A belated Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!
As we usher in the new year, I wanted to take a moment to once again thank all of the Bainbridge residents who support Lorrie Sass Benza and myself in this last election! It is humbling and we intend to honor your support with good public works!
I want to invite you to our public swearing-in ceremony this Thursday, December 31st, at 2pm, Bainbridge Town Hall. Sheriff Dan McClelland will be doing the honors and there will be a gathering with cookies and such afterward. All are welcome!
Take care and have a Healthy, Happy New Year in 2010 and beyond!
Jeff
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
WE DID IT!
Thank you Bainbridge Twp.!
What an awesome experience and such a resounding result! I am proud of the campaign experience (though certainly glad it's over!) and humbled by the confidence and trust you've placed in me once again. I certainly will work to continue to earn your respect.
Here is a letter Lorrie and I sent to the various newspapers this past week...and thanks again!!!
An open letter to Bainbridge residents (and the Kenston community):
We want to take a moment to personally thank the voters in Bainbridge and our supporters in the Kenston community at large, for your support in the recent election. We heard loud and clear the message you sent -- you want positive and productive leadership in local government, and will each work hard for you and with you to reach that goal.
We intend to act immediately on our campaign statements, reaching out in our community to encourage public participation in the decision-making and planning processes. We expect to be creative and effective in our obligation to be fiscally responsible, as we look to expand services to our residents. We will protect and defend our semi-rural character as we are also cognizant of property rights and proper land use planning. Most importantly, we will respect a difference of opinion and work to restore public confidence and pride in Bainbridge Township.
Thank you again, and we look forward to serving you for the next four years.
Lorrie Sass Benza
Jeff Markley
What an awesome experience and such a resounding result! I am proud of the campaign experience (though certainly glad it's over!) and humbled by the confidence and trust you've placed in me once again. I certainly will work to continue to earn your respect.
Here is a letter Lorrie and I sent to the various newspapers this past week...and thanks again!!!
An open letter to Bainbridge residents (and the Kenston community):
We want to take a moment to personally thank the voters in Bainbridge and our supporters in the Kenston community at large, for your support in the recent election. We heard loud and clear the message you sent -- you want positive and productive leadership in local government, and will each work hard for you and with you to reach that goal.
We intend to act immediately on our campaign statements, reaching out in our community to encourage public participation in the decision-making and planning processes. We expect to be creative and effective in our obligation to be fiscally responsible, as we look to expand services to our residents. We will protect and defend our semi-rural character as we are also cognizant of property rights and proper land use planning. Most importantly, we will respect a difference of opinion and work to restore public confidence and pride in Bainbridge Township.
Thank you again, and we look forward to serving you for the next four years.
Lorrie Sass Benza
Jeff Markley
Sunday, November 1, 2009
REMEMBER TO VOTE FOR BOTH!
On November 3rd, you have an opportunity to restore professionalism and pride in Bainbridge Township government.
Elect BOTH Lorrie Sass Benza and re-elect Jeff Markley to promote public interests, provide short- and long-term planning solutions, and assure efficient, fiscally-responsible decisions.
TOGETHER, WE WILL:
Dont know where to vote? Look at the map below or visit the Geauga County Board of Elections website...http://www.co.geauga.oh.us/PDFs/BOE/polling_locations.pdf
Elect BOTH Lorrie Sass Benza and re-elect Jeff Markley to promote public interests, provide short- and long-term planning solutions, and assure efficient, fiscally-responsible decisions.
TOGETHER, WE WILL:
- Promote Better Communication WITH and FOR the Residents!
- Establish Working Budgets that are Fiscally Responsible and DO NOT RAISE Taxes!
- Address Zoning & Environmental Matters for the Benefit of the Residents!
- Provide Township Services that actually SERVE the Resident!
Dont know where to vote? Look at the map below or visit the Geauga County Board of Elections website...http://www.co.geauga.oh.us/PDFs/BOE/polling_locations.pdf
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Friday, July 24, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
BAINBRIDGE SCHOOL DEMOLITION
Press Release - The Bainbridge School (ELC) will be demolished later this summer. The vote was taken and two trustees, Lynch and White, decided they had heard enough about this building.
To start, this is not an emotional issue. Oh sure, says the critics, then why all the fuss over an old building? In short, Bainbridge has lost another opportunity for good planning, a sense of place and a space where seniors and young people would interact. Lack of vision by two elected "leaders" and a vindictive stubbornness to their agenda has cost the Bainbridge residents and the Chagrin Valley community!
Kenston Community Education(KCE) and a local businessman made a significant offer last week, stating, if given a year to prove their efforts at programming the space for seniors and youth could be self-sustaining, they (KCE) would take on the operation of the building at their expense. All the township had to contribute was insurance ($7,500) and an initial roof repair ($6,500).
If, after a year, KCE's programming (which would involve several other entities including Chagrin Falls Park Community Center and Dept. on Aging), was successful, capital improvements would then be considered by the Board of Trustees (BOT). This offer was documented in a letter to KCE last year by the BOT. If the programming was not successful, KCE admitted at the meeting last week and again last night that they would be first to throw the switch and shut off the lights. Frank Lanza, local businessman (a man who stepped up and raised financial support for Bainbridge's fireworks this year), pledged that if, over the course of one year, KCE could not meet the operational costs of running the programs at the ELC, he would personally cover the difference so there were no costs incurred by the township.
So, to summarize:
The ELC's demise is the direct responsibility of Matt Lynch and Linda White. They had the opportunity to explore the possibilities this venture would have offered the community by allowing KCE to move forward for a one year trial basis, with the insurance policy guaranteed by Frank Lanza. But this decision to demolish was made long ago, and nothing would have dissuaded these two people, short of it being their idea for a productive use. And then, it would have happened as quickly as the town hall's basement remodel project!
To start, this is not an emotional issue. Oh sure, says the critics, then why all the fuss over an old building? In short, Bainbridge has lost another opportunity for good planning, a sense of place and a space where seniors and young people would interact. Lack of vision by two elected "leaders" and a vindictive stubbornness to their agenda has cost the Bainbridge residents and the Chagrin Valley community!
Kenston Community Education(KCE) and a local businessman made a significant offer last week, stating, if given a year to prove their efforts at programming the space for seniors and youth could be self-sustaining, they (KCE) would take on the operation of the building at their expense. All the township had to contribute was insurance ($7,500) and an initial roof repair ($6,500).
If, after a year, KCE's programming (which would involve several other entities including Chagrin Falls Park Community Center and Dept. on Aging), was successful, capital improvements would then be considered by the Board of Trustees (BOT). This offer was documented in a letter to KCE last year by the BOT. If the programming was not successful, KCE admitted at the meeting last week and again last night that they would be first to throw the switch and shut off the lights. Frank Lanza, local businessman (a man who stepped up and raised financial support for Bainbridge's fireworks this year), pledged that if, over the course of one year, KCE could not meet the operational costs of running the programs at the ELC, he would personally cover the difference so there were no costs incurred by the township.
So, to summarize:
- KCE presented a viable plan to operate the building as a Community Center for seniors and youth alike;
- A local businessman personally guarantees no operating costs would be paid by the township;
- A number of residents attending the last two meetings spoke in support of the building, including a few who once were against reusing the building.
- This is a low-cost, no risk opportunity for the township to consider whether a community center would be supported, as was indicated in recreational surveys from several years ago;
- In the center of Bainbridge, along a major township route, and in the midst of the township's government campus, this building has significant exposure and visibility;
- This building is well appointed and structurally sound. While there are certainly roof issues, the building can be used immediately for programming and, with success, phased capital improvements would improve the energy efficiency of the building, and if desired, other aspects as well (aesthetics, improved accessibility, kitchen, etc.);
- Places for older, active adults in this community are limited; gathering spaces for social interaction, permanently dedicated crafts room, and large, accessible active spaces available during the day at little to no cost are non-existent, except for the ELC;
- Lastly, there is a historical perspective to the building that should not be overlooked.
- The KCE plan was "pie-in-the-sky";
- KCE isn't equipped to operate a facility of this size;
- Too much time and money has been spent already on this building...enough is enough;
- There isn't a need for this type of programming;
- Auburn residents and other non-taxpaying residents may use this facility at Bainbridge taxpayer expense.
- This type of programming would negatively impact other KCE programs and the Chagrin Falls Park Community Center.
- Although volunteers put the plan together, these are smart people who pulled KCE out from under a mountain of debt and into the "black"...this plan could work with community support.
- Again, KCE is largely volunteer-based, but users pay the operating costs of other programs, so this isn't a new concept to KCE. There are still issues with the organization, as pointed out by a critical opponent of the plan at last night's meeting, but KCE is working through its organizational structure and with time and patience, they will improve an oft-stated flaw, which has been said to be timely and accurate communication with its volunteers and participants.
- Too much money? L. White, with tacit approval by Lynch, put the kibosh on users wishing to rent the facility as she was "appointed" by the BOT to handle all reservations of township facilities (for those of you out there who tried to reserve facilities, how well did that work out for you?). Without users and/or a deliberate message from an elected official that the building was not for rent, or unavailable, or whatever the misinformation, the building was less used then it should have been, significantly depriving the township of operating income that would have offset the expenses. Then the BOT, in an obvious move to demonstrate a drain on the township's budget, closed the building for use entirely, disregarding requests by individuals and KCE to rent the facility. A very strategic and malicious ploy by the BOT, who had demolition of the building as their only vision. Too much time? The building was officially turned over to the township after the last class was held in June 2006. Although many discussions were held, as far back as 2002 when acquiring the building was in the works, and a concept plan was drawn, along with ad hoc committee meetings to discuss options, there was never a fully viable proposal or concerted effort to fairly discuss whether a need existed for community use, or a long-term vision laid out by the township for the building. Many good and well-intentioned people were involved in discussions, but nothing materialized. The efforts by KCE (Mark Tiefel and Bill Doak, specifically) were nothing short of outstanding and good discussion ensued. Unfortunately, their efforts were in vain, because two trustees had their minds made up long before last week's presentation. It is truly a shameful ploy by this BOT to lead so many people along a path with a pre-determined destination. What a waste of their time!
- If the senior center at Chagrin Falls Park Community Center is running out of space, how can there not be a need for more of this programming? If kids are hanging out in the parking lot of Giant Eagle and wherever else, how can there not be a need for a youth center? Let KCE and Chagrin Falls Park determine if this programming is viable!
- Non-resident use...are you kidding me? What are we doing at Centerville Mills, a taxpayer-funded facility whose expenses are off the chart (oh, this is the same park L. White is so strongly attached herself to...hhmmm!)! This is a Kenston community, and Bainbridge has a significant share of the assets as well as the expenses. It's no secret most everyone in Bainbridge paying taxes, including me, would appreciate a lot more financial support of Bainbridge facilities used by Auburn residents. But to constantly gripe about it without solutions is a waste of time and does nothing for neighborly relations. Work through a solution that serves Bainbridge taxpayers and get on with the programming that also benefits Bainbridge residents. All that we've done now with the decision to demolish is to deprive Bainbridge residents with a wonderful opportunity for social interaction and provide Bainbridge Twp. with a visible and strong sense of place as well as a Chagrin Valley community presence in multi-generational programming.
- Lastly, KCE and Chagrin Falls Park renewed discussions only recently, and with successful reorganization of both entities over the last few years, this was a wonderful opportunity for a partnership to develop and flourish between the two groups. Bainbridge and the area would have been well-served by this partnership. Now Chagrin Falls Park will have to find ways of expanding its facilities on its own.
The ELC's demise is the direct responsibility of Matt Lynch and Linda White. They had the opportunity to explore the possibilities this venture would have offered the community by allowing KCE to move forward for a one year trial basis, with the insurance policy guaranteed by Frank Lanza. But this decision to demolish was made long ago, and nothing would have dissuaded these two people, short of it being their idea for a productive use. And then, it would have happened as quickly as the town hall's basement remodel project!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
KCE Presents Proposal for the Bainbridge School (Old ELC)
Bill Doak, president of KCE, presented the organization's plans for use of the ELC (also called the Bainbridge School), as a "new" Bainbridge Community Center. This Center is expected to be multi-generational and initially include wellness fitness and conditioning, expected to be offered in partnership with the Chagrin Falls Park Community Center. Senior amenities to the programming might initially include a senior lounge for casual recreation and socializing. Afterschool programming (latchkey) and youth activities as well as educational and recreational events in the gymnasium would likely fill the first floor of the building all year long.
Imagine a community facility where seniors citizens can come and go as they please during the day, stopping in for a cup of coffee, play cards, engage in a book review or simply talk with friends. Or if they prefer, enrolling in community education or recreation classes. Perhaps even teaching a class to local youngsters. This same facility transitions to an evening center that offers recreational and educational programming to local youth and adults alike.
The cost of this facility to taxpayers? For the first year.... a $6,400 roof repair bill and perhaps a $7,500 insurance premium, or about $1.25 per Bainbridge resident. Operating costs, including utilities, cleaning and staffing would be borne by KCE, paid for by program fees, grants and partnerships, and memberships. Initial painting and other cleaning and improvements to get the building ready for use could be accomplished using youth seeking community service hours, and other volunteers.
Add to this proposal a guarantee that the township will not pay anything besides simple repairs, at the end of the first year! A local businessman, Frank Lanza, is so confident the KCE model and proforma will succeed, he is willing to guarantee, out of his own pocket, that the township will not pay any additional operating costs during this one year trial period!
Should this proposal be approved and allowed to be implemented and tested over a one-year period, if successful, the township trustees, could consider budgeting additional capital improvement dollars to renovate the building, also plefged in the letter to KCE. A phased allocation of some of the Investment monies (Frohring estate tax dollars as well as a percentage of new estate tax dollars) could be spent on capital improvements for a building that serves the entire Bainbridge community.
No new taxes, a pledge by a committed local businessman to "insure" the township will not incur any operating expenses beyond what has been discussed, and the opportunity for an affordable, functional and fically viable community assest...what could be a better use for Bainbridge!
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
JEDD Voted Down 2-1
At the 4/13 Trustee meeting, a proposed Joint Economic Development District (JEDD) was voted down 2-1 last night, depriving the township of a long-term income stream which would have been used to offset the cost of township services serving that area of the township.
The JEDD, proposed by McGill Property Group (the development group who built both MarketPlace North - Target, Home Depot, etc. - and Shops at MarketPlace -Walmart, Kohl's, etc.), would have been located on the existing Shops at MarketPlace site, had it been approved. The township has an existing JEDD with the City of Solon for MarketPlace North and, though this shopping center is not entirely built out, it contributes approximately $75,000 per year.
A JEDD collects income tax from employees working within the boundaries of the designated district. Because Bainbridge is a township, it cannot unilaterally levy an income tax; however, it can partner with an adjacent municiplity and create the JEDD that can collect the local income tax and divide the proceeds by agreement between the two communities. In the case of the proposed district, employees working at Walmart, Kohls, Dicks, etc. would pay an income tax to the JEDD, with the proceeds split between Bainbridge, Aurora, and a required small contribution to a JEDD fund.
This was an opportunity to provide a long-term revenue stream to the township, used to offset costs borne by police and fire for their services to the shopping center, with no adverse affect or cost of any kind to the township. The agreement would have required each community (Aurora and Bainbridge) to defer receipt of their share of the income tax until $600,000 was paid to the landlord who is arranging the tenant agreements to opt into the JEDD. There would have been absolutely NO COST or RISK to the township in this deal. We would not have to pay anything out of the General Fund in advance, nor would we be obligated to pay any portion of the $600,000 if there were complications (bankruptcy, foreclosure, etc.).
The trustees vote 2-1 against this revenue opportunity, with my vote being for the JEDD, only IF legally allowed to do so. The other two argued that this was poor policy as they termed the agreement a "bailout" for the developer. I disagreed, but again, the vote was 2-1 against forming the JEDD and providing the township with the opportunity for additional revenue. It should be noted that the Aurora City Council voted 8-0 to support the partnership with Bainbridge and create the JEDD.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions on my decision to support this JEDD!
The JEDD, proposed by McGill Property Group (the development group who built both MarketPlace North - Target, Home Depot, etc. - and Shops at MarketPlace -Walmart, Kohl's, etc.), would have been located on the existing Shops at MarketPlace site, had it been approved. The township has an existing JEDD with the City of Solon for MarketPlace North and, though this shopping center is not entirely built out, it contributes approximately $75,000 per year.
A JEDD collects income tax from employees working within the boundaries of the designated district. Because Bainbridge is a township, it cannot unilaterally levy an income tax; however, it can partner with an adjacent municiplity and create the JEDD that can collect the local income tax and divide the proceeds by agreement between the two communities. In the case of the proposed district, employees working at Walmart, Kohls, Dicks, etc. would pay an income tax to the JEDD, with the proceeds split between Bainbridge, Aurora, and a required small contribution to a JEDD fund.
This was an opportunity to provide a long-term revenue stream to the township, used to offset costs borne by police and fire for their services to the shopping center, with no adverse affect or cost of any kind to the township. The agreement would have required each community (Aurora and Bainbridge) to defer receipt of their share of the income tax until $600,000 was paid to the landlord who is arranging the tenant agreements to opt into the JEDD. There would have been absolutely NO COST or RISK to the township in this deal. We would not have to pay anything out of the General Fund in advance, nor would we be obligated to pay any portion of the $600,000 if there were complications (bankruptcy, foreclosure, etc.).
The trustees vote 2-1 against this revenue opportunity, with my vote being for the JEDD, only IF legally allowed to do so. The other two argued that this was poor policy as they termed the agreement a "bailout" for the developer. I disagreed, but again, the vote was 2-1 against forming the JEDD and providing the township with the opportunity for additional revenue. It should be noted that the Aurora City Council voted 8-0 to support the partnership with Bainbridge and create the JEDD.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions on my decision to support this JEDD!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Spending Criteria 3-23-09
Discussion ensued over how the trustees should base their decisions on spending or allocating the remaining Investment Fund (formerly Frohring) dollars.
I am adamantly opposed to the spending of any monies out of the investment account that cannot first be identified as part of the township's Strategic Plan, a needs-based model that should guide the leaders in their decision-making. This Strategic Plan DOES NOT exist, and therefore, we should refrain from spending any of these dollars on wishlist items until a needs-based plan is presented and adopted.
I will lobby for a long-range vision for the township, with best guess assumptions made as to where this township will or should be in 10-20 years. What does a complete buildout of the township look like? How long will that buildout take and when does redevelopment enter the picture? How much and where will the traffic be? How much more will be charged to us in taxes and can we mitigate these taxes with some other method of paying our bills? How much more commercial and residential development can or should occur? What will the burden be on existing services? What additional services will be required? What will the revenue from property taxes and other sources provide?
Lets be smart about the plan and budget we put together, and make sure it satisfies the NEEDS of the Bainbridge residents first, not serving a political agenda because of a slogan on a sign! Bainbridge Township needs to stay current, focused, efficient, lean and productive in providing services to the residents. That should be our only focus!
I'd like to hear your thoughts!
Monday, March 16, 2009
General Fund Workshop - 3-14-09
Thank you to all that braved the confines of Bainbridge Town Hall on a beautiful Saturday morning to listen to the Board discuss the merits of proposed purchases and projects in the township. I had hoped for more public participation on the various proposals that were presented by department heads or on the process itself, but it seemed there wasn't enough time allocated for that public input. For the part I played in that, I'm sorry.
The meeting was certainly long, and it was evident from the discussions there are a number of proposals for spending the Investment Fund (Frohring estate tax) dollars. My expectations for this meeting was for the board to work through the process by which decisions are made to spend the general fund dollars. Instead, we went line item by line item on each department's "wish list" of projects. An important piece of the process to be sure, but not before there is consensus on how decisions are based!
Laboriously, we discussed the items and occasionally, we were able to have dialog that considered the process before the project. It is my intention to continue to require the process for decisions be clearly articulated before too many tax dollars are spent on projects that, in my opinion, may or should not be warranted.
Feel free to stop by the Town Hall and request a copy of the project list, with dollar amounts identified. This is and should be available for every resident upon their request. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have re. this process.
The meeting was certainly long, and it was evident from the discussions there are a number of proposals for spending the Investment Fund (Frohring estate tax) dollars. My expectations for this meeting was for the board to work through the process by which decisions are made to spend the general fund dollars. Instead, we went line item by line item on each department's "wish list" of projects. An important piece of the process to be sure, but not before there is consensus on how decisions are based!
Laboriously, we discussed the items and occasionally, we were able to have dialog that considered the process before the project. It is my intention to continue to require the process for decisions be clearly articulated before too many tax dollars are spent on projects that, in my opinion, may or should not be warranted.
Feel free to stop by the Town Hall and request a copy of the project list, with dollar amounts identified. This is and should be available for every resident upon their request. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have re. this process.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Bainbridge Center and Historic Relevance
Last night's meeting at the Town Hall allowed Township Trustees (BOT) the opportunity to hear from the Bainbridge Historical Society and their interest in the oldest structure in Bainbridge, the Bissell-Tucek House, built in 1835.
The township owns the home, located immediately south of the township's fire station, and has not initiated any progress on its future since the last presentation by the Historical Society, over 5 years ago. One of few remaining structures of the original hamlet, Bainbridge Center, the Bissell-Tucek House is in relatively good condition and is being considered as the home of the Historical Society and future museum.
Did you know, every third-grader that attends Kenston schools is required to study local history and specifically, they learn about the history of Bainbridge and Auburn Townships. Currently, these kids travel to Burton to visit Century Village, where they visit the General Store, a building formerly located on the corner of Bainbridge and Chillicothe Roads. Would a building, repaired and brought up to code by Bainbridge Twp. and operated by members of the Historical Society serve a community purpose? Would a defined Historic District celebrating Bainbridge Center, and re-establishing a Sense of Place for Bainbridge residents be of value to township residents?
More importantly, what are the needs of Bainbridge residents as it relates to township-provided services? Does the government campus of these five buildings serve those needs now or, with some vision, foresight and committment, could the campus better serve the residents in the future?
This question remains: What are the township's plans for the township-owned properties along Chillicothe Road, and how do the five structures (Burns-Lindow, Fire Station, Town Hall, Bainbridge School, and the Bissell-Tucek House) fit into possible plans for the 50+ acres located in the center of Bainbridge, seconds from the Gateway to Geauga County at I-422.
I advocate for a master plan of the township properties and structures. We need to understand the needs of our residents, the abilities of our departments to serve those needs now and in the future, the impacts of a major arterial traffic corridor (Chillicothe Road) that connects an interstate to our township, and the future of properties that abut this corridor, including the township's 50+ acres!
Not only do we have a fiscal responsibility to our residents, but as trustees, we have an obligation to use the assets we are entrusted with to their fullest potential, to benefit the residents and to serve their needs. This we have not done!
What are your thoughts?
The township owns the home, located immediately south of the township's fire station, and has not initiated any progress on its future since the last presentation by the Historical Society, over 5 years ago. One of few remaining structures of the original hamlet, Bainbridge Center, the Bissell-Tucek House is in relatively good condition and is being considered as the home of the Historical Society and future museum.
Did you know, every third-grader that attends Kenston schools is required to study local history and specifically, they learn about the history of Bainbridge and Auburn Townships. Currently, these kids travel to Burton to visit Century Village, where they visit the General Store, a building formerly located on the corner of Bainbridge and Chillicothe Roads. Would a building, repaired and brought up to code by Bainbridge Twp. and operated by members of the Historical Society serve a community purpose? Would a defined Historic District celebrating Bainbridge Center, and re-establishing a Sense of Place for Bainbridge residents be of value to township residents?
More importantly, what are the needs of Bainbridge residents as it relates to township-provided services? Does the government campus of these five buildings serve those needs now or, with some vision, foresight and committment, could the campus better serve the residents in the future?
This question remains: What are the township's plans for the township-owned properties along Chillicothe Road, and how do the five structures (Burns-Lindow, Fire Station, Town Hall, Bainbridge School, and the Bissell-Tucek House) fit into possible plans for the 50+ acres located in the center of Bainbridge, seconds from the Gateway to Geauga County at I-422.
I advocate for a master plan of the township properties and structures. We need to understand the needs of our residents, the abilities of our departments to serve those needs now and in the future, the impacts of a major arterial traffic corridor (Chillicothe Road) that connects an interstate to our township, and the future of properties that abut this corridor, including the township's 50+ acres!
Not only do we have a fiscal responsibility to our residents, but as trustees, we have an obligation to use the assets we are entrusted with to their fullest potential, to benefit the residents and to serve their needs. This we have not done!
What are your thoughts?
Early Learning Center (Bainbridge School) Proposal by KCE
Kenston Community Education (KCE) presented a proposal to use the former Early Learning Center school building on Chillicothe Rd. Their proposal focused on a proforma illustrating that operation costs of the building could be paid for with existing and new programs. These programs included afterschool programming (latchkey), senior activities and educational and recreational events. Senior programming was thoroughly discussed at tonight's meeting.
A copy of the proposal is available at the Town Hall for public review. Hard copies are available for a nominal copying fee (I believe) or electronic copies can be emailed by contacting the KCE office (440) 543-2552.
Imagine a community facility where seniors citizens can come and go as they please during the day, stopping in for a cup of coffee, playing cards, engaged in a book review or simply talking with friends. Or if they prefer, enrolling in community education or recreation classes. Perhaps even teaching a class to local youngsters.
This same facility transitions to an evening center that offers recreational and educational programming to local youth and adults alike.
The cost of this facility to taxpayers? An allocation of some of the Investment monies (Frohring estate tax dollars) for capital improvements for a building that could last 50+ years...new windows, new roof, and a new HVAC system. Approximately $750,000. The annual cost to operate, based on preliminary estimates, is projected to be $75,000. Again, quite possibly covered entirely by program revenue.
Let me know what you think about this idea to convert the former ELC into an economical and fiscally sound community facility for multi-generational use!
A copy of the proposal is available at the Town Hall for public review. Hard copies are available for a nominal copying fee (I believe) or electronic copies can be emailed by contacting the KCE office (440) 543-2552.
Imagine a community facility where seniors citizens can come and go as they please during the day, stopping in for a cup of coffee, playing cards, engaged in a book review or simply talking with friends. Or if they prefer, enrolling in community education or recreation classes. Perhaps even teaching a class to local youngsters.
This same facility transitions to an evening center that offers recreational and educational programming to local youth and adults alike.
The cost of this facility to taxpayers? An allocation of some of the Investment monies (Frohring estate tax dollars) for capital improvements for a building that could last 50+ years...new windows, new roof, and a new HVAC system. Approximately $750,000. The annual cost to operate, based on preliminary estimates, is projected to be $75,000. Again, quite possibly covered entirely by program revenue.
Let me know what you think about this idea to convert the former ELC into an economical and fiscally sound community facility for multi-generational use!
Monday, February 16, 2009
WELCOME!
I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome one and all to my brand new blog site!
The idea to host a Blog site was inspired by members of our community that want an outlet to communicate their thoughts, concerns, complaints, and hopes to a township official. Many folks cannot attend the meetings but want to stay connected to the township we live in. In fact, someone approached me at a meeting and asked where my site was, so I got to thinking...maybe this is a good idea!
I am one of three trustees (like a mayor) in Bainbridge Twp. (pop. 11,000 +/-) and I cannot make decisions independently of the other two members of the board. It takes a majority of the members (2) for a formal "board" decision. In fact, the "board" and I may disagree on decisions that affect policy. That is why I plan to update this blog weekly, to help many of you understand my position on issues deliberated by "the board". This blog represents my perspective on decisions that may affect you and your family. What's important is that you have an outlet to share your concerns and opinions with me and I can represent these concerns as I share your thoughts with the board publicly and here on this site.
Take a moment to express your views and opinions, especially if you're a Bainbridge resident! As one of your elected officials, I want to use this forum to hear from the residents about all issues pertaining to their lives and experiences in the township. Occasionally, I will even run an Opinion Poll to gauge sentiment on a particular issue, non-scientific of course! As always, I reserve the right to delete inappropriate comments or remarks.
Thanks for reading, sharing and caring!
Jeff
The idea to host a Blog site was inspired by members of our community that want an outlet to communicate their thoughts, concerns, complaints, and hopes to a township official. Many folks cannot attend the meetings but want to stay connected to the township we live in. In fact, someone approached me at a meeting and asked where my site was, so I got to thinking...maybe this is a good idea!
I am one of three trustees (like a mayor) in Bainbridge Twp. (pop. 11,000 +/-) and I cannot make decisions independently of the other two members of the board. It takes a majority of the members (2) for a formal "board" decision. In fact, the "board" and I may disagree on decisions that affect policy. That is why I plan to update this blog weekly, to help many of you understand my position on issues deliberated by "the board". This blog represents my perspective on decisions that may affect you and your family. What's important is that you have an outlet to share your concerns and opinions with me and I can represent these concerns as I share your thoughts with the board publicly and here on this site.
Take a moment to express your views and opinions, especially if you're a Bainbridge resident! As one of your elected officials, I want to use this forum to hear from the residents about all issues pertaining to their lives and experiences in the township. Occasionally, I will even run an Opinion Poll to gauge sentiment on a particular issue, non-scientific of course! As always, I reserve the right to delete inappropriate comments or remarks.
Thanks for reading, sharing and caring!
Jeff
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