Dear editor,
This letter is in response to the editorial implying that Supervisor Matt Gibb is squandering money.
Matt Gibb is the first Orion Township Supervisor in decades to attempt to communicate with citizens.? His State of the Township address was open to everyone and was an effort to give us some insight into a workable plan to move the township forward during this time of economic distress.? ?
The ideas being developed by Supervisor Gibb and the township board are both exciting and hopeful, giving the impression that Orion can survive in the future as a thriving, vibrant community.? The refreshments provided at this meeting were hardly extravagant.
Gathering together the [four] local boards to discuss ways to consolidate the use of taxpayer dollars was a very positive step toward all [four] becoming more efficient and effective.?
Providing a meal for this event was a good way increase communication and harmony.
Perhaps offering gym memberships to the township staff sounds frivolous in these difficult economic times.?
However, as a nurse I recognize that sedentary office work leads to all sorts of health problems.?
The present township staff is over-worked because of cuts and layoffs.? They must feel overwhelmed and under appreciated.?
Offering a beneficial exercise program at a minimum cost could boost morale, increase productivity and bring about positive changes in the health of these individuals.
Accomplishment comes about through effective communication, action and appreciation of those workers striving to bring about change.?
Supervisor Gibb is trying to move this township forward in extremely difficult economic times.?
Knowing that he is a fiscal conservative, I believe that his plan to encourage exercise for the township staff will have beneficial effects in the long run, particularly in the arena of health care insurance.?
As for providing meals for very important collaborative efforts by key township boards, if success is the outcome then maybe we should encourage more of them.
-Mary Ann Ryan, RN BSN