I've lived in Saline for over 10 years. During that time, I have been lucky to be able to volunteer around town at events such as Celtic Festival and have collaborated with many citizen-run organizations. I've also volunteered at county wide events annually, such as the Humane Society of Huron Valley's Walk and Wag and Washtenaw County Conservation District's Native Plant Expo. Over the past year I have delved further into the inner workings of the city by becoming a member of the Parks Commission for Saline. In addition to my service on that commission I have also attended almost every city council meeting this year, as well as numerous Planning Commission meetings. I see so many issues in Saline that need to be solved: the many troubles plaguing our water system, the decision of whether or not to remove the dam in Mill Pond Park, helping Main Street to grow, and many more. My experience in these activities only increased my desire to give back to the community that I love. That's why I decided to run for city council. When Saline thrives, we all thrive - and I want to help achieve that goal however I can.
The Saline River Dam is an historical landmark in the city of Saline. With roots back to Henry Ford, it's a vital part of Saline's history. Beyond those sentimental reasons, removal of the dam would cost far more than proper maintenance. Supporters of removal often say there's more money available for removal efforts, however, those funds are becoming limited as state and federal priorities change. On top of the price to remove the dam, the cost to renovate the park afterwards would be entirely on Saline citizens. As a member of the Park Commission, I have seen first-hand how much these renovations can cost and it isn't cheap. From an environmental perspective, while dams are not traditionally considered environmentally "good", one cannot ignore the fact that the dam has allowed multiple species, including some endangered, to call Mill Pond Park and the surrounding area home. To remove the dam now would damage those ecosystems. And simply from a practical perspective, removing the dam would remove Saline's ability to control extreme amounts of precipitation. Extreme rainfall is an ever-increasing problem and to ignore it could cause expensive damage to Saline and its citizens.
For far too long water quality issues have plagued the city of Saline. Instead of paying for endless studies that are never implemented, we need to start taking action to actually execute a plan that will correct the issues. City Council needs to pay more attention to the activities around essential services in Saline to ensure citizens receive quality utilities for their tax money. Competent people need to be hired to oversee these utilities and should report, at a minimum, annually to the City Council.
The heart of Saline, Main Street, needs to have City Council enact policies and updates that will encourage the continued growth of this vital part of the city. We need to focus on attracting quality businesses to downtown and improve the parking situation to help foster that interest. In addition, improvements like more crosswalks (or better placed ones) need to be added to make it easier for citizens to move across Michigan Ave. to enjoy all of the businesses Saline has to offer.
Saline is a wonderful place to live, but right now it's a dream that's not open to everyone. We need to increase affordable housing, not just to rent, but to own in the city. Rather than building endless amounts of apartment buildings and townhouses, at outrageous market value prices, City Council should work to attract developers who will build single-family homes at reasonable prices, starter homes that will give young people a chance to actually enter the housing market. Beyond affordable housing, the city also needs to make sure development is done in a way that makes sense for the surrounding areas. Saline is a charming city, let's keep it that way.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand how important it is to make Saline a place that is accepting of all populations. A diverse population brings unique perspectives that will help the city grow and develop in a way that benefits all citizens.
The Fire Department is another essential service that has been neglected for far too long. I believe we need to keep it local to Saline and not outsource it like the dispatch center. When the dispatch center was outsourced Saline lost a service that knew the community and area. A city-based service provides far superior coverage than one that covers many areas.
The Rec Center is a valuable resource for the city, but the current funding arrangement for it is not sustainable. The funding for the parks should be separated from the Rec Center, and the city needs to look at getting funding from the surrounding communities that make use of the facility.
Miri Weidner has been endorsed by Run for Something (RFS), a national organization that recruits and supports the next generation of progressive leaders for state and local office. The organization’s slate of newly endorsed candidates includes young, diverse progressives from across the country who are ready to lead in their communities.
Greater Metropolitan Association of Relators
Miri Weidner has been endorsed by the Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtors in her campaign for Saline City Council.
Thank you for your interest in helping Miri Weidner get elected to Saline City Council! If you'd like to volunteer to knock on doors or if you'd just like to show your support by placing a sign in your yard, please fill out the contact form below or send an email to ask@miriforsaline.com.
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