Picture Hillsdale County Survey Report

Transcription

Picture Hillsdale County
Prepared By:
THE HILLSDALE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
With assistance from:
The Land Policy Institute at Michigan State University
Michigan State University Extension, Hillsdale County
August 2009
Acknowledgements
This report was prepared for the residents of Hillsdale County at the request of the Hillsdale County
Planning Commission by the following:
Michigan State University Extension
Jasneet Sharma, Land Policy Educator
Land Policy Institute at Michigan State University
Charles McKeown, Manager of Land Use Informatics
Ben Canlin, Informatics Analyst
Hillsdale County Planning Commission Members
Ned Bever, Chairperson
Hillsdale County Farm Bureau
Debra Sikorski, Vice Chairperson
Assessor, City of Hillsdale
Brad Densmore
Hillsdale County Commissioner
Ken Lautzenheiser
Hillsdale County Commissioner
Charlene Page
Director, Economic Development Partnership
Fred Fowler
Supervisor, Adams Township
Julie Kanouse
Supervisor, Amboy Township
Sarah Fronczak
Hillsdale Conservation District
Table of Contents
Executive Summary …………………………………………………………….……….1
Introduction …………………………………………………………………….………. 2
Survey Methodology ……………………………………………………..…………….. 3
Survey Results ……………………………………..………………………………….... 4
Appendix A ……………………………………………………………………...…….. 27
Appendix B ………………………………………………………………………….… 40
Appendix C ……………………………………………………………………………. 44
Appendix D …………………………………………………………………………..... 50
Appendix E ……………………………………………………………………………. 52
Executive Summary
The ‘Picture Hillsdale County’ Project is a strategic planning and community participation process that
the Hillsdale County Planning Commission utilized in the update of the Hillsdale County Land Use
Plan. The Picture Hillsdale County Online survey is the first phase of an extensive community
engagement process. The main objective of this survey was to develop and deploy a strategic
community development survey online that would allow the residents of Hillsdale to voice their vision
for the county. In this report we present the results of the online survey for responses provided by
residents from March 26, 2008 to November 1, 2008. The survey represents the concerns and opinions
of 463 residents (1% of the total population) who took the time to complete the online survey.
A majority of respondents prefer a rural/farm area as a place of residence and most stated that the rural
character of Hillsdale County is important and worthwhile to preserve. Respondents suggested careful
use of planning strategies, discouraging development in agricultural areas, concentrating future
development to areas that are already built out and natural area preservation (new development blending
in with the landscape to preserve farms and open space) and as a way of preserving the rural character.
Availability of good schools, high speed Internet access, parks and natural areas, slower pace of rural
life and recycling/garbage collection were the five most important aspects that residents seek in
Hillsdale County.
Residents would like to see the community add more small-scale retail, light industry, health care
facilities and expand countywide public services. They would also like to see the county pursue some
asset-based economic development strategies by promoting tourism and outdoor recreational
opportunities and expanding the county’s large agricultural base to promote agri-business and an
alternative energy industry. New industrial development should be placed in existing industrial parks
close to cities and villages in order to share services. New businesses and commercial development
should utilize an alternative pattern of development like Brownfield and infill development where
businesses are grouped together with shared parking allowing people to walk to businesses.
Even though most of Hillsdale County is on well and septic systems, 80% of the respondents do not
perceive any problems with malfunctioning septic systems in their communities. This could also be
because nearly 65% of the respondents were from cities and villages that have centralized water and
sewer lines in place. Unlike the earlier question where respondents indicated they would not be willing
to pay an additional assessment or tax for water or sewer lines, 60% of the respondents stated that they
would be willing to pay an additional assessment for recreational facilities like parks, nature preserves
and greenways.
With regards to present land-use regulations, respondents agree that division of farmland into smaller
residential tracts will be detrimental to the county’s agricultural base and quality of life and unregulated
growth will cost the taxpayers more in Hillsdale County for public services. They voiced support for
organized and balanced growth, for the implementation of development controls to improve the quality
of life, for the enforcement of laws to regulate junkyards and other nuisances in Hillsdale County and for
making use of programs like community and housing revitalization programs and purchase of
development rights programs to preserve farmland and improve communities in Hillsdale County.
1
Introduction
In February 2008, the Hillsdale County Planning Commission engaged the expertise and technical
support of the Land Policy Institute at Michigan State University and Michigan State University
Extension Hillsdale County in the revision of its county master plan. The Strategic Planning and
Community Participation process titled ‘PICTURE HILLSDALE COUNTY’ would benefit Hillsdale
County by:
-
Coordinating community input into the planning process
Assessing the desires of the community
Bringing Michigan State University campus based research to bear on community issues.
Providing a means to engage the citizens in the planning process.
Helping to articulate an asset based growth strategy for Hillsdale County.
The process will build explicit impact assessments of land use change scenarios and incorporate traffic
modeling, land development, municipal spending and school impacts for various economic,
demographic and development scenarios. The program will develop key knowledge for decision makers
relating to critical infrastructure, talent retention, building a sense of place and planning for the
prosperity of Hillsdale County. The general objectives of this project are to:
-
Develop and deploy a strategic community development survey online to allow the residents of
Hillsdale to voice their vision for the county.
Produce a Hillsdale County Asset atlas to help decision-makers and residents visualize and
understand the counties critical assets.
Hold scenario-planning workshops for professionals and the community to help build a community
vision of the county for the coming three decades.
Summarize results in reports to the Hillsdale County Planning Commission, and the Hillsdale
County Board of Commissioners.
The first phase of the Picture Hillsdale County project, which involved deployment of an online strategic
community development survey, has been completed. This report is a summary of the main findings of
the online survey.
2
Survey Methodology
The ‘Picture Hillsdale County’ online survey was launched March 26, 2008 via the online webhosting
site Survey Monkey. The following techniques and strategies were used to publicize the survey among
Hillsdale county residents:
-
Letter and postcard-sized flyers created and distributed urging residents to fill out the online survey.
Article informing County residents about upcoming opportunity to provide input about Hillsdale
County needs and assets printed in Hillsdale Daily, February 29, 2008.
Article regarding the online survey published in the local newspaper Hillsdale Daily, April 17, 2008.
Postings about the online survey on the Hillsdale Daily News online forum
1600 flyers were mailed with the 2008 Hillsdale County summer taxes.
All possible attempts were made to make the online survey accessible and available to individuals
that either did not have access to a computer or internet or were not proficient in the use of computer
technology.
! The flyers and postcards created contained information on locations across Hillsdale County
where residents could obtain free access to a computer and internet in order to fill out the
online survey.
! Paper copies of the Picture Hillsdale County online survey were made available at the 2008
Hillsdale County Fair.
The online survey was closed November 1, 2008. The survey represents the concerns and opinions of
463 residents who took the time to complete the online survey. This represents 1% of the 2008
population estimate for Hillsdale County (46,212 from U.S. Census Bureau).
Place of residence of respondents: 44.47% of the respondents were from the City of Hillsdale, 12.39%
from the Village of Jonesville, 7.3% from the City of Reading, 6% from Osseo, 5.3% from Camden and
4% from Jerome.
Employment Status of respondents: 55.8% of the respondents are employed full-time, 9% are
employed part time, 14.4% are retired, 15.3% are students, 3.4% are homemakers and unemployed,
11.7% are self-employed and 1.6% are disabled.
Age of respondents: There is a good mix of different age groups that responded to this survey. The
highest numbers of respondents are between the 41 to 59 age group closely followed by the 60+ and 21
to 40 age group.
Family income of respondents: More then 77% of the respondents have an annual family income
greater than the median income of Hillsdale County, which was $40,396 as per the 2000 Census.
Education level of respondents: 22.6% of the respondents have a postgraduate degree and 21.9% have
completed a four-year college degree program.
Extent of Internet usage among residents:
98.2% of the respondents use the Internet.
3
Survey Results
The results for this survey were tabulated December 2008. It must be mentioned that the economic
climate in the country and in Michigan between December 2008 and the release of this report in June
2009 had worsened. The unemployment rate for Michigan in April 2009 was 12.7% and Hillsdale
County in March 2009 was 18.1% (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
In this section, we present the results of the survey. The questions are presented in order here as they
were presented in the online survey. Following each question is a graphic showing the aggregate
responses.
Question 1:
Ninety percent (90%) of the respondents stated that the rural character of Hillsdale
County is worthwhile and important to preserve.
Question 2:
Two hundred and seventy two people responded with suggestions to preserve the rural
character of Hillsdale County. A large number of people suggested careful use of
planning strategies, discouraging development in agricultural areas, concentrating future
development to areas that are already built out and natural area preservation as a way of
preserving the rural character. On the other end of the spectrum some respondents
suggested leaving things as is and lowering taxes.
See Appendix A for complete listing of suggestions provided by respondents to preserve the rural
character of Hillsdale County
4
Question 3:
Hillsdale County residents clearly prefer to live in a rural area or a farm.
Question 4:
Availability of good schools and high-speed Internet access were the most important
aspects that residents seek in Hillsdale County. Other features and services in order of
preference (highest to lowest) were: parks and natural areas, slower pace of rural life,
recycling/garbage collection, recreational facilities, retail shopping choices, living close
to work, cultural amenities, extended family in country, access to water/sewer and mixed
use areas.
5
Question 5:
Residents were fairly evenly split on whether the local communities should add more
residential development.
Question 6:
Of the respondents that indicated an acceptance for additional residential development,
the overwhelming majority is in favor of single-family residential development. It also
appears that there is a desire to see more condominiums and affordable housing in
Hillsdale County.
6
Question 7:
The residents would like to see the community add more small-scale retail, light industry,
health-care facilities and expand countywide public services. They would also like to see
the county pursue some asset-based economic development strategies by promoting
additional outdoor recreational opportunities and expanding the county’s large
agricultural base to promote agri-business and an alternative energy industry.
7
Question 8:
The respondents would like to see commercial/industrial development like small-scale
retail and light industrial development concentrated and clustered.
Question 9:
In response to where and how such commercial/industrial development should be
concentrated, over seventy-five people stated that new industrial development should be
placed in existing industrial parks. Other suggestions included locating industrial
development close to cities and villages in order to share services, Brownfield
redevelopment, using transportation arteries and corridors for concentrated commercial
development and revitalizing downtown areas.
See Appendix B for a complete listing of illustrative comments on where and how the development of
industrial and commercial development might be accomplished in Hillsdale County.
8
Question 10: Even though most of Hillsdale County is on well and septic systems, respondents have
not perceived any problems with malfunctioning septic systems in their communities.
Questions 11: Even though an overwhelming majority of respondents do not perceive a problem with
malfunctioning septic systems, 44% believe that their community would benefit from
storm and sanitary sewer and water lines.
Question 12: Only 30% of the respondents are willing to pay an additional assessment or tax to bring
water or sewer lines to their communities.
9
Question 13: Only 55% of the respondents feel that recreational facilities in their communities and
local areas are adequate.
Question 14: Earlier sentiments of expanding the outdoor recreational industry by development of
biking and hiking trails, greenways and nature preserves are echoed once again by the
respondents.
10
Question 15: Unlike the earlier question where respondents indicated they would not be willing to pay
an additional assessment or tax for water or sewer lines, 60% of the respondents stated
that they would be willing to pay an additional assessment for recreational facilities.
Question 16: Three hundred and ten respondents gave their definition of prosperity for Hillsdale
County. Responses ranged from good paying jobs for everyone, low unemployment,
local jobs, less welfare recipients, good schools, health care, maintained infrastructure
and balance of growth and rural lifestyle.
See Appendix C for a complete listing of illustrative comments on respondent’s definition of prosperity
for Hillsdale County.
11
Question 17: 47% of the respondents agree that the scenic beauty of the county has declined in the last
20 years as a result of unmanaged growth, 49% feel the highway system in Hillsdale
County is adequate for the current needs of the county, 57% agree or strongly agree that
division of farmland into smaller residential tracts will be detrimental to the county’s
agricultural base and quality of life, 64% support implementation of development
controls to improve the quality of life in Hillsdale County and there is strong support
(nearly 80%) for the enforcement of laws to regulate junkyards and other nuisances in
Hillsdale County.
12
Question 18: 65% of the respondents either strongly agree or agree that unregulated growth will cost
the taxpayers more in Hillsdale County for public services provided, 34% respondents are
unsure of the changes and 40% do not agree with the changes that have taken place in
Hillsdale County in the last 5 years, 74% of respondents support organized and balanced
growth and 63% agree that community and housing revitalization programs are an
effective way of improving communities; Nearly 72% strongly agree or agree that
Tourism is a valuable asset of the County and should be promoted to boost the economy;
62% have indicated an agreement with making government programs like purchase of
development rights programs available to farmers who want to permanently preserve
their farms;
13
Question 19: An overwhelming majority (75.3%) of respondents favor clustered and concentrated
residential development that preserves the landscape and agricultural base.
14
Question 20: 72% of respondents favor a similar clustered scenario for high-density residential
development.
15
Question 21: 85% of the respondents favor a walkable highway commercial development pattern with
business grouped together as opposed to the current pattern of linear commercial strip
development.
16
Question 22: Four hundred and fifty two respondents gave their zip code of residence. 44.47% of the
respondents were from the City of Hillsdale, 12.39% from the Village of Jonesville, 7.3%
from the City of Reading, 6% from Osseo, 5.3% from Camden and 4% from Jerome.
Zip Code
23141
40242
43521
46703
67661
48180
49028
49036
49082
49220
49227
49232
49233
49236
49241
49242
49247
49249
49250
49252
49255
49258
49262
49266
49271
49274
49281
49282
49288
# of responses
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
6
24
11
1
1
201
11
18
56
13
3
1
6
28
17
33
1
3
8
Total
452
Place of residence
Quinton, VA
Louisville, KY
Fayette, OH
Angola, IN
Phillipsburg, KS
Taylor, MI
Bronson, MI
Coldwater, MI
Quincy, MI
Addison, MI
Allen, MI
Camden, MI
Cement City, MI
Clinton, MI
Hanover, MI
Hillsdale, MI
Hudson, MI
Jerome, MI
Jonesville, MI
Litchfield, MI
Montgomery, MI
Mosherville, MI
North Adams, MI
Osseo, MI
Pittsford, MI
Reading, MI
Somerset, MI
Somerset Center, MI
Waldron, MI
% Total respondents
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
0.22%
1.33%
5.31%
2.43%
0.22%
0.22%
44.47%
2.43%
3.98%
12.39%
2.88%
0.66%
0.22%
1.33%
6.19%
3.76%
7.30%
0.22%
0.66%
1.77%
100.00%
17
Question 23: The average number of years people have lived in Hillsdale County is 25.3 years. The
responses for number of years ranged from <1 year to all my life that was over 75 years
for one of the respondents.
Question 24: The tables below summarize the responses of three hundred and forty one individuals that
provided information on the township, city or village they lived in before moving to
Hillsdale County.
MICHIGAN
Branch County
Quincy Village
Coldwater (4)
Bethel Twp
Branch County (2)
Lenawee County
Adrian
Hudson (2)
Deerfield
Onsted
Near Tecumseh
Clayton
Raisin Township
Addison Area
Sand Creek
Lenawee Co. (4)
Calhoun County
Marshall (3)
Albion
Battle Creek
Calhoun Co. (2)
Wayne County
Brownstown Twp
Dearborn (2)
Canton Township
Detroit (7)
Plymouth
Taylor (4)
Belleville
Trenton (4)
Livonia (3)
Highland Park
Westland
Wayne Co. (4)
Jackson County
Jackson (14)
Spring Arbor
Concord Township
Village of Hanover
Liberty Twp
Rives Township
Washtenaw County
Ann Arbor (4)
Manchester
Lodi Township
Bridgewater
Ingham County
Lansing (5)
Mason
Oakland County
Northville
Ferndale (3)
Southfield
Pleasant Ridge
Bloomfield Hills
Farmington
Waterford
Other Places
Flint
Fenton
Mt. Pleasant
Eaton Rapids
Coopersville
Columbiaville
South Boardman
Escanaba
Frankfort
Evart
Grand Ledge
Cadillac
Monroe
Perry
Sturgis
Bay City
Sparta
Big Rapids
Spring Lake (2)
St Johns
Haslett
Kalamazoo
Traverse City
Macomb County
Livingston County (2)
18
OUT OF STATE
Ohio
Wauseon
Defiance (2)
Fremont
Springfield
Fulton Co
Toledo (12)
Sylvania (3)
Findlay
Akron (2)
Cleveland
Wood County
Williams County
Williams County
Fulton County
Ohio
Illionis
Chicago (5)
Aurora
Indiana
Indiana (5)
Ft. Wayne
South Bend
Greene County
Other States
Ft. Hood, Texas
Houston, Texas
Clanton, Alabama
New Hampshire
Kentucky
Coronado, California
Florida (3)
Lake Placid, Florida
California
Tucson, Arizona (3)
Scottsdale, Arizona
Arvada, Colorado
Denver, Colorado (2)
Alaska
Maine
Wisconsin
Wales, Maine
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Poplar Bluff, Missouri
Kansas
Out of State (4)
Question 25: As of November 2008, only 13.3% of respondents plan to move from the county in the
next 2 years. This number might be much higher at the time of the release of this report because of the
high unemployment rate in Hillsdale County and the State of Michigan.
19
Question 26: Some of the reasons indicated why people plan to move from Hillsdale County is to seek
jobs and employment, to seek areas that have a more diverse environment with fun
activities, to attend college elsewhere, move closer to immediate family or move closer to
work place.
See Appendix D for a complete listing of illustrative comments on why respondents plan to move from
Hillsdale County in the next two (2) years.
Question 27: 55.8% of the respondents are employed full-time, 9% are employed part-time, 14.4% are
retired, 15.3% are students, 3.4% are homemakers and unemployed, 11.7% are selfemployed and 1.6% are disabled.
20
Question 28: 84% of the respondents are employed within Hillsdale County followed by 6.5% in
Jackson County and 5.2% in Ohio.
Question 29: The distance people traveled to work varied from less than one mile to 80 miles and even
went as high as 200 miles. The average distance travelled to work by residents of
Hillsdale County is 15.5 miles.
21
Question 30: 88% of the respondents used an automobile to get to work, 4.4% walked to work, 3.3%
walked or drove to work, 0.6% used a horse or buggy, 0.6% flew in via a plane and
finally 2.63% students got to school in a school bus.
Question 31: There is a good mix of different age groups that responded to this survey – The highest
numbers of respondents are between the 41 to 59 age group closely followed the 60+ and
21 to 40 age group.
22
Question 32: More then 77% of the respondents have an annual family income greater than the median
income of Hillsdale County which was $40,396 as per the 2000 Census.
Question 33: 22.6% of the respondents have a postgraduate degree and 21.9% have completed a 4 year
college degree program.
23
Question 34: 81% of the respondent’s own property in Hillsdale County.
Question 35: 98.2% of the respondents use the Internet.
24
Question 36: About 1/4th of the respondents in Hillsdale County still use dial up while nearly 73% use
broadband service.
Question 37: Additional comments
See Appendix E for a complete listing of additional illustrative comments made by the survey
respondents.
25
Appendix A
Question 2 Illustrative Comments:
Please suggest how would you propose preserving the rural character of Hillsdale County?
-
Townships having the same feeling about preservation, zoning
-
Enforce current laws related to trash and abandoned junk to keep the countryside looking pleasing instead of like junk
third world country
-
Develop areas for commercial and industrial, limit the use of rural property for housing and real-estate development
maintain the current agricultural lands for agricultural use limit the use of woodlands and wetlands for development
-
Houses built close together.
-
Planning and Zoning (5)
-
No mobile homes -only in mobile home parks. Land not sold in smaller than 4 acre
-
Keeping our lakes clean by not allowing people to put chemicals on their lawns
-
I would like to see the preservation of roadways with an overhang of trees. Because I live on a back road, it is better to
let the shrubs and trees grown to keep the snow from blowing over the road. There is quite a difference. Also, just the
look of the landscape is much better when the county doesn't spray herbicides and brush cut along the side of the road.
-
When they improve roads like Reading road do not tear down all the dam trees. Them trees were at least 50 years old. It
used to have a nice country road look.
-
Form a theme for rural Hillsdale, and make it worth while to the land owners to exploit this rehabilitation of welcome to
Hillsdale countryside: bike trails, statues, historical stop in sites, add small pieces of Hillsdale nostalgia to gas stations
party stores and other business around and about the countryside.
-
By bringing the outside world into Hillsdale. For far too long, this town has been run off of old world, old time rhetoric.
Don't get me wrong, I love the mom and pop type of stuff, and there is a place for it here, and it should always be. But if
this town EVER wants to experience growth, it needs to bring in businesses like, Olive Garden, Applebee’s, some sort of
recreation for all ages, a Skate Park, some bars, (with Designated Driver accommodations), Businesses that will bring
jobs and with it a paycheck. I’m sorry, but the truth is that a lot of the people that want to "Preserve", are not going to be
here when this place turns into a Ghost town. Don't waste money of fixing up downtown Hillsdale’s businesses
apartments, Why??????? For starters, who can pay the amount of rent they want for living there? Second: Nobody will
rent them because there is NOTHING here for them to do. Yeah, the Hunt Club. Wow. That’s exciting. You might get to
play pool if they have the upstairs open for you, and you might get in a fight if a local college kid is feeling frisky. The
bottom line is we need businesses her to promote growth, and with growth comes people, and with people, comes money
into our economy, and money into our economy means that we are all better off. We have so much land and it just sits
here, screaming build on me, and the old time ways take precedence over that, lets save this land. For what??? A
younger, more youthful group to come along and make something of it. I would love to be a part of that group.
-
Redo old buildings and keep Hillsdale quaint
-
Lower taxes
-
County and local governments should focus on reducing spending, trimming waste, and reducing overall staff.
-
Keep government out of the taxpayer’s business @pocketbooks just leave us alone!!!
27
Appendix A
-
It won't take any special effort.
-
Leave things alone
-
Refinish the old houses and old farm lands
-
We need to recycle what we already have in our community. Clean up and fix old houses and buildings that are worth
doing so. Those that can't be fixed well we can take them down and build new. But KEEP the jobs to do so in the county!
That's the most important thing!
-
The city buy the fields and use them to put fresh produce in the schools so that way we are contributing to help budget
them for better classes in the city which means more attendees. Oh by the way work with the state to have it be tended
by work first participants and since we are in a rural community you will be teaching them trades that may lead to jobs.
-
Keep it agricultural
-
Keep properties large, and keep the focus on the college strong.
-
Pride! We need to accept needed change along with preserving our roots. This must be done with pride!
-
By keeping shops and markets stocked with locally produced items, Horse and Buggy, licensed door-to-door locally
grown products.
-
Making sure people take care of their property and belongings. This includes the state.
-
BETTER BACK ROADS
-
Treat it with ownership like it is your very own!! If we don't care, no one else will!!! Including our children and
grandchildren
-
Allowing and encouraging non-polluting business and industry. Limit commercial business to non-visual, non-audio,
non-odor and non-intrusive presence and advertising
-
We have property on Cortwright Lake at the Corner of Kelly and Brush road. The runoff from the farm fields has
developed a lot of algae on the lake. A person around the lake said the lake was dying and I think this would be very sad
to let this happen we've had many happy years there but the lake gets worse every year and needs to be addressed. If the
state of Michigan lets one lake die then how many more will follow. Michigan is so beautiful during all the seasons.
Please help us save this lake, as much for us as for the state of Michigan.
-
Zoning, of course, but also encouraging land owners to enroll in programs that preserve open spaces, such as CRP and
conservation easements
-
Concentrating developments as to protect the "country" parts of our county.
-
Open space and Farmland preservation
-
Donations (3)
-
Preserve land use by enforcement of laws already in place, to clean up unsightly trash companies and dumps (2)
-
I think Hillsdale is too small for malls and bigger things that teens like too do but have to go a long way and that means
more gas $ is spent.
-
Have more people come
-
Don’t cut down as many trees and draw more people to the city.
-
Not building too many things to where we can't breathe anymore but make people come here.
-
Not building a lot of malls or just creating special areas where you're not allowed to build anything in.
28
Appendix A
-
By not building so many buildings which would take away the beauty of the country.
-
Open activities that would attract people. Like use the run down buildings and turn them into exciting things like laser
tag.
-
Stop building so many stores when there are places that can be bought and fixed to someone’s advantage. Stop killing
the wildlife!
-
Keep farms alive
-
Not cutting down trees.
-
Stop things that are illegal
-
Establishing a White Castle Restaurant
-
Help keep farming a big part of Hillsdale
-
Let it grow wildly
-
Doing good on it
-
Stop illegal immigration
-
Bulldoze it all down
-
Consider the people of agriculture to promote their wellbeing and mine.
-
The county is quite diversified in its needs. Each township has unique needs. An overall general plan may not be the best
for each area. Tax base varies in each township - what one may be able to manage another may not.
-
Limit residential building to those areas zoned residential. New residential built should be on smaller lots with common
areas. Promote "green" building
-
Encourage local businesses to redo store fronts, encourage local businesses, encourage families to care for homes
-
Residences and any Industrial growth needs to be encouraged to grow within cities and villages
-
Rural zoning to clean up the trashed house trailers and old cars. Mostly clean up the area
-
Allow smaller plots to build on so farm land is not used up so fast
-
Encourage conservation and cleanup of junk and trash
-
By including a loose zoning plan that will suit rural living but clean up some of the soar spots
-
Organized ways to clean up junk - buy out junkyards and have volunteers clean up and then sell junk using profits for
neighborhood projects. Keep close tabs on mega farms so they do not stretch good clean farming practices.
-
Plan for more economic development (2)
-
Make use of the land available that is in or around the towns and cities for businesses, shopping etc.
-
More horse ranches such as out Hillsdale Rd. would be nice. Maybe there would be a way to attract those kinds of people
to buy land around here. Maybe a horse park or racetrack would be a good investment.
-
Discourage development such as has occurred North East of Ann Arbor. Do this through "real" tax incentives for the
Agricultural Base. Attempt to confine future development to those areas that have already lost their rural linkage such as
Somerset Area. Make efforts to localize those developments. Do not make efforts to provide the level of services that
MOST newcomers expect. "They" flee the Urban Areas they detest but soon expect the same services and destroy what
the came seeking! We have the issue on the East Side of the County, a well-run hog operation and dairy operation is
29
Appendix A
under CONSTANT attack by those that are truly misguided. I could go on however I have said enough for you to assess
the general mindset I have.
-
By allowing the residents to enjoy their homesteads in the way they see fit(within reason) and not allow bureaucratic
politics take away the freedom to vote. Empowering your people to make a difference in the community in which they
live.
-
Planting trees, making more class A roads, keeping lakes stocked with fish. Letting people have a voice in issues the
county wants to push through and put it, to a vote.
-
Setting up specific areas for industry
-
Preserving the "rural character” does not mean zero growth, which is the way this county has been operating for the past
39 years that I've lived here.
-
Utilize empty plots/buildings inside city limits. Place laws, etc that help to protect rural areas but that do not totally
obstruct future options
-
Stricter zoning; grouping of trailers in parks, not individually throughout the townships; limiting size of subdivides on
property sales to 5 acres or more; active farmers market, etc. to promote rural lifestyle and importance of being close to
local food source and supporting local economy
-
Farm landowners cannot sell to developers as their land is deemed "farm forever", property designation and cluster
housing
-
Limit the small parcel splits.
-
Make farming a feasible way to survive economically. Support locally grown foods and encourage small towns to build
up their downtown area. With gas prices as they are, a strong local downtown would benefit all concerned.
-
Clean up the mess on Reading Rd. and re-plant trees
-
Quit putting so many laws in effect that you can't do anything with the land you own. Quit the land division act that is
actually breaking all the farmland up because of your parent parcels, land frontage, etc....We were better off to let people
build right next to each other than a house in the middle of a big field (this is the county's fault)
-
Buy development rights of farmers and lower their taxes to encourage continued farming and to keep out land hungry
developers out.
-
Maintaining parks and lakes
-
I love all the parks in the area-upkeep is expensive but very worth it! I went to the concert in Stock's Park this eveningwhat a nice folksy feel-like a big neighborhood block party! I love that about Hillsdale!!
-
BY doing away with government intrusion
-
Keep dogs from running amuck and barking 24/7. It takes the joy out of country living! Crack down on people that dump
along roadsides.
-
Stop buying out the farmers for things like expansion of an airport that is already adequate for the needs of this small
community that has lost most of its manufacturing anyway.
-
Keep farming strong. Purchase development rights in selected areas.
-
Help farmers with more aid so they don't have to sell off their land. Promote conservation and prides in area so it’s
residents want to stay and see it grow.
30
Appendix A
-
Bring in jobs that pay a decent wage, while maintaining the rural feel of this town.
-
Limit building houses to lots of no smaller than a certain size. Make this lot size as large as possible. Reduce taxes on
parcels the bigger they get, like maybe a discount the bigger the parcel, it's important to keep parcels together. Limit
home sites per square mile.
-
Keeping taxes low and limiting development
-
Set zoning ordinances to preserve outlying sections of each town for farming.
-
Prohibit CAFO and large agriculture operations
-
You need to be more vigilant as outsiders come in to develop wooded land and farmland.
-
By comprehensive land use planning...that would provide a balance of agricultural and green areas without sacrificing
jobs and growth. Too complicated to explain in this survey.
-
Leave it the way it is.
-
Large state forest and parks
-
By protecting the lake and rivers flowing and yet still protect the right to farm.
-
Keep housing low density
-
Lower taxes on family farms so they can continue to operate.
-
Do not allow mega farms
-
Carefully planned use of existing space to maintain the rural character of the county. An economy, which focuses more
on tourism and less industrial, would be my choice.
-
NO MEGAFARMS! Acreage restriction on # of heads per acre owned. Reduce the amount of land splits, = it should
not always be a yes, just to encourage everyone to split land, having all these low valued homes on a couple acres
detracts from the overall value and appearance of a county.
-
I would suggest Agriculture and it’s supporting industries as well as light industry and tourism. Brown county, Indiana
and Holmes county, Ohio have been successful with this mix.
-
A loose network of ride/hike trails; especially some that include loops or circles that offer multiple entry points. Obvious
canoe entry and pull-out locations. At least one good sledding hill. Add some of those kids-can-play-in ground-level
fountains (like Oxford, OH and lots of other places) to the courthouse park. Continue developing our existing parks.
-
Put a stop to the urban sprawl
-
To Start with get rid of the PLANNING COMMISSION!
-
Encourage farming
-
Concentrate development in the cities and villages.
-
Encourage land conservation, farming. Restrict factories to designated areas, i.e., not spread all over the county. Pay
attention to environmental preservation: monitor water and air pollution, regulate.
-
Zoning restrictions/ Land trust
-
Not likely that it will lose it, so no action needed...or were you presuming that we'd all say that it's important to preserve
the rural character?
-
Control of land development, prohibit the land owners to continue to collect junk and construct junk fence's, and protect
the communities from a high volume of wind turbines, cell towers, by watching the locations in which they are built.
31
Appendix A
-
Zoned industrial parks with access to roads and Railroads including green zones within.
-
Ending farm subsidies - which targets certain crops for production/sale and dampens significantly ingenuity and
enterprise among rural communities ending farm set aside programs - which limits land usage to incoming farmers and
drives the general prices higher limiting zoning for townships and villages - allowing owners to best determine how their
land/investment should be used ending regulation by DEQ and USDA over farm enterprises - increased regulation has
led to a steady decline of people in rural communities and of people on the farm.
-
I do not have any specific ideas. However, I feel that the support of the idea is very important to the heritage that all who
have lived here in the county.
-
Through strict zoning but it should have been done 25 years ago. Better a little done late than just let it ride.
-
Limit urban and industrial property expansion.
-
Limit houses to five-acre lots and not in the middle of a field.
-
Pockets of residential development
-
By having all of our zoning ordinance's for the townships closer associated with each other
-
Preservation of Ag land
-
Help in the passage of family farms from one generation to another and Promotion of family owned small farms and
cottage industries. Focus on community, renewable resources, and sustainability and long term solutions that promoted
good economic and environmental stewardship.
-
Allow people to retain their property rights. What we have up to this point is a result of many years of people being able
to make most of the decisions about their property as they see fit. It's worked thus far allow it to continue.
-
Apply zoning and building restrictions to prevent 'urban spread'. Prepare ahead for land use.
-
Planning of growth near already developed areas
-
Clearly it would involve zoning discussion as to business expansion, the sale of farm land, the amount of land required
per housing unit, etc. I do not like telling people who own their property what they can do with it, but there must be
some cooperative work in a community to protect it from expansion that would destroy the rural character of our
community. However, this must all be weighed with the need for jobs and industry. We are currently hurting for jobs in
this community; our enjoyment of our rural lifestyle is not going to be meaningful if we cannot afford to live here.
-
Advertise in Cities such as Toledo, Jackson etc. the reasonable land prices, scenery, recreation opportunities, school
quality, safety and so on.
-
Limit the splitting of large land parcels=rural building 10 acres or more. Limit distance from road for one familiy new
construction
-
Keep your farmlands/don't put up houses & condos, etc.
-
This county is rural not a city and the many restrictions, regulations, ordinances etc do not make it a better place but a
more city like place which only causes the cost of living to rise and more residents of the area to be burdened with things
that were never intended to be controlled by local government in rural areas.
-
No major highways limit maximum speed in the county to 45mph. Develop both cable and wireless internet as public
infrastructure as roads are developed and managed today.
-
Promote the great schools that we have--both private and public. Promote how safe the county is.
32
Appendix A
-
Encourage local sustainability like getting Hillsdale restaurants to be supplied by Hillsdale or Michigan growers. Other
examples: Encourage a large farmers market in a prominent city space (like the courthouse lawn or Stocks Park),
advertise and encourage the Saturday auctions, provide community events like the old Grange Hall Dances.
-
Countywide coordination of land use, zoning, incentives for conservation, donation of land to trusts or long-term set
asides, etc.
-
I believe that we should not be afraid of growing. I have heard that some have said "we certainly do not want to be like
Jackson" .Why not? If we do not do something, then people will continue to leave. WE MUST GROW, if we want to
see our economy back on top. It is time that we move forward instead of hanging on to the past. I think we can
accomplish this if we would just allow more jobs and into our community. We have too many "services". We need
more for our people right here in Hillsdale, so we don't spend our money in Jackson.
-
A good community to replicate is Saline, MI. A beautiful town with lots of thriving business and slight country feel
without the metropolitan look.
-
Leave green space, encourage farming, discourage "urban sprawl"; agricultural zoning for certain townships
-
Development should be controlled and concentrated, e.g. Development of agriculture areas to residential should be
controlled thru subdivision act or condominium act, to concentrate growth.
-
By providing some sort of benefit to producers who help to promote and display the character.
-
Land Use plans and zoning in the townships
-
Farmland preservation measures so those who choose may retain farming for future generations. Encourage PA 116 use
for agri land. Simulate pride and appreciation in the rural character through awareness activities.
-
Minimum land split allowed 20 acres, if not 40 acres: broadly define agriculture to include open spaces, natural features
and the vast variety of activities deemed agriculture: limit confined animal farms and encourage the small family farms,
including produce stands and tourism: protect the water and air: absolutely do not allow farming in the road right of
ways - preserve the biodiversity of the country roads as well as the road wash entering the waterways: control light
pollution - preserve the night sky: control signage: limit shopping malls: hold firm on preservation of the rural character
in the zoning reviews and land use plans: do not allow spot zoning and development within the agricultural areas
-
Do not over-industrialize the community as a whole. Keep land devoted to farming, parks and conservation areas.
-
Limit the development of housing communities in rural areas. Give farmers a reason to keep their land instead of being
forced to sell to developers.
-
Transfer of development rights, farmland preservation, extensive linear parkways connecting communities in the county
-
Thru growth in concentrated areas, while leaving some open areas.
-
Limit growth of cities outside their boundaries, including the need for 425's to provide utilities and limit size of
parcels/splits for homes in ag land
-
When developing the city aspects, be sure to keep the native landscaping present. Also encourage horticulture topics and
involvement with all generations.
-
Businesses that provide for or speak to the needs of rural people i.e. seed companies, sow refineries, farm implement
sales etc... I believe that this is precisely the time to seize opportunities for incoming manufacturers to purchase houses
from the banks in blocks (10 to 200) at the amount the bank needs to not lose money. These homes could then be sold to
33
Appendix A
incoming workers at a fraction of the cost of housing in other communities. Jobs and homes in family friendly rural
communities would drive up school enrollment, create bedroom communities which would then have demand for small
needs based enterprise like independent groceries, gas stations, libraries, banks, restaurants etc... Land is still affordable
in the most rural of Hillsdale Communities.
-
We need to improve the appearance of some of our old buildings.
-
Schools need to integrate to provide for a countywide system that brings the entire county together. This should
eliminate some of the animosity between districts.
-
Only adding new industry to current Industrial parks. No need for new ones until we reach capacity of current parks.
-
Good use of zoning/restrictions.
-
It won't be difficult with no major transportation routes running through here.
-
Try to keep homes near the road and not in the middle of a large field that could be farmed.
-
To get control of the ridiculous tax rates in this area. No one will stay or move here with the constant raising of taxes, as
the citizens of the county see nothing for the taxes they already pay.
-
HILLSDALE must grow and provide GOOD jobs for the residents
-
Less direct government intervention, lower taxes to encourage businesses to come and stay (we still need employers in
the cities!), and a maintained sense of community.
-
Must own at least 10 acres to have a home, and quit raising taxes on home owners when the area is suffering from such a
lousy job market, just because you own a house dose not mean your wealthy
-
Zoning, farmland left as farmland, replant wooded areas, people could not buy land to build if there are houses up for
sale in the area.
-
Try fixing some roads. Taxes are not a bad thing - but try taxing something different. Food, consider a city tax. Make
everyone pay - not just the landowners.
-
Limiting size of parcels for building homes
-
Impose mild countywide zoning for junk, unsightly items should not be next to the road.
-
Strict zoning preventing the intrusion of the rural area with additional housing or industrial development. The use of
PDR to protect and preserve agricultural land and open green space
-
Keep zoning away from any areas that are not cities. Let property owners have the freedom to determine what they
would like to do with there property.
-
Reduce the acreage requirement for housing in the country but institute a minimum size and type for housing to end the
proliferation of substandard homes and mobile home. "Affordable" housing tends to discourage people from trying to
improve and maintain any standard of care and maintenance
-
Use of county zoning
-
Zone townships to restrict development and control development so that it takes place in a planned fashion.
-
Keep the city boundaries the same, improve the store fronts to keep it quaint, NO empty buildings,
-
Planned Growth
-
Create Ordinances where utility wires for new service or construction are buried. Develop more park/urban/open space
areas adjacent to municipalities to preserve against commercial or industrial expansion. PLANT TREES!!!
34
Appendix A
-
Develop a countywide theme from ideas brought forth by local needs. The theme must attract tourists. Such a theme
must come from people to have any success.
-
Restrict single-family homes from gobbling up the entire road frontage on farmland.
-
Currently there is too much blight around the county. Trailers that look like junkyards, abandoned houses, trash. There
needs to be a blend of new industrial/technology/health care space developed. There is plenty of open land currently
without threatening agriculture in the county.
-
Preserve our unique qualities. Downtown businesses, old buildings, rolling fields, etc.
-
Purchase land development rights minimum parcel size 10 acres or more tax incentives
-
More incentives for farmland and open space preservation.
-
Farmland spilt no less then 40 acres.
-
Let the townships and the cities continue to control their destiny; without the help of the county.
-
With the current Hillsdale population base, I'm not sure that it requires elaborate planning to stay rural.
-
Townships and villages should all have safe drinking water and sewage. Areas should also have rehab work done in the
downtown as well as maintaining community/public locations such as libraries. It would be nice if the smaller areas had
a specific place for residents to come together for socialization, perhaps have specific times for the teenagers to get
together that isn't related to sport or a school activity but is something they would be interested in attending.
-
Township zoning - designate ag only areas. Possible purchasing development rights
-
Maintaining old barns and structures is a part of our heritage and should be preserved.
-
Prevent too much of the farmland from being broken up into 1-10 acre lots for housing.
-
By clustering housing
-
We need a unique draw between interesting, charming shops (art gallery of art student's talents, sculptors, oil,
watercolor, etc.) and eateries. Enough variety to draw from both the college population (& their families) and from
larger cities (Ann Arbor, Battle Creek)
-
Take another look and re-assess the land division and split guidelines for dividing up land. Historically, efforts were
made to minimize the minimum parcel size. A policy that allows for an exception to the state's standard division act may
be allowed if/when the use of farmland is taken into consideration to preserve the existing tillable land.
-
Allow more businesses to move in, this also provides jobs!!!
-
Maintaining the integrity of the land, preserving the land. Keep it natural so the wildlife can survive. Do not allow too
much land to be sold for housing or large farming.
-
Having a NICE restaurant where the people of Hillsdale and college parents can go to eat
-
Keeping the small towns open and lived in, not letting them become "ghost towns" and all grow into large towns.
-
Improve and preserve state and county parks, lakes
-
Parcel size and frontage requirements for building. Tax advantages for ag. Public purchase and maintenance of larger
tracts for recreational lease/use
-
Use zoning ordinances to control growth, and steer it to already developed areas, where the infrastructure is available to
support it.
-
Encourage farmers to continue, offer incentives
35
Appendix A
-
Encouraging people to put land in a "trust" to be given to the county with no further development on that property; allow
a property tax or similar credit for doing so.
-
Encouraging people to put land in a "trust" to be given to the county with no further development on that property; allow
a property tax or similar credit for doing so.
-
Cut spending on new infrastructure.
-
Limit the number of homes being built out in the country.
-
Support farming and revitalize the economy so that other jobs are available for farming families to support the farming
way of life.
-
Land management through zoning. I also would propose putting a park system into place to preserve some of the natural
beauty of our area. I am not aware of any county parks that are managed or overseen by the Board of Commissioners or a
Parks Dept. (Do we even have a county parks dept?)
-
Smart and strategic planning and growth.
-
Planning/Zoning, controlled growth
-
Agriculture preservation
-
Balance between planned growth and development in and around villages and cities while preserving open space and
agriculture within the townships
-
Give as much support as is possible to farmers helping them to stay in business, especially the young farmer. Provide
education in connection with 4-H, FFA, Farm Ag, Organizations in the Co.
-
Enforcing township ordinances to clean up properties, remove old cars and junk around houses especially along U.S.12
-
Clustering growth
-
Make all the "junk" yards that are close to the roads dissolve. Post "No Littering" signs with a statement; those caught
will be fined $500. Change the staffing for our city government and HCIDC to better outreach companies and business
for coming to Hillsdale County and the city of Hillsdale. The city needs to better market themselves. The city and county
need to work closer with Hillsdale College so when parents or visitors come from all over the country they have places
to stay and shop without leaving the area. Require all downtown business fronts to either sand blast their buildings or repaint them to clean up the city. Require any old buildings not be housed to clean up and continue care of their buildings.
Have more community functions bringing more people to the area. Market-Market-Market the city of Hillsdale and sell
the Historic city that we have. Ask the community for their ideas and listen to the new managers ideas and don't be afraid
of change or taking a chance to better the community.
-
Continue to keep as much forest and/or farmland as possible within the best interests of owners.
-
Continue to promote and encourage involvement in things like 4-H, FFA. Also, continue to build, grow and improve the
Hillsdale County Fair, which is a celebration of the agricultural bounty of Hillsdale County.
-
The county needs to have a controlled growth strategy that does not overpower the rural areas while at the same time not
stunting economic and population growth.
-
Maintaining historic landmarks and conservation.
-
Careful and thoughtful planning about allowing urban sprawl. Would rather see tax incentives to re-develop downtown
& existing residential areas.
36
Appendix A
-
Keep our wetlands and woods as they are
-
I would like to see historic sites preserved.
-
Plan, implement and enforce a countywide zoning ordinance to eliminate unsightly properties. Allow tax relief to
properties, particularly businesses that are in keeping with the rural atmosphere.
-
Zoning enforcement.
-
Phase in some kind of appropriate zoning. Consider ways to stipulate minimum parcel size based on existing uses.
-
To bring a work force into our area that would allow the people of Hillsdale county to keep a standard of living, that
would produce and keep family's in Hillsdale county, a higher wage scale than there is now, 8 to 10 dollars aren't going
to make it in this area, the wage scale needs to be higher, our county government needs to see that our planning for job
growth will be a first, before anything else is done, no jobs, no family's, no taxes. People aren't going to stay here if we
don't have jobs to keep them here.
-
Manage growth
-
By everybody just minding their own business. Live and let live.
-
Take pride in the rural areas! I am grieving the loss of large trees along our roadsides (that the Road commission is
cutting down!), and the accumulation of trash along our dirt roads!
-
Make it a priority that people keep their land clean and enforce zoning.
-
Make it more difficult to break farmland into small parcels. Farmers are greedy, and will sell land to developers unless
restricted by zoning or land division laws. Also, more effort needs to be made to allow redevelopment of downtown
apartments as well as run down homes both in city/village and within rural farm areas. There are homes that people don't
use because they need work, and financing is not available for these types of projects.
-
Grant opportunities for farmers and rural landowners to maintain out buildings and farmland.
-
Keep as much grass and trees as possible!
-
Create zoning and land use policies that encourage the retention of farm land for agricultural purposes or to be set aside
as green space; change site plan requirements so that existing natural land features are retained as much as possible and
require that the majority of parking be located behind retail areas (as in a traditional downtown); cluster retail
development rather than allow it to just be placed as a contiguous mass along major roadways (such as in Coldwater);
place new housing development where infrastructure (public water and sewer, roads) already exist; promote housing
rehabilitation programs in existing neighborhoods and downtown areas; get serious about reducing both residential and
commercial blighted properties.
-
Clean up the trash along the roadside, to include dead animals, enforce township codes about trash and junk in people's
yards.
-
Preserve thru cluster housing for growth that encourages preservation of open spaces.
-
Each township have land use policies
-
Preserve land for farming/hunting/fishing.
-
Continue with an active Village Planning Commission, Continue to actively participate in our Regional Planning Group,
support continual land use education and by continuing to support the Village Council.
-
Justifying and enforcing zoning districts.
37
Appendix A
-
Develop and maintain common sense zoning ordinances
-
We need middle class people to live here. Most of the rural housing looks like the slums.
-
The Hillsdale-Jonesville area should be promoted as the residential/industrial/commercial hub of the county through joint
planning and resource sharing agreements or actual consolidation. Such an approach would require involvement by the
City of Hillsdale, the Village of Jonesville and Cambria and Hillsdale Township. The rural/farm areas should be
preserved through appropriate zoning and other enactments by the county and affected townships.
-
Townships should have zoning restrictions and enforced.
-
Keep small town atmosphere; local shops, historic downtown, bed-n-breakfast, train station area renovation; historic
tours
-
Growth in this county is important but size is also.
-
Our community leaders have power and control issues. They regularly desire to exercise power they do not have, over
others. This extends to land use. Until they are better informed, they will continue to hassle and interrupt productivity of
any kind in this county.
-
Focus on sustaining the county's character through ZONING of some nature to establish enforcement policies to help
STOP BLIGHT and encourage those that participate in such practices to step up and vest themselves in helping preserve
the character of our county.
-
Planning for the future with our neighboring communities
-
Help the farmers with their retirement. Encourage new farmers.
-
Preserving historic buildings
-
Land use regulation
-
Restrict building of businesses and housing to villages and cities. No businesses in the townships only Agriculture.
-
Upkeep of area parkland, limitations of development on farmland, promote development of urban areas
-
Countywide zoning/planning
-
Well most importantly, we need a master plan that the villages, townships will buy into. If townships do not want to
following or have zoning laws, we'll be wasting our time and effort.
-
I would propose educating the farmers and rural home-owners about the importance of ecological preservation and the
effects certain practices, such as farming, has on not only the land, but also the streams and watershed of the surrounding
areas.
-
Restrictions placed on building and green areas established
-
End scattered unplanned growth. Preserve the agricultural nature of the community. Enforce current codes regarding
junk-cars, trailers, etc.
-
Hillsdale’s charm resides in its historic downtown and rolling countryside. Hillsdale needs to focus its resources (both
legislative and financial) on restoring/preserving the downtown area, and make itself an attraction for those who are
looking for an alternative to urban and suburban living. Glass and steel high-rises are built every day. Victorian
downtowns are not.
-
Incorporate recreational facilities and industrial and commercial development
38
Appendix A
-
Rural character does not mean "no progress". Planned development and infrastructure improvements can be done and
should be with wise planning.
-
Give incentives to current residents for restoring their period homes and keeping up with gardens.
-
Townships, county, villages and cities working together on a county-wide plan
-
Promoting community agriculture, give property tax credit to those who clean up / fix up farm property
-
Enforcing junk ordinances so that so many places are not eyesores. Not selling farms off in parcels. Preventative
maintenance of our lakes, rivers, streams. That would include making sure human and animal sewage isn't seeping into
the water, education of lake front homeowners on fertilizer... In the country where I live sewers aren't practical with
distance between homes. I put this because in a later question you ask if I would be willing to pay for water and sewer
and I answer no. I will say that the mess they have had in the city of Reading with the minimal amount of arsenic (I
think it's arsenic) in the water that is not allowed by government agencies and hence the increased rates people must pay
will make others hesitant to want to pay for such a "service".
-
Support the small communities with coordination from the county level, but leave execution and funding in the localities.
Maintain the roadways and infrastructure we have. Provide incentives to business and shrink government.
-
There is no easy answer to this question. There needs to be more incentive for the family farmer to remain, megafarming to be limited, and less incentive for the selling of farmland for residential purposes. Further discussion is
necessary to find a workable solution.
-
Make it more difficult to build homes on agricultural land and wooded tracts.
-
To accomplish this, you would have to declare this a planning priority and establish it as your #1 Goal. Of course, you
would also have to precisely define "rural character" (which I suspect much of this survey is about).
Currently, though
much of Hillsdale's population is indeed rural, Hillsdale County doesn't necessarily have ideal "character".
Characteristics, yes, but the sum of those parts does not equal one particular description. Nor will it ever.
My
suggestion is to recognize each and every place for the character it has. (Hillsdale County is not a place; it is a collection
of places.) And then, be ready and able to help those places realize the character they want to create by 2050 for 'tis hard
for an empty bag to stand upright, as Poor Richard says, and we have plenty of empty bags.
From a planning and
policy perspective, we must recognize collective will. Not just majority, but nearly universal wants and desires. Like,
say for instance, the upkeep of personal property to not be a nuisance to the eye. A well kept County = a county with
character.
-
But it depends what the trade-offs are? "Rural" can define some of the best and some of the worst aspects of Hillsdale
County. It all depends on how terms are being defined.
39
Appendix B
Please suggest where and how should commercial and industrial development be concentrated in Hillsdale County?
-
-
It should be within Hillsdale industrial areas
Industrial and manufacturing should be in the industrial park, and we would all like to see that expanded. Commercial
should be in great access areas for everyone, like the old Stocks Mill area. There’s a lot of room there for Commercial
space, Like a Mall of some sorts, a restaurant, etc. The list goes on.
Spread out over the county so cars aren't as necessary
Make use of the plants and factories that have been shut down. The buildings have been standing empty. Utilize them to
bring jobs back into the community. This in turn will help Hillsdale's economy
Redevelop areas of existing industry or abandoned industrial property
In an existing Industrial Park or empty industrial parks (75)
In or close proximity of Hillsdale City (9), Hillsdale/Jonesville area (8)
Close to Cities And Villages for sharing of services and filling vacant buildings (16)
Empty buildings should be used, smaller environmental footprint
North side of county near city limits
Near areas already developed
Get federal help and hire within the county
Utilize the areas that are already in place in the community.
Give incentives to business
In town off of Beck Road by the water tower
Anywhere where it'll help
In the present industrial parks thru the county
Near the more populated cities
Nearer to existing highways and population centers
Within city/village limits
Near main highway intersections
In areas near towns with innovative land use (2)
We should have more stores in Hillsdale county
Old Pillsbury factory
Run down buildings
By building it
Anywhere that there's room. We should have factory builders make them.
Close to industrial parks or towns with the proper infrastructure. Through proper planning and zoning
Along US12
Where there is existing services available - or unused existing buildings that can be refurbished
Develop brownfield area (2)
Out of Township
Low expense of businesses to operate, industrial complexes
Outside of the town. Not far out.
We have free enterprise and each company should be allowed to locate in an area that best meets their requirements.
Along major highways and in towns/villages
This would be accomplished by allowing individuals to have some incentive for moving into Hillsdale. Our county is in
a recession and yet we have a college that has an endowment fund with millions. Yet the college does not give back to
the community. Also, the business owners already established should be given some incentives for having their
businesses here. Our older politicians need to be open to alternative business options and yet not allow county or
township representatives use deception in attempting to generate revenue from homeowners who are already struggling
making ends meet. I am referring to the sewer project in Hillsdale. Our economy is already terrible and now the
townships want to initiate a sewer system that is going to cost anywhere from 8-16,000 dollars per home. We are paying
for $4.00 gas, for our cars and potentially our homes, the cost of groceries has sky rocketed. The county needs to stop
the sewer projects or they might as well put a close sign on the county because nobody is going to want to live where
there is no democracy and also, the ones that live here will be so poor they will be forced to go bankrupt or leave all
together.
Build them in area that is in close proximity to each other. Try to utilize large closed down manufacturing sites, etc.
40
Appendix B
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Edge of already existing cities -- no free-standing units in country
Keep in one area only
Concentration should be spaced to provide buffers to residential areas, environmentally sensitive areas, water resources,
etc. Although it would be easy to say that keeping them concentrated in areas where these are currently located, but that
could limit growth significantly.
Anywhere in the Hillsdale/Jonesville area, maybe between them right along M99. Keep it out of the rural towns.
Anywhere there is vacant land overgrown with weeds and brush and there is plenty of that in Hillsdale Co
Industrial Park-through grants and tax abatements
Breaks on taxes to come here and for a set period.
Start building up of off rte.99 towards Jonesville
Near larger towns/cities. Offer low cost acres in industrial parks with utilities.
Specialized high density developments
In current locations, but to also be added based on a comprehensive land use study.
In places where it existed before they move to Mexico
I think Fremont/Angola is a good example. The old downtown has small shops reastaurants/bars movies, the out skirt of
town is more industrial.
Not my place to choose location! We need to SELL our communities with attitude for change, progress, and
friendliness. Keep improving our schools.
Through smart zoning, on reclaimed current industrial sites near cities. Nobody wants a big factory put in a cornfield
just because the land is cheap. The county should take the lead through taxes to make industrial reclaimed sites updated
or demolished and sell them cheap to companies. This saves good ground for farming or housing and keeps the factories
in designated place. Sell it to cheap and damn near anyone ethically responsible who can get some jobs back in
Michigan. Automotive is the past.
Using all weather roads and the rail lines as the routing, this would be looking at Hillsdale, Reading and Jonesville.
Continued oil exploration and pumping Hillsdale County
Promote the railroad for service
Just keep it in town
Industrial zones in most Townships (2)
Industrial parks, dual use stores, residences in town
Business and industry is needed in the county. It is important that development have as few roadblocks as possible,
within reason.
Concentration of industrial development should continue in the established industrial parks. It might be accomplished by
providing tax incentives to businesses/companies to locate to those established areas. Commercial development should
be concentrated within the existing cities and villages; again, tax incentives would be one way to accomplish that.
Expand areas already in use for commercial/industrial, but in a controlled way.
Near transportation arteries and corridors (5)
I prefer the free enterprise system with less regulation to choke business
If located in Hillsdale, it would become much easier to develop countywide transportation service that would be well
utilized. At present, the industrial is wide spread and hours are all over the place so public transportation does not work
well - there are not enough potential riders to any given place at similar times to make it plausible.
Tax incentives for designated locations.
In-fill existing industrial parks and commercial corridors (3)
The county has to decide where we are headed as a whole to accomplish this goal. We either need to strive for industry
or determine that it is not a fit for this county.
Simply make sure that a designated area is maintained for such development and that it doesn't go farther than that.
Small scale operations should reuse existing property already appropriately zoned, large scale should be located within
established industrial parks in the county.
Each community assisted in planning for a niche of the county market strategy, ie... Berlin, Ohio, Shippshewana, IN,
Frankenmuth, MI.
Litchfield, Hillsdale, and Jonesville all have outstanding industrial parks and manufacturing neighborhoods.
We should being in whatever is available-put were needed (2)
Placed where MOST EFFECTIVE
In/around the current cities, by lower taxation
Designated parks buy must have heavy truck quick access
Strict zoning and re-development of previous commercial areas prior to building new commercial buildings
41
Appendix B
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Most municipalities already have industrial areas. Only allow for industrial expansion adjacent to Industrial Zoning
Industrial parks and retail centers or downtowns
There needs to be some development around three to four of the eight communities in the county so that it provides for
an even growth pattern to the county.
Tax incentives/ between Jonesville and Hillsdale
Focus should be on Litchfield since it is already the county leader in industrial development
Center of county easy to get to for the entire county (2)
I believe that each village/township should have their own area where commercial/industrial development is
concentrated, with commercial being downtown and industrial outside of city limits.
Close to highway/airport
Hillsdale/Jonesville area, central in county for job opportunities maintaining rural surroundings. Easier to provide
needed utilities/infrastructure in a concentrated area versus trying to support a spread out distribution.
Montgomery/Camden area also to be considered and other major transportation routes of M-49, I-69 and 80/90.
All development should be in areas that already have dense populations of that sort of thing
Revitalize old existing facilities
Through proper land management (i.e. industrial parks)
In existing downtowns and industrial parks. Again - smart and strategic planning and growth.
Expansion of Industrial parks and annexation of adjacent village/city property
In concentrated areas in each Township
Through Marketing and surveying the most desirable places
Focused, but expanding from the center of Hillsdale
Industrial park, empty buildings; increase rail service
There are many vacant areas that need to be used again instead of building new industrial should be in a place that it
would be concentrated in a local area of the county, which would be easy for people to get to .
Let farms be the developers since they best represent common sense
Central shopping row or downtown area more developed
Anywhere in Hillsdale County...we need jobs!!!
Downtown and in industrial park
Having commercial/industrial areas spread out puts some people closer to work. That could help with gas consumption
and the burden of those costs.
Make the IDC do their job.
Clustered off of the major roadways with access roads between commercial spaces; industrial development should be
geared towards the industrial parks in the area to utilize existing infrastructure and buildings; allow some commercial to
be mixed with residential and where you have commercial and residential space next to one another, provide appropriate
barriers (i.e. landscaping) to blend the two areas
Industrial park no property taxes, only tax sales
Commercial in several strategic areas and industries should be concentrated
Smart growth
US 12, 127 and 127 corridors, and Hillsdale, Jonesville and Litchfield. Promoting growth from eastern Jackson County
and south. We will need intelligent planning to promote responsible growth and more proactive county and township
administration.
It should be on the outskirts of town, not in the middle of it.
I would rather not have it anywhere, but concentrated is better than dispersed
It all should be done in the private sector. Get the state and local government out of people's lives as much as possible.
Working together better
Concentrated in the definition that we do not want to see development randomly placed throughout our county - a PLAN
should be established for such.
By the infrastructure
Do what you need to do to bring in or develop new business
Transportation corridors such as Litchfield and Jonesville
The commercial/industrial area should be in an area that is not completely surrounded by natural woodland. By building
the shops/plants in a non-natural wooded/preserved area, we can ensure that the area can be kept clean a lot easier.
I prefer industrial parks and reusing existing sites with obsolete buildings being razed and new structures being
constructed
42
Appendix B
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There is plenty of space in existing industrial parks for light industry. Laws should be enacted/enforced to prohibit
industrial properties from operating inside the city limits. Existing industrial sites (e.g. former Stock’s Mill and Alson’s)
should be converted to mixed-use properties, while other properties should be converted to parks (e.g. former Hillsdale
Tool building on South St, RC Plastics, Daisy, etc). In the event that large-scale industry would like to move to the area,
the county should consider locating an industrial park closer to US 127.
Hillsdale-Utilize vacant buildings
Build on what is already there and improve.
Outside of the "period charm" downtown, by Walmart or outside of town the other way.
Concentrated in established urban areas, tax help
On the edges of towns. However, bringing in jobs that pay $8-9 per hour with little or no benefits does not help, as then
people still can't live on such wages.
It should be where business wants it to optimize their bottom line. Government should get out of the business of trying
to run business - they have run it into the ground in Hillsdale already.
Industrial parks class a roads and proper zoning
Industrial is a bit of a misnomer, it really should be an expansion of technology/knowledge-based employment and it
should situate within existing space in existing "industrial parks". The State of Michigan through the MEDC needs to
provide the same level of cash-based incentives that other more competitive States such as TX do. Instead of dickering
around with tax breaks allow economic developers to provide what means the most to business, cash.
43
Appendix C
What is your definition of prosperity for Hillsdale County?
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It's surely not all the trees you cut down. I hope you are planting some in their place. We need trees!
It is a town that at one time had a lot to offer as far as jobs but now companies are closing and there is a lot of people out
of work. Need good paying jobs for everyone (64)
Businesses for growth, restaurants locally owned, recreation for play and relaxation, and money to help improve every
aspect of our lives in our economy. "If you build it, they will come"
Better roads (2)
Financially stable with families occupying at least the majority of the currently vacant homes
Comfortable living
Peaceful living and tourist nightlife
Nightlife is a must in any community!
Unemployment at less than 3%
Jobs for every person capable of working, less need for Social Services
By giving the current and possible future businesses in the community a reason to KEEP their business in Hillsdale
County. Give the economy a more prosperous outlook.
Booming manufacturing base as in the 60's and 70's
To create an active, vibrant downtown and to limit trailers on property. I would like to see ordinances prohibiting trailers
and only allowing homes built.
Lower taxes
Having government live within their means like the taxpayers do.
To be rooted in the community, growing into better people together.
Keep it mostly AGRICULTURAL
In today's environment, maintaining status quo
Reducing government waste and allow taxpayers the freedom to pursue their interests without interference
Jobs that pay at least $30,000 per year with insurance of some kind and the area will slowly come back to life!
The college
Industry that employs, low crime, community pride and spirit
A good job for all that want to work, money staying in the county
We are a great county but the governor is putting everything around Grand Rapids
Local jobs, less welfare recipient (5). Bottom line - show pride in what we have and work to maintain it.
Leave the rural areas alone, that’s why we moved here.
Economic growth.
Home paid for and retired
For the average family to make a living wage & not be dependent on welfare and other social services
Available jobs that pay a sufficient wage, economic growth, goal setting, vision planning, a community that is proactive
and not reactive.
To celebrate what we have, our rural character, rather than compete with large cities
Make it a place that people want to live in because there is so much to offer (jobs, activities, etc)
High rate of employment, diverse businesses, good schools
Natural/rural setting with jobs available for the population (2)
A nice little town at the low part of Michigan where friends can gather and have fun.
I think we are the best county ever, but we could be better.
Money for building a better town, more visitors
It should have better paying jobs.
It should have less construction on roads
A nice peaceful place
Health/happiness. Good schools, health care, employment
Having a chamber of commerce or industrial development that tries to get business opportunities here
Low unemployment rate (21) with a low welfare recipient rate and high graduation rate
More jobs, steady employment, improved economics
Retaining what is left of its rural character
Jobs, less people needing assistance with food, medical care
44
Appendix C
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Keeping rural setting with employment for managed growth
More land back to farming
Good employment opportunities/good schools/better health care options
Clean, availability of good jobs, pride in ownership, good health care, scenic
Maintaining a good quality of lifestyle and preserving green space while also encouraging concentrations/centralized
economic development centers, which centers should have tax incentives to locate in our county
Reasonable assessments and less government
Better roads and roadside care. More for our youth to do
The shrinking use of Public Funds that would be utilized in the effort to attract population growth that ultimately
destroys the area that was the attraction to begin with. It is a cycle of never ending public tax commitment. If it is not self
supporting it should not be considered.
Being able to live on my mini farm and keep it clean and neat as we have for 9 years. Have a cow for beef, some small
livestock for our children to raise for fair. To have the right to be educated about the political considerations the county
is researching. To be able to hunt and fish as I have by purchase of my licenses. Having township representatives that
are not deceptive. To feel safe secure and know that I can trust at minimum the local government representatives. And
currently I do not.
To allow the county to grow for the better of the whole community rather than protecting only the interests of
longstanding business owners. To work toward the improvement of all so that all may contribute to the growth of the
county.
Living wage available within 30 miles; clean environment with large amount of open space; responsive public safety
departments; high speed Internet access available to all residents
Keeping what industry we have in AMERICA.
Prosperity to me is the availability of ample opportunities for meaningful, high-paying employment, the ability to enjoy
my life as I wish to live it and ensure those abilities for my future generations
Being open-minded to new technology and ideas.
Attractiveness and safety of the area.
Leave the rural areas alone. That’s why we moved here.
Hillsdale Co is called the "welfare Co" by many people including realtors-we need something to bring jobs to this county
Stable good paying job and home ownership
Living close to extended family and work, safe community, great circle of friends and neighbors and the way our
community helps families in need
Reduce the size of Government and Stop increasing taxes
Clean it up!!! Provide dental care. People can tell someone is from Hillsdale county buy their rotted teeth. Just ask
anyone outside the county!
Adequate jobs for all that need them. A well educated graduating senior and support and involvement by citizens.
Decent jobs, strong farming, oil development,
Raising per capita income/quality of life without compromising the surrounding environment
Schools that aren't constantly making cuts and then claiming to be acting in the best interests of the kids. A healthy
tourism industry (a dirt bike trail system similar to snowmobile trail systems in Northern Michigan, added bicycle
shoulders, etc.) We should use our ample land and lake resources to make ourselves the Up North of southern Michigan.
Prosperity also means that our residents have jobs (professional and blue collar) and can afford to buy modest homes.
Residents should be offered incentives to repair/restore existing housing rather than just building new residential areas.
The tax base in the towns and villages should be lowered to help keep people in town.
I believe we are prosperous now. Coming from Bloomfield Hills, the prosperity of Hillsdale County cannot be counted
by dollar bills
Balance job, business and agriculture growth while protecting rural and green areas.
Retirement & Relaxation
A place where a family of four (parents and two children) can live in comfort on the wage they make at the shop.
Enough good jobs to keep offer our young people an opportunity to raise their families here
More entrepreneurs and less government
Decent Jobs are the key to everything. All else falls into place; this should not even be a question.
Consistent unemployment under 6%. Expansion of light Industry and expanded Agricultural marketing in the county
Stable population, high employment, fewer but better school districts
A clean, safe community
45
Appendix C
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Maintained/upgraded infrastructure, cultural events, quality health care
Adequate employment for all, living wages
An increase in tax base
Easy, simple, somewhat slow paced, planned development.
Low unemployment, no homelessness, universal health care
a place where people can hatch their dreams and watch them become a reality
Families being able to stay within the county to work with a wage to sustain the family unit
The ability to meet the need of its residents
Someone needs to start making it much more beneficial for new business to come to this county and this state. It is NOT
being done
Sustainability, diversity of resources, flourishing schools and arts
Prosperity would be having residents in the county that love where they live and would manage their lifestyle to be able
to remain in the county
Jobs for people who live here. Money coming in to maintain the houses/farms that we already have
Embrace the heritage, but don't consider it sacred. Look ahead, be open to new ideas
County services & more continue and we are in the black
Healthy and happy citizens
When those who choose to live here can make a decent living and have decent healthcare.
Rebuild instead of build new/ set some ordinances in place for keeping prosperity orderly and free of junk vehicles etc.
We do need more jobs in Hillsdale county/something American owned that isn't going to close its doors after someone
has worked there for 30 years.
Hillsdale County is special because of the rural way of life and slower pace People like to come here not for more
organized recreation but for the natural beauty that has not been forced into the ways that will make it similar to the areas
and ways of the cities in other areas
People have access to employment, public, religious, private opportunities. Local stores are able to survive because the
residents can support them. Schools are consolidated into fewer districts so that children can get a choice of classroom
topics with quality teachers and programming. Students can go to higher education facilities and succeed there having a
strong foundation.
Stable infrastructure in good repair with the right jobs. Locally owned business and services.
Low unemployment rate, friendly aura, self-sufficiency
"Continuous improvement" in education, economic activity, health indicators, and environmental stewardship, and I
apologize for using so many buzzwords and jargon.
It would be "a change of mindset"
Keeping current families here and thriving.
The County is growing, less unemployment, people are happy with the living conditions in Hillsdale County
Families being able to afford a comfortable living, pay for a home with a value commensurate to the area, affordable,
food and fuel. People don't need to be wealthy, but being able to afford to live within your means should be a priority.
A place where families can have lifelong careers in a diverse economy.
Preservation of the rural character without the environmental damage
Jobs, affordable and decent housing, shopping and recreational opportunities.
Having jobs so that the people of Hillsdale County can make a good living without having to worry from week to week
if they will have a job
Vibrant downtowns with quick access to recreational and tourism amenities building off the rural and agrarian landscape
Slow planned growth supported by average employment opportunities
Continue growth; new companies coming in, less going out
All industrial facilities open, working, and the people of Hillsdale County making a REAL living wage--they should be
able to easily afford the cars for which they are building parts.
Well educated Children for starters- so they can obtain better jobs
Stay small time
New business coming to Hillsdale - paying good wages and giving good benefits (or at least fair benefits)
Manufacturing, casino, huge mall, a major attraction
Employment and housing opportunities
Growth of the agricultural sector
Paying your bills and living a simple life
Stable adequately paid work force
46
Appendix C
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Continuing to develop commercially and industrially based on our existing agricultural industry while also seeking out
cutting edge technological development.
Growth and Charm that will draw others to us
Green areas and good employment opportunities
Outside money from tourism
Meaningful employment opportunities capable of sustaining interest in young college and tech school grads to want to
live in the county.
I define prosperity as opportunities available to residents. Vital opportunities include: education (good schools focused
on preparing students for college or technical training), economic (available local jobs with decent pay and benefits),
health care (local hospitals, physicians, specialists and health insurance), recreational, and cultural (libraries, museums,
theater, art).
Self-Sustaining Community
Litchfield Industrial Park
Each community within the county has proper water/sewage, a library, schools are fully enrolled, recreational activities,
churches, small commercial businesses with some unique to the area. Mixture of housing - single family and apartment
5% unemployment -----median income at state average
Hometown businesses - friendly atmospheres. Offering good prices - keeps the people in the county buying local.
People being able to live without fear of losing housing, being able to provide for their children and their retirement.
Commercial/industrial businesses staying in the County and doing well
A good living wage, economic stability, people orientated community
Keeping small town America alive
Everyone significantly above the poverty level
Competitive Schools and more people moving in than out
Every family has at least one family fully employed and adequately compensated and each family member has sufficient
health insurance.
Increase in the average income per household.
More retail stores, anything that brings jobs for the people here.
Economic growth with out destroying nature
Not certain of questions intent. However, I believe that Hillsdale County has a wealth of strengths, which are not
currently exploited. There is a great deal of money that is invested from outside the county for recreational real estate.
However, little additional moneys are brought in from these sources for dining/entertainment/services. The money is at
the lakes, but the desired services (shopping/dining) are not conveniently located to the lakes.
People having a good job and able to prosper
Quality of life
Far fewer people living at or bellow the poverty line.
No empty storefronts, normal rate of unemployment, foreclosures, etc.
Sustainable employment, good Ag, good schools, good value for your taxes (services) and recreational/outdoor
opportunities. A clean environment. Countryside.
Farming, with diversity of shopping districts in the city areas
To revive all the downtowns, to make quaint towns that people would want to visit
We need to bring jobs into this area so that existing businesses may survive and so that we may continue to retain those
who have chosen to reside here.
A great place to live, work, and play...a destination for all ages.
Having enough jobs to accommodate the residents so they do not have to drive 40 miles to get a job to sustain life
Bringing in skilled job with skilled people to fill the jobs
People working together and taking pride in their property and never getting lazy about progress
Thriving business district, active industrial complex
Prosperous way of life as defined by each individual/
Not just employment, but people who WANT to work, are needed here - too many are on disability/welfare and like it
that way
Low unemployment rates, high high school graduation rates, a beautiful county that the residents take pride in.
A place where there are enough jobs and affordable housing for all who live in the area
Improvements to downtown buildings.
Manufacturing base to allow self-sustaining families
Respectful and ambitious teenagers; recycling
47
Appendix C
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Steady population, gradual improvement of existing homes/stores, not a lot of new low-income population/apts.
A job for everyone that wants or needs one regardless of age
Everyone has a job and respects the environment and each other.
Increase the standard of living - higher incomes, low unemployment.
Wages that keep pace with inflation, including gasoline and utilities (energy).
Jobs in a variety of concentration; not just automotive
A more educated community with a larger commercial focus.
Financially free residents (low debt-to-income ratio) who will take pride in their property and our county, growing
industry with GOOD PAYING jobs, giving college graduates a reason to come back here and start a family, clean
streets.
Economic Self-sufficiency
Bringing new business into the area and keeping businesses in general here
Organized planned growth supported by commerce
People working
Continual Growth as noted in question 4
that the people can work play and live within the confines of Hillsdale County without having to go to another county to
find basic needs
Value of private and public infrastructure; academic achievements; retention of progeny in the area; increasing property
values; intelligent addressing of environmental responsibilities.
Bringing work back into the County instead of shipping it all out
Increasing the number of middle class families here.
Full employment opportunities with an emphasis on good paying jobs and a populace willing and able to support
schools, infrastructure improvements and maintenance and general public services.
Jobs, Quality Education, Recreation
Increase the standard of living for all resident. Raise median income
Offering one of the state's premier living communities with high state technology and infrastructure
A place where every individual is encouraged to pursue reaching their potential. (As opposed to the idea that there are
those who have who are therefore worthy to control, and those who need to be controlled.)
Creating a community we want to see - that affords each and every individual to reach for the possibilities that make a
difference in their way of life.
People with jobs/Good Schools/Safe communities/
A thriving rural community with many cultural and retail attractions in the City of Hillsdale with many nature related
activities outside the City.
Prosperity comes from optimism not pessimism
County is attractive to those outside of the county who are looking for employment or leisure activities
Beautiful environment, good infrastructure, good schools, friendly atmosphere
Easy living and affordability
Living a safe leisurely life with good health care available locally and have some culture (art, music, ie) available to us
nearby
Prosperity for Hillsdale County would be to have the unemployment rate below the national average, or even the state
average, and finally have most of the families in Hillsdale County living in a more comfortable income range (not below
poverty).
Everyone who wants a job is employed. Home ownership is available to all those that put forth effort. Good schools.
Adequate health care, basic community services-fire, police, roads, etc.
Creating a small town where suburbanites would aspire to live in.
Able to afford taxes and live comfortably
Jobs and economic development
People who care about themselves in turn turn around and care for their property and others.
Low unemployment rate, safety, cultural and educational availability, health facilities
Self sufficient families with decent jobs
To have a healthy economy in our county where residents can work at a job/career and not be eligible for food stamps
even though both husband and wife are working.
Strong community
Lower taxes bringing business, jobs, and natural community growth
48
Appendix C
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An economy where industry, services and education work together to stay ahead of the economic transition and support
innovation
Job growth with jobs that support families
Citizen involvement and no shove it down your throat surveys such as this
Hillsdale County thriving with people and jobs
Prosperity is a state of mind and a state of physical being. It has less to do with monetary gain and more to do with being
virtuous about the manner in which you go about your life. Read The Way to Wealth by Benjamin Franklin:
http://my.hillsdale.net/node/624
100% of all citizens over 18 with a HS diploma or GED and 25% with a college degree
49
Appendix D
For respondents that indicated that they were planning to move from Hillsdale County in the next 2 years, please give reason
for why you plan to move from the Hillsdale County.
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No jobs and to find employment (25)
Because I came to live in the state of Michigan not the state of confusion
There’s nothing to do here. Its boring, same stuff everyday. Then if you want to have fun, you have to drive 30-60 miles
away to have fun. And when you get back here, you almost feel depressed when you see the: "It's the People" sign. If
you have to drive to spend time with your family, then why not just live closer to where you always go for entertainment
and fun.
Poor roads, poor schools (2)
No night life, Nothing to do or have fun (3)
This county is making us tax poor, 13 mileages and counting.
Utilities cost too much here. No good restaurants, bad paying jobs, my house taxes are $3,000 per year, gas for my car
cost more here in Hillsdale than any county around us. I work for the school system & people are not going to stay here
to raise there kids so that job will be going down the tubes like the rest of the county and $12.00 per hr. new jobs won't
get people to move here! So it must be time to sell my small party store if I can, and go to where there are people moving
in and start over I have live here 54 years only to see it go from down town on Friday nights where you could not find a
parking space and almost all the stores open until 9 pm to this on a Friday night! Maybe the city & county should do a
add in the newspaper for new ideas from the people who live here. I for one am not going down to city hall to one of
your meetings. But I will take time to write a small letter to you. Thank you for this sight I bet most people don’t know
about it thanks again
No economic growth in this county. Need to be where I can use my talents and experience in making a difference
College elsewhere (2)
Weak local government unable to deliver services, unable to enforce zoning/nuisance laws and unable to attract business,
thus contributing to the rampant growth of crime in the rural areas (2)
Due to the sewer project proposal and the lack of regard for our family as good, law abiding, tax paying citizens. We are
currently very frustrated with Hillsdale Township ordinances, representatives (past harassment by Mr. Vincent) and the
general unconstitutional act of attempting to implement the sewer system without providing the family who reside in the
township with the facts and a chance to vote. Shame on the local government!!!!!!
Don't plan on moving yet- will wait at least 4 years (when kids are done with school). There is nothing promising here.
Economy, etc.
There are no Jobs, No Decent stores, no choice of cable companies, no choice for internet
If they put sewers along Reading Road and continuously destroy the country road look, I'm gone
There is absolutely nothing here. Have to drive 35--45 miles to shop at decent stores
We are actually here now --plan to stay for Summers
More like 4-6 years. Due to taxes & auto insurance. We will be leaving the state not just the county.
Taxes
Move closer to work place (2)
If housing and jobs don't improve or need to find a better job (2)
I will move within the county I want to buy a nice house with ground for farming and recreation, stop the mega farms at
almost any cost
If we move from this county, it will be due to the bad economy of our state.
Only if things become so restrictive as to interfere with my country way of life.
To find a people-friendly community with more green spaces and a better bicycle/pedestrian system.
Seeking out more diverse and culturally stimulating environment
Retiring (2) and heading south
Taxes and special interest groups are out of control
Move closer to family (3)/less gas costs
Lack of retirement interests
Lack of positive growth, recreation, and development.
Family, more prosperous area!
To secure more farmland in a rural area.
Overcrowding
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Appendix D
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Employment for spouse
To move to where the work is, there isn't much to offer people of Hillsdale anymore, due to job loss, and the market isn't
that great anymore, and doesn't look like it's going to get any better, so people have to start look to where the job growth
is, when you don't have job growth, you are going to lose people.
Not enough development or choices, high unemployment rate & low standards of living.
Poor leadership from government to solve our problems.
Economy, government controls
The cultural opportunities here are just too lacking; very few good restaurants; too many welfare people.
Going nowhere, big government, resistance to newcomers
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Appendix E
Question 37 Additional Comments:
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I cannot understand why anyone would cut down all the trees you cut down this year. If they were damaged or diseased
I could understand, but people have been traveling Mechanic for years with the trees existing. There can't be more
traffic on that road this year as most industry has moved. You made a HUGE mistake in taking out all those trees. It's
almost criminal looking. Memories of Palm Sunday. Very very sad!
Quit stalling and start building Something! This town has been declining even before the start of the 2nd Bush term.
Thank God for Barack Obama and hopefully some of his Common Sense will spread into "The People" her in this
community.
We the people of Hillsdale need younger govt offical with new ideas in office because the ones we have now are not
doing a very good job we are behind the times and its about time we get with them.
I live in Hanover, but I spend most of my free time, and work time in Hillsdale County. I live 1 mile north of the
Hillsdale county line so even if I stay in Jackson County the impact of these changes could easily be felt where I
currently reside.
Refer to WWW.JUSTGOODRADIO.COM for the plans they purpose there. Bringing Vets to town and From Industrial
to Entertainment Park are two of the best Ideas i have seen for growth and with little or no cost to John Q. Public. If the
county dont agree if all of it they should at least like some of it and be willing to work on some of it.
We need to recycle the buildings we have and if we can't then bring them down and build new ones. BUT WE MUST
KEEP ALL THE JOBS LOCAL! Buy supplies locally, hire locally! IT'S CALLED THE TRICKLE EFFECT!! PLEASE
HELP SAVE HILLSDALE COUNTY'S CHILDREN!!! You can see plans to help do this on
WWW.JUSTGOODRADIO.COM
We are and older middle age couple. It is discouraging to see so many "unkept" areas while traveling around the county.
There are nice areas too, just wishing for more. The idea of personal responsibility has not taken hold and too many
people either just don't care or do not have the knowledge or resources to better themselves. But, neatness and
cleanliness do not cost money.
We need the fields but we also need jobs why not make an open air market? I know we got the fairgrounds but make
something that will attract people and allow these farmers to showcase their goods hey it will be as organic as there
comes.
We am going broke paying for the special interests that run this county.
Question 19 20 @21 you should give the current land use as a choice. Just leave the land like it is.
Against breaking up of farm and for residential use, for the development of wind farms and photovoltaic arrays
The beauty of the towns and the openness of farmland is what attracted us to the area.
Should of told me about this spot first so i wouldn't rattled on -on sight# 26 (bottom line is pay in Hillsdale has always
been low but people want more than is being offered in Hillsdale or they would stay here and more people would be
moving in like Orlando Fl.
Please replant trees along Reading Road so it looks nice in 50 years
Use a high speed but only because I like where I can get Waldron Telephone Co nothing else except dialup is available
in my area and what I have is as far out as they go and if I one more tree I couldn't even get this. High-speed internet
service to rural areas is sadly lacking.
The youth of our county need a place to skate and hang out where they are safe. A family friendly skate park where they
can skate, bike and play would be a GREAT addition to Hillsdale.
There really needs to be a lot of help in this county. People are moving away left and right. No jobs or anything. If you
find a job it is 20 hours a week! How are you supposed to live on that. County needs to stop asking for money for
different projects and take different approaches
They need to extend Comcast services or high speed internet
I think that we should have more land used for houses than factories.
Put in a mall with debs!=D
Please, please, please put a mall and a restaurant called Olive Garden =D
I think Hillsdale is a great place to live, and there is not much you could change, in my opinion, to make it better than it
already is. But I would like more exercise facilities for our teens, young adults, and even some gymnastics for the
younger kids. Thanks!
I also think u should have a place for little kids about 6months to 4 years old to play at so they don’t have to play with
bigger kids and get pushed around.
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Appendix E
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We need more activities basketball team local and basketball courts so everyone can go there.
Hillsdale County needs a skateboard park
I want Hillsdale to have nice rural areas for farming. But I also want nicer homes if built.
I would think it would be great if we could have more swimming pools
We need a nature park somewhere in Hillsdale. Hillsdale got only 4 parks and 1 nature park
# 24, Prior to Onsted, I lived in the metro Detroit area. I truly do not miss the city life.
This was ok survey
Don’t survey people, just do the jobs you are paid to do
Our current road structure, in particular gravel roads is in a sad state of neglect due to many years of lack of proper road
maintenance - ditching & burning by the HCRC. Allowing each township to manage their $$ from the state & being able
to save $$ for projects from year to year instead of it going to other townships would help get us back on track to
improving our roads. Roads are essential to our economic development. Crops need to be planted back from the roads. In
many areas they are in the roadway allowing no place for water runoff further eroding the roadways. A good rural setting
isn’t just about housings it's also about our roads & keeping the trash out of them.
Homes built to far back from the road lot of wasted woods that could be used for hunting and other recreational areas
such as camping, walking and bike paths. Allow smaller plots near road to be sold leave large fields for farming and
such.
Hillsdale County is a wonderful place to live, but being the 5th generation to live here, I see the younger generations
leaving for lack of jobs and good wages. I am afraid that the community has become a retirement community and will
soon be nonexistent. This would be a sad loss as the peace of mind one has as we get older is good.
I will be happy to help with an organized effort to clean things up.
Please send out the final compilation of these polls in the next /annual tax mailings (2)
I would be willing to pay higher taxes to pay for better snow and ice removal in the winter. Also, we need more mowing
done in the county. It is hard to see at intersections, and it looks bad. I know that is the Road Commission's area of
business, but I wanted to mention it. I think our county looks nice coming in on Hillsdale Road because of the horse
ranches. They are kept up nicely and look pretty. The library is nice.
This survey is flawed because it does not treat all the options that would be considered in a valid survey. Questions 19
through 21 do not provide options that are valid. It is setup to suppose that residential; development will occur and is
biased toward that development scenario.
Many/Most of the proposed items rely upon public funding. I cannot support the constant creation of new outlets for our
limited public tax resources. This places a severe burden on the property owners that have in most cases spent a large
portion of their lives in the effort to become self-reliant. The county has Parks for instance; visit the one at Hemlock
Lake. That is an example of a public funded park. Visit the Reading Park by the water tower that is private volunteer
funding in action. Also, trying to attract New People by building "Things" such as that when you are competing with the
Ann Arbors of the world is insane. Be creative! Think of a niche that no one else is filling but utilize private funding. If
the idea is good enough the private funds will flow otherwise a bad idea is forced onto the taxpayers
When I moved here from Ohio, I was thrilled with the beauty and safety that I felt in this county. We live here with our
two children and it is a beautiful place to raise a family. But, in our economic times I feel deceived by the township of
Hillsdale. This sewer project is not any benefit to our family directly. We are nature lovers and environmentalists. This
is a shaky way for the county to generate revenue. My husband and I work full time and I am also going to graduate
school. We have done nothing but improve the appearance and value of our estate. Now, some 20 people think that it is
their right to undermine and develop a plan for a sewer system that will not even provide water. This economy is terrible
banks are in trouble, gas prices have sky rocketed along with groceries, etc. Shame on the county representatives to ask
us as residents to take out second mortgages on our homes to fund a sewer project. My husband and I both work fulltime, I am going to graduate school and attempting to improve our children’s lives. If this sewer project goes through I
do not know if I will be able to continue going to school and or remain living here. My husband and his father have a
business that will definitely be considering change of location just because they are taxed so high currently in Jonesville
and now we will accrue essentially an additional 50,000 on our mortgage. No way is it possible to make ends meet.
Shame on the representatives to even think that they should not empower the people of Hillsdale to have the knowledge
to vote on the sewer system. I am a social worker and always willing to look for improvement of the society as a whole
and keep people essentially out of the ditch. But to do that you have to educate, empower and allow for the individuals
to make freedom of choice. Unfortunately we feel that this is not being allowed.
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Appendix E
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This county is losing its residence at an alarming rate because there are no jobs here. The foreclosure rate here is
unbelievable. Someone better get some insight to turn this around before all that’s left is a bunch of old people living out
their last days with no one to take care of them.
Something drastic needs to transpire in order to improve the economy and health of the county.
I see the lack of consistent zoning and overall planning occurring in Hillsdale County to be similar to what happened to
downtowns across America in the 1960s. Newer seemed better, and there was a rush to abandon the very buildings and
other features of downtowns that gave those towns character and set them apart from their neighboring cities. Buildings
were ripped down and poorly planned structures were erected; eventually, downtowns were abandoned for the
excitement of outlying malls, which were the latest rage. Today, we are ruing the fact that our downtowns are
abandoned and so many strip malls are empty and an eyesore. If we are not careful, Hillsdale County could look much
the same way in the future -- unplanned growth rushed into approval for immediate gratification of tax base, etc., without
an eye toward quality of life and the very features that set Hillsdale County apart from other environs (e.g., open spaces,
small town flavor, friendly residents who know one another, clean environment, etc.). Thank you for taking the time and
effort to seek opinions.
Our home in Jerome is a summer home. I love the country atmosphere, the same way it looked in 1971, when we bought
the home for $25,000.
Good questions, Keep life simple and less hectic.
The Realtors say Hillsdale County is looked at as a Welfare County , you can still Preserve the Farm Land , and still
have better stores to shop at and if there were more stores, that means JOBS and that puts MONEY into the county and
maybe it wouldn’t be looked at like a WELFARE COUNTY ,,
Thank you for requesting my viewpoint with regard to future planning in the county.
I answered most questions for Hillsdale County as a whole. Not so much for Waldron area. Wouldn't be a big fan of a
Meijer coming into Waldron. Would like to keep most of the development in the Hillsdale, Jonesville, Litchfield area.
I would love to see the beauty of Hillsdale County maintained. I believe we very unique areas in our county. I would
really love to see local downtown areas boosted to support business. With ridiculous gas prices I believe small
downtown areas are in a unique position to expand now. I know I am thinking romantically, but I believe small towns
can survive if the people choose to work together for the greater good of all the townspeople than to work against each
other for independent financial gain only. Being disabled, I would pay a little more in retail prices than to pay so much
for gas. I cannot drive and it's always an inconvenience to get places.
Preserve the country road look and the farmlands
Quit adding assessments and taxes to people’s property taxes. You "the county government" are running people out of
Hillsdale County. There are not enough jobs to support the individuals that live in Hillsdale County. Wake up before no
one is left in Hillsdale County. Look at all the repo homes. Maybe everyone in the County Government need to tighten
their belts (budgets) just like individuals is doing just to be able to eat and survive with their families.
This county has nothing. What it needs: Not open spaces that grow up to weeds and brush but JOBS, JOBS, Jobs but the
people that run this county do not realize that and I think they don’t care. Tourism alone is not going to improve this co.
People who live here need stores, restaurants and manufacturing jobs. They do not shop in antique stores therefore that
kind of stuff does nothing for the residents/taxpayers.
More cooperation is needed throughout the county on all projects
We love Hillsdale's quiet but vibrant quality
You never addressed self-employed or in-home businesses, which has grown tremendously in this County. This should
be addressed by the County and not just the villages and cities. You have some that are very welcoming and some that
want to throw roadblocks up based on who the person is versus what they can bring to the community. The Greg Bailey
RPG or GPR development is a joke...that development which was the brainchild of Greg Bailey fell flat on it's face and I
am offended that you are putting this line of questioning in regarding sub-division development. We have far to many
houses for sale in this County as it is. Let's clean up the ones we have by giving tax incentives to those that do purchase
and fix up. The villages/cities would get more tax dollars from them in the long run.
Would really love to have more family owned business and I wish Walmart had never come here-won't shop there for
any reason-they come into communities and ruin small business!
I would like to see alternative energy programs promoted in this county. I also think that a business whose chief product
is alternative energies would thrive. We should work towards introducing this here. It would be a real boon for every
citizen, save money and keep us warm or cool as well as clean up our air. Thanks for the opportunity to sound off.
Need to have 1 level of control for the county, 1-fire departments, 1-schools, zoning. This county is to small to have so
many people doing the same thing,. Lets save money. The way of life is no different in any part of this county
I would like sewer and water
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Appendix E
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For question 25, I love the area and would like to stay but my wife and I both work in Bryan, OH and the driving back
and forth everyday for two vehicles (we can't carpool) is just too much. I think Hillsdale Co. is a great area but could
stand some improvement. Maybe for some of the open areas we could look into wind or solar power development.
Promote green business and reward those who help to keep the area environmentally sound.
Would like to stay in Hillsdale if they can start bringing in good paying jobs. What, if anything is being done about this?
What about a wood burning power plant, gun manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, trash burning plant, etc. There is lots of
ideas, lets get going. Thank you.
Hillsdale County needs to understand that tourism is going to be a significant part of their future, they need to make the
county a tourism friendly county. Tourism brings successful people, successful people fall in love with an area, then
they bring jobs.
Recycling options need to improve. Why do some of the towns offer curbside, but others don't? Also, the transfer
station only accepts #1 and #2 recyclables. We should find a company that will take the other numbers as well. Too
much recyclable material is still being thrown in the trash.
We live on a lake and so do many others. Attention needs to given to maintaining lake water quality including
installation of sewer systems and controlling run off from farmland and gravel roads
I would be glad to participate in land use planning for Hillsdale County if appropriate.
I think Hillsdale Township is trying to backdoor a sewer system by not telling its residents about it. They should know
people cant afford to hook up to it when so many homes are going back to the banks and the people are leaving the
county and state.
I think the look and entertainment both need to be developed here. I spoke to a couple and they said it looks like they
will be moving up to Grand Rapids. Reason- there is not much to do around here on their days off. I told them about the
walking/biking trail. It is not very well marked. Also, the college does not involve the community much.
I would like to see Hillsdale County give up its alcohol ban on Sunday-I think larger chain restaurants would come here
if they could serve alcohol-a lot of residents go out of the county to eat-not necessarily for the alcohol, but for the
restaurants that serve it-more jobs, More money staying here-and people who drink just go to the next county and buy it
and bring it home, so why not have it here?
Hillsdale County is more historically home town and valuable than most of us realize in our current busy lives. I'm not
saying that all changes are bad but in our hearts we need to maintain the history and landscape of the county, not trying
to be something we're not. With this questionnaire, now is the time to realize that, just like what was done with the great
national parks of the west. 50-100 years ago only a few fore thinking people were able to realize this. Yes I know this
isn't Yosemite but please understand the message. Greg Shoemaker, at Merry lake, and yes I feel it's important to sign
my name.
I found many of the questions over-simplified; especially those on housing developments.
Hillsdale is a special place; don't like big city people coming out here trying to change our way of life. I did a tour of
duty in the army, so don"t say this boy needs to get out more!
Control Phosphorous and other nutrient run off from Agricultural land and Confined feeding operations. BETTER
WATERSHED management is essential. Sewers are a very inefficient and ineffective way to reduce P&N loading in
lakes and streams. Educate the farmer that over fertilizing only cost him/her money and destroys the enviroment and
does not improve yield!!
We need to attract and retain young talent.
Growth is possible without losing much, if any of our ag property. The people need to want growth before it will occur.
Questions 19, 20 and 21 unable to answer. Development should occur as the property sellers/owners desire.
There are many houses here that could be lovely dwellings, but for the most part the people here lack the financial
resources to make necessary repairs to update and beautify their homes. Support for existing homeowners should be a
priority over building new homes for a shrinking population. Attracting businesses which preserve the natural attractions
and resources of our county should be our number one priority.
It would be wonderful to have Hillsdale County go wireless like Oakland County, MI. Your website has always been
easy to use and informative. Thanks
Rural growth in Michigan tends to create strip towns....a snap shot into early 20th century America where shopping etc
was in small towns and villages...rather than stretched along miles of highway...limit commercial zoning to city
limits..old city limits..force revitalization rather than allow community decay by expanding with new growth.
One of my greatest concerns as a property owner and long time taxpayer in this area is that the ideas of a few will
ultimately destroy my love of and use of the countryside all in the name of "progress and control" and that the freedom
that I have will no longer exist for my children and grandchildren.
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Appendix E
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I believe that zoning is critical and that trash left piled around housing and in junkyards is detrimental to appearances and
health of the entire community. Private land owners have rights, but so does the greater community. For those who do
try to keep appearances good and maintain health of the overall community, it is a shame that others are allowed to pile
trash right next door, bringing down values of others. Also the junkyards that have junk in water areas is extremely
disconcerting. What is the impact on our ecosystem when autos, trucks, etc with oil, grease, rust, etc are allowed to
disintegrate in open water and wet lands???? This must also create havens for rodents, bugs, other vermin and
contaminate the surrounding areas. Thank you for asking for and considering input of the community. Hopefully, it
will be of help and used in future work.
Hillsdale County has a great agriculture and education base with a good and capable workforce. The County can try the
old and failed ways of building bigger roads and retail centers or it can provide a stable infrastructure, including public
owned internet and wireless. Design tax incentives for targeted business like banking, call and data processing centers,
light manufacturing, insurance and investment companies. Thank You
I believe my future will see a shift back to small, sustainable communities with friendly people working together. I also
foresee our transportation system changing. For long distances, we'll be using electric vehicles charged from
solar/wind/alternative energy charging stations in our communities; for local trips we would simply walk or bicycle. In
reply to number 17-1, "The scenic beauty of the county has declined in the last 20 years due to unplanned or unmanaged
growth." The scenic beauty of the county HAS declined, but the decline is due to private property being left unattended
for long periods of time. I'm not sure how much power the public has over things like that. Perhaps finding ways to
provide jobs and the properties would fill up again.
Given the changing economy, our land is perhaps our best asset. We should coordinate policies throughout the county so
when individual townships compete with one another it is with a common baseline of standards and land use goals.
Then we can market our entire county to retirees and developers with a clear vision of the future, rather than by chance.
Many of your residents are owners of homes/cottages on the lakes. While we may not be full-time residents, we do
spend our money and pay (substantial. non-homesteaded) taxes within your county. In fact, many of the choicest
properties within your county are owned by non-residents. You would do well to find a way to engage those "cash
cows" in your planning. As an owner on Lake Wilson, I spend heavily in your community. I pay taxes, do my food
shopping, buy gas, use marina services, purchase incidentals and support your local businesses (restaurants, insurance
sales, gift shops, bakeries) I also attend your local Churches and contribute to them as well. Your part-time residents
may be contributing more to your economy than you give us credit for.
Bringing job growth to Hillsdale county combined with solid planning for development will create a prosperous county.
Development impedes use of land for hunting by adjoining property owners; hunting land should be preserved as
agricultural land since serves as important natural buffers and hunters do improve the land through trees and forage
plantings; Hillsdale County should not allow farmers to farm property tax free in the road right of ways; Hillsdale
County should not be supporting destructive farming practices which destroy the waterways, pollute air and land.
Thanks for providing this wonderful opportunity to help make Hillsdale County a better place to live, work, and play.
Keep the public informed with the results. Some of the townships have no zoning and fear any government input. please
publish the results
Feel free to call me for clarification on the role of CRF or the Industrial Recruiting and Housing Initiative concept
expressed above. 517 283-3982
The county is in sore need of jobs, educational facilities, and places for teens to go. In addition, monies wasted in
individual school systems need to be pooled to form larger and stronger school systems that benefit our FUTURE
citizens and their children. Aren't you tired of hearing our teens say that they are getting out of Hillsdale County ASAP
because there are no jobs?
This county must get more competitive in order to survive. Bring jobs to the community; get rid of some of the
ridiculous politics that occurs here. Put controls on the gas price gouging, as well as all the other price gouging. You can
leave this county and pay less for EVERYTHING, Coldwater Wal-Mart is a good example, same store Jonesville, lower
prices.
As little government intervention, which of course requires tax dollars, should be used as possible.
This was a good place to raise a family, if I wanted city or small town i would have moved into one, but now with all the
high money people trying to change the very landscape of rural living, because they want full time police, waste pickup,
fire department and telling you to help pay for their interest is bullshit, so goodbye Hillsdale county and hello Williams
county, Ohio.
The land use questions imply that we want a lot of houses being built in the county. I’m not sure we should encourage
new building when there are so many houses for sale.
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Appendix E
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We need to discourage the concentration of what I will call welfare types, especially young ones by requiring and
enforcing requirements that they work and pay their bill, subsidizing an unproductive life style only gets you more of it.
Not on your list for work I do is casual plus, 2 home base business.
Something needs to be done about all the water we are throwing away. Mostly through fast food establishments and
bottled water. Somehow we need to encourage people to dump their ice out before they dispose of it, and empty their
water bottles before they throw them away. We don't need good water in our landfills. I bicycle all over the northern
part of the County and I am constantly stopping and emptying out water bottles where people have just thrown them
away when they get warm. Not sure how this would be accomplished, but just a concern of mine. I am sure though, that
across the nation, billions of gallons of water are just thrown into landfills annually, and may be partly responsible for
areas of drought across the nation.
It would be wonderful to have something besides WalMart to shop at in Hillsdale like Meijer or Super Target. I have
asked many people and they are sick of WalMart as well!!!!!!!!!!!!! Also, a nice recreation center would be great for
many families to enjoy that doesn't cost a fortune like the College!!!!!!!!!!!
The clustered housing situation is a complicated issue. Everyone wants a big yard and open space around their home, so
most people would object to living tightly with their neighbors, I think. But I still hate to see the entire road frontage
permeated with homes.
The county has allowed stagnated, "change is bad" thinking to control it to a point where it is not a desirable place for
young professionals to locate, thus endangering its future. Small vocal minority is allowed to hamper development,
which would enhance the counties future.
7th item in question 7. Countywide transportation would be way too costly. Countywide Fire/Ambulance and public
safety is a great idea. School reorganization/consolidation is very high priority.
Litchfield is a great example of small-town America. It is the best-kept secret in Michigan.
The slower pace of the county should be celebrated but we do need to offer people (young & old) places to shop, to be
entertained and a place you want to come back to again.
Thank you for providing this survey, however, this is about the hundredth one (at least it seems that way :-)) they've done
here in Hillsdale. The city/county can plan all they want but if there is no action based on the planning all the planning
in the world is not going to help. Also, some of the questions in this survey don't seem too relevant to Hillsdale.County.
Thank you.
Strive to improve Hillsdale County and preserve farmland.
It would be nice to have Hillsdale city allow some nicer restaurants and shopping sites it.
If the Rotary club has built that marvelous bike trail maybe other organizations can promote new things to our
community instead of raising taxes to do this. I also think we can CLEAN UP our city. It doesn't look very pretty for
tourists or residents.
I do not believe that this survey is going to result in a representative sample of the community. I would be curious to see
if the education level and income stats are in line with those of the county. How is the survey being promoted to reach
those whom have lower educational levels? Amish? I am an individual whom moved to Hillsdale County for its rural
pleasures and simple charm. However, this does not mean that I do not value the opinions of those whom do not make
as much money or have as much education as I. Their is an elitist attitude in this county amongst the haves and have
not’s which inhibits consensus and progress. It seems that many of the have's resent challenge and simply wish to
regulate the have not's into conformance. Have not’s whom are not asked to participate, and are not represented in
decision making simply become either hostile or complacent and discontent.
We are on the right track in Hillsdale with development of new apartments over businesses. I hope the city can make a
comeback.
One of us works and the other is retired; our future in Hillsdale County is dependant on how the county improves (or
continues to decline). If the current economic level does not improve and the county "cleaned up" of eyesore properties
we will surely retire some place else. The beautiful land of this area could benefit two things - tourism and a retirement
age population. It can be a good thing bringing people and money to the area or we can continue status quo. I'm not sure
industry is the answer right now and we need to identify our resources and use them for development and improvement.
One of us works and the other is retired; our future in Hillsdale County is dependant on how the county improves (or
continues to decline) If the current economic level does not improve and the county "cleaned up" of eyesore properties
we will surely retire some place else.
Restoration of historic structures is not on Hillsdale’s radar. Major emphasis should be given to rehabilitation and
resulting tourism.
County planners should focus on the counties strength. More promotion should be done to make the public aware of the
reason to live, work and visit our area.
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Appendix E
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I live with my parents, who rent in Hillsdale, so my answers are based on me living there, and in a dorm setting at Spring
Arbor University. And I've lived in Hillsdale my entire life (18 yrs)
Please do not be discouraged from the so-called "experts" that populate the Hillsdale.net forums. There are plenty of
intelligent, well-spoken individuals who are willing to participate in substantive dialogue about land use and planning.
Good luck on this process. Please be sure to continue to communicate about the process and its outcomes in as many
public forums as possible. The more people "in the know", the better the chance for success.
Parke Hayes: Some answers are "knowledge based" although not personally applicable (septic, paying for, etc)
Hillsdale County needs to work hard to retain its agri background worth efforts at improving the central county seat,
Hillsdale and Jonesville. With an improvement along the m-99 connector to bring more retail business and light industry
for our citizens to both work in and spend the money they make in Hillsdale county. If the county growth becomes to
rapid I will find myself moving out of state in search of the agri-rural area I love. Thank You.
There is a very diverse group of people that live in Hillsdale County. With the college this county could sustain more
stores like a Wild Oats or Whole Foods, and more cultural entertainment. With the empty factories in the county why
can't they turn them into organic greenhouses, the market is out there.
Zoning needs to be implemented in more townships in Hillsdale County. Gravel roads are a huge problem.
There is great potential for Hillsdale County to be a beautiful place to live. However, we MUST do something about
various residential eyesores that exist within the Hillsdale city limits (and probably elsewhere in the county as well). If
our community looks nice, people will take pride in calling it their home, and they will take better care of things in the
future. I think we need regulations related to the condition of property, also perhaps some laws regulating where rental
properties are allowed, and grant programs for people who are trying to restore historic homes. Thanks for your
consideration.
Hillsdale is a beautiful, quiet place to live, but at the same it is need of economic growth in order to maintain the
standard of living as with bigger towns.
Do more to help support the existing businesses to stay competitive.
Although I do not have plans to leave the area where I was born and raised, there are immediate concerns regarding the
local economy, which must be addressed.
Internet use at work. Expand rail service for people.
I think we need more shopping centers and nice restaurants in our community to keep the money spent here. We need a
Meijers, Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohl's. Apple Bee's, Red Lobster, Steak House ect. Out County needs to be cleaned up so
it's much more appealing to people that are looking for a place to live. We need many more jobs that pay well to keep
the people from driving to Detroit to make a good living. It's so sad that Hillsdale use to be the place to work when
Allied was here but after that factory closed so did many more. Bring back the work and everything else will follow.
I grew up in rural Hillsdale County - I have lived in Jackson for the last 7 years and recently moved back because it truly
is a rural place and I enjoy nature and living the farm life. You really can't get that anywhere else - I hope that the way of
life in Hillsdale County can be preserved.
Concerned about taking of PRIVATE property and CIVIL LIBERTIES by forces controlled outside this county without
our consent nor knowledge in land use planning that promotes the idea I don't want to live here anymore. Once nice
neighbors are suddenly cooperating with government regulators of all types that just don't seem stoppable by local
officials who have joined them too often.
We don't need more roads, we just need to upgrade the roads we have and take better care of the roadsides. We also
need to encourage recycling and trash management. City people routinely bring their garbage, tires, and even trash like
old drywall out to the country and dump it along any back road. Do they not realize that this is where some of us live?
and we care about our properties! Also, the road commission needs to communicate with citizens about the cutting of
trees along the roadsides! They currently are cutting and not cleaning up the limbs or trees!
I actually live in Branch County, but work and am very active in Hillsdale County. I am on the Reading Chamber of
Commerce Board and co-founded an organization that functions in Reading. My home is on the Hillsdale/Branch
County border. I grew up going to Reading schools and will be sending my children to Reading. I am interested in
receiving reports of your findings after this survey concludes. Please email me any information regarding this survey or
potential plans for the county. Thank you-- Carmen Jacoby carmenjacoby@yahoo.com
I moved here from out of state, and 10 years later, Hillsdale County truly feels like home to me. However, I am
disheartened by the lack of interest given to preserving our agricultural land and open spaces, improving existing
neighborhoods and communities, and encouraging managed growth. Thank you for creating this survey; hopefully it
will help people to see the benefit of preserving our many assets, and warn them that unless we manage those assets
wisely, we will lose the unique flavor and character of the County. If I wanted to live in the "Concrete Jungle" that is
where I would be!
58
Appendix E
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We need nicer apartments in Hillsdale city, not so much low income housing. we also need to clean up the parks and
make it nicer for families to go to, specifically within/around the Hillsdale city, i.e. stocks park, cold springs park. we
need to bring in more business to the county, maybe offer incentives to get them into the county.
#18, last question is unclear & confusing
The county may have developed in a haphazard manner. For example, Somerset Township is serviced by 4 school
districts and only one is in Hillsdale County. This is a major distraction for building a community.
1. Anything that you can do to get people out of their cars (bike lanes on public roads, more trails, actually enforcing
dog leash laws) and encourage muscle-powered transportation will improve both the quality of life (and health) and the
aesthetic value of the rural landscape.
2. If you can pick up garbage, then you can pick up recycling. Please start a
program. 3. With all of the agriculture in the county, we really should have a Farmer's Market.
The graphics you used create bias. When you say "Same number of new houses sited to blend with landscape and
preserve farms" you fail to mention the houses will be very close to neighbors in order to allow more open areas.
People, who feel the need to be in charge, need to have a plan that benefits the community without inhibiting individual
rights, space, pursuit to accomplish things, etc. They need to have a vision for the future. The layout of roads in this
county is a prime example of how planning is extremely limited in scope and designed to benefit only a few with power.
If this county is to succeed and move away from poverty, the attitude needs to be one of respect for every citizen and the
expectation that every citizen will work to be a productive and contributing citizen. Also, the idea that a community has
the right to determine how a person uses their own property is detrimental to our community. And the idea that we will
solve all of our community problems by limiting where people can and cannot build, etc. is also detrimental to our
community.
Do more to support existing small businesses so the can stay competitive
I answered yes and no to question 5 because I would like to see housing development in my community which is the
City of Hillsdale but not in the townships unless it is in a village. If there is not enough land in the cities or villages then
they should be allowed to expand to keep development clustered.
Junk question is difficult to answer. I believe most townships don't address this in their zoning or ordinances.
Upscale housing needed, not subsidized
This county would look better and bring more people into the county if our road ways and yards were cleaned up of all
the trash.
A disposal option is needed to dispose of old tires, appliances with Freon, electronics, hazardous materials. It needs to be
easy & quick to eliminate dumping. I recycle when given the option and it is relatively easy to accomplish. I also would
be interested in alternative energy sources in the county.
I hope the results are made available to the entire community.
I do not support any more taxes. I think that like any household the governing bodies need to work within their budgets.
If this board is to do a great thing for our community. It needs to figure out how to do it efficiently and with out adding
more burden to those who are already stretched. Concentrate on our strengths. Remember, the founding fathers of our
town when it was prosperous did it without a huge budget or taxes. Let's get back to the basics and do them well. Let's
keep the charm of our city. Being a small town it really can be a success. Please google "Julian, CA, Ramona, CA" for a
small town that has thousands of visitors come to visit... and it doesn't even have a pond!
Thank you for considering residents opinions.
Lower my taxes and quit trying to engineer society to live by arbitrary goals. All the endeavors in this survey cost
money the planners do not have, but will use this information to justify taking it from people who can ill-afford your
efforts. Here is the only community planning this county should be taking on: Shrink government, incentivize business,
and get Hillsdale back to work. Without business and the employment it brings, you are re-arranging deck chairs on the
Titanic. Get out of my wallet.
A united vision between individuals, government, business, industry, and education is the only way that Hillsdale
County will prosper in the future. This being said; educational venues need to educate students for the new technological
(mental) economy and not for manual labor (current situation); local government needs to get out of the way of
innovation and stop trying to craft an economic base, just support it as is their responsibility; individuals need to take
responsibility for their community and themselves.
Questions 19, 20 and 21 are flawed and impossible to answer.
The survey targeted how we want our county to look in the future. Keep that in focus. I grew up rural, but employment is
the key. Bring in business. Now go plan to expand on all fronts.
59
Appendix E
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This survey is obviously geared to seek specific replies. It is not scientific and its results are highly inaccurate.
Government is already too involved in planning the county's future. They need to let private business lead. Results have
been a large failure in Hillsdale County when lead by government groups such as the EDP and SWMW and others.
Not sure what your trying to justify in this survey, but you'd be well served by letting the citizens and business owners
have real input, and not one of this blown dried survey's trying to justify more boondoggles. County really could be
made into something, *if* the old prejudices and vested interests could be sweep aside. Of course, what do I know? In
any case, wish you well.
I cannot answer #6 for it does not provide with the option for urban infill. Plenty of space exists within our currently
defined city limits to accommodate future growth, both in terms of vacant houses and in terms of sprawling lots.
Subdivisions are bad and show a lack of planning creativity...but are the easiest development option.
The current
highway infrastructures can accommodate growth over the next 5 to 10, but I thought this plan was about the next 40?
I've got a notion about that, but you didn't ask. Residential tracts that spawn on existing farmland should be required to
produce at least a vegetable garden or orchard, not a 2 acre lawn of grass. Tourism might be valuable to the County as
it evolves over the next 40, but as of today, what exactly will we be inviting tourists to do here and where shall we have
them lodge? If Hillsdale County wants to thrive, it needs to fill the gap of residents between ages 20-40. People leave
for college and don't come back until their parents get sick/die and then they inherit property.
Financial tools/tax
programs/culture needs to exist whereby out of use structures don't sit abandoned for more than a year, let alone 5-10
years. Hillsdale County Government is not a cure, but a tool. Hillsdale County Government should state what it can
realistically do about the future and then ask if it should pursue measures to go ahead and do it. Participatory surveys are
fun and all, but at what point are we going to trade Comprehensive Plans for Specific Goals/Specific Policies? At some
point, Hillsdale County Government has to take ownership over it's contribution to the future. If you want to lead the
process of change, you have to be prepared to make emphatic decisions. You have to be convicted to those decisions
and not give in to detractors, however loud they can shout. This is a hard pill for elected officials to swallow. I know
American Public Policy/Cultural Norms make it difficult for any entity to realize it's role, but if the Hillsdale County
Planning Commission has the legal precedent to fill the role of the lead agent for change/growth, I would expect to see a
list of your specifically enumerated powers/capabilities. If all you can do is Plan and not Act, what good is the plan in
the first place? I want to know how the Hillsdale County Planning Commission is going to transition into the Hillsdale
County Action Commission once a plan is in place. Feel me?
James Benjamin Galloway, 28, Allen Township
coast2coast.us@gmail.com
This survey needs some work. Views of development are highly dependent upon many factors. I would ask about type
of profession, especially farming.
60

Picture Hillsdale County Survey Report

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