We hope it educated and informed you on the benefits of dam removal.
Whatever side of the issue you decide on, we stress that participating has tremendous influence.
Regarding the film, the discussion, the presentation? We tried to collect the relevant info, but we don't expect perfection. Our main goal was that it was a productive use of peoples time.
Now, some housekeeping and corrections to note on topic-points:
1.) There was an answer the speaker made that during the '08 flooding episode, that all 5 gates of the dam were open at the time the river was really up and snortin'.
He based his answer by viewing some film: and seeing the 5 streams of water coming down from the dam in some aerial footage we got from Jessica.
BUT, We were told by people at the meeting who were on-site that day that there were 3 gates open. The reason: The other 2 gates were inoperable. OK, our bad. Also note: If you check out the film in the link below at 1:02, it seems like there are actually only 2 gates open. Am I right on this or wrong? Is this a "grassy-knoll" moment? Not a major deal. Water under the bridge.
Click here for the 5-chutes vs. 3-gates matter
We'll say 'our bad' on answering that pop quiz wrong. We will always seek to find facts and correct
. And if only 3 out of 5 gates were open? Then, SHAME on the city for not having it able to be open with 5.
If the gates are broken, they should be repaired. Not for hydro-generating purposes, either. Its a major safety issue. Or not. Then just get another team of volunteers and pay them overtime to help with even more sand-bagging.
Moving On........
2. ) We have corrected/re-worded the claim he made of an increase of river cfs of 5% if the dam were removed. The author (me) had confused cfs with speed when inquiring on the DNR made this prediction.
So...here's the Clarification: The SPEED of the river will increase 5% if the dam is removed. verified by DNR.
3.) At one point, there were words which may have been mis-spoken (by accident, the speaker was quite nervous) that conflicted about Dams and Flooding.
So, The 4 points on flooding that are verifiable facts, available in provided data on the site, are re-asserted here:
- Most Dams are not built for flood control purposes.
- The Pucker Street Dam was not built for flood control purposes.
- Dams that are not built for flood control purposes INCREASE the risk of flood.
- Dams that are not built for flood control purposes and are impounded for purposes of power generation---and have raised water levels (for use in hydro-power generation) SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE the risk of flood.
So sorry if the presenter flubbed up on his words; it appears he got de-railed a bit.
Moving On.......
4.) In our demonstrating the difference in property values on a blue ribbon river vs. a river like the Dowagiac....while we have shown the large price difference gap, we will verify what the tax rates are on the home, and whether the home on the Pere Marquette butts-up against federal land. More to follow, and we will update it right here when the Berrien and Lake counties call us back.
5.) There was a concern that people who don't vote, those not living in Niles proper have "no leverage, no power" to influence the council. This is a point that could be argued; and it will:
Editorializing:
Here's a thought for all : If the 37(?) people who showed up to this meeting ---show up on the meeting on the 28th? This will have a tremendous impact on the importance of this issue. The newspaper will be sure to dedicate a chunk of this in the following weeks news. Gauranteed.
I have been to 4 city council meetings in Niles. There is usually 2-3 businesses trying to get a some approval on zoning on something, 2-3 police or firefighters sor of hanging out, a couple people upset about the garbage service or their tax bill. Also, a reporter from the paper who hangs back and takes notes. Thats about it.
IF YOU LIVE ALONG THE BANKS OF THE RIVER, YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY IMPORTANT and RELEVANT TO MAJOR VOTES THAT AFFECT THE RIVER AND YOUR HOME. If you attended our meeting, don't think for a moment that its all for 'naught'. Giving up? Not gonna show on the 28th? Then how bout this: Do you know any Niles residents who DO have voting rights? Tell THEM to show up and speak on your behalf. There........problem solved.
Whether you are from Niles, Niles Township, or Bolingbrook, IL. There is a direct relationship between influence on a community decision ....and butts-in-seats filled with people who step to the mic.
No, I cant give you data, but when people show up and speak up, even without a formal procedure and vote----things can change. Don't belive us? Please Google:
" Mubarek resigns as President of Egypt" Dramatic? yes.
But involvment, participation, and speaking up can and does happen in local politics, folks. And it works.
Henry Ford said it best:
"Whether you think you can or you cant? Either way, you're Right".
See you on the 28th. With questions prepared.
.....
Andy
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