"CAN'T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG?"

     A few weeks ago I was enjoying coffee and lunch in a downtown Lakeville coffee shop.

I was approached by a citizen from Eureka and asked if I would mind if he joined me for a few minutes.  Of course, I always look forward to chatting with citizens in my community and asked him to do so. 

     His conversation begin with a statement "why can't we all just get along in Eureka?"

I suggested that it might not be that complicated if citizens were willing to respect their neighbors, follow our ordinances and support the positive and legitimate activities that will

enhance our community; perhaps a sense of harmony would follow.

   My table guest suggested that the local leaders, "since they have their own agendas anyway, could turn their heads for others and not follow the letter of the law as strictly as they might believe is required." I remembered the behavior of this fellow when he attended a Town Board meeting which involved neighbor's concerns and possible questionable activities on the property.  After a discussion engaged in by all parties, the property owner sat down behind the neighbors, leaned forward and said something along the lines of "it's a good thing that you are both old because you will die before me and I can then enjoy my property." TRUST ME, this type of behavior will NOT create harmony in this community.

 

     I have attended most Town Board and Planing Commission meetings. In my opinion, there seems to be a handful of citizens in this community who attend meetings with the intent to

harass/insult local officials, at times bright and strong women with exceptional leadership qualities. This community has strong leadership in both men and women; their willingness to sacrifice and dedicate their time and expertise should be applauded and appreciated. The pay scale is not what attracts candidates.  In my opinion, there should be a belief that with hard work and a commitment to do what is best for the majority of the citizens in this community, we will emerge as a Township that is prosperous, offers a sense of peaceful living and a beautiful and safe environment to raise children.

     Engaging Eureka In Government is a blog that was developed with the intention of informing citizens of issues and activities within the Township. The majority of citizens, with their busy lives, are not able to attend Planing Commission and Town Board meetings, nor are they able to listen to a CD copy of the minutes for details. Minutes of the meetings are posted on the Eureka Township website after they are discussed, approved, etc.

by the Town Board and Planning Commission at the next month's meeting. The blog might include information regarding issues discussed, approved etc. at Town Board and Planning Commission meetings. Also, the blog offers opinions submitted by the writer which might include personal opinions or details that are not elaborated on in the Township meeting minutes.

     It has been brought to my attention that a few citizens in this Township

have tried, on more than one occasion, to "shut down" the blog.  The citizens trying to shut down the blog (in the last couple years) were in leadership positions when they allegedly/reportedly did so. They have gone as far as to try to involve the Township attorney. I would like to remind the obstructionists and those who might feel threatened by the content of the blog, that Freedom of Speech, the right to communicate one's opinions and ideas without the fear of government retaliation or censorship, IS PROTECTED by the First Amendment.

     Yes, I believe the citizens in Eureka can come together to promote community harmony.
The spirit of the community can be enhanced by welcoming new neighbors, introducing them to the Town Hall facility and staff, the website and community leaders and engaging them in the process of resolving community issues. Citizens need to have reasons to be excited about living in Eureka. Respecting the local ordinances, local government officials and neighbors can go a long way to promote community spirit and the health and well- being of its citizens.