Dear Editor:
I am running for one of the two Lima Township Trustee positions, and in doing so, am getting to know so many wonderful people who have stepped up to work for our Township through the years, both in elected offices and behind the scenes. I am so thankful for the support, deep knowledge, and insights they so generously share.
I saw last May that Lima Township had no one running for Clerk. I read through the Board Meeting minutes on the Lima Township website back to when Elaine Bater left, after over six years of service.
Lima Township was about to potentially lose its fourth Clerk since 2022. That brought me to the June Board meeting, where I was hooked.
I found that by asking questions that needed to be asked, and (respectfully) calling it like I see it, I could help. Also, with copies of the State Law on open meetings in hand, I began Zoom/recording the Board and Planning Commission meetings, which I have shared with our Clerk.
The Township and its budget have grown; I agree with William Van Riper, Ann Kwaske, and the arguments Greg McKenzie has made on our behalf during Board meetings, the Board needs to recommit to best practices, transparency, and accountability, especially in making financial decisions on behalf of Lima’s residents.
I have enjoyed getting to know many past and present Township Board members, committee members, public servants, and residents. I attend meetings for the Lima Township Board and Planning Commission, Thornton Farms Board, etc., and I’ve recently been appointed as the alternate to the Vice-Chair, Craig Maier, on the Chelsea Area Fire Authority Board.
If elected, I will:
- Support our new, presumptive Supervisor, William Vanriper.
- Pitch in, helping the Board and staff to best serve the people of Lima Township.
- Use our community’s hard-earned money responsibly and transparently for the good of the Township.
- Gather information from reliable sources – pros and cons – for the Board’s timely consideration.
- Build relationships with our neighboring Townships and Washtenaw County to help clarify and advance our goals for our bridges, roads, land conservation, etc.
- Listen openly to the priorities and perspectives of our residents, farmers, and other business owners.
- Vote, always, in the interest of the people of Lima Township.
Born and raised in Michigan, my parents taught me to do what’s right, even when no one’s looking; to help where you can; and to treat everyone with respect and kindness.
I graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Communication. My husband and I moved to Washtenaw County in 2008, where I have been a small business owner, teaching private voice lessons, volunteering at our child’s school; and until recently, caring for my father, who I now miss more than I can say. His passing has left the bittersweet gift of time and the desire to serve and give back to our community.
We have farmers who know this land in a way few ever will, willing to share their wisdom and perspectives while continuing to serve our community. In the Thornton Farms subdivision, we have retired farmers, retired and active police officers, veterans, nurses, teachers, and young families with energetic little ones. Whoever you are, however you vote, I will work for you.
Thank you for considering me for Lima Trustee this November.
With your vote, I will continue earning it every day for the next four years.
Sincerely,
Jenn Evens
