Rick Snyder protesters: 'We don't want our elected officials to be unilaterally dismissed'
From left, protesters Sean Ball and inactive Marine Emmitt Harness, both of Flint, pump their fists and shout during a demonstration at the gate of Gov. Rick Snyder's subdivision near Ann Arbor on Monday.
Melanie Maxwell I AnnArbor.com
- Related coverage: Live updates from protest against Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder near Ann Arbor
- Photo gallery: Images from the Superior Township rally against Gov. Rick Snyder
As hundreds of marchers demonstrated outside the gates of Gov. Rick Snyder's private residence near Ann Arbor, loudly chanting in protest of Michigan's emergency manager law, the Rev. Charles E. Williams II had a quiet conversation with the governor's chief of staff.
Williams, pastor of the historic King Solomon Baptist Church in Detroit, said he hopes the governor is listening and is willing to find a way to help cities in Michigan that are struggling financially — without, as he put it, ruining their democracy.
"We elect mayors, we elect city council members, and we would like them to be a part of the process … in terms of rebuilding these urban cities," Williams said.
"We don't want our elected officials to be unilaterally dismissed," he said. "And that's the message that we're sending here today. We ask that you would let the governor know."
Rev. Charles E. Williams II, pastor of the historic King Solomon Baptist Church in Detroit, delivers a verbal message to Dennis Muchmore, the governor's chief of staff, on Monday afternoon outside the gates of the governor's neighborhood in Superior Township.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
"We certainly recognize the concerns and we share those concerns, and we want to make sure that all of these cities are vibrant and have got a financial status for the future that can be sustained," he said in an interview afterward.
"I think everybody has a concern about what happens to cities or school districts or townships when they have a problem financially," he said. "We think that in each of these situations, what we've got to do is try to find some kind of common ground between the community to solve the problems. If we can do that, we will do that."
Monday's rally purposely fell on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday in an effort to honor King's legacy by showing opposition to Public Act 4, Michigan's emergency manager law.
The law, which was approved by the Republican-controlled state Legislature last year and signed by Snyder, allows state-appointed emergency managers to remove local elected officials from office. Critics say the law is a threat to democracy.
"It's really wrong," said Ed Kudla, a teacher from Slauson Middle School in Ann Arbor who came to the rally to show his support for recalling Snyder and repealing the law.
"First of all, they take away money from cities, towns and villages — then they go after them with an emergency manager when they don't have enough money to pay their bills," he said. "And when they go in, they take public land, they bust unions and cancel contracts. Everything about it is wrong, and there's no end in sight."
The rally started at Washtenaw Community College. From there, carrying signs and chanting anti-Snyder slogans, protesters marched up to Parker Mill County Park, just down the street from Snyder's home, where Williams used a megaphone to deliver a message.
"Sometimes when you're sick, you have to go to the emergency room," he said, rallying the crowd. "Sometimes when you're spiritually sick, you have to go to the mosque or you have to go to the church. Well, on today, Gov. Snyder got a cold and we're making a house call."
Williams estimated there were about 3,000 people in attendance at that point, though police estimated the event attracted only about 800 people.
Protesters gather during a rally at Parker Mill County Park before marching to the gate of Gov. Rick Snyder's subdivision in Ann Arbor on Monday.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
He acknowledged attendees from several cities, including Benton Harbor, Flint, Inkster, Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Pontiac and Detroit.
"We are unified today," Bullock said. "This is not a Benton Harbor fight. This is not a Grand Rapids fight. This is not a Flint or Ecorse fight. This is not a Detroit fight. This is the state of Michigan coming together."
From the park, the protesters marched about a half mile down Geddes Road to the front gate of Snyder's neighborhood, where several police officers stood guard.
The Michigan State Police, along with local law enforcement officials, worked to make sure proper security measures were in place to allow demonstrators to exercise their constitutional rights while taking into consideration traffic safety and crowd control concerns.
Despite some loud and angry chanting by protesters in opposition to Snyder and the emergency manager law, police described the event as orderly.
Snyder was in Lansing on Monday to offer remarks at the Greater Lansing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission Luncheon. He told the crowd at that event that Michigan must follow King's example by fighting poverty, racism and militarism.
But some ralliers on Monday argued implementing an emergency manager in Detroit would disenfranchise black voters and is thus racist.
As the crowd reached the gates of Snyder's neighborhood, the chant changed to: "Detroit won't go to the back of the bus. No EFMs. No racist cuts."
Protesters chant together after marching to the gate of Governor Rick Snyder's subdivision in Ann Arbor on Monday.
Melanie Maxwell | AnnArbor.com
"If Detroit gets an emergency manager, over 75 percent of the African American elected officials in Michigan will be essentially useless," he said in a statement.
Brit Satchwell, president of the Ann Arbor Education Association, was one of many Ann Arbor area leaders who helped mobilize demonstrators. He said he doesn't think the law is intentionally racist, but it can't be denied that it disproportionately affects blacks.
"I don't think the people who devised it and are fighting as proponents of emergency managers are explicitly or intently racist, but I think at some point people have to take a look at the disproportionate effect it's having on communities of color," he said.
Satchwell said he thinks the law is more about union busting, though.
He's still hoping a petition to repeal the emergency manager law will be turned in soon with enough signatures. He said he was at an event in Detroit this month when organizers announced they had more than 170,000 of the 250,000 signatures they're aiming for.
"Over the summer, I had worried that the urban areas really hadn't been contributing enough to the petition drive," Satchwell said. "And when Detroit fell under the threat of an emergency manger, it was like the wolf was at the door and they came alive."
On hand for Monday's rally were representatives from several labor organizations, including the United Auto Workers, Michigan Education Association and AFSCME, as well as various activist groups, elected officials, church congregations and the NAACP.
"This is about democracy," said Washtenaw County Commissioner Yousef Rabhi, D-Ann Arbor, who was among the crowd of protesters.
"That's what we — the working people of America — have is our democracy," he said. "And when the governor steps in and tries to take that away, that's when we're really going to have a problem, and that's what folks are standing up here about."
Bullock echoed those thoughts, saying if democracy is good for Egypt, then it's good for Michigan, and "we will not tolerate emergency dictators."
"If we cannot vote, we don't have an America," he said.
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.
Comments
Mick52
Thu, Jan 19, 2012 : 8:16 p.m.
"First of all, they take away money from cities, towns and villages — then they go after them with an emergency manager when they don't have enough money to pay their bills," (Ed Kudla, a teacher from Slauson Middle School). They take away money? Where does that come from? This is the type of person I do not want teaching children. I do not see any alternatives offered by any of these protestors. Toss out the EFM law and then what? I certainly would like to know what these folks would suggest as an alternative. They seem to want to recall the law, but are a little short on the answer to, "then what?" Raise taxes I guess so these people can keep stuffing their pockets until the bottom really falls out. That seems to be what they want, just keep doing what we have been doing to get to where we are until we reach absolute rock bottom. No sense in putting the brakes on, just keep going right up to doom.
Richard C
Thu, Jan 19, 2012 : 4 a.m.
What happens if a city becomes effectively bankrupt? (Does Michigan have bankruptcy law for cities and other government units? States of the United States cannot declare bankruptcy - as far as I know, there are no provisions in Federal law for a State that can not meet it's financial obligations.) Bankruptcy law is intended to resolve conflicts between borrowers and creditors - and between different creditors when a borrower is unable to meet their financial obligations. Is the State of Michigan the ultimate co-signer (guarantor) of obligations by government units it has chartered? (Townships, cities, villages, etc.?) Should the State of Michigan revoke a charter for a government that has failed? And what if it's been the State of Michigan's policies about revenue sharing that has driven these different units to this extreme? This just seems like a way for the State of Michigan to repudiate policies and obligations that the rabid right wing doesn't like.
Leeland
Thu, Jan 19, 2012 : 2:38 a.m.
This issue is cut and dry in my book. The last few former corrupt mayors decided the gangster life was for them. They looted the city for decades not thinking for a second about the future of Detroit. A few decades go by and low and behold, the city looks like Pakistan. If they don't take the emergency money manager, how are they planning to fix the problem? Oh that's right, they don't have a plan. They'll just wait and see what happens. Hopefully a rich anonymous donor will come along and bail them out. This kind of mismanagement is criminal and makes Michigan as a whole look bad. I grew up in detroit. It was a beautiful city once upon a time. Now I can't even drive through there without fearing for my life. It's sad I can't even take my children to see my old house because crack addicted squatters have burned it down. I need to do some research and find out what the mayor's stance is on outside help. So far I've heard many people on the news saying residents of outlying counties need to foot the bill for the restructuring of Detroit. I say the citizens of Detroit destroyed Detroit and it's not our problem. We have our own city problems to deal with. Coleman Young decided Detroit was the black mans city and showed us white folks to the door, so we left. Sorry, we tried to keep it nice for as long as we could. Accountability is the key here, and the residents of Detroit have to hold themselves accountable and stop blaming everyone else for their problems. The situation with Kwame is unfortunate, but he did get elected to a second term. Who elected him? You've only yourselves to blame now. Eat your humble pie and let someone competent come in and find a solution.
maallen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 10:04 p.m.
Just in case all the protesters missed it: As of December 2011, unemployment dropped to 9.3%. When Snyder took office it was at 10.7%. Michigan has a surplus. And people are still complaining that Michigan is in a downward spiral?
Lawrence Ofherlabia
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 7:31 p.m.
Detroit voters became disenfranchised upon electing Kwame to office, it is difficult to run a city and defend against felony charges at the same time. That sealed the city's fate.
James Socrates
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 6:37 p.m.
I certainly defend peoples right to protest. Quite frankly, its rather humorous that the protesters needed to "boost their ranks with interstate support" but well if you have too... Not that there are more productive ways to excercise one's democratic rights then intentionally wasting community resources in an effort to protest an administrative move that any responsible individual would make. To say that the city of Detroit can competently manage its own affairs is laughable. Detroit sadly has proven that it cannot consistently elect competent leadership and that the State has been exceptionally generous in providing options. Its rather disconcerting however to think that protesters wish to contest the Gov.'s right to appoint an emergency manager, but then argue for state funding despite the inherent certainty that it will be wasted and misappropriated as usual. Detroit does not have the means to be responsible enough to address its fiscal crisis. I respect Gov. Snyder for showing some tough love and not let business go on as usual. If certain Detroiter's do not like it, excercise your democratic rights to stick your head in the sand until the problem goes away. Its whats been going on for years.
seasons
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 12:22 a.m.
Your headline has nothing to do with your poll question. Very frustrating. Grading the protest effectiveness has nothing to do with the utter dismay of having our Governor fire elected officials.
Arno B
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:25 p.m.
Quite interesting. Judging by the pictures, it appears that the barbers in the area must be on strike. Which union do they belong to? Also many thanks for the many comments by members of the Monochrome Commission.
Usual Suspect
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 1:05 a.m.
No clue
thinker
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:39 p.m.
And what state are the protesters from? Probably Ohio, where the unions hold a lot of power. Or from the Occupy movement-no access to barbers, no showers, no.......
godsbreath64
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:26 p.m.
Is annarbor.com polling the failer's paradise, or what?
shanedr
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:27 p.m.
Appointing EFM's is an effective way to undo the damage caused by stupid and incompetent politicians and voters. As voters we have the obligation to vote for people who can do the job. When we fail to do so there needs to be a check and balance to limit or correct our failure. The EFM law was arrived at democratically by the state legislature and signed into law by the governor. That is democracy in full flower. It should be part of the state constitution and is needed at the federal level to prevent incompetence at state levels. There is one thing wrong with the EFM law. It should have been enacted decades ago.
Fire Rick
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:03 p.m.
@ DonBee According to the Sugar Law Center, which currently has a lawsuit pending regarding the constitutionality of this law, "Public Act 4 violates the Michigan Constitution, which protects home rule, provides for separation of powers, and prevents the legislature from enacting unfunded mandates. It also violates the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution. - The law exceeds the powers of the state Legislature as defined by the Michigan Constitution. - The law gives the executive branch of the state government powers that properly belong to the legislative branch. - The law violates the letter and spirit of the Michigan Constitution's definition and guarantee of local control through democratic elections and the adoption, amendment and repeal of local ordinances." You can read more details about the Sugar Law Center's lawsuit here: <a href="http://www.sugarlaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/QA-PA4-Challenge1.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.sugarlaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/QA-PA4-Challenge1.pdf</a>
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:55 p.m.
As I posted earlier: Snyder has been in office for a year now. When he took office unemployment was at 10.7%. As of the latest unemployment figures (November 2011) it was at 9.8%. Unemployment went down. Michigan has a surplus. Not bad for just one short year. You think people will vote someone out of office when the state is heading in the right direction compared to 8 years of the state spiraling downward with high unemployment and budget deficits?
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:53 p.m.
Sparty - On what grounds? Please cite the parts of the constitution it violates?
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:34 p.m.
The Check and Balance is learning about the candidate you're are voting for ahead of time. If they can't or won't do the job that you elected them to perform, vote them out in the next election. Now, in some cases, voters didn't agree with the candidate being into office in the first place. For instance, I didn't vote for Rick Snyder. After reviewing his record, I didn't believe his style of government would be best for the future direction of our state. If other voters would have done the same, Snyder would be at his Geddes Glen compound today, instead of signing Draconian laws in Lansing. Elections have consequences. Hopefully anyone who marched yesterday that previously voted into office Rick Snyder and the Republican 'leaders' into Lansing last November, have learned to check the candidate before checking a box to vote for them...in the voting booth. Meanwhile, we have the next election in November 2012 to fix one area of state Government. Returning the GOP controlled state House back into Democrat control. That will be for the next two years thereafter, become Gov. Rick Snyder's Check and Balance.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:48 p.m.
Since it will be challenged in Federal Courts, I hardly think it would make it to the US Constitution.
Brad
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:05 p.m.
"He said he doesn't think the law is intentionally racist, but it can't be denied that it disproportionately affects blacks." And those are two different things entirely. Just check a dictionary.
bulldog01
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:30 p.m.
This has nothing to do with race - every race can mess up their towns - you had your chance now get out of the way so the problem can be fixed. Yes, you elected those in government - see how well that worked???
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:19 p.m.
Two questions to the protesters out there: 1) When Governor Granholm appointed state takeover of Flint 2002, where was the outcry then? She appointed an Emergency Financial Manager. Did you protest that? 2) When Governor Granholm had the state takeover of the City of Benton Harbor, where was the outcry and demonstrations then? We'll be waiting with great anticipation for the responses!
maallen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 5:37 a.m.
Monica R-W I would like to believe your reading comprehensions is pretty good, but you keep letting me down. Again, if you READ my posts, especially the one that started this string, you would realize that I NEVER said Governor Granholm PASSED the law. However she did USE it twice. Again, I will quote what I wrote: "1) When Governor Granholm appointed state takeover of Flint 2002, where was the outcry then? She appointed an Emergency Financial Manager. Did you protest that? 2) When Governor Granholm had the state takeover of the City of Benton Harbor, where was the outcry and demonstrations then?" And then my later post "I am not the one who is protesting, complaining, and whining about the law. That is why I asked all the protesters, complainers, and whiners where were they when Governor Granholm did this." Obviously, you are stuck on the words "did this." And anyone with reading comprehension skills would have realized the words "did this" was in reference to my statements of when Governor Granholm used the emergency takeover of two cities during her term, my post that started this thread. Comprehend now? There was no outcry then. No protests. Where were they? Again, you failed to answer the question. You deflect by telling me to read the law which I have read and am quite comfortable with, but of course you didn't read that part. I am not the one protesting. Others are protesting about a "possible" takeover, but yet they didn't protest when Granholm did this. Deflect away, democrats and republicans both are good at it.
Monica R-W
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 4:06 a.m.
Maallen, Talking out of both ends. You stated, the following: "I am not the one who is protesting, complaining, and whining about the law. That is why I asked all the protesters, complainers, and whiners where were they when Governor Granholm did this." Gov. Granholm didn't draft the law of P.A. 72 or sign the law of P.A. 72. As for your questions....answer them yourself by READING the bills. Night!
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:45 p.m.
@Monica R-W, With all due respect Monica, but when did I talk about grammar concepts? On January 17 (Tuesday) you wrote: "Monica R-W at 3:57 PM on January 17, 2012 Reading....its' a heckva concept! Have a Happy Monday!" Even though the article was written on Monday the 16th, you commented on Tuesday the 17th by saying "Have a Happy Monday!" So, how can one HAVE a happy monday if it already has passed? And if you actually read my posts, I never mentioned Governor Granholm PASSED the emergency financial manager law. I mentioned that she used the law TWICE, once in Benton Harbor and once in Flint. When that happened there weren't any taking to the streets, protests, complaining, etc like we are seeing today. So I stand by my two questions. I understand the bill and have no complaints with it. The protesters obviously don't want the state to take over the city. But where were they when Governor Granholm took over Flint and Benton Harbor? Really, it's not that hard to answer.
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:03 p.m.
What happened to Sparty? Cat must have somebodies tongue!
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:35 p.m.
Wow....long day....a little off on my math....that's a 13 year difference: Public Act 72 of 1990-Signed by Former Gov. Blanchard The Day Jennifer Granholm was first sword into office as Governor of Michigan-2003 That's thirteen, not seven years....Oops. That's even makes your quote (cited above) more interesting time wise. A decade and 1/3 between P.A.72 and former Gov. J. Granholm first term in office. Ok, gotta go. Just wanted to point out one area, in math that is, I was wrong previously.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:31 p.m.
Sorry Maallen, One more thing....Public Act #72 of 1990 was signed into law by Gov. James Blanchard (spelling correction for the mis-typing of his name above) not Gov. Jennifer Granholm. There's a seven year difference on when Jennifer Granholm was sworn in the first time (January 1, 2003) as Governor and the origination date of Public Act #72 of 1990, by year count that is. So, looking at that, you quote here, is abet confusing: "I am not the one who is protesting, complaining, and whining about the law. That is why I asked all the protesters, complainers, and whiners where were they when Governor Granholm did this." Yeap....
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:21 p.m.
LOL Maalen (and you talk about grammar concepts, please)... The article was written on MONDAY, which is why it was addressed to the day the article appeared on A2.com, which was Monday. Oh boy.... Maallen, again....the 'GOP failed tactic' of asking questions knowing full well what the real answers are (as pointed out by the GOP that controls the state House and Senate in P.A. 4, that wrote the Legislative language) addressed. In fact all of your questions can be answered by JUST READING the bills or their FAQ's. Instead of engaging in READING, you feel the need for some reason, to debate points that all individuals with a college education should be able to understand. P.A. 72 and P.A. 4 are two different bills. If not, P.A. 4 wouldn't have been introduced by the GOP controlled House, then forwarded to the Senate....traveled back to the House to affirm more of the Draconian language, then forwarded over to Gov. Snyder for this signature into law. Reference-Schoolhouse Rock-"I'm just a Bill" segment, if you're having trouble understanding how a bill becomes a law. So...again....babble on. as I'm sure you will but, reading....would be the best thing you can do. It would allow you to answer questions that we both know you don't really want to know the answers to, fully....right? Oh yeah....Have a Happy Tuesday...the day after this article was written and the Day After MLK Day!
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:53 p.m.
Monica..... Today is Tuesday......not Monday. Reading is a good thing isn't it? :)
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:50 p.m.
To quote Monica R-W: "Reading....its' a heckva concept!" Absolutely it is. So I am wondering why you missed my point of saying: "I am not the one that is complaining and protesting because I understand what the law is and why it is there." I am not the one who is protesting, complaining, and whining about the law. That is why I asked all the protesters, complainers, and whiners where were they when Governor Granholm did this. So far, no one can answer.
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:12 p.m.
For those reading who are not partisan hacks and want the real facts, this is what the law has to say about removing elected officials. Note that the citizens still get to elect the replacement as usual, and could even vote back in the same person who just got removed if they want. Failure of a local government official to abide by this act shall be considered gross neglect of duty, which the review team or emergency manager may report to the state financial authority and the attorney general. Following review and a hearing with a local government elected official, the state financial authority may recommend to the governor that the governor remove the elected official from office. If the governor removes the elected official from office, the resulting vacancy in office shall be filled as prescribed by law.
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:06 p.m.
Your "money quote" is taken completely out of context. It only applies if the city or school district fails to adopt a consent agreement (aka, fixing the problem on its own without an emergency manager, or cooperating with the State to fix the problem) or breaches a consent agreement that it has already agreed to uphold. It is a fallback provision for cities (like Flint and Detroit) that are incapable of fixing their problems or choose not to. It also occurs after the elected official has a chance to appeal the decision that there is a financial emergency to the courts. And yes, the law says "financial" emergency, negating the lie you keep repeating about how it doesn't have to be a financial emergency.
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9 p.m.
Why do you keep posting irrelevant quotes? Neither of those sections relate to REMOVING elected officials from office.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:57 p.m.
Reading....its' a heckva concept! Now, with the quote above...I'll leave Angry Moderate and Maallen to talk among themselves. Have a Happy Monday!
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:56 p.m.
Angry Moderate, Are you serious? "The new law only allows officials to be removed if they refuse to cooperate with the emergency manager." Cooperation is not a requirement with P.A. 4 because the Emergency Manager runs the show....or the city, town, school district or county, if you like. From the Bill...<a href="http://1.usa.gov/zYgYKz" rel='nofollow'>http://1.usa.gov/zYgYKz</a> " Upon the confirmation of a finding of a financial emergency, the governor shall declare the local government in receivership and shall appoint an emergency manager to act for and in the place and stead of the governing body and the office of chief administrative officer of the local government. The emergency manager shall have BROAD powers in receivership to rectify the financial emergency and to assure the fiscal accountability of the local government and the local government's capacity to provide or cause to be provided necessary governmental services essential to the public health, safety, and welfare. Upon the declaration of receivership and during the pendency of receivership".... And this is the MONEY QUOTE in the bill... ..." the governing body and the chief administrative officer of the local government may not exercise any of the powers of those offices except as may be specifically authorized in writing by the emergency manager and are subject to any conditions ." So what are you trying to say again?
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:52 p.m.
sparty - Still waiting for you to cite the parts of the constitution that public act 4 violates?
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:36 p.m.
The new law only allows officials to be removed if they refuse to cooperate with the emergency manager. But your criticism is that the old law required the manager and the officials to work together. Obviously, it needed some teeth to back up the requirement, because the old emergency managers in Benton Harbor and Flint FAILED to correct the problem. Why would we stick with an old law that didn't work?
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:32 p.m.
What a joke, you can't even correctly identify the differences between the laws. Just because you pick and choose a few tiny quotes out of context and skip the parts about checks and balances doesn't make it "unilateral."
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:24 p.m.
OK Maallen, I'll bite. First, Public Act #72 allowed the Emergency Financial Manager to be what's called a overseer or auditor. With such, the E.F.M. worked with elected local officials to solve financial operating crisis within city, town, school district or counties. Public Act #4 allows for Emergency Manager's (the word Financial was removed because a financial crisis is not the only requirement for a E.M. can be appointed) to eliminate an entire local elected body of a city, town, village, county or school district and; hereby grants them unilateral auditory to sell local lands and/or works (the parks too...as a Park Commissioner, I have a REAL PROBLEM with this) to privatized corporations or bidders. Now, that's just one of the problems with P.A. #4. I'm still trying to understand how the Republican concept of 'localized control' mesh with unilateral state government control with the decision making processes of local communities. Exactly, Public Act #4 appears to have Republicans talking out of both ends without, making any sort of sense on what 'GOP Core Values' are suppose to be about. Maallen, I answered one of your many question between the differences between P.A. 72 versus P.A. 4, maybe you can answer how Republicans can stand by a concept of removing 'localized control' to, supporting top down state governmental control of a city, school district and county financial affairs? I'm waiting.....
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:16 p.m.
LOL sparty, where the heck did you get the idea that voiding contracts is unconstitutional? Bankruptcy courts void contracts every day. That's the whole point of bankruptcy.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:05 p.m.
1) It wasn't unconstitutional so there was no outcry (no voiding of contracts and other unlawful powers) 2) It wasn't unconstitutional so there was no outcry (no voiding of contracts and other unlawful powers)
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:58 p.m.
@sparty, Still waiting for the answers to my two questions.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:49 p.m.
Here's one: Granholm's didn't allow for the voiding of contracts. It's not constitutional. It will fail in the Courts as a result.
halflight
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:07 p.m.
Monica R-W "Here's your answer.... Gov. Branchard's Act, Public Act #72 was entirely different from Public Act #4" False. They are not "entirely different", and the last time you made a claim about the differences (that Public Act 4 didn't require the governor to find a financial emergency before appointing a manager), I showed that to be untrue by linking to the statute and directing you to the appropriate sections. Now, you make a general claim that they're "entirely different", but can't manage to describe the differences. That's hardly convincing.
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:51 p.m.
@Monica R-W, We are still waiting with great anticipation for the answer. I am not the one that is complaining and protesting because I understand what the law is and why it is there. The question is, do the protesters and the complainers know?
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:39 p.m.
Here's your answer.... Gov. Branchard's Act, Public Act #72 was entirely different from Public Act #4 Instead of pointing out the details to you. Read them. After doing so, come back and tell us the difference Maallen: Public Act #72 of 1990 <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/documents/treasury/FiscalEmerg_271926_7.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.michigan.gov/documents/treasury/FiscalEmerg_271926_7.pdf</a> Public Act #4 of 2011 <a href="http://www.michigan.gov/documents/treasury/FAQs_Act_4_348233_7.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.michigan.gov/documents/treasury/FAQs_Act_4_348233_7.pdf</a>
KeepingItReal
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:07 p.m.
I am honestly having problems with these events critical of the Governor for exercising his legal responsibility to implement the EM action in Detroit. The reality is that Detroit is going broke and if something doesn't happen, the City will be forced to close its doors by April. It's a drain on the bond rating not only for the City but for the rest of the state and quiet frankly, I don't think the state should bail Detroit out of its problems. The number one problem as I see it is that the citizens of Detroit have continued to promote the same tired politrickters and and promote, as Nolan Findley points outs "parasitic" ministers as their leaders and this has gotten them absolutely nowhere. If the African American community is to move forward, we've have got to get beyond the "toddler phase" and move toward complete responsibility for our community.
mrlhaygood
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:55 p.m.
Reading some of these Right-wing comments proves to me that the Tea-Party people are really fake and low information voters. The EMF law is BIG republican goverment! If things were reverse and Democrats were in control, republicans would be pouring into the streets screeming "BIG GOVERMENT TAKE OVER!" This law is not what democracy looks like and rather you are a Dem or Repub we should all be against it. Repub's need to ask themselves, where does it stop?
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:13 p.m.
Really? So when Governor Granholm approved the takeover of Benton Harbor the republicans took to the streets? Really? When Governor Granholm ordered the emergency takeover of the City of Flint in 2002, republicans took to the streets? Really? Where was the outrage then? We'll be waiting for the answer.
nekm1
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:11 p.m.
which city/cities managed by Republican's is in trouble?
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:41 p.m.
The protest was respectful, needed and necessary. Here's the important factor....the protest allows Michiganders to recognize how important it is to have CHECKS and BALANCES in OUR state Government. Gov. Snyder might have the remaining amount of his 2 years and 11 months in office but, we can ensure (as voting citizens) that rein with un-checked legislative Government ends...by returning the state House back to Democratic control in the November 2012 general election. We have learned in a real way that un-checked state Government control is dangerous for working, middle and lower class Michigan citizens. March to Snyderville 2012 <a href="http://youtu.be/ZcUJ8xq2X0Y" rel='nofollow'>http://youtu.be/ZcUJ8xq2X0Y</a>
DonBee
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 2:01 p.m.
Sparty - There are fewer employees of the auto industry today, than when the bailouts were done. Unemployment in the state on that basis should be up. But it is not. Please explain how fewer auto employees = more employment.
Sparty
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 4:09 a.m.
Because there is value in providing safety nets programs, education, health care, unemployment assistance, aid to seniors and the poor, etc. that must be balanced against other factors. Unemployment would have come down down under Bernero or Granholm given its all auto driven thanks to Obama.
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:01 p.m.
@sparty, "Granholm....(could have) created a surplus too..." Really? Then why didn't she? Why didn't she take the necessary steps and make the hard decisions to make that a reality? When she took office unemployment was at 6.4%. When she left it was at 10.7%. Why didn't she make the hard decisions to reverse these numbers?
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:50 p.m.
Monica - The average "tax break" for the double taxed small businesses? About $1800. What did it do? One example, my neighbor replaced a 1991 Van for his plumbing business and hired a second employee. Not bad for an $1800 discount on his taxes. I can't speak for how all of the 300,000 small businesses that will no longer be double taxed by the state, but I expect a fair number of them are hiring. After all automative employment is down over the last 24 months (it may come back to 2009 levels by summer). So the unemployment is falling because small businesses are hiring. Sorry to provide facts to your fantasy.
ViSHa
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:13 p.m.
Monica, while I do not agree with your opinions on this, I appreciate the maturity you show in that, despite your feelings concerning Gov. Snyder, you don't revert to the tired "slick rick", etc... At least I am able to read your posts and try to see your point---I stop reading when I see the typical name-calling on this website.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:07 p.m.
Granholm or Bernero could created a surplus too by taxing senior pensions, increasing personal taxes on every individual, reducing educational funding to both K-12 and higher education, reduced local funding, slashing safety net programs to the poor, reducing unemployment benefits, cutting workers comp benefits, cutting auto catastrophic care insurance, eliminating same-sex domestic benefits to children and adult partners, and many other cuts. She would also have benefitted from Obama's saving of the auto industry, as they are the primary driver of improved job results. So, all in all, I don't know that Snyder has anything to be proud of. Ashamed yes, proud -- no.
halflight
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:53 p.m.
Monica R-W: "Also, we believe that 1.8 Billion dollars worth of tax breaks to C & S Corps. Gov. Snyder signed is Corporate Welfare to the 10th degree." So tax reductions are "welfare"? You do know, of course, that all stockholders of corporations are subject to state income tax. That means that all income earned by corporations is taxed twice: once as income at the corporate level and once as dividend income paid to the stockholder. It's called "double taxation", and it means that income earned by corporations is taxed at a net higher rate than individual income. It's businesses and their owners who pay more state taxes. That's hardly corporate welfare. But then you're all about empty emotional appeals, not facts. "Gov. Snyder might have the remaining amount of his 2 years and 11 months in office but, we can ensure (as voting citizens) that rein with un-checked legislative Government ends" This voting citizen will continue to vote for politicians who demand accountability from public officials who receive state tax funds-- to rein in the corrupt politicians and their associates who refuse to comply with the law.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:33 p.m.
Let's see what Election 2012 ends up like. I believe the people will speak at the voting booth. As for the comment 'keep them welfare hack'....way to jump down in the mud why don't ya? Who said that Nekm1? That would be you. Also, we believe that 1.8 Billion dollars worth of tax breaks to C & S Corps. Gov. Snyder signed is Corporate Welfare to the 10th degree. We're sure you don't have an issue with that, right? Have a Happy Day After MLK Day!
nekm1
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:50 p.m.
just another" keep em in welfare" hack.
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:48 p.m.
Snyder has been in office for a year now. When he took office unemployment was at 10.7%. As of the latest unemployment figures (November 2011) it was at 9.8%. Unemployment went down. Michigan has a surplus. Not bad for just one short year. You think people will vote someone out of office when the state is heading in the right direction compared to 8 years of the state spiraling downward with high unemployment and budget deficits?
nekm1
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:52 p.m.
Would A2.com please find out how many of the 99%'ers were from out of town, out of state, or Union thugs, trying to protect their individual "pots" of gold. Fat pensions, fat insurance plans, and civil servant jobs for life? 47% of all Americans are on the public dole (not taxpayers)..when this number reachs 50% +, who will pay and where will the money come from? Cronyism is not the answer to Detroit's problems.
motorcycleminer
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:36 p.m.
Looks like the pigs squeal loudest when the porks finally getting closer to the bone ....If you don't like it here move... some of us want a real michigan not a welfare state....
justcurious
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:05 p.m.
you wouldn't be tailing about that old government feed trough would you? I would!
Greg
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:06 p.m.
When you elect incompetant representatives for decades, at some point you will have problems. Blaming those trying to fix the problem is like locking the barn door after the animals are out.
nekm1
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:21 p.m.
What folks fail to swallow, is that Governor Snyder won - in a democracy - with 1.9 million votes to 1.3 million for Verg Bernero. That equates to 58%. That is a landslide. That is a mandate. That is how democracy works.
Sparty
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 3:56 a.m.
Hard to debate the facts, huh, jcl?
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:56 p.m.
Sparty I don't think you were LOL when Snyder was elected! Next time next May. That's a great battle cry. Now I'm LOL! If only you could have tapped into the corrupt ACORN machine!
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:10 p.m.
Bernero could have created a surplus too by taxing senior pensions, increasing personal taxes on every individual, reducing educational funding to both K-12 and higher education, reducing local funding, slashing safety net programs to the poor, reducing unemployment benefits, cutting workers comp benefits, cutting auto catastrophic care insurance, eliminating same-sex domestic benefits to children and adult partners, and many other cuts. He would also have benefitted from Obama's saving of the auto industry, as they are the primary driver of improved job results. So, all in all, I don't know that Snyder has anything to be proud of. Ashamed yes, proud -- no.
maallen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:28 p.m.
@sparty, Let's see.... Snyder has been in office for a year now. When he took office unemployment was at 10.7%. As of the latest unemployment figures (November 2011) it was at 9.8%. Unemployment went down. Michigan has a surplus. Not bad for just one short year. You think people will vote someone out of office when the state is heading in the right direction compared to 8 years of the state spiraling downward with high unemployment and budget deficits?
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:40 p.m.
LOL .... of those voting you mean. A very, very low percentage voted. By just a few percentage more voting next time, a larger mandate for change can swing him right out of office. Based on his approval rating, doesn't this seem pretty likely to you?
ChelseaBob
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:52 p.m.
It's good that these people protested. Citizens have a right to corrupt officials, decaying neighborhoods ineffective schools and no services. How dare Governor Snyder try to take those things away. Just look at the damage he's done the state already. By modifying the tax code he's encouraged businesses (yuck) to expand in this state and create jobs. They are even projecting a state budget surplus.
Fernaig
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 11:45 p.m.
Also, um.. where are those new companies? I don't see them flooding in yet. And neither do I see anyone hiring as a result of the tax windfall. I wonder why... oh yes, because there's no demand for goods and services because the seniors have no money, thousands of public employees have lost their jobs or taken huge cuts in pay and benefits, and those of us with jobs that are movable are considering again whether this is the kind of state we want to raise our families in. I'm on the fence until the next election. If people don't see sense, there will be an exodus of the educated middle class to states that value education, and infrastructure. It's easy to have a surplus when you fire 100s of teachers and increase class sizes to 35+. I could have a surplus in my family budget tomorrow if I just didn't feed my kids. The challenge is to balance a budget without cutting essential services. Balancing a budget on the future of our children and seniors is immoral and cruel and if it continues it will ultimately lead to Michigan's downfall.
Fernaig
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 11:36 p.m.
Yes, you've define democracy. We DO have a right to elect corrupt officials. The People have a right to elect whoever the hell they like! Government by the people for the people. And if the people get it wrong, it doesn't mean that those who think they know better, and think they know how to fix things can remove the people's right and stomp in to enforce their ideas. It's not right in Detroit. It's not right in Benton Harbor. And it won't be right when they come to do it in your community.
justcurious
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:44 p.m.
I guess it boils down to this. Detroit is $20, 000,000,000.00 in the hole. Where is the money going to come from to bring it back up? Do the protestors have an answer for that? How can they continue to pay their current employees and obligations, let alone all those who have retired on government pensions? How can they continue without more loans and digging farther into the hole? We all look at Detroit and shake our heads. We are embarrassed to have it as our largest city. We make jokes about it. Some of us blame the citizens for the state of it. ENOUGH! Let's start figuring out how to save it, or at least allow someone who has some expertise try. Let's try to support the efforts rather than beating the city down, or taking an unrealistic attitude toward the inevitable total destruction of this once great city.
groland
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:49 p.m.
When I moved to this area from the east coast almost 20 years ago, I was shocked by how bad Detroit was. There is no large US city quite as bad as Detroit. Other than the casinos has there been any new construction since the Renaissance Center? The trouble with Detroit is that there is no tax base. The city is the largest employer and the politicians are inept. That they happen to be mostly black is not the issue. They have proved themselves incapable of changing the culture of corruption. No jobs, business or industry will return to the city until that happens.
halflight
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:08 p.m.
"Other than the casinos has there been any new construction since the Renaissance Center?" Yes. If you're interested what people manage to do in Detroit despite the abysmal municipal services, check out this website: <a href="http://www.modeldmedia.com/devnews/" rel='nofollow'>http://www.modeldmedia.com/devnews/</a>
andys
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:19 p.m.
You completely miss the point, you no longer can have a reasonable disagreement with a black person in this country without being accused of being racist.
G. Orwell
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:44 p.m.
In addition to the corruption with Detroit politics, trouble with Detroit and Michigan are the result of deindustrialization policy implemented by Democrats and Republicans. Doing the bidding of Wall Street to benefit multinational corporations with slave labor overseas. All the free trade agreements are not free. They provide huge benefits to multinationals that want to outsource production. Even giving tax benefits for outsourcing. Meanwhile illegal immigrants are allowed in to bring down the wages of US workers. That is why Obama just granted amnesty to millions of illegals. Obama also cut government contracts for minorities and small businesses and gave them to large insider corporations. Happy MLK Day. Now you see why minorities and Detroit are having so many economic problems. It is by design.
Diagenes
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:40 p.m.
Protesting at any public official's home is never appropriate. It is an inconvenience to the neighbors and an intrusion in to their private life and family. If news outlets would all pledge not to cover such protests they would end. A protest at the capital in Lansing gets little attentin, and thats why they target private homes. Can anyone site the last time a democrat official was protested at their home? The state should pass a law that limits financial aid to cities. If people are concerned about protecting "democracy" than let the cities manage their own affairs and rely on their own resources. If a city fails and asks the state for assistance then the state should have some say in the management of the city. A failed city demostrates it cannot manage its own affairs and should be taken over. Democrat Kwame Kilpatrick is the perfect example why the EMF law is necessary. The race card is a canard to protect generous municiple union contracts and liberal work rules. As well as the opportunity to use tax payer funds to enrich themselves and their friends. (look up democrats Kwame Kilpatrick and Monica Conyers) Can anyone name a city that is governed by republicans that is a candidate for takeover?
Rob
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:24 p.m.
'We don't want our elected officials to be unilaterally dismissed' Sure - like, say, with a recall?
Wolf's Bane
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:15 p.m.
The issues concerning Detroit are best viewed as shades of grey. Yes, Detroit has a few bad apples, but so do many municipalities in Michigan. What is unfortunately true about Detroit is that it is now largely black an carries with it the legacy of racism. Does it really matter if Detroit falls under the authority of Snyder's regime? Yes, for it will in an instantly strip the black authority (and self-governance) that Detroiters enjoyed for so many decades. Either way Detroit will need to change or further erode.
nekm1
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:47 p.m.
A few bad apples, really? Detroit has been overrun by the Coleman's, Kilpatricks, Cheek's familys for years. How about a bushel basket of bad apples. Worst crime of all is that it IS Black on Black crime. A few steal from the pot to enrich themselves, blame the "suburbs" and hide behind the masses. Black folks stealing from black folks, disgusting. Wake up.
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:32 p.m.
They are no longer grey. Bottomline, the city killed the goose that laid the golden egg. GM did not still need to be in Detroit, they were force by Government Motors. Even Wayne State is having trouble recruiting new students, because the caliber just is not there. So what else is there, the roman gladiator arenas?
dtones520
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:49 p.m.
Did people not know what Rick Snyder was planning on doing at the time he was elected into office? You had your chance to vote for someone else when he was elected into office. He is trying to do things to get this state back on the right track, does it take money away from certain public entities? Yes, it does, but that is what happens when the entity paying the employees starts losing money. I find it hilarious when public sector employees complain about having to take a cut. Its been happening in the private sector for years...and the majority of public sector jobs dont generate any revenue, yet they want more, more, more. I know it's not really related to the issue at hand, but in general, a lot of the people protesting Snyder are public sector employees and people living off the state. But it seems completely ethical that the unions, namely the public unions (i.e. teachers union) put all of this money into the Democratic candidates pocket books to get them into office, then they negotiate their contracts with the people they paid to put into office. Seems a little backwards doesnt it? For everyone protesting Snyder, in the 8 years we had Jennifer Granholm in office, did your quality of life get better? Did the states economy get better? Did our major cities improve? Did we do more or anything to attract new business to the state? For 8 years the state progressively got worse and Snyder got voted in to come in, make tough decisions and do something different to get the state back on track. But sure, lets recall him and go back to another Governor like Granholm. The guy has been in office for a year, give him his full term and lets see where the state is then. If we are still on the track to nowhere, let the Dems give us their best candidate and hash it out in the election, but you can't judge a guy on a year when you knew what he stood for when he was voted in.
Fernaig
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 11:33 p.m.
Simple answer: No! Rick Snyder campaigned as mild-mannered, sensible businessman, not as an ultra-right wing puppet of the Koch brothers. There was no indication anywhere that he would slash education funding and steal from the K-12 Fund. There was no clue that he would tax pensions. There was no suggestion that he would pander to the religious right and start to bring in legislation that ignores the separation of Church and State, and attempts to enforce his view of morality on the rest of us. He lied.
Basic Bob
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:27 p.m.
To link the plight of African American communities with the AAEA/MEA is a complete joke. In both cases, corruption and political influence are a big part of the problem.
Basic Bob
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 3:08 a.m.
Hegemony? Repeating it often enough makes it true.
godsbreath64
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:15 p.m.
There is corruption everywhere. Ricky's involves mainly hegemony. Ending his takes top priority. Nice try, though, Bob.
Steve Pepple
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:22 p.m.
Several comments posted overnight that contained personal attacks against other commenters or name-calling have been removed. Please make your point without attacking other commenters.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:08 p.m.
Easy 123, What? Confused...what does a resident of Tuskegee, AL have to do with a protest on MLK Day in Ann Arbor, Michigan? No understanding....doesn't connect at all. Also, discussions on race and cultures isn't appropriate for a online newspaper. That should be left to daily interactions with races and cultures within our local communities. Unless some are afraid to tackle this issue face to face and rather hide behind a online forum of the internet to tell their views.....
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:04 p.m.
Sir, The race, maybe cultural aspeect does need to be examined, as Cosby put it. There was a wonderful story about a Tuskegee gentleman (and everyone who has met him - has called him as such). I do not think you could call KK or Sharpton a "gentleman". So why are we not questioning the behavior of the other cultures. hmmmmm
Dante Marcos
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:36 p.m.
Hi Steve. Things get tricky, don't they? I'm just noting that my comment was removed, and the only thing I could think that you found objectionable is that I called attention to the racism inherent in so many of these comments. I wonder how we can talk about race in an appropriate way, and have our comments left up? Any advice would be much appreciated.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:42 p.m.
Thanks Steve!
The Black Stallion3
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:53 a.m.
I am looking forward to an EFM going into Detroit and cleaning up the mess they have created. There is no other way to do it.....the citizens of Detroit have proven that they have no clue how to get their city in order.
Goober
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:15 a.m.
If the elected officials are screwing up, padding their own pensions/salaries and the public is apathetic to a recall, who is going to save the community? The other state tax payers?
Gorc
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:58 a.m.
The city of Detroit has had financial problems for decades...before the governor was elected. The city of Detroit has had high crime for decades...before the governor was elected. The city of Detroit has had a failing school district for decades...before the governor was elected. The city of Detroit has been losing population for over decade, because of the lack of quality of life...again before the governor was elected. Where is the outrage for those who were in charge of the city of Detoit over the past decades and allowed the city to get into that condition first place? The governor did not creat the problem, he just cleaning up a mess he inherited.
ViSHa
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:02 p.m.
dtones, I guess I was trying to say that when Obama is criticized, his supporters say "he is cleaning up a mess, needs more time". When Snyder needs to clean up a mess, it needs to be done pronto and he is not allowed to upset the status quo that has corrupted cities like Detroit.
dtones520
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:43 p.m.
I was trying to be nice andys.
andys
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:16 p.m.
"He hasnt done much to reign in spending." That is the most generous assessment of Obama's spending policies that I've ever heard.
dtones520
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:55 p.m.
ViSHa, the problem is that Obama hasn't really done anything to clean up the mess he inherited. He has added more to our national debt. He hasnt done much to reign in spending. Obama was voted into clean up the mess he inherited and 3 years later, we arent much better off. Not saying all he has done is bad, but we are comparing Snyder's one year in office to Obama's 3. The economy is worse than when Obama got in office, the unemployment rate is still higher, our national debt is higher. I agree that he had a mess to clean up to, but that mess is still there and is probably slightly worse. FYI, I voted for Obama and am not happy with my choice. Sad thing is, there isnt really anyone out ther that makes me want to vote someone else in, let alone vote at all.
ViSHa
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:44 p.m.
"cleaning up a mess he inherited". Now where have I heard that before? Guess only the president has that luxury, lol.
Laura Finney
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:27 a.m.
If this protest was NOT successful, why is it on every News Channel in the State? On the front page of every Newspaper? It is sad the media "play it down" by saying there were only 1000 people there. Just look at the pictures, there were well over 1000 people protesting. It truly is sad the GOP egregiously ignore the PEOPLES VOICES and " OUR SPECIAL INTEREST called Democracy" THAN continue to attack our Constitutional Rights to take our State and Communities over to sell them to "Their Special Interests". Mainly Greedy Big Business/Corporation owners that just want to build another golf course so us lowly simple Michiganders can wait on them hand and foot. Good turn out fellow citizens!! Keep up the good work. For every one person there protesting, we have 50 or more at home/work supporting your efforts and beliefs.... we just can't take the time off from work to protest!
Usual Suspect
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:05 p.m.
Nice try. It was the people voice that put the adults (the Republican Governor and the Republican legislators) back in charge.
dtones520
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:59 p.m.
The peoples voices put this administration in the Governors office. The Democratic party's biggest special interest and financial backer is the Labor Unions and isn't it funny how Labor Unions are stronger under a Democratic administration? So how exactly is that any different than politicians on the right? It's not. So yeah, the right is better for big business but, the left is better for the big wigs at the labor unions. The middle class gets boned either way.
lordhelmet
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:51 a.m.
Wow, 800 big mouthed professional protesters should trump the will of the population of Michigan! Ann Arbor dot com sure gives these radicals a lot of press. Why not talk about the rest of the state that foots the bills for the mismanaged cities like Detroit and their corrupt "elected officials" and greedy public unions?
snapshot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:06 a.m.
Mr. Kudla, those local officials who allowed the financial collapse, endorsed unsustainable contracts, and catered to unions, as Yousef Rhabi is doing, are the "threat to democracy". A broke city or township is not an asset. Commissioner Rhabi....where is the money going to come from? Maybe the unions are offering a bailout. GM still owes taxpayers 26 billion, public employee pensions are short by 56 billion, extended unemployment benefits are costing Michigan 111 million per year in interest, where's the money coming from. Mr. Brit Satchwell should be ashamed to pull the race card out when these cities have been poorly managed and rich in corruption as Detroit has been. Brit....where's the money coming from buddy? I'm listening to your plan but all I hear is "gimme, gimme, gimme" and to that I say "no, no, no, way"!
Kai Petainen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:50 a.m.
so here i'm hearing that it was peaceful.... but then i read this in the detroit free press: "But once at the subdivision of million dollar homes, the protest split in two: the group led by a contingent of Detroit religious leaders and another, fueled by By Any Means Necessary, a militant group that uses confrontational tactics." "The militant group stayed for another 40 minutes, crushed up against the gate of Snyder's subdivision, chanting "Hell no. We won't go." And "We are the People's Army."
Kai Petainen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 4:33 a.m.
@Monica... I think you misread what the freep wrote. They wrote 'radical', not 'racial'. I wasn't there, but I do appreciate reading/hearing different views on the situation. You saw something and the detroit news perhaps interpreted it differently. different views of the same situation?
Monica R-W
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 4:02 a.m.
There was no 'racial group' at the protest and that's not the quote you mentioned in your original quote. Again, I was there. In fact, I was walking aside the Free Press Reporter for most of the march up Geddes Road. If she (she had on a Press Pass that stated the Detroit Free Press) saw a 'racial group' it must have been in her mind.
Kai Petainen
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 2:16 a.m.
@Monica... here is the article <a href="http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012201170355" rel='nofollow'>http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012201170355</a> "Radical group splits off at Rick Snyder's subdivision" "It started out as a peaceful protest Monday, with more than 1,000 people gathering at Parker Mill County Park near Ann Arbor to rally against the state's emergency manager law." I'm not clear as to how my comment had anything to do with race.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:11 p.m.
DonBee, Nice try on the 'They left Garbage" lines of the Tea Party. Since we have many, many, many pictures of the protest, its' easily provable no garbage was left anywhere. This statement is proven in the MANY pictures contain in a You Tube video of the protest from beginning to end. But, instead of using Ann Arbor.com to link our videos over and over....look it up on Google. We have the proof and you sir, don't. Kind of like their was no existence of a a 'militant' group at the protest named 'By Any Means Necessary'. Didn't see this group yesterday and they weren't at the protest, period. Enjoy your evening.....
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:42 p.m.
Monica - Did you go back today to pick up the trash along the march route? Did you write a check to the sheriff's department for the overtime you cost them?
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:45 p.m.
I was there Kai...with pictures and on the ground reporting. This is NOT true. But, I see you ride on the side of half-truths, so whatever you "report" is not a surprise. Nothing like a little 'race-baiting' so-called quote (un-cited by the way) to make the evening on MLK Day, right Kai?
Michigoose
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:49 a.m.
Dictators make the trains run on time. So far, our EMs haven't improved a thing. If you think elected officials are unaccountable, try unelected officials! There is no way for the people to remove them from power no matter what they do. When Dr. King marched with striking workers before his death, surely racists and anti-unionists claimed that Jesus would do no such thing. Now that Dr. King is gone, those who have accepted his canonization but not his message insist that he would love the wars, hate the poor, disdain democracy, and never talk about race. Unfortunately for that claim, Dr. King's actual political beliefs are well-documented.
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:41 p.m.
Michigoose - I would suggest you read the editorial on Dr. King's beliefs in yesterday's New York Times. Then come back and try again.
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:28 p.m.
Why do we keep needing a Messiah and a King? That is the reason,why we got rid of a King in the US. That means taking care of things yourself, AND NOT depending on the govt for everything, including you capacity to rape and pillage the coffers. This has gone on long enough, it is time to pay the piper. SO, tell me how YOU are going to come up with $20 billion. No funny duddy arguments! I want concrete answers!
snapshot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:10 a.m.
I'm confused. Where's the money coming from? Who's picking up the tab?
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:29 a.m.
Please tell us more about this documented evidence of Dr. King's beliefs on whether the leaders of bankrupt cities should be removed from office if they refuse to turn over financial documents to the State. I didn't know he addressed that topic.
thinker
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:29 a.m.
If you want to be rich, instead of envious and judgmental, get a job and earn it. Snyder was elected fairly and is doing his best to decrease the unemployment rate in Michigan. EFMs return the elected mayors etc to the city. See Flint etc. There is NO attempt to fire them and get white Republicans in to take over the city. How preposterous! And Granholm was the first one to appoint EFMs. End of story. Don't repeat a lie often enough that the gullible will eventually believe it.
Usual Suspect
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 10:08 p.m.
Sugar who what? And still no specific part of the Constitution cited. Just bumper-sticker platitudes.
DonBee
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 1:58 p.m.
Fire Rick - I have read it, and the analysis of it by 3 legal groups - none of those groups give the Sugar Lawsuit a snowball's chance in Haiti of winning.
Sparty
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 3:48 a.m.
And there you have it, AGAIN
Fire Rick
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:51 p.m.
@Usual Suspect and DonBee Although the answer is quite obvious, I will attempt to spell it out for you. According to the Sugar Law Center, which currently has a lawsuit pending regarding the constitutionality of this law, "Public Act 4 violates the Michigan Constitution, which protects home rule, provides for separation of powers, and prevents the legislature from enacting unfunded mandates. It also violates the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution. - The law exceeds the powers of the state Legislature as defined by the Michigan Constitution. - The law gives the executive branch of the state government powers that properly belong to the legislative branch. - The law violates the letter and spirit of the Michigan Constitution's definition and guarantee of local control through democratic elections and the adoption, amendment and repeal of local ordinances." You can read more details about the Sugar Law Center's lawsuit here: <a href="http://www.sugarlaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/QA-PA4-Challenge1.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://www.sugarlaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/QA-PA4-Challenge1.pdf</a>
Usual Suspect
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:02 p.m.
Don, this question has been asked over and over, and they never have an answer. There isn't one, and they know it. But, as is typical of the left, they will keep repeating it anyway.
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:54 p.m.
Where is your proof that it is unconstitutional Sparty? What parts of the state constitution does it violate? Please, I would like to know.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:16 a.m.
Snyders EFM law is new, more powerful and unconstitutional - a key difference. LoL.
EyeHeartA2
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:48 a.m.
"But some ralliers on Monday argued implementing an emergency manager in Detroit would disenfranchise black voters and is thus racist." Sometimes you really have to stretch to play the race card, but by god, there it is. MLK would be proud, I am sure (not).
Usual Suspect
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:01 p.m.
Agree. According to that logic, every law on the books in Detroit, from parking tickets on up, is racist, because they affect blacks more than whites.
B2Pilot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:28 a.m.
I have not heard anyone with any LEGITAMATE alternative. The Law Granholm passed (she obviously knew there were some questionable spending goining on) had no teeth it was ineffective. It dosn't surprise me that the unions are protesting they fear their lucrative contracts maybe reworked. you don't like the law fine, let them go bancrupt or go protest Kilpatricks and ask for all the money back. Go ask Ficano for the money back. Schneider is actually trying to do somehting to avoid bancruptcy which is way more than these folks today have done or will do for 'their' cities. Please a legitamate alternative anyone something that would actually work, the old EMF did not work
Fire Rick
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:41 p.m.
It would be nice if people who have a strong opinion (one way or the other) would actually educate themselves first before spouting off. First of all, Granholm didn't pass a law related to Emergency Managers. The law was already in place long before she ever took office. In fact, Public Act 72 of 1990 has been around since Jim Blanchard was in office. Secondly, our Governor is Rick SNYDER, not Schneider. Although I'd take a Schneider any day over Slick Rick. Seriously, do your homework.
sbbuilder
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:21 a.m.
B2pilot I think your sentence could simply be shortened to '...Granholm....was ineffective.' and leave it at that.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:19 a.m.
Slick Rick has brought his nasty brand of unconstitutional law to every Michigan home, so it's only fair that protesters bring their legally protected constitutional right of protest to his home. It's all being coordinated with the AAPD, Sheriff's Office, and other law enforcement agencies, so not to fear --- all will be done completely legally. Regardless of whether you approve or not, the US Constitution does approve and it prevails. Hopefully it will gain some national exposure for the Nerd's tendency to foster unconstitutional laws on the State, e.g. the EFM, domestic partner benefit ban, medicinal marijuana hijinks despite the citizens ballot approval, and others. The lawsuit filed in US District Court charging multiple violations of the US Constitution's 14th Amendment related to the Domestic Partner health benefit ban? Or perhaps they will highlight the pending May recall vote? Or perhaps his 19% approval rating, below the lowest rating of his Democratic predecessor, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, and nearing the lowest level of current Governors - the newly elected republican Governor of Florida. All in all, it's sure to put Michigan in the spotlight for intolerance and radical right-wing social re-engineering. Courts will rule on these issues and then the story will be written, but not before then.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:14 p.m.
Don't let that swinging' door hit ya ......
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:10 p.m.
Sprty, Please recall all competent individuals , and replace them with your thugs. I am willing to bet Michigan will become Detroit. Oh, I just realised Gov. Granholm just fit the bill. We will just leave the state and take our tax base and jobs with us. Try it and see where you are going to leech to.
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:23 p.m.
So we did not have an EFM, prior to that, eh!!? What hypocrisy!
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:50 p.m.
Sparty - Governor Granholm enjoyed the ratings based on the top 3 categories of the MSU poll, Governor Snyder the top 2 categories. Apples and Oranges. But you would expect that from a poll run by a Democratic operative.
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 7:13 a.m.
Facts are facts, or are you debating his approval rating too? LoL. A new recall attempt is starting in May, let's see what happens. :)
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:46 a.m.
If the Governor's approval rating is so bad, why couldn't you get enough signatures to put a recall on the ballot?
B2Pilot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:34 a.m.
the domestic partner benefit elimination was passed by the voters- Check your facts. Not sure what poll you've been reading but Michigan is actually seen as a viable option for new business's on the national level. Granholm ran this state into the ground, the only way she kept the state afloat was taking stimulas money the last few years she was in office to keep the general fund and education fund in the black. otherwise Michigan would have needed an EMF
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:25 a.m.
"Or perhaps they will highlight the pending May recall vote?" It is not so easy without ACORNS illegal votes is it?
Arborcomment
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:07 a.m.
"Inactive Marine Harness"? If he's on active duty and on leave, or is in the reserves, he's doing a Uniform Code of Military Justice no-no wearing the uniform at a protest. If he has been discharged - different story - but still stretching limits.
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:39 p.m.
If he is truly on inactive status he is a former commissioned officer (regular, not reserve) who has resigned his commission after fulfilling his initial commitment. If this picture was forwarded to the right unit, he might find himself in hot water.
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:01 a.m.
Bullock said it's even more egregious than that. "If Detroit gets an emergency manager, over 75 percent of the African American elected officials in Michigan will be essentially useless," he said in a statement. I have no faith that his estimates are any better than those of Williams. Brit Satchwell, president of the Ann Arbor Education Association said he was at an event in Detroit this month when organizers announced they had more than 170,000 of the 250,000 signatures they're aiming for. Lets wait and see how many are legitimate. If they get enough more power to them. Then those cities can continue to go down the drain.
DonBee
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 1:57 p.m.
Fire Rick - An MEA fax number was used on the recall material the first time round. Staff from the MEA was involved, AAEA members have buttonholed parents in the buildings for signatures. Children are coming home with stories about how bad the Governor is that their teachers are relating. So no there is no cross over from professional paid time to recall work, none at all by members of the teacher's union.
Fire Rick
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:25 p.m.
@DonBee Really?? Seems like QUITE a stretch. What Brit Satchwell does on his own time is his own business. How completely irresponsible of you to suggest that Brit, or any other teacher, would be collecting signatures on school time. Give me a break.
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:37 p.m.
Just think the Ann Arbor School District pays Brit Satchwell's salary - and he is out collecting signatures for a repeal. Is this a good use of the scarce dollars that education claims they have?
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:22 p.m.
exactly, I would not mind having them go done the gutter. However, these "cities" will take us along as well!
Terry Bankert
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:58 a.m.
There is no doubt we have Michigan cities that have financially been mismanaged. Intervension of some sort was needed. The law as it exists is too harsh. There is no divine statute, humans write these and should be open to debate. When a City is forced into recievership the elected offical should be held more accountable by having to stand a vote of confidence or non confidence which would cause the immediate vacating of the office. Additionally I called for placing on the ballot a yes or no vote for the election of a charter revision commission. Let the people decide how to reorganize their city to keep out of recievership.I support returning Flint to City Manager. As a native of Flint I feel we deserve more from our elected officals. I hope the Governopr opens up a discussion with the protest .
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:41 a.m.
Yes, many union members sucking the lifeblood out of taxpayers disagree with the law.
Terry Bankert
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:09 a.m.
It does not mean it could not be improved. Many seem to disagree.
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:02 a.m.
The statute was debated. Before the legislature passed it and the governor signed it.
concerned
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:51 a.m.
From a person who attended this event. IT WAS GREAT, and well worth the time. Again I would like to thank all law enforcement involved. Their friendly and professional manner in helping this event was extraordinary. For the nay sayers, oh well. I read one person write they never prayed so hard for rain. It was nice how the rain held off till after the event. I guess some of our prayers do get answered. For others that say we have our rights, but you have the right to complain, well be sure of one thing, we are here and we're here to stay. We will continue to fight for our rights, and yes we will even fight for your right to COMPLAIN.
Fire Rick
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:27 p.m.
@concerned It was beyond GREAT! Law enforcement was extremely professional and polite. The weather cooperated. We got fantastic coverage in the media. All in all, I'd say it was huge success!
djm12652
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9:08 p.m.
@concerned...are you moving from Detroit to Ann Arbor? All those that want to make a difference in Detroit, move there, buy a home, build the city tax base and feed the local economy by buying local...
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:06 p.m.
You have destroyed this country. Why don't you go to the schools in Ypsilanti, and for that matter Ann Arbor and help the future generations to become productive citizen and goos tax payers. They can pay your pension.
Patriot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 11:36 a.m.
Glad you enjoyed the rally. Now please deposit $1,715 to the Washtenaw County Public Safety Fund for all the wasted police efforts and DOT activity needed to keep order, close the road, and administer your rally. If you want it - have it BUT PAY FOR IT YOURSELF.
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:19 a.m.
,"well be sure of one thing, we are here and we're here to stay" Like the Wall street protestors? LOL
DonBee
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:03 a.m.
Where do we send the bill for your portion of the overtime and holiday expenses that the citizens of Washtenaw County now have to pay? You helped reduce the amount of money that could be spend on a shelter or the Humane Society by making the county and the township pay overtime today.
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:50 a.m.
The Rev. David Bullock, president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Highland Park should concentrate on helping solve his cities problems. They have plenty of them. And had them LONG before Snyder came into office! Williams estimated there were about 3,000 people in attendance at that point, though police estimated the event attracted only about 800 people. Williams, pastor of the historic King Solomon Baptist Church in Detroit is better than one might expect at telling a whopper!
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:43 a.m.
Another poll with irrelevant questions! The polls on a2.com border on laughable!
Usual Suspect
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:47 p.m.
Not everybody as smart as me
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:34 p.m.
Then how come it wasn't an overwhelming result with everyone voting fail?
Usual Suspect
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:49 p.m.
Actually, this one they got right for a change. The simple "Fail" option was all that was needed.
r treat
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:43 a.m.
Geez! I wish I would of had the day off like all of these folks.
Sparty
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 3:37 a.m.
It is a Federal and State Holiday, perhaps you've heard of it?
eclectablog
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 10:57 p.m.
I took vacation time. That alright with you?
djacks24
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:19 p.m.
Me too. But I would have spent my day doing something productive, instead of disrupting traffic and not respecting private property rights.
Wolf's Bane
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:16 p.m.
Agreed.
laurami8
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:37 a.m.
I am so happy and grateful that these protestors are taking a stand to protect democracy. I think that they embody what Dr. King died to stand for (the enfranchisement of all citizens and the opportunity to build and thrive in all of our communities). They did something radical because the problem that we face is an enormous one that needs to be addressed NOW. Bravo.
Sparty
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 3:36 a.m.
We are dealing with it - you may have heard that the US Attorney General is reviewing the law for probable violations of the US Constitution, upon request of the Michigan Congressional Delegation. Lawsuit to follow with any luck!
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:26 a.m.
African Americans were allowed to vote just like everyone else. And the legislators that won passed this law. Deal with it.
laurami8
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:07 a.m.
@ Angry Moderate- I am pretty sure that he was into African American enfranchisement, which is one of the key issues addressed today. Go back and read your history.
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:46 a.m.
Dr. King stood for unaffordable pensions and municipal bailouts? Seems like special interest groups come up with a new cause to attribute to him every year.
Daniel
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:15 a.m.
I am always amazed at the lack of information included in News articles. The main problem with the new EFM law is that it gives enormous powers to the EFM that did not exist in the old law. The EFM can set aside Collective Bargaining Agreements of Teachers, Police, Firefighters and Public Employees. The EFM can also decide what spending cuts are needed without any appeals process. This law was written to undermine Unions, not else. The old law, while anti-democratic, did NOT allow the enormous power of the EFM. This includes firing elected officials. While many White people in Michigan don't have a problem with EFM's firing elected black officials, but why would you think black people are ok with that? I wish we could fire Mayor Heiftje and replace him with a dictator, but that is not how Democracy works.
halflight
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:04 a.m.
"The EFM can set aside Collective Bargaining Agreements of Teachers, Police, Firefighters and Public Employees." Those are the same powers that a bankruptcy trustee has under the bankruptcy code. If an employer is broke, all of its contracts are open to modification or nullification. So it's in an employee's interest to not drive his or her employer into bankruptcy. The same with cities, unions and EFMs. "This law was written to undermine Unions, not else. " This law was written to prevent public employee unions from holding local governments hostage by refusing to renegotiate unsustainable contracts. Private companies can do that by seeking bankrupcty protection. Snyder is leveling the field. "While many White people in Michigan don't have a problem with EFM's firing elected black officials, but why would you think black people are ok with that?" This is NOT about skin color. People have a problem with municipal governments that take public funds, yet continue to run unsustainable budget deficits. Michigan taxpayer funds are wasted, and the eventual financial collapse will require a state bailout to pay for unfunded pensions and other municipal debts, plus basic services to prevent chaos That is not acceptable, no matter who lives in a city. "I wish we could fire Mayor Heiftje and replace him with a dictator, but that is not how Democracy works." Democracy works by following the State constitution. The State constitution gives the lawmaking power to the legislature. The legislature has passed a law allowing the governor to appoint emergency financial managers when he finds certain conditions exist. If you don't like the law, elect another legislature. Democracy does not work by ignoring the law passed by the legislature.
grye
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:40 a.m.
Daniel, the city with its elected officials haven't been able to solve the problem for years. How much more time are you willing to give them or do you just wait until the bankruptcy court resolves the lack of funds issue?
A2James
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:31 a.m.
The city of Detroit has screwed over their teachers, firefighters, and policemen enough as it is. If an EFM actually DOES break their CFA's (which is doubtful), they might be getting a favor. This isn't about black and white (although, Detroit has gone downhill ever since the Coleman Young administration). If you can't do the job, get out of the way and let somebody competent do it!
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:17 a.m.
Why do you leave out the part of the law that explains WHEN an elected official can be fired? Perhaps because it's actually reasonable and sensible?
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:10 a.m.
Do these people even know that the law only allows dismissal of officials if they illegally refuse to comply with the emergency manager by failing to provide required documents, etc? Why the heck WOULDN'T we dismiss an official that openly violates state law?
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:39 a.m.
LOL. Detroit voters recalling Kwame = pigs flying.
Daniel
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:35 a.m.
Exactly. There are already plenty of laws to dismiss corrupt and ineffective lawmakers, and the best one is the RECALL of that lawmaker. Not the arbitrary firings by a EFM that has absolute firings that cannot be appealed.
pawky
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:01 a.m.
I am 100% in favor of peaceful protest at the proper venue. Protesting at someone's home, left or right, is way out of line. Playing the race card over the EM issue is just plain ridiculous and marginalizes those involved. This has nothing to do with race. You've got to love the "Apartheid" sign, though. If a city is given a reasonable opportunity to bring their house in order, and don't, bring in an EM to clean up the mess. Besides blindly throwing money at the problem, what choice is there?
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:07 p.m.
"even if you want to think they may have made bad decisions," That's not even up for debate! The fact that these places continue to make "bad decisions" is one thing. But asking the rest of the State to bail them out with no strings attached is more than a little naive!
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:33 p.m.
Oh, it's just a happy coincidence. I get it. LoL.
doglover
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:35 p.m.
@charley, what are the failing rural areas that you think need an EFM.
Charley Sullivan
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 12:14 p.m.
@jcj, there can be racism without it being a conspiracy; it can simply be about the system. Failing rural areas in Michigan are not being targeted. Failing urban areas are. How we see that includes a racial lens, whether we intend it to or not. The end result is that the votes of the majority of black people, even if you want to think they may have made bad decisions, are being undone by this law. Personally, I'd love to look at some of the ridiculousness that has been proposed by some of the right-wing legislators this term -- a bullying law with a religious exception and the retrenchment of partner benefits are prime candidates -- and declare that these areas need emergency managers; surely democracy has failed there, right? But we recognize that they have the right to their own mistakes. That this is about money is no different, and yes, race is at play here, particularly in how we craft our understanding of what cities "are."
jcj
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:52 a.m.
Sparty There are many reasons for that but a conspiracy is not one of the reasons!
Sparty
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:47 a.m.
How would you explain 75% of African Americans in the State being disenfranchised by the EFMs then?
A2James
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:50 a.m.
Detroit is $20 billion in debt. Their mismanagement of money directly affects Detroit citizens, and metro Detroiters. People should be grateful an EMF option exists, because the city of Detroit would otherwise end up with a much worse fate.
djm12652
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 9 p.m.
the EM actions does not unilaterally eliminate elected officials...there must be PROVEN negligence or criminal action on the part of the electees....or has everyone forgot that Granholm used the EM act to begin the process of removing Kilpatrick from office? I love Detroit, I go downtown as often as I can. The state owes Detroit 250 Million when the debt is estimated to be closer to 20 billion....drop in the bucket folks...the elected and appointed officials in Detroit have raped and pillaged her for years...and Wayne County is proving the apple doesn't fall far from the city borders....
Angry Moderate
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:40 p.m.
Perhaps you would realize that it isn't "fear mongering" if you had to live in a city where the schools can't teach kids to read, the police and ambulances don't come when you call them, and employees wonder if their paychecks will bounce every other Friday.
Forever27
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:11 p.m.
personally, I don't think that any option that eliminates elected officials for a unilaterally appointed executive is at all better. Democracy should never be sacrificed because of fear mongering from partisans.
tinkywinky
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:32 a.m.
Bullock said it's even more egregious than that. "If Detroit gets an emergency manager, over 75 percent of the African American elected officials in Michigan will be essentially useless," he said in a statement. What does that have to do with getting an emergency manager?
Hot Sam
Wed, Jan 18, 2012 : 12:51 p.m.
I can't figure out why some folks must see race in every waking moment... This has nothing to do with race and everything to do with incompetence, corruption, and failure.
Forever27
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 8:09 p.m.
look at the cities that are being targeted for an EFM and look at the percentage of the state's minority population that lives within those cities. It's clear that the cities that have been targeted (and are far from the only cities that would be subject to this scrutiny) have been overly represented by minority populations. That is exactly the race aspect of this issue.
doglover
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:33 p.m.
I had a very similar thought, but I think he meant "toothless" or some other version of powerless.
Hot Sam
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:46 a.m.
More important...how would that be different?
Kai Petainen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:30 a.m.
i like how the governor handled this rally. in that... he respected the freedom of speech and they were able to peacefully protest. you can go and debate about his policies... but i like that he was respectful to them. was it respectful of the protestors to walk to his personal home?
2BLUE4U
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:49 p.m.
It's amazing that you're hung up on some perceived etiquette about being "respectful" to the governor but you don't give a crap about the constitution or democracy! Is it "respectful" to trash the constitution and become a dictator? How do we decide which dictators to be "respectful" to and which ones to assassinate? Kai I just bet you've complained about the lack of respect shown to Quadaffi, Saddamn & whichever other dictators you've been told not to like! If Rush or Beck or Hannity told you that Snyder was a dictator to hate you'd be asking why we hadn't bombed him yet or trying to do it yourself!!! If the fascists keep going in this country and stop only beating, torturing and arresting peace activists, occupiers, whistle blowers and journalists and somehow get to your door with a can of pepper spray and a swinging club to your head are you going to respond "respectfully"?
doglover
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:31 p.m.
Our Governor continues to show a lot of class as he does what he believes is best for the State and it's citizens.
Jake C
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:29 a.m.
I'm not hearing any reports of property destruction, so I'd say that yes, the protesters were respectful in their march on the Governor's Mansion (it just happened to be in Ann Arbor instead of Lansing).
Kai Petainen
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:46 a.m.
my apologies, here is a correction... was it respectful of the protestors to walk towards his personal home? geddes wasn't chosen as a random street in SE michigan.
Monica R-W
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:39 a.m.
Kai, I know by now you know FULL WELL the protesters DID NOT walk into his personal home or really nowhere near it. Again, it was at the FULL GATE of the Geddes Glen compound. But, its easier to continue spreading the lie, right....
Marshall Applewhite
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:24 a.m.
LOL!
G. Orwell
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:20 a.m.
I am sure these protests have the right intentions but they are barking up the wrong tree. They need go to where the real source of the problems lie and that is in Washington DC and New York city. That is where the den of vipers reside that are trying to destroy this country from within.
G. Orwell
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 5:15 p.m.
Believe me. I am doing what I can to take back this country for we the people. Just remember, the Constitution must never be violated in pursuit of justice. Even though the crooks violate it often. It must be done peacefully and by the book. Thank you for all your heavy lifting. Peace.
Denise Heberle
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:55 p.m.
oh we're barking there, too. trust me. you should too. don't make us do all the heavy lifting to protect your rights.
grye
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 1:13 a.m.
Why not? They are 100% of the problem.
godsbreath64
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 3:08 p.m.
Nice try. These are campaign questions confined to just honest candidates before the elections. See the problem now? You all have made zero points when viewed in the context of the $1.8 BILLION redistribution of wealth Ricky ponied up to satisfy his virgin campaign qui pro quo. Give Detroit the 1/4 billion the states owes it and clam up, asap.
easy123
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:55 p.m.
They have wasted $20 billion of our money (ans still counting), and they still want more? Sprty, So what is your solution - spend another 21 billion? I am done with the union wanting more and expecting ME to pay for thier retirement lifestyle. I am not going to get a pension, or healthcare. So where is the sympathy for me. Maybe you can pay my taxes - property and income taxes. Then I will vote for the trough to get filled!
grye
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 2:01 p.m.
Godsbreath: These cities and school systems were ineptly run by the individuals that were elected by the people to management them. No one else caused their fiscal demise. So yes, they are 100% of the problem.
snapshot
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 6:15 a.m.
godsbreath you make no "cents" where's the money coming from? These cities are writing bad checks and you know what happens to individuals who write bad checks, they go to jail. I think an EFM isn't punishment enough.
godsbreath64
Tue, Jan 17, 2012 : 4:26 a.m.
Sorry. Ricky has the problem returning the constitutional charge his authority was vested from. Then there is his trouble being honest with the media and ergo the people. Then there is his problem with Mich.Const. Art I Sec. 1" All political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their equal benefit, security and protection." ..., ...,