Here’s to you, Harbor Springs!
This summer, our effort celebrated its one year anniversary. We were on vacation, so I kinda let it pass without much fanfare. But as our summer visitors head home and Harbor gets a little quieter, I thought I would take a moment to say, "Thank you!"
In a little over a year, I've written 350 posts, created 150 different Lil' Nubbins, and added 395 followers. I am amazed to say that this little effort has had 17,455 page views just in the last month.
I am proud of what this effort has become. If it is judged by the character of the people who seem to appreciate what is shared here, then it continues to be a success!
What’s Next?
We have an important City Council election coming up on November 4th. Two Council members will be selected to represent us. Most in our community do not come to public meetings or watch Council sessions online. Many try to keep up, but it can be hard.
We have five candidates running for the two seats. I am happy to say most have served on Council before or have volunteered on Boards and Commissions. Most live here full time. That is a great start.
If we work hard and are clear-eyed we can elect two new members who are locals. People who understand the struggles of those who want to live here year round. Who are responsible and reasonable. Councilmembers who do the work and put in the time. Neighbors who understand compromise and grace are required attributes. And finally, we can elect people who understand chaos and grievance are not going to move us forward.
As we head to the election, I would like to boldly suggest a simple criteria to evaluate the candidates:
"If they are not for all, then they aren't for us."
Okay, it's catchy, but what does it mean?
Well, what it means, for me at least, is that there is no litmus test for Council except that candidates need to work for ALL residents of Harbor Springs.
They need to understand and address the needs of residents here in the winter as well as the sometimes-louder voices of our summer guests.
They need to serve both those who voted "Yes" to repeal and those who voted "No" on the zoning issue.
They need to respect and listen to all of us, not just those who are paying for their campaigns.
They need support the idea that we are best when we are a city and open to all. We have plenty of gated and exclusive country clubs to join. The city should be inclusive as possible.
And finally, they need to truly understand that there are many in our community that struggle. Yes, there are many who are well heeled, but those with wealth need far less attention and service than those who are working hard to make ends meet.
Anyone who can focus broadly on the needs of the many rather than the narrow desires of the few will serve us well.
So, again, if they are not for all, then they aren't for us.
Looking forward to hearing from you more in the days and weeks to come. Again, thank you for your support in growing this effort this last year.
