On Saturday November 13th, the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners held the first session of “Washtenaw County Investing in Equity Listening Sessions” in the West Willow Greater Faith Transition Center and Congregation.

 

In attendance were 4 County Commissioners representing the eastern side of Washtenaw County (Superior Twp., Pittsfield Twp., Ypsilanti Twp., and the City of Ypsilanti).  Additional government officials in attendance were 2 Ypsilanti Twp. Trustees, the Washtenaw County OCED Director, the Washtenaw County Administrator, and the Communications and Operations Manager for the BOC.  Fifty five residents and leaders of grass root organizations came to listen and share their heart felt experiences, concerns, frustrations, and interests for their communities.

Ricky Jefferson, District 6 County Commissioner stated: “These listening sessions are the direct response by Commissioners to resident’s strong suggestion that we need to listen to the voice of the people. In reality this is the only way for us to learn where we should be focusing our equity lens when deciding how to apply transformative, fair and just solutions”.

Commissioners were there to “to listen and answer questions about what we can actually do, to the best of our abilities within the framework of our jurisdictions, Federal and State guidelines, and our County budget. We all agree in order to effectively address historical and current disparities the voices of the people we serve must be listened to and acted upon. We are sincerely seeking the input of residents to help us determine the best action plan that will compel Commissioners to make sound quality of life decisions through the vision of a clear equity lens.

 

Two more sessions are in the works of being scheduled one in Willow Run and one in Ypsilanti. Those dates have yet to be determined, but are slated to be scheduled before the Christmas Holiday begins. Commissioners must have a clear understanding of the depth and width of the problems within our neighborhoods.”

 

The grassroots organization, “Ypsi Can I Share” was an organizer of this community event,  and is a collaborator with the LWV Washtenaw.   Members of the LWV Washtenaw County were invited to attend the event and provide Voter Empowerment Cards for participants produced in collaboration with Ypsi, Can I share? and printed with LWV Education Funds.    The cards provide contact information for elected officials in 4 separate municipalities in eastern Washtenaw County and their distribution at the event was well received.  The LWV has been invited to attend the additional Equity listening events planned in the community.