More civil relationships between electorate from respective townships who at times are at odds with one another over township operations.
6. One township, one unified voice speaking to power (Charlevoix County and State of Michigan) allows more leverage to bring improved representation and services to all island residents.

How is it that the things government in Lansing and Washington are criticized for (wasteful spending, overlapping duties, higher taxes, more spending, constant arguing, absence of results, lack of responsibility and accountability) are then condoned at the most basic level of government, the township? It is easier to point fingers in those directions than to put those fingers to work, living up to one's standards and leading by example.

It would be wonderful if some group of individuals on the island would start the official process of merging the two townships into one. As a retired educator, it would be even greater to get students and young people involved in the process. It could be a teachable moment in economics, civics, government process and politics. One constantly hears that younger people do not take an interest in government, what better way to learn than by becoming involved with the solutions? I hope that some teacher, some student, some young person, some business person, some indiviual, some one with courage steps up and takes the lead to bring the island together as one. Rose

[Dawn E. Marsh]

It sounds like a good job for you, Rose.