Grosse Ile 2020 Campaign Platform

I.  Pledge to the Citizens of Grosse Ile 

As candidates for Township Board in the 2020 Election, we support the Grosse Ile 2020 Platform which not only explains "what" the next Township Board will seek to accomplish, but equally emphasizes "how" the next Township Board will work together with all Islanders to build a better community. 

If elected, we will form a new majority on the Township Board committed to serving the citizens of Grosse Ile based on the Purpose and Mission; Values and Core Principles; and Programs and Policy Priorities stated in the Grosse Ile 2020 Platform consistent with the Constitutions of the State of Michigan and United States.

II.  Grosse Ile 2020 Campaign Platform

Purpose and Mission

To provide the citizens of Grosse Ile with honest, respectful and responsive local government that delivers outstanding services and enacts sound policies which support excellent quality of life in the most cost-effective manner.

Values and Core Principles for Governing: "ICET"

I - Integrity:  Honesty and transparency in all actions and communications.  Maintain a culture of responsibility and uncompromising ethics in Township government.

C- Community:  The primary focus of priorities, decisions and actions will be to build a stronger community that serves the long-term best interests of citizens.  Listen carefully to constituents and respond appropriately to govern the Township in a consensus-based manner that respects the rights of everyone.

E - Excellence:  Strive for continuous improvement and accountability in all aspects of Township services and operations.  Create a culture that encourages and rewards performance and innovation in Township government.

T - Team:  Work with citizens, community stakeholders, businesses, Township Commissions, Township professional staff members in a respectful and inclusive manner to build consensus for achievement of goals. 

Policy and Program Priorities:  The "Big Five"

1.  Well-maintained roads, bridges and other public infrastructure

Closely work with the State and Federal government in addition to Wayne County to ensure that their roads and bridges -- especially the Wayne County Bridge on Parkway -- are properly maintained to be safe and reliable.  Refine capital improvement and management plans for the Township's water and sewer systems designed to meet if not exceed the expectations of citizens.

2.  Outstanding public safety

Ensure the Grosse Ile Police Department and Grosse Ile Fire Department have the budgets, personnel, policies and leadership to provide the community with first-rate services and a strong sense of security.  Closely work with the Grosse Ile Schools leadership on keeping students, instructors and staff safe.

Continuously seek the best training, technology and equipment that will keep Grosse Ile on the cutting edge of public safety.  Appropriately manage the deer and coyote populations on the Island to minimize risks to drivers, residents and pets.  Improve Township communications to citizens about urgent and emergency Township announcements such as the closures of bridges to vehicle traffic.

3.  Responsible Township budgets, spending and financial management

Balance the Township's annual budget using current revenues.  Develop and implement a realistic, conservative multi-year financial plan that properly funds essential Township services as well as voter-approved Township programs and projects.

4.  Protect and preserve the natural character of the Island and surrounding waterways

Grosse Ile's beautiful shorelines, woodlands, wetlands and adjoining waterways form a unique ecosystem that must be protected and preserved for the benefit of citizens, wildlife and property values. 

The Township's Open Space Program must be maintained in a sustainable manner that keeps Grosse Ile "green" while also supporting recreational walking trails.  Support, implement and enforce Township ordinances that protect the environment and prevent blight. Oppose the reindustrialization of the Detroit River Trenton Channel and its shoreline areas.

5.  Citizen demand-driven recreational opportunities for all ages year-round

Develop and implement a citizen-focused plan and budget for financially feasible, high quality recreational programs and activities.  Serve the social, physical and educational needs of all age groups to maintain a high quality of life.

Please let us know what you think are the most important issues for the candidates to address. Contact the Grosse Ile 2020 Candidates Team by e-mail at grosseile2020@gmail.com.