Goodland supervisor sets ground rules; Cishke honored
GOODLAND TWP. — New Goodland Township Supervisor Patrick Patterson made his official debut for the board meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8.
The lengthy meeting covered a plethora of reports and both new and unfinished business, rounding out 20 the items listed on the agenda.
Patterson introduced himself to the audience and set the tone for future meetings by reading the official guidelines listed by Michigan stating: “The public has a right to attend and watch the board do its business, the public does not have a right to participate in the deliberations or discussions of a township board, although they can choose to encourage and consider public input … through public comment.”
“I’m going to ask that we use the golden rule, which is to treat others the way we want to be treated and we do that with mutual respect … this is an opportunity for the board to get together and discuss township business with an audience. That’s not to be dismissive, but to set boundaries and guidelines,” Patterson said.
On a table at the entrance were a pile of notepads and blue pens which he referenced for the audience to write down any questions regarding the agenda for official public comment time.
Before getting into further topics, Patterson then introduced himself and where he came from.
“Fifteen years ago, I battled an opioid addiction which led to heroin, and attempted suicide which may come up — for some, they may use that as a weapon against me,” he said. “I did struggle through addiction, and through that I helped jumpstart a nonprofit in Port Huron that helps those battling addiction. I just ask that we don’t judge us on our worst day and our worst mistake in life, but what we have done to overcome that.”
Another topic from the agenda covered a property on Turner road. The board approved a motion to enact the blight steps on the property, agreeing to pay $5,000 for an attorney to begin the official legal process. This is the first ordinance enforcement in the last 15 years, according to the board.
Board members spoke about passing a motion as the next steps in properly commemorating Ron Cischke, former Goodland supervisor of 55 years. Cischke held the position for the longest of any supervisor in Michigan’s history and he sat in the crowd as they agreed to dedicate his service with the Ron Cischke Community Service award and a plaque to be placed in his honor.
According to the board, the award will be given to deserving members who have demonstrated their commitment to Goodland Township by going above and beyond.
Upon the passing of the motion and a round of applause, he stood to speak a few words.
“I enjoyed every bit of the 55 years,” he said. “I’m so grateful for all the people — I’m not here tonight for me. I want this township to survive at its highest and best … thank you.”
The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Goodland Township Hall, 2374 N. Van Dyke Road, Imlay City.
