Tag: OMA

The governing body which resides over the largest public budget in the Northwestern part of the state continues to thumb its nose at taxpayers.  A recent (probable) violation of the open meetings act, adds to a list of actions that are not only indicative of sloppy governance, but more likely sanctioned acts of deception and perfidy.  A scheduling ruse used by the board to hide its 'open' retreat worked to its advantage with no public present, with no recordings made of the retreat activities, and no option of challenge by the public, plans that will likely be rubber stamped in future open meetings which the board normally schedules.

Examples of deceptive practices are not exactly limited to what I write here.  This particular story however, notes a growing disdain for the concerns taxpayers might have for the appropriate management of their resources. There are concerns that remain unanswered.

A recent bond issue was a catalyst in engaging some of us in the Grand Traverse region with regard to the actions of the local board for Traverse City Area Public Schools. (TCAPS)  The $100 million bond issue came on the 5 year anniversary of another like it in 2007.  Part of the issue that inspired opposition of myself and others was the inclusion of a $26.5 million 'performing arts center' in the bond which many see as wasteful and unnecessary.  The timing also coincides with one of the worst economically difficult times the region has seen.

The bond was defeated by nearly 60-40%, which might make some think it would have failed no matter the opposition.

The sad reality is that it would have likely been a reversal in percentages seen without organized resistance and the sunlight provided by that resistance.