IE Point of View

Portraits for Pets Event for MI Animal Rescue League

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:39:00 +0000

www.facebook.com/independentexpressions
Call now to reserve your session for this great cause.

New Ethics Ordinance for Accountability in Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:42:00 +0000

I would like to propose a New Year’s resolution for our city, one that will provide increased transparency in the business dealings and decision making process.

Trust in our government is critically important. Over the past several years there were many instances where residents inquired about the possible conflict of interest or inappropriate influence on those who either worked for the city or served on the city council, commissions or boards.

Many times it was because they were simply baffled or dismayed at actions, such as renegotiating a decade old PUD that would suddenly allow for the destruction of an historic home or for a nearly $20 million water tower project that lacked a good business case.

It is critical that residents trust that decisions are being made for the right reasons. Therefore, I am proposing that the City Council create an ethics ordinance which would require the reporting of all gifts made to city employees and their immediate families, city council members, and even some boards and commissions such as the planning commission and zoning board within one week of receipt and list who made the gift.

Furthermore, this information should be placed on the city website for all to see.

This would include all sports tickets, invitations to Palace suites , expensive dinners, airline tickets, hotel stays, gifts and yes even parties. Some of us are all too aware of these type of gifts taking place in recent years and it is time everyone knows about gifts and who is making them.

We surely do not want to wake up one day to headlines like those that have plagued the city of Detroit and more recently, Wayne County.

Inappropriate influence can result in decision making that is contrary to the residents’ best interests, costing us a considerable amount of money and a push for a raise in taxes.

I am asking that our city council initiate such an ordinance in the near future. I would be happy to work with them in this endeavor.

I do believe the best approach in this case is to work with the City Council. That said, as proven in the case of the Water Towers, citizen action can make a difference. Be it the creation of a 527 PAC or similar Watchdog group, there are other ways to achieve the same objective.

Candidly, what possible reason could anyone have to oppose such an ordinance? The litmus test is business used to be that if you wouldn't mind everyone knowing about it then it is probably alright to accept, if not, best to pass.

Funding Police and Roads in Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:13:00 +0000

So, the city of Rochester Hills wants to know how we the taxpayers think they should fund Police and Roads in our city.
Currently, there are three millages that fund just less than half of the police budget, the remaining amount comes from the general fund.
The city is stating that our police services are at risk due to declining tax revenues.
In fact, they have reduced our police force by 3 deputies in the past year and were going to drop a detective position in 2012, but changed their mind after I asked them not to at a public meeting.
To me it is all a matter of priorities and responsibility.
As I predicted this past year, they are going to be asking for an increase in taxes to fund the police services.
I personally feel, that before they ask us, the taxpayer, for any more of our hard earned money, they ought to bring city employee pay and benefits in line with the private sector.
WHY should we be providing 14% PENSION contribution and automatic 6.5% PAY INCREASES to city employees?
Of course they want an increased dedicated police millage - then they have more money to spend on their pay and benefits.
Outrageous!
It is time to let our city know how you feel about this.
You can share your thoughts with the city at the following email
webberm+prtrc@rochesterhills.org

There is a meeting tonight concerning this topic at the city at 6:30pm

http://www.rochesterhills.org/our_government/uploads/FundingPoliceServices.pdf

Bryan and His Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:59:00 +0000

Here we go again.
Bryan Barnett has chosen his team to rubber stamp his agenda. He has had an easy time of it the last couple of years with voting on the city council. In non-unanimous votes, the candidates endorsed by Barnett voted in the majority 97% of the time.
The role of a city council is not to be a team," but to provide oversight. We have seen what has happened in corporate America when boards of directors were buddies with the executives they were supposed to be overseeing.
This majority voted for increases in the city employee wages this year. Now they will not only receive their 5.5% automatic yearly longevity increase, but they will receive another 1% along with their 14% pension contributions. Tell me, is anyone is the private sector getting that? I have talked with the residents as I have gone door to door and they are telling me they haven't seen a raise in many years.

At the same time, they are cutting essential city services. they have reduced our police department by 3 deputies and have reduced the road maintenance budget. Now they want more of our money, as many as 4 new millages could be introduced next year.
We need people on our city council who will stand up to Barnett and his Boys. Someone who will prioritize spending and represent the taxpayers of our city, not major campaign contributors, city vendors or developers.

Note: I have chosen to not be aligned with any other candidate.

LWV Rochester Hills City Council Candidate Forum

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 18:22:00 +0000

The League of Women Voters held a Candidate Forum for the Rochester Hills City Council Candidates as well and the Mayoral Candidates last night at City Hall.
The four candidates running for the 2 at large seats and the two candidates running for the 1 District 2 seat were up first.

Questions were asked of the candidates by:
Annette Kingsbury of Rochester Media and Oakland Press
Kristin Bull of Rochester.patch.com
Mary Howarth from the LWV

I thought the questions asked by the panel were very on target and showed a good understanding of the issues and questions on residents minds. I appreciate the League for holding and moderating The Forum.

The Forum can be viewed on-line be visiting the City of Rochester Hills Website at http://www.rochesterhills.org/home/announcements.asp
The Link to watch The League of Women Voters Forum is under the Videos heading located about half way down the page.

The Forum is also being replayed on the city cable channel. For WOW customers it is on channel 10.
To view the League Voter Guide visit www.LWVOA.org

At Large are:
Kathleen Fitzgerald
Dee Hilbert
Mark Tisdale
Mike Webber
For District 2 are:
Laurie Puscas
Adam Kochenderfer

Rochester Hills Primary Fast Approaching

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:06:00 +0000

So often major events seem so far away and suddenly they are upon on.
It has been that way with my son's wedding that is later this week and also with the primary election that is just days later.
I have been out meeting and talking with as many residents as I can for months now. It really has been the best part of this running for office process. Being a candidate is a new to me and I didn't really know what to expect. The kindness and support from the people I am meeting along the way has been remarkable. Most are engaged and want true citizen representation. People generally have a number of concerns regarding the ability of our city to provide essential services of police, fire and road maintenance without raising taxes in this economic downturn.
I have been reviewing the budget and there are definitely areas where there can be cuts and adjustments made. Those who have interest in obtaining higher office will most likely not want to rattle the tree or challenge the status quo. I think it is absolutely necessary if we are going to do what our residents are asking of us.
I want to thank all of you for your words of encouragement as I have walked the neighborhoods and for the cold glass or bottle of water on all those hot and steamy days.
With all of your help, I look forward to a strong showing/win on August 2nd and to meeting more residents as we move toward the general election in November. Maybe by then we will be sharing hot tea.
Laurie Puscas
Your Candidate for Fiscal Responsibility
Rochester Hills City Council, District 2

Rochester Hills Election Process Torn

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:57:00 +0000

I received a call this morning from a home owner to notify me that the Puscas campaign sign in her yard had been torn into three pieces and left on her lawn. She said she wanted me to know so I could bring another sign. She seemed very disturbed that someone would do this and didn't want those responsible to feel that they gotten away with something. When I went to replace the sign, I noticed that others in the city had been ripped up or broken as well.
I too am disappointed that this would happen. I believe in our constitution and the democratic process. I believe in our right to free speech. We should have the ability to express our message to the voters, then they can make educated choices as to whom they would like to support and elect.

Unfortunately, there are always some who want to win at all costs. In Rochester Hills, there appears to be a contingent that wants to maintain the status quo and control of the city council. The mayor would certainly benefit from this. He is endorsing his college buddy running against me. I can see why they would not want an independent thinker, a person who would be a true representative of the residents to be elected. If so it would cut into the voting bloc of the 5 of the 7 city councilmen who vote together in the majority over 95% of the time.
I think of our city council as a board of directors for a company. They are there to provide checks and balances. In business when the board gets too chummy with the executives they are there to give oversight to, often times, there are severe consequences to the stock holders. In a city, when the city council members are not performing proper oversight or engaging in open and honest deliberation, then the administration is going unchecked resulting in possible loss to the the taxpayers.
As a member of the Mayflower Society and candidate in this local election, I hope that this election will proceed as our forefathers who founded this country intended. I believe these are principles to believe in and stand up for.
Laurie Puscas
Rochester Hills City Council Candidate, District 2

Festival of the Hills, Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 21:34:00 +0000

It was a spectacular day and evening for the Festival of the Hills event at Borden Park in Rochester Hills. Sunny and warm with a slight breeze.
As scheduling allows, I have attended the event over the years with family and friends. We have always had a great time. It is a wonderful event for the whole community.
We all really enjoyed the fantastic display of fireworks.
This year was the first time I attended as a candidate. I enjoyed meeting people and the kids loved our red balloons.
My husband Dan was part of the balloon making team. He counted the remaining balloons and figures 406 of our balloons delighted the kids throughout the evening. It was great fun being with friends and supporters.
Quality of life in a community is important. I am so glad that businesses donated to make this event possible. I also commend all the city employees and the sheriff's department for a well organized, fun and safe family event.
I wish everyone a fun and safe Independence Day weekend.

District Boundary Changes Proposed After Candidates File for Election in Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:40:00 +0000

Placed at the very end of the Rochester Hills City Council Agenda, is discussion regarding changes in the district boundaries in the city. This will change areas to include and exclude to make adjustments for a change in population in the city based upon the census data that was made available to the city on May 6.
The Reapportionment Committee met weeks later on May 27 to discuss the boundary changes.
At this time, there is a proposal to change the district boundaries after the candidates have filed and before the upcoming primary on August 2. Note, the Committee is recommending to continue the process of studying the reapportionment at this time.
The changes will not remove any candidates from their districts. However, reapportionment at this time will cause a financial and time constrained hardship to candidates in the district 2 race, especially to those candidates who are not exceedingly well funded.
It would seem that this adds an advantage to one candidate who has expressed he has major backing and is planning to spend $30,000 or more in his effort to take this seat.
Money has been incurred for voter data bases and programs that will have to be repurchased with a time lag for availability creating hardship.
I think it is in the best interest of the residents to have a fairly run election process so that all candidates have the ability to reach them and express their message. It is only then, that they can make a well informed decision and vote accordingly.
The documents pertaining to this item can be located at the link below. It is the very last agenda item listed for the meeting.

http://www.rochesterhills.org/our_government/uploads/060611_Reg_Meeting_Agenda__Revised_.pdf

Memorial Day Parade Rochester/Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sat, 28 May 2011 14:46:00 +0000

A ceremony and parade to honor our veterans will take place on Monday morning. An opening ceremony will begin at 9:15 at Mount Avon Cemetery located off from Third Street in Downtown Rochester. A parade will follow at 10am.
The route will go along First Street to Castell then turn onto Harding until reaching Livernois. It will go south on Livernois and end at Veterans Memorial Park in Rochester Hills.
Children are encouraged to wear patriotic clothing to show their patriotism. A contest will be held at 8:30am at the cemetery.

It is important to remember and give tribute to those who so valiantly serve to protect our country and our freedoms.

Rochester Heritage Days in Rochester

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sat, 28 May 2011 14:12:00 +0000

Ammunition is prepared for a military re-enactment.

The Rochester Heritage Days Festival has been a regularly attended event in my family for as long as I can remember. The event offers all kinds of family fun with interesting demonstrations and displays.

It is held in the Rochester Municipal Park. The festival hours are Saturday, 10am to 6pm and Sunday, 10am to 5pm.

You can begin your day with a pancake breakfast from 8:30 to 11:30am in the Community House both on Saturday and Sunday.

Ongoing activities include pony and camel rides, pioneer playgrounds and a climbing wall. Civil War and World War II re-enactments and live music take place throughout the festival.

Educational military re-enactments take place.

On Saturday there is a Chili Cook Off from noon to 4pm and the Rochester Grangers Old fashioned baseball game at 1pm at Halbach Field located just north of the park.

On Sunday the Rubber Dick Race begins at 3pm. Ducks can be obtained to use in the race for for $3 or 2 for $5 . Proceeds benefit RARA's Day camp for kids with special needs.

Admission to the festival is free. There are fees for some activities and there are food vendors on site.
Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

Classic car show is held on Sunday.

Laurie Puscas endorses Mayor Barnett for Re-election in Rochester Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 19 May 2011 19:24:00 +0000

This Press Release was sent to various papers today.

Laurie Puscas, candidate for Rochester Hills City Council’s Second District, issued the following statement today endorsing Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett for the 2011 general election, and calling for a new direction for the Rochester Hills City Council:

“As the city’s mayor, Bryan Barnett has shown a strong commitment towards the betterment of Rochester Hills and has helped steer our city through an economic recession with poise and success.”

“I believe that he is the candidate best suited to continue these efforts beyond 2011, and I endorse him in his bid for re-election this November.”

“Despite this success, the City will face many difficult challenges in the years ahead. The residents will demand and deserve a better set of ‘checks and balances’ between the Mayor's Office and the City Council.”

“The current City Council has not represented the residents well, leading to a string of controversies including the recent cancellation of the $20 million Water Tower Project, following resident protests. The Council's recent voting history shows a consistent voting bloc dominated by a select and consistent set of Councilmen. “

“My candidacy represents a return to true citizen representation, listening to and advocating on behalf of the residents of Rochester Hills. My basic guiding principles of transparency, common sense solutions, and fiscal responsibility will provide the necessary voice that is currently lacking in our city government.”

“We need independent voices that represent all the voices in our city if we are going to continue to be viewed as a pre-eminent destination to live, work, learn and raise a family.”

Ballot Initiative in Rochester Hills to Protect Parkland

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sat, 14 May 2011 14:25:00 +0000

Ballot language is being drafted to protect parkland in Rochester Hills from being used for another purpose, such as water towers, without a vote/consent of the residents.
Now you would think that if you voted for a millage for the purpose of purchasing parkland that once it has been purchased it would have to remain parkland, but that is not the case.
When the city council proposed placing a water tower on parkland in a residential area this past year, the city attorney confirmed that the city can use the parkland for whatever purpose it desires, including an industrial looking facility.
Gary Uhl, President of Bridgewood Farms Homeowners Association will be collecting signatures to place this on the ballot in November.
As I walk the city introducing myself to voters and discussing issues, I will be glad to assist in this endeavor.

http://therochestercitizen.com/homeowners-associations-seek-referendum-to-protect-rochester-hills-parks-p521-1.htm

The Puscas Pledge

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 12 May 2011 14:30:00 +0000

I am running for Rochester Hills City Council, District 2
These are fundamental principles that I believe to be imperative.

The Puscas Pledge

1. Ensure Fiscal Responsibility
To Provide adequate essential services such as police, fire and infrastructure without draining the capital fund reserves.
As your next city council woman, I will ensure that our tax dollars are used wisely in the best interest of every resident. I will prioritize our essential services and be willing to make tough decisions so that we stay within our limited resources. I will demand that the city establishes a long-term strategic budget for our financial operation, and projects have a solid business model and cost/benefit analysis.

By instating and ensuring these sensible, common-sense practices, we can guarantee our citizens that their tax dollars are being spent wisely and efficiently.

2. Provide Transparency and Accountability
I will strive to inform and engage residents in the decision making of initiatives.

Our city council members need to remember who they work for: the citizens of Rochester Hills. There needs to be complete and total transparency regarding any city business.

As a city council woman, I will strive to inform and engage residents in the decisions and happenings of the city council, and undertake new approaches and technologies to give proper notice of meetings, votes, and major initiatives

3. Cultivate Citizen-Driven Representation
Respectfully listen and consider the opinion of residents and make decisions on their behalf.

The residents of Rochester Hills can be assured that their input is welcome and any decision I make will be done with the opinions and concerns of our residents in mind. Every person has a right to express their beliefs when city business is being considered, and they should be treated with respect and appreciation, not contempt and exasperation.

I pledge to stand up for citizen concerns and listen to the residents of Rochester Hills. I will listen and engage any person who takes the time to speak with me, and when I make decisions on behalf of the city, it will be the will of the residents that guides these decisions.

Visit our campaign website to read more, donate and volunteer. www.puscasforcouncil.com

"Like" our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laurie-Puscas-for-City-Council/123288217742658?sk=wall to receive updates on the campaign.

Laurie Puscas Running for Rochester Hills City Council

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sun, 01 May 2011 19:48:00 +0000

   With the support of friends, neighbors and community leaders, I will be running for Rochester Hills City Council this next election (August 2 if there is a primary and November 8). On Friday, I turned in the nominating petitions with signatures to be placed on the ballot.
   There are four seats up for election this year. Two are At-Large seats and two are District seats. As discussed with friends and supporters some time ago, I am running for the District 2 seat.
   The boundary on the west is Brewster Road extending all the way east to Washington Road and the historic area. To the north is Dutton Road and to the South is Avon Road. Here is a link to a map:
http://www.rochesterhills.org/general_use_maps/uploads/CouncilDistricts11x17.pdf
   The weather could have been a little nicer, but overall I really enjoyed walking in the neighborhoods and talking to residents as I gathered the signatures and talked about issues in our city.
   I look forward to meeting as many residents in District 2 as possible. I am interested in hearing their thoughts and discussing topics and concerns regarding our city. This has been a great place to live, work, volunteer and raise our sons. We are fortunate to have such wonderful neighbors and to have made such good friends over the years.
   As a city councilperson I look forward to maintaining all that is good about our community and helping the city manage effectively through these difficult economic times.
   It is important to all the residents to protect our property values and live in a city that is clean, safe and vibrant.

   To learn more about our city, issues and even about me visit:
campaign website at www.puscasforcouncil.com  for a brief bio and Why I am Running.
Follow Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/LauriePuscas for updates.

Visit and "like" Laurie Puscas for City Council on Facebook for updates on issues in our city and for bio info at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laurie-Puscas-for-City-Council/123288217742658?sk=wall

Next Post: The Puscas Pledge

Replacement of Avon Bridge moved up from 2013 to 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sun, 01 May 2011 15:30:00 +0000

   Good News for Rochester Hills residents. The Road Commission for Oakland County was officially notified by the Michigan Department of Transportation that the Bridge on Avon just east of Livernois will now be replaced in 2012.
   "Both the Avon bridge and the adjacent Livernois Road bridge over the Clinton River are rapidly deteriorating. As a result, RCOC was forced to reduce both bridges from five lanes to two lanes in February, stated the RCOC.
   While funding has not yet been secured to cover the cost of replacing the Livernois bridge, it is hoped that bridge will be replaced in 2013.
   The Avon bridge last year was approved for funding in 2013 through the Local Bridge Program, which involves a combination of state and federal funds. Local Bridge Program projects are selected by the Metro Region Bridge Council and the MDOT Local Bridge Advisory Board. It was these two bodies that approved moving the Avon bridge funding from 2013 to 2012.
   The Local Bridge Program will pay 95 percent of the construction cost for the Avon Bridge, which is estimated to be approximately $2.55 million. RCOC will pay for the remaining 5 percent (approximately $128,000).
   RCOC and the City of Rochester Hills previously agreed to split the $545,000 cost to design the replacement bridges for both the Avon and Livernois bridges."
   The Avon and Livernois intersection is a critical junction in the city for both north/south and East/west traffic. Traffic backups are now a regular occurrence. With the summer road work scheduled for Walton Boulevard between Adams and Great Oaks Boulevard, navigating destinations in Rochester Hills has become challenging.

OPC Wage Increases and New Pensions Update

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:57:00 +0000

   I attended the last OPC board meeting and found it rather interesting.
To begin, I will mention that it would be helpful if they would provide the same information to the public attending the meetings as the board members have.
   For example, the agenda item concerning wage increases would be more relevant if we knew what the budget is currently for wages and what impact a wage increase would have on the budget. For instance, if the board decides to raise wages by 3% or 6% what effect will that have? Will more employees have to be let go? Will activities have to be cut? Will needed building repairs go unattended?
   Also, Board Chairman John Dalton did not want to discuss wages and new pensions collectively. Rochester Hills Councilman Ravi Yalamanchi asked that they be considered together and was voted down. I think they should not only be discussed comprehensively, but in direct correlation with the annual budget planning process and not in a vacuum .
   Dalton's main concern seemed to be for the employees and making sure they had wage increases and a new pension plan. I find it necessary to remind him that he is serving on the board to represent the residents and tax payers of Rochester Hills and not as an OPC union steward or employee advocate.
   I suspect the sudden push for a new pension plan has to do with the imminent retirement of the executive director. From what I have heard, she has served the community and OPC well over the years. However, to suggest a new 15% taxpayer paid pension is just wrong during these economic times. May I suggest friends of the director become creative in funding a nest egg for her retirement and not at tax payers expense.
   Rochester Hills Councilman Michael Webber, suggested looking at what other entities are doing. "I don't think you are reading about a lot of increases," he said. He noted that State Senator Papageorge is asking that all public employees take a 5% reduction and freeze for three years.
   A motion was made for a 3% increase in wages. It failed with 4 yes votes and 3 no votes. It takes a majority of the board (5votes) to pass a motion. Stuart Bikson was absent, due to the school break and his planned vacation prior to being appointed to the board.
   Lucy Strand, Ravi Yalamanchi and Michael Webber voted against the increase. I would think Bikson would also have been a no vote.

OPC adds Governing Board info and Agenda to Website

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:16:00 +0000

I visited the Older Persons' Commission (OPC) website today and was very pleased to see they have made some nice additions.
http://www.opcseniorcenter.org/homepage.html
If you click on the About Us button along the top and then on Governing Board it takes you to a page with the names and large colorful photos of the governing board members. It is important for the public to know who represents them and who to contact.
Also new to the site is a button to view the upcoming meeting agenda and another button to view the minutes from previous meetings with the exception of the most recent meeting. These were not available on the website before.
These additions clearly are an effort to improve communication and transparency in the governing of the OPC. This is important as the OPC is operated in large part from tax money from the three communities of Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township as well as money from fundraising efforts.

Rochester Hills Park Survey Results

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 01:59:00 +0000

The Rochester Hills Parks Department offered an online survey and held a couple public meetings to gather input from residents regarding the use, availability, upkeep, funding and desires.
The results of the survey and public input are published in the 2011-2015 Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
The complete document can be found on the Rochester Hills website after much navigating or just click on the link below:
http://roch.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=851375&GUID=44F8A7E5-5E4F-46F6-B1FC-7EF4B5DED223

The plan is listed very late (second to last) in the agenda for the Monday city council meeting on March 21, beginning at 7pm.
To help you save a little time, the annual budget summaries are listed on page 14. There is a nice map of the city and the various parkland on page 16 followed by satellite views on subsequent pages.
On page 64 is a list of recreational activities that residents would like to participate in, but feel are unavailable.
Page 65 holds the nuts and bolts of the survey. It lists the rankings of what people consider important regarding parks.
To sum it up, Preserving open space was of the highest priority at 79%. Walkable Sidewalks and Pathways came in second at 71% and number three was Making neighborhoods attractive at 66%. Offering Recreational Facilities for Adults came in last.
Page 67 and 686 addresses where people want the money spent.
Looks like making the current park space we have usable with walk paths is of very high priority for spending. Building more active recreational facilities was not. Preserving open space and increasing biking and walking trails were clearly the areas where people wanted more money spent.
Based on these results, it looks like Nowicki Park located on Adams Road just south of Tienken, should be developed as a passive recreational park with biking and walking trails. There was also mention of a need for a place to ice skate. A large shallow pond on the property would easily satisfy that desire and would be attractive in the summer months.
As for active recreation, I think it is important to make use of the abundant school sports facilities that we have in the city. When the School district asked for community support to build the third high school and renovate the existing schools, the district touted that these are the residents' schools and they are there for them to use. These shouldn't be words used just to pass a millage, but to live by.

Election Fraud and Accountability

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 19:46:00 +0000

   I find it disappointing that people would try to disrupt one of America's finest attributes - the right to vote without coercion and fraud is fundamental to our liberty and way of life.
  What happened to expressing your views, establishing your platform and then people voting based a candidates stance? It seems more and more campaigns are about deception and last minute smear tactics.
  I'm glad that the Oakland County Prosecutor, Jessica Cooper has worked with the Sheriff's Office and that this highly publicized alleged attempt to deceive is moving forward with formal charges.

http://www.theoaklandpress.com/articles/2011/03/17/news/doc4d810f2e9d092675064585.txt?viewmode=2

   The problem is it seems deceptive practices are becoming standard operating procedure. Groups and Political Action Committees can commit violations and by the time a complaint is lodged and investigated it could be years before a judgement is made. An election can be influenced and a term completed before the process is complete.
   There is little to deter people from being deceitful.
   For instance, a complaint was lodged against "Taxpayers for Accountability." This group evidently claims they do not have to report who made donations to the organization. Yet, they are responsible for sending out 8.5" by 11" full color heavy stock flyers just before a Rochester Hills City Council 2009 election.

   Campaign Finance Reporting needs drastic change. The process for lodging a complaint needs to be easier, the time line for investigating a complaint needs to be seriously cut and the penalties need to be severe for fraud, deception and purposeful lack of reporting.
   Either everyone should have to play by the rules or throw out the rule book!
   Secretary of State Ruth Johnson has been a champion of fair campaign tactics. I ask that she address and overhaul the campaign finance reporting and oversight process in Michigan and the sooner the better.

Strike Out Autism Fundraiser

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 21:56:00 +0000

Classic Lanes in Rochester Hills will be holding a fun family fundraiser on Sunday, April 3 from noon to 3pm with proceeds to benefit "Inspiring Hearts for Autism."

The bowling is for all ages and abilities and is handicap friendly.
They are offering three hours of bowling, shoes, two pieces of pizza and soda pop all for a $20 ticket. There will also be raffle prizes and gift certificates given away to ticket holders.

Fun non-bowling activities and vendor shopping will be offered as well.

Classic Lanes is located at 2145 Avon Industrial Drive, just north of M-59 off from Crooks Road.

For tickets or for more information call:
Peggy Kralik 248 601-0200
Chris Murray 248 227-3994
Suzan Vitale 248 467-9007

Return from Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 21:45:00 +0000

Well, I have returned from a week and half vacation. One that I needed more than I realized. It was great to take a break and enjoy some nice weather.
I am back to work and back to IE Point of View in an effort to help keep people informed as to the happenings and relevant information in the greater Rochester area.
I hope you will check back regularly. I welcome input and tips. Look froward to hearing from you soon.
Laurie

Opinion Letter from Rochester Hills Attorney concerning the OPC

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 21:49:00 +0000

   The Rochester Hills attorney, John Staran, has submitted an official opinion concerning the votes needed for official action to be taken by the members of the Older Persons' Commission governing board.
   His opinion is that 5 votes are needed for any official action according to the inter-local agreement between the cities of Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township. They may not take action by a mere majority vote of a quorum of members present at a meeting.
   This opinion is in direct agreement with the opinion made by the attorney from the city of Rochester, but interestingly not in agreement with that of the OPC attorney who happened to be supported by the OPC Executive Director in her bid for Rochester Hills city council. One might wonder if a conflict of interest may exist there.
   What this means is, the vote to establish a lavish new pension contribution plan for the executive director and other full time employees at the OPC is most likely invalid as are other past votes regarding major issues at the OPC.
   Hopefully, for the best interests of our seniors using the facility and for all tax paying residents, the business of the OPC Commission will be run in an appropriate manner. I for one would like to see notices and agendas of meetings posted on the OPC website. It would also be helpful to have contact information of the commission members posted on the OPC website.

Avon and Livernois Road Lane Closures Expected Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:46:00 +0000

   According to The Detroit Free Press, we can expect a reduction in lanes at the Avon/Livernois intersection in Rochester beginning on Friday. If you know this area at all, you realize what a traffic jam this is going to be. It is congested on a regular basis already.
   The Road Commission for Oakland County has already reduced the weight load limits and posted them on signs. The RCOC does not plan to replace the Avon Rd. bridge until 2013 when the funding has been approved and the Livernois Bridge until possibly 2014.
   OK - I admit I am not an engineer, but the city has been aware of the bridge deterioration for about a year. It would seem that a reasonable person might begin looking into preliminary plans for engineering so when and if funding became available they would be ready to move forward. Hmm, the term "Shovel Ready" comes to mind.
   Furthermore, it would seem that the city could use money from its reserves ( they had plenty for water reservoirs) and pay for the project themselves and be reimbursed later. City Engineer Paul Davis said at a recent city council meeting that some projects have been done this way, but this one could not. When asked why not, he really didn't have an answer.
   It is absolutely ridiculous to think that this major artery in the city will be nearly shut down for years.
   It is the responsibility of our local government to provide the essential services to our residents such as police, fire and infrastructure.
   It would appear that our current leadership is failing when it comes to infrastructure and has reduced the number of police. As you are aware, the roads in the city are crumbling. It is time for an open and honest discussion on the city budget and for realistic long term plan.

http://www.freep.com/article/20110216/NEWS03/110216032/Livernois-Avon-roadwork-hamper-traffic?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|FRONTPAGE

Rochester Elevator Receives National Recognition

noreply@blogger.com (Laurie Puscas, Independent Expressions) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:00:00 +0000

Painting the Rochester Elevator. Photo by Laurie Puscas

I always enjoy hearing about a new historic designation in our area. According to The Rochester Citizen, The Rochester Elevator was recently recognized as a national historic landmark and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It truly is a symbol of history in the city of Rochester.

I hope that plans to incorporate the elevator into a public place with a park built just to the south will move forward. I know - its just a matter of money.

It is so important to retain as much of the areas historical structures as possible. It is what gives a community it character and serves as a reminder of what has come before us.

I wish those who serve for the city of Rochester Hills would be of this mind set as well. Unfortunately, many seem to believe development is of high priority, with little regard to preserving historical structures. Our RH city council recently revised a Planned Unit Development on Rochester Road that would scrap the plans to preserve a historic home and now allow for its demolition against the Historical Committee's recommendation. Then they replaced those on the committee who spoke for the preservation. Looks like if you don't think and vote their way - you're out.

Perhaps it is time for voters to tell them in November - you're out!

Rochester Elevator Receives National Recognition