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Dear Editor,
From the Michigan 1963 (current) Constitution, Article 1, Section 1, Political Power: “All political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their equal benefit, security, and protection.”
Yet there are county politicians, township officials and neighbors using the term “anti-winders,” speaking derogatorily toward good people who have stepped up to speak against living in the midst of 500-foot turbines 600 feet from the riverbank in rural Montcalm County.
Our township officials partake in name calling, labeling, shaming and speaking ill of citizens trying to protect their home values, health and environment. In Douglass Township, the officials publicly accused and dismissed someone from the planning committee, then apologized after both sides hired lawyers.
Our Douglass Township officials used our tax dollars to hire a fancy lawyer to keep guiding them into the wind ordinance they ultimately wanted passed. They passed it unanimously after listening to the residents speak against turbines for two years at every meeting. Yes, there were a few speaking for it, but those were the people who will financially benefit. Equal benefit, security and protection was never in the equation from the very beginning in Douglass, Maple Valley or Winfield townships.
Our township officials are not the victims as they and some who will benefit from the pro-wind ordinances would like you to believe. Abuse of power and conflict of interest has taken place. Recalls and referendums are the citizens’ responsibility and right to hold elected officials accountable.
Take one long good look at the beautiful rural views we enjoy today. It could be the last time if our No Party Affiliation candidates are not elected and the ordinances on the ballot are not defeated.
If you want to preserve and protect Montcalm County vote “no” on the wind proposals in November. Do not vote straight ticket. Vote “no party affiliation” for the candidates who will honestly work for the equal benefit, security and protection of residents, not Apex Clean Energy.
Voet for Dan Boes Sr. in Maple Valley Township and “no” on the ordinance. Vote for Ryan VanSolkema, Kenneth Bloom and Julia Potratz in Winfield Township and “no” on the ordinance. Vote “no” on the wind ordinances in Douglass and vote in favor of Cindy Shick, Holly Huff and Ken Bunting in Douglass Township. This is our last chance to preserve our way of life as we know it.
Kim Croy
Douglass Township
