And comments
Home > Links > Contact Us
2007 Whitewater Township Survey
During the fall of 2007, Whitewater Watch assembled questions for a survey of Whitewater Township residents and property owners on a variety of current issues. The last time a survey had been performed by the township was in 1996. The survey was mailed at the end of September to all 1455 addresses on the township newsletter mailing list. A total of 360 surveys were completed and returned, giving a return rate similar to the 1988 and 1996 township surveys. All results have been tabulated and re-tabulated to ensure their accuracy. Additionally, all comments received have been compiled into one document. The survey results will be presented to the Township Board at their Regular Meeting on Tuesday, December 18th at 7:00 p.m., at the township hall. Click on the links below to access the 2007 Whitewater Watch Community Survey Results or the 2007 Whitewater Watch Community Survey Comments.
Whitewater Watch would like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the survey! Special thanks also to Saco's Shell Station and Send Brothers Feed Store for providing convenient locations for survey drop boxes.
RESULTS OF 2007 COMMUNITY SURVEY
1. Would you like to see the community cleanup day expanded to a spring and fall event?
YES 75% NO 17% SKIP 8%
2. Would you support the creation of a carpool parking lot in Williamsburg?
YES 57% NO 30% SKIP 13%
3. Would you like to see a weekly farmers' market in our community?
YES 75% NO 19% SKIP 6%
4. Would you use a Whitewater Township business directory?
YES 48% NO 44% SKIP 8%
5. Would you be interested in a community "Meet the Founders" picnic? Residents would be encouraged to bring and share old photos and memorabilia?
YES 36% NO 52% SKIP 12%
6. Should the township pursue opportunities to provide public utilities such as sewer, water, and natural gas?
YES 47% NO 45% SKIP 8%
7. Are you aware of the proposed zoning ordinance?
YES 50% NO 48% SKIP 2%
8. If so, do you know how it would affect your property?
YES 36% NO 61% SKIP 3%
9. The proposed zoning ordinance is based on the township's "Master Plan." Are you aware of this document and what it proposes?
YES 32% NO 63% SKIP 5%
10. Should our township zoning encourage . . .
Sale of local produce? YES 91% NO 4% SKIP 5%
Home occupations? YES 67% NO 20% SKIP 13%
Local businesses? YES 86% NO 7% SKIP 7%
Growth/expansion of existing businesses? YES 82% NO 12% SKIP 6%
Legible business signs? YES 78% NO 14% SKIP 8%
Small office space? YES 68% NO 20% SKIP 12%
New retail businesses? YES 70% NO 22% SKIP 8%
New uses for vacant structures? YES 87% NO 5% SKIP 8%
Affordable housing? YES 63% NO 29% SKIP 8%
Private property owners' rights? YES 91% NO 3% SKIP 6%
New job growth? YES 77% NO 12% SKIP 11%
Growth around casino? YES 48% NO 41% SKIP 11%
11. Recent changes in the zoning ordinance altered the minimum lot size in the Forest Residential area from 1 acre to 5 acres. Should this recent restriction be reversed?
YES 48% NO 41% SKIP 11%
12. Should zoning encourage commercial development on M-72?
YES 63% NO 33% SKIP 4%
13. Should township property be subject to the same zoning ordinance as private property?
YES 75% NO 14% SKIP 11%
14. Should the sign ordinance make allowances for temporary off-premise real estate, for rent, agricultural, and garage sale signs?
YES 84% NO 12% SKIP 4%
15. Do you shop at local farm markets and produce stands?
YES 91% NO 7% SKIP 2%
16. Are stockade and chain link fences suitable for residential areas?
YES 66% NO 25% SKIP 9%
17. Should zoning regulate the cutting of trees or brush on private property?
YES 6% NO 86% SKIP 8%
18. Do you believe there should be architectural and seasonal restrictions on children's bus shelters?
YES 23% NO 69% SKIP 8%
19. Should the township zoning ordinance regulate the architectural design of new homes and additions? (examples: type of roof or siding)
YES 11% NO 85% SKIP 4%
20. Should voters have the opportunity to vote on all zoning issues?
YES 84% NO 9% SKIP 7%
21. Please rate our township government in the following areas. (5 = excellent; 4 = good; 3 = neutral; 2 = poor; 1 = bad).
Numbers shown are not percentages. They are actual numbers for each rating from the 360 surveys returned.
Excellent Good Neutral/No Answer Poor Bad
Provides accurate information: 17 62 165 74 42
Listens to the public: 15 38 147 80 80
In touch with community wishes: 12 22 155 90 81
Planning Commission: 4 31 187 60 78
Zoning Administrator: 8 31 209 49 63
Zoning Board of Appeals: 4 28 218 49 61
Tax Assessor: 9 40 211 47 53
Township Attorneys: 3 25 233 39 60
Supervisor: 27 65 215 32 21
Clerk: 33 65 192 30 40
Treasurer: 33 51 190 20 66
Trustee: 12 60 232 30 26
22. Should the township use competitive bidding for all contracted services?
YES 90% NO 6% SKIP 4%
23. In order to save both paper and postage, would you be interested in receiving your township newsletter by e-mail?
YES 47% NO 49% SKIP 4%
24. Would you find it helpful if the township created a voluntary e-mail list of people to notify in the event of any special meeting?
YES 64% NO 27% SKIP 9%
25. Would you attend an informal educational meeting on the proposed zoning ordinance and "Master Plan" sponsored by Whitewater Watch?
YES 80% NO 13% SKIP 7%
Many survey respondents took the time to write comments or questions in the margins of the survey and under the section entitled Comments. All of those comments, without authors' names, have been compiled into one document and may be viewed by clicking on 2007 Community Survey Comments.
Comments from mailed in surveys:
WHITEWATER WATCH
2007 COMMUNITY SURVEY COMMENTS
The following document is a compilation of all comments written on or attached to returned surveys. Of 360 surveys returned, 135 had written comments. They are listed here in no particular order. No authors' names are listed.
1. "Some of these questions were too vague to answer. We appreciate the Whitewater Watch. Keep up the good work!!"
2. "Give seasonal resident more consideration using any/all facilities, i.e. schools, roads, parks, etc. Only 5 months, yet paying highest taxes."
3. In response to Question 10, an asterisk marking 10 of the 12 subquestions (which were answered yes) and the comment, "As long as they conform with zoning."
In response to Question 21, "*W.R.S. problems." (No asterisk for any of the 12 subquestions.)
Under Comments, "Needs to limit nonconforming zoning."
4. "What part of no doesn't the township board understand? Why don't they listen to the people?"
5. In response to Question 3, "Do we have enough population to support it?"
In response to Question 6, "Prohibitive costs??"
In response to Question 7, "It would be good to be able to obtain a copy for study."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, answered no and wrote, "This will take care of itself."
Under Comments, "Who are you? Why are no names attached to Whitewater Watch?"
6. "Bringing in sewer and natural gas would be terrific! We need natural gas now."
7. In response to Question 1, "Then there might not be such long wait times."
In response to Question 2, "Depends on location."
In response to Question 3, "Please."
In response to Question 12, "Some development, yes, but not so much it creates more traffic lights or would slow traffic down."
In response to Question 16, circled yes and wrote, "Yes and no. Not in subdivisions and not in front yards."
8. "Property taxes are too high."
9. "Already get e-mail."
10. "I had heard that there was talk of having a gravel pit on Vinton Road. My husband and I feel very strongly against this due to the damages it would cause our road and property value."
11. "Excellent survey. Keep up the good work."
12. "Our township is too secretive and is a 'good old boys' group run by the same families for years. We need 'new blood' in office - people who will listen to the local residents."
13. Attached a separate sheet stating, "General Comment: You indicate in your mission statement that WW is for private owners' rights. The Whitewater master plan indicates 'this plan has been developed to ensure that the rights of individual property owners and the goals and policies of the community as a whole are given due recognition.' They seem to be for the individual and the community. Since the underlined portion was left out, I can only assume that your goal is everyone for themselves.
"Question 1: Will this be at no cost, I know WW is very cost conscious, or will it increase all our taxes to only benefit the few that use it.
"Question 2: Same as 1.
"Question 16: Poorly written question. In some areas it may be and some it may not. What area?
"Question 17: Same as 16.
"Question 18: Maybe this is not the answer, but something needs to control what is put out at the road. Don't think I would like to see a bunch of junk! The question should have addressed a solution.
"Question 19: Same as 16.
"Question 20: You say you believe in a common sense approach. How do you expect to get the majority of voters in the township to vote on thousands of zoning issues? This will only guarantee that nothing will ever get done.
"Question 21: The first three are areas but all the rest functions. Again poorly written question.
"Question 26: As with this survey, if it isn't comprehensive and cover all aspect, including a recommended solution, don't bother by any means!"
14. In response to Question 4, circled no and wrote, "Not needed."
In response to Question 10 re: should our township zoning encourage, inserted "With controls."
In response to Question 10 re: small office space and new retail businesses, circled yes for both and wrote, "In village district."
In response to Question 10 re: private property owners' rights, circled no and wrote, "A zoning ordinance already does this."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not correct."
In response to Question 12, circled no and wrote, "It's already zoned. No more traffic."
In response to Question 19, circled yes and wrote, "Yes in village district."
In response to Question 20, circled no and wrote, "That's why we elect or appoint."
In response to Question 23, circled yes and wrote, "No selling of list!"
In response to Question 24, circled no and wrote, "Call the clerk or stop @ township hall for posting."
Under Comments, "List who you are! We don't need another group. Why not just go to regular township meetings and provide comments - or run for office. Don't knit pick on the side."
Under Address, "When you provide your name(s) I'll provide mine."
15. "You talk about 'private property.' How can it be private property when the township can tell you what you can or cannot do with the private property. Also what about our park? The picnic tables are unsafe to sit on, and what about putting some electric in. Through the grapevine, it's been said the township is going to have a building at the end of Cram Rd. Who wants a nice new building next to the city dump, referring to the Cram's house. The township worries about what homeowners and property owners should or should not do with their 'private property.' Why can't they tell people to clean things up?!"
16. In response to Question 22, circled no and wrote, "Hire LOCAL residents/businesses!!!!! We pay taxes here!"
17. "Who is the Whitewater Watch group?"
18. "Very unhappy with zoning ordinances. Residents do not respect their neighbors - junk cars, trucks, trailers, and etc. Extremely unhappy when paying our taxes when township never enforces junk ordinance. After paying taxes for fourteen years, you would think township would protect our property values. #1 example of junk @ corner of Cram and Palaestrum. When talking to him, he even laughs at township saying they cannot make him clean up his property."
19. "If these could be adopted, the locality would be the people friendly place that it was 60 years ago. Go to it WWTW."
20. "We believe public comments and-or questions should be allowed (within reason) during meetings. We don't know what comments/questions we might have about the issues before they come up."
21. "Have no e-mail and will not have e-mail."
22. "#21 neutral if not known through experience. Some yes responses we feel should be judged on individual merit, not blanket ruling. Private rights should not be ignored. And environmental issues should be limiting factor."
23. In response to Question 10 re: home occupations, "With appropriate regulations that protect surrounding properties."
In response to Question 10 re: legible business signs, "? Needs clarification."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, answered "Not sure."
In response to Question 14, "With appropriate and enforceable regulations."
24. In response to Question 10 re: sale of local produce, answered yes and wrote, "At markets."
In response to Question 10 re: new retail businesses, answered yes and wrote, "Some."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, answered yes and wrote, "Some."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Where is this?"
In response to Question 12, circled yes and wrote, "Some."
In response to Question 14, circled yes and wrote, "With ordinance control."
In response to Question 16, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Yes, in the pools, large lots."
In response to Question 20, circled no and wrote, "That's why we vote for our officials."
In response to Question 22, circled no and wrote, "(Over $5,000, yes.)"
In response to Question 24, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Who would have time for this before meeting."
25. In response to Question 6, circled yes and wrote, "Internet, telephone."
In response to Question 14, circled yes and wrote, "If cleaned up."
In response to Question 17, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "To some extent."
In response to Question 18, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "They should be safe."
In response to Question 24, circled yes and wrote, "Will supply tools."
26. In response to Question 12, circled no and wrote, "Not until road is improved, and is limited."
27. "We are registered voters."
28. "Would like to see recall of some current township officers."
29. In response to Question 24, circled no and wrote, "Hard copy/mail."
Under Comments, "I would like to be more involved in the proposed zoning ordinance and to have a voice in the Master Plan. I feel there is no need for the township to regulate the type of siding or roof style or color of home that people are allowed to build."
30. In response to Question 17, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Site plan review will determine."
In response to Question 18, modified the question by crossing out the words "seasonal restrictions," and circled yes.
31. "Very poor care of RV park money wise."
32. "We are two-year residents of Williamsburg and this is the very first letter/correspondence we've received from the Whitewater Township other than tax bills or ballots. We would love to have some kind of voter's pamphlet to learn about the issues and candidates, and not the Record-Eagle."
33. "Flyers from gas station or pick up at stores - e-mail."
34. "I don't want Williamsburg to ever turn into a 'Chums Corner.' But I do think it important to have steady planned growth. We have a casino, porno shop and a gas station. What else do we need?"
35. "Thank goodness for informed citizens of WWW to keep us informed."
36. "Zoning ordinance had a meeting at the school. No one liked it. Why don't we leave it the way it is. Get a treasurer you can trust, not one that deals for herself and friends."
37. "The right to own property and the right to use that property is the main deterrent to socialism. Allowing a zoning ordinance to dictate the use of your property is giving up our fundamental rights to freedom."
38. In response to Question 10 re: home occupations, wrote "maybe."
In response to Question 23, circled no, and wrote, "No computer."
In response to Question 25, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Maybe."
Under Comments, "Hard to get out currently due to my health. I don't want to see another Traverse City out here."
39. In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, answered no, and wrote, "Not particularly."
In response to Question 16, circled yes, and wrote, "Owners rights!"
In response to Question 18, circled no, and wrote, "Owners rights!"
40. In response to Question 1, circled yes, and wrote, "When summer resident on hand."
Under Comments, "More attention to those of us who are property owners but cannot vote but do pay taxes."
41. In response to Question 4, circled yes, and wrote, "Maybe."
In response to Question 5, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Maybe."
In response to Question 6, circled no, and wrote, "Unless really needed."
In response to Question 12, modified the question by inserting "only" at end of question, and circled yes.
In response to Question 14, circled yes, and wrote, "Signs are to be removed at appropriate time."
In response to Question 16, circled yes, and wrote, "Only behind homes."
42. In response to Question 17, circled no, and wrote, "Depends on how it is written."
43. In response to Question 12, circled no, and wrote, "Or in pockets."
Under Comments, "Save the night sky. Restrict lighting at night. Discourage casino growth."
44. In response to Question 2, circled yes, and wrote, "If there is enough demand."
In response to Question 4, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not sure."
In response to Question 6, circled yes, and wrote, "Sewer/water, depends. Natural gas, yes. Cable, yes."
In response to Question 15, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not much."
In response to Question 18, circled yes, and wrote, "If they make sense."
In response to Question 22, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Depends on quality."
In response to Question 25, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Maybe."
45. "New business along M-72 would be a disaster for our community. The casino has already ruined what we were."
46. "There should be a weight restriction put on Williamsburg Road to stop the big truck traffic."
47. In response to Question 8, circled yes, and wrote, "More or less."
In response to Questions 23 and 24, circled yes for both, and wrote, "But not everyone has a computer."
48. "Regulation is loss of freedom, the liberal way."
49. "Thanks for all the info you provide."
50. "As a brief seasonal resident, I don't have an opinion about many of these questions. However, I don't like anything to do with the casino."
51. "Your survey does not offer anything for non-voting property owners."
52. "Skegemog Point Road needs to be repaved."
53. In response to Question 22, circled yes, and wrote, "Absolutely."
Under Comments, "On some questions, I answered the way I would if I lived in the township."
54. "I have no e-mail nor website so it wouldn't be any good for me."
55. In response to Question 10 re: should our township zoning encourage . . . , circled yes, and wrote, "With careful planning."
In response to Question 10 re: home occupations, wrote, "Need more info."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, wrote, "Need more info."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, wrote, "Maybe within some limits."
In response to Question 12, circled yes, and wrote, "Development should be encouraged but traffic should be considered first! M72 is already too busy. Needs to be 4 lanes with adequate space for turns and not too many cuts."
In response to Question 14, circled yes, and wrote, "Especially produce, cherries, blueberries, etc."
In response to Question 16, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Possibly."
Under Comments, "A zoning ordinance should address the number of trailers and motor homes permitted on a lot on a permanent or temporary basis. How long should they remain without being removed. Do not have a problem with a long weekend such as holidays but all summer is much too long. Did not have enough information to answer some questions."
56. In response to Question 6, circled yes, and wrote, "Cable and high speed Internet."
In response to Question 8, circled no, and wrote, "Not completely."
In response to Question 19, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Regulate? Guidelines only."
57. In response to Question 17, circled no, and wrote, "Stop regulating private property!"
Under Comments, "Too much regulation!"
58. In response to Question 3, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Would like to know location before answering."
In response to Question 6, circled no, and wrote, "Only natural gas and the cost."
59. In response to Question 6, circled yes, underlined the words "sewer, water" in the question, and wrote, "Save our lakes."
60. In response to Question 1, circled yes, and wrote, "It would be nice but not necessary."
In response to Question 6, circled yes, and wrote, "If enough people are interested."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, wrote "? affordable property taxes."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "I don't know what FR area is."
61. In response to Question 5, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not applicable."
In response to Question 6, circled yes, and wrote, "If economically feasible, which is probably not the case."
In response to Question 9, answered yes to "aware of this document" and no to "what it proposes."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not familiar with the Forest Residential area."
In response to Question 16, circled yes, and wrote, "Probably."
In response to Question 17, circled no, and wrote, "Probably not."
In response to Question 22, circled yes, and wrote, "If at all possible."
In response to Question 24, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not applicable."
In response to Question 25, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Probably not. Not in the area."
Under Comments, "My impression of the material the township sent out on the zoning ordinance was that it was more to conceal than to clearly inform property owners."
62. In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Undecided."
In response to Question 24, circled yes, and wrote, "If shared."
63. "A place to take leaves, branches and yard waste would be helpful."
64. "Do you sell your email addresses to others? Also, who are you?"
65. "It's sad we did not obtain sewer and water when we had the chance. We could have been advised on the new zoning."
66. "In response to Question 21, wrote "Some issues good, others poor."
In response to Question 23, circled no, and wrote, "Not on Internet."
Under Comments, "Please send notices by mail."
67. "Would like to be more informed about our township. A website is an excellent way to achieve that."
68. "In response to Question 7, circled yes, and wrote, "Partly."
In response to Question 9, circled yes and no, and wrote, "Aware, yes, not entire proposal."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, answered no, and wrote, "Not if you mean low-income apartments."
In response to Question 10 re: private property owners' rights, answered yes and wrote, "To some extent."
In response to Question 15, circled yes, and wrote, "Sometimes."
69. In answer to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Maybe compromise - 2 or 3 acres."
70. In response to Question 3, circled yes, and wrote, "On Saturday."
In response to Question 21 re: Tax Assessor, chose 1 and wrote, "Assessments too high. Private assessors actually assessed value much lower."
71. "Would like to see more business M-72. Make it easier for landowner to control their own property."
72. "Writing and enacting new ordinances seems a waste of time when existing ordinances are not enforced, specifically, junk cars and unregistered cars."
73. In response to Question 25, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "When?"
Under Comments, "Communication is irregular and seasonal residents are taken for granted."
74. In response to Question 22, circled yes, and wrote, "But establish a lower limit to allow no bids."
75. "I would be unable to attend meetings."
76. "Look for opportunities for a single garbage pickup."
77. "In response to Question 10 re: legible business signs, did not say yes or no, and wrote, "Signs should have standard size and length."
78. In response to Question 1, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Yes. However, cost could be too high."
In response to Question 4, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Don't know."
In response to Question 5, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Sorta."
In response to Question 6, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Don't know."
In response to Question 11, circled yes, and wrote, "Because I should be able to split my property as I see fit."
Under Comments, "I like phone calls, but it's very time consuming. A letter is good also."
79. In response to Question 10 re: home occupations, answered no, and wrote, "Depends if online, etc. More info."
In response to Question 13, circled yes and no, and wrote, "Depends on several factors. Would need more info before a solid answer."
In response to Question 14, circled yes, and wrote, "If enforced."
In response to Question 17, circled yes, and wrote, "Only along roads for clear vision for traffic and people using the driveway."
In response to Question 19, circled yes, and wrote, "But must also understand new materials and designs (ex: metal looking roofs)."
80. "I support the need for a well-designed, well-maintained web page for Whitewater Township which includes links to maps, real estate, tax information, rules and regulations on all seasonal sports."
81. In response to Question 21, chose a rating of 3 for Supervisor, Clerk, Treasurer, and Trustee, and wrote, "I don't know enough to rate these people."
Under Comments, "I think the township government as a whole is 1-bad, but I do not know enough about the individual people to rate them."
82. "I know funds are an issue, but if letters were sent to every resident about meeting minutes or upcoming votes, then I believe this community would be better informed about changes that are happening around them and in turn be more apt to participate in voting on changes that are pertinent to this community."
83. In response to Question 6, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not forced."
"Keep up the good work. So pleased with cooperation between Acme, Elk Rapids, and Williamsburg."
84. In response to Question 16, answered no to "stockade," answered yes to "chain link fences."
In response to Question 17, circled no and wrote, "Only if it blocks sight to a road or highway."
85. "Get rid of township ambulance."
86. In response to Question 22, circled yes, and wrote, "But not required to take lowest bid."
87. In response to Question 22, circled yes, and wrote, "Over $2000.00."
88. "#22 competitive bids should be beyond a set dollar amount, ex. $5,000.00."
89. "Board of Appeals needs to meet more than in the winter, like have a summer date also. Owners need to have more say on their private property."
90. "Letter is great, but e-mail and website is also very good. Seems to reach a lot of people."
91. In response to Question 8, circled no and wrote, "Not all."
In response to Question 9, circled no and wrote, "Not all."
Comments, "Some questions I could not answer yes or no. I appreciate the efforts of Whitewater Watch."
92. "What I do for work, I don't have a lot of time to follow all the issues in the township. I do know this takes a lot of time to put this together. Thank you for the work you are doing to make this place for the people."
93. In response to Question 6, did not circle yes or no, but circled "natural gas" and wrote, "Only this one."
In response to Question 8, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "This is not a yes or no question."
In response to Question 10 re: should our township zoning encourage . . . , wrote "And provide controls."
In response to Question 10 re: legible business signs, answered yes and wrote, "Who decide. Re: business signs, control size and height."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "This is still one acre, not five. Get your facts straight."
In response to Question 12, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Some are already commercial. We don't need more."
In response to Question 15, circled no, and wrote, "Yes, but in Antrim County."
In response to Question 18, answered yes to "architectural restrictions" and no to "seasonal restrictions."
In response to Question 19, circled yes and wrote, "In the village district."
In response to Question 20, circled no and wrote, "Why do we have elected representatives then?"
In response to Question 23, circled yes and wrote, "But don't sell the mailing list to others."
In response to Question 24, circled no and wrote, "It is a law that all meetings are posted. Put on the website."
In response to Question 25, circled no and wrote, "Why are you 'sponsoring' something that is the responsibility of our elected representatives?"
Under Comments, "I think it is rather cowardly to not identify who 'Whitewater Watch' is."
94. In response to Question 1, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "What is clean-up day?"
In response to Question 8, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Somewhat, not completely."
In response to Question 9, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Somewhat, not entirely."
In response to Question 21 re: in touch with community wishes, chose a rating of 2 and wrote, "But improvement."
Under Comments, "It was hard to answer yes or no to some questions. I appreciate the efforts of Whitewater Watch. I am in favor of personal property rights and the protection of land ownership. Freedom is not possible without the right to own and utilize property with the least government interference."
95. In response to Question 4, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Publish list first."
In response to Question 9, circled no, and wrote, "Would like to see both."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, wrote "Housing, yes."
In response to Question 14, circled yes and wrote, "How long is temporary?"
In response to Question 17, circled no and wrote, "Unless located on wetlands, then yes."
Under Comments, "What percentage of property owned by fruit growers? What percentage of taxes paid by fruit growers? Both of above in Whitewater Township."
96. "Thanks for getting involved. The township government is getting better about sharing information. You deserve credit for causing that to happen. Your grassroots effort is appreciated by me. Keep up the good work."
97. "Why didn't the township do this?"
98. In response to Question 21, wrote "We need a recall."
Under Comments, "Good job whoever put this together!!! Why doesn't Heights Machinery look 'OPEN' yet? Voting out the sewer and water has already set us back. I hope we get Walmart, Home Depot and Meijers soon so we aren't living such a depressed go nowhere 'town.' (Where is the town?)"
99. "I was born and raised here. Although I don't live here now, I soon plan to return. The proposed zoning ordinance does not fit with this area. This is not a vacation spot. This is home."
100. "The entire board should be recalled! Enough with the growth around the casino. The Indians are taking way too many liberties. Let's promote opportunities for the locals to continue to live here."
101. "I wish we had sewer and water. It would have been good to be advised of the zoning."
102. "I believe your group are a bunch of losers, and because the township officials that are protecting the interest of the year-round residents, your group seems to want to change our way of living in Whitewater Township to suit your needs. If you like this township, vote and attend township meetings and read and understand before speaking."
103. In response to Question 1, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Clarify."
In response to Question 3, circled yes and wrote, "Yes, I no cost to taxpayers."
In response to Question 6, circled no and wrote, "Fix your own septic."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, answered "yes modular home, no trailer."
In response to Question 17, circled no and wrote, "Pay taxes and not be able to do what you want."
In response to Question 25, circled yes and wrote, "If I was notified by mail."
Under Comments, "People need to be notified by mail."
104. In response to Question 2, circled no and wrote, "Not for myself."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, did not chose yes or no, and wrote, "Taxable?"
In response to Question 17, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Devil is in the details."
105. In response to Question 2, circled yes and wrote, "On existing township land?"
In response to Question 9, circled yes to "aware of this document" and no to "what it proposes."
In response to Question 22, circled yes and wrote, "Over $100.00."
106. In response to Question 23, circled no and wrote, "Don't have computer."
Under Comments, "This is Northern Michigan and the land of the free. TOO MANY RULES!!"
107. In response to Question 3, circled yes and wrote, "In season."
In response to Question 12, circled yes and wrote, "With control."
In response to Question 14, circled no and wrote, "Tough one."
In response to Question 19, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Some areas, town center."
Attached letter reads as follow: "SOME THOUGHTS ON YOUR SURVEY:
"#3 yes, in season and only items grown locally.
"#6 I don't think the township is ready for this yet. It doesn't hurt to plan ahead; we do have a few privately operated sewer systems that seem to be working well, Miami Beach and Mill Creek for example.
"#12 yes, with controls on curb cuts and possibly an access road between businesses with few entrances off M72.
"#14 signs are hard to regulate to everyone's approval. Can get out of hand.
"#17 I don't understand this one. Yes along rivers and streams.
"#19 yes, in some areas such as town centers and shopping districts. Some subdivisions have their own regulations.
"#21 I feel they try to the best of knowledge to provide accurate information.
"Listen to the public? Anytime a person goes to a township meeting with an axe to grind, they usually feel the board hasn't listened to them. I was on the board for many years and we would get a small group that was usually against anything the board decided. Your group is much larger but when on a board you have to take into consideration the feelings of the entire township's residents. If one of your members gets elected trustee I hope that person will not have an agenda and study all sides of a problem. Whitewater Watch may have some good ideas but even they can't be right all the time.
"Zoning has come about because not all people think the same. 'I want to do whatever I would like to do on my property but I don't like what my neighbor is doing.' Soon you need regulations. Most people would not like a dump site next door, a pig farm in a residential area, noisy neighbors with boom boxes and bright lights to name a few.
"Soon, if elected, one of your members may have to make tough decisions that might go against Whitewater Watch. I feel it is good to be interested in township government and make your feelings known but keep in mind boards have to make some tough decisions that will never please everyone."
108. "You forgot the most important question. What about the township doing something like a light at M-72 and Williamsburg Road, or reduce speed to 35 mph on both Williamsburg Road and Elk Lake Road within township."
109. In response to Question 19, circled no and wrote, "Roof styles and sidings."
110. "The price of houses is doing down. The cost of the Watson freeway is a negative to selling my house. Thus, it should be automatic that assessed property values should go down and I should be paying lower taxes. What do you think? There should be no more than one car/truck that does not work out in a yard. There should be no semi business such as auto repair or cash only work that might not be considered a normal business."
111. In response to Question 2, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Need more info."
In response to Question 6, circled yes and no, and wrote, "Need for info."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "More info."
In response to Question 18, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "More info."
In response to Question 21 re: provides accurate information, listens to the public, in touch with community wishes, chose ratings of 1 for all three, and wrote, "Undecided on the rest."
112. "Thank you."
113. In response to Question 24, circled yes and wrote, "Not to be released."
Under Comments, "Please protect the rural character of Whitewater Township wherever possible."
114. In response to Question 2, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Don't know."
In response to Question 11, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not sure."
In response to Question 18, circled no and wrote, "If this is all someone has to worry about, they need to get a life. And it is unreasonable to take something down that is used for 9 mo/year as I assume seasonal restrictions mean. This should not be an issue."
In response to Question 22, circled yes and wrote, "But also consider who will do the best job."
In response to Question 25, circled yes and wrote, "Try to."
Under Comments, "I believe the township should uphold property owners' rights. Restrictions on how someone chooses to build, especially 'style' related, only hurts people. Many people are just trying to do the best they can to provide for their family. So these issues should be left alone."
115. In response to Question 6, circled no and wrote, "M-72 only."
116. "Private individuals who vote from their personal interest perspective can't represent the township as a whole. The board must represent the township as a whole, not every individual's unique interest. They generally do a good job and do listen to the constituent's concerns. Five acre lot sizes must be kept."
117. "Letter to let me know in advance of meetings."
118. "I don't want what has happened in Acme to take place here. Good communication helps! I am not knowledgeable in some of the questions asked, but that is my fault. I need to be educated on township events."
119. In response to Question 5, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Maybe."
In response to Question 6, circled yes and wrote, "Would like to have discussion."
In response to Question 9, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not completely."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, wrote, "Depends."
In response to Question 10 re: growth around casino, wrote, "What type?"
In response to Question 12, circled yes and wrote, "Limited with ground rules."
Under Comments, "We would like to hear some other opinions and hope to attend the meeting on November 1st."
120. In response to Question 16, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Don't need fences."
Under Comments, "These master plans are a disaster to local and small communities. A few people enforce their agenda on everyone else. People are so busy that half the time they can't make these meetings or even know they're happening."
121. In response to Question 10 re: growth/expansion of existing businesses, answered "With caution."
In response to Question 10 re: affordable housing, answered "Some."
In response to the survey statement "Thank you for your time and input," respondent wrote, "No - thank you for caring."
122. "Get in step with the rest of the world. Development is going to happen."
123. In response to Question 21, did not choose any ratings and wrote, "Haven't been in the area long enough to give accurate answers."
Under Comments, "We are in the area 2x monthly since September '06, so we are unable to give informed answers to many of the questions. We plan to retire at the Williamsburg address in the next 1-2 years. Please keep us updated. Thank you."
124. "Is there any way to get a traffic light at the M72/Elk Lake Road/Williamsburg Road intersection?"
125. In response to Question 6, circled yes, and wrote, "And cable!!!"
Under Comments, "We like to be kept up to date."
126. In response to Question 6, circled yes and no, and wrote, "Sewer and gas. Not water."
In response to Question 16, circled yes and wrote, "Owner's choice."
In response to Question 21, did not choose any ratings and wrote, "We're new residents and cannot make such judgments."
127. In response to Question 6, circled yes and no, and wrote, "Sewer and water, no. Natural gas, yes."
128. In response to Question 13, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Not sure. Depends on what property is in question, ex. park."
Under Comments, "I like Williamsburg the way it was 20 years ago non-developed and welcome habitat for animals. We need to try to slow development and think of nature and how to preserve it."
129. In response to Question 21, chose a 2 rating for Supervisor and wrote, "Didn't answer our e-mails."
130. In response to Question 8, circled yes and wrote, "Somewhat."
In response to Question 10 re: legible business signs, wrote "No billboards."
In response to Question 25, circled yes and wrote, "If possible."
131. "Nice work. Carry on."
132. "Reduce spending. Property taxes are going to drive me out of my home. Taxes in general are seriously handicapping the local economy. Our government is too expensive for the economy."
133. In response to Question 6, circled yes to natural gas, and wrote, "No to water and sewer."
In response to Question 7, circled yes and wrote, "I know there is controversy."
In response to Question 10 re: home occupations, wrote, "You mean occupy vacant homes? No."
In response to Question 13, did not circle yes or no, and wrote, "Don't know what you mean."
In response to Question 16, circled yes and wrote, "It's my property."
In response to Question 17, circled no and wrote, "Ditto."
Under Comments, "Main point, to me, is don't over-regulate my property. Encourage business. Don't spend more money. Businesses are going to come, so, to me, Whitewater Township might as well take advantage on the highway corridor."
Attached the following letter:
"I am one who is not directly on the Deal-Lackey-Mabel-Watson-Skegemog pavement, but because I can go that way to my house, I have to pay the 'indirect' rate. I think the township handled that whole thing wrong. The developers wanted it and the township accommodated.
"I like living rural. I really like it, but realistically, we have a major northern Michigan highway that runs right through our township and I think it would be a mistake to discourage that growth. It will happen east and west of Whitewater even if not in Whitewater Township. It will develop. We might as well get the taxes.
"Question: The zoning ordinance(s) regarding home businesses, does that mean I cannot sell Avon from my home? Does that mean I cannot take and market photos from my home? Does that mean I cannot build a garage to work out of?
"As stated simply on the Comments line, I do not want more government say on what I can or cannot do with MY property. There are/were already enough regulations to keep the area nice - controlling visible junk, wetlands, size and placement of building structures. Don't over-regulate.
"I think the minimum 5 acre size property can end up being more of an eyesore. I saw it happen downstate. People buy 5 acres, put their house, shed, garden on one to two, and the rest just sits and looks nasty. Limit the number of splits of a parcel, sure. We actually end up with larger sections of undeveloped land by allowing smaller parcels but fewer splits. (Just my thoughts.)
"Encourage businesses, especially along the M72 corridor. I am all for things like a carpool area, but I am not for it enough to want more taxes so it can be done.
"Public utilities? I don't see people wanting to pay to have the sewer and water. We ALL already have it. The natural gas, yes, I think people would want to tap into that.
I think people do NOT want to pay more for anything. I don't want more taxes and I want the taxes that are collected managed well. A 100%+ increase on a zoning/regulation/rules book is NOT managing well."
134. "Cut taxes!"
135. In response to Question 10, added a category of "Home base businesses," and answered yes.
In response to Question 22, circled yes and wrote, "Duh!"
Under Comments, "I know this is past the deadline. I was out of town. I feel strongly about these issues and hope my opinions will be used in the results of your survey. Thank you."
Contact us at, contact@whitewaterwatch.com
Send mail to: Whitewater Watch, PO box 161, Williamsburg MI 49690