Ann Arbor Speaker Event – How Ann Arbor Runs

People love to talk national politics, but let’s face it: the decisions made by our local government impact our day-to-day lives most of all. Decisions about virtually everything you see – from potholes to pot shops, streets to safety services, dams to development – are made by our elected and professional government employees.

But did you know that not all local governments are created equal?

Local filmmaker and urbanist Kirk Westphal has made a short film called “Council-Manager Form of Local Government,” assessing the effectiveness and openness of local government systems. We’ll be watching his film and then discussing with Kirk his conclusions and opinions about what works best in Ann Arbor, and where things could improve.

More importantly, we’ll talk about how and why you, our Concentrate readers, should get more involved.

Melanie Piana, a member of Ferndale’s City Council, will be joining the event to discuss her experiences running for office (and getting elected) as a young professional. For five years Melanie has been the Associate Director at the Michigan Suburbs Alliance. Melanie was elected during a contentious change to Ferndale’s government and was a sponsor of the Complete Streets program.

WHAT: Concentrate’s Speaker Series event “HOW ANN ARBOR RUNS”

WHEN: Thursday, June 30th from 5-7:00 PM

WHERE: Conor O’Neill’s (318 South Main Street)

The event is free and open to Concentrate’s readers, but seating is limited so you must pre-register. The presentation will begin around 5:15 p.m. and run for roughly an hour.

Refreshments will be provided. Discussion and networking before and afterward is greatly encouraged.

Concentrate’s Speaker Series is sponsored by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.

---