Consistency behind the plate
Hi there! When I started this effort, I thought if I could get 348 followers it could make a difference to the conversation we are having in Harbor Springs. The goal was set with admittedly petty reasoning. I used 348 because it was the number of residents who signed the zoning repeal petition last summer.
We’ve passed the 348 mark. I want to say, "Thank you."
Week after week, you engage with these posts. I try hard not to abuse your goodwill or time. The length of my posts likely stretches the latter.
One of the things I have wanted to demonstrate in this space is consistency. Last week I wrote a bit about how important it is for baseball umpires to be consistent behind home plate.
Even if the strike zone isn't perfect, calling balls and strikes the same way at each at bat helps hitters and pitchers play the game. Both can adjust their efforts to accommodate a particular umpire's calls-if the calls are consistent.
After writing about it last week, a Little League umpire commented on the post. They said they would meet with the coaches before the game to lay out the strike zone. No surprises means everyone gets a fair shot.
The Planning Commission did a good job of laying out the process for rewriting our zoning code. They have been consistent. They listened. It has helped. Residents of Harbor Springs all received direct communication to let them know what to expect. We were invited to take part. If we continue to respect the process it will be hard to argue with the result.
That's the goal, right? A solid code that reflects the needs expressed by residents, protects our beautiful town, and prepares us for the future. It's not a game that one side wins and the other loses. We can all be on the same team.
The folks on Planning are following the steps. They have listened to dozens of hours of public input. They have a process that allows input on the thousands of sentences that will make up the new code.
Literally, Commission volunteers are taking input line-by-line to get it right. I applaud their consistency (and yours)!
Tonight, the Harbor Springs bands have their Spring Concert at 7 p.m. at the High School. Come on out and listen to some talented kids. And if you are looking for some games to cheer for, remember, the Little Leaguers' parade through town this Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and then they take the field for Opening Day!
Thanks to you all!