Tag: Bakers

LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today announced that Rodney Stokes will be the administration's point man on working with cities to help them become more vibrant and inviting by enhancing their existing resources. Stokes, who currently serves as Department of Natural Resources director, will leave that position to join the Executive Office.

"Michigan's cities are brimming with unique natural and man-made assets that can be cultivated in ways which attract families and visitors, retain talented workers, encourage investment and enhance our overall quality of life," Snyder said. "Rodney has the talent and experience to make that happen. His expertise in the areas of natural resources, outdoor recreation, policy development and civic engagement make him well suited to partner with cities in these efforts. A strong Michigan needs strong cities. Rodney's work will be key to that success and we're fortunate to have a person of his caliber at the forefront of this critical initiative."

As the governor's special adviser for city placemaking, Stokes will work with cities on projects such as ensuring the availability of quality green space and enhancing recreational opportunities.
....

Snyder emphasized the need for Michigan and its communities to adopt a "placemaking" mindset in his March 2011 Special Message to the Legislature on Local Government Reform. Placemaking recognizes that economic development and community development go hand in hand. It is a multifaceted approach that encourages a fresh look at the potential use of assets such as parks, downtowns, waterfronts, neighborhoods and buildings.

Rest here

What a disgusting abuse of power by a Peter Principle agency bureaucrat.  Thank God that Sens. Hune and Booher have taken the initiative to intervene on this outrageous dictatorial assault on private property rights.

This is NOT an April fools joke.

On Sunday, April 1, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources began active enforcement of an Invasive Species Order declaring certain types of swine illegal in Michigan.  Storm troopers under order of the DNR began a "pig sweep" to root out those with particular characteristics. As part of that effort on Tuesday, April 3 the department's Law Enforcement Division conducted inspections of six properties that in the past may have had prohibited swine. The inspections were conducted with permission of the landowners. Each of the properties was found to be free of prohibited swine and therefore in compliance with the Invasive Species Order.

Those facilities, farms or individuals still in possession of prohibited swine are in violation of the law and could face criminal or civil penalties under Part 413 of the state's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act.  For harboring fugitive pigs. Randy Stokes, the DNR director says:

"Our intent from the beginning of this Invasive Species Order has been to enforce the law while minimizing the impact on individuals and livelihoods. For that reason, we provided additional time and assistance for ranch owners, breeders and others to remove prohibited animals from their properties prior to the April 1 enforcement deadline. The additional time allowed property owners to adjust their business plans to minimize economic hardship. We will continue to work cooperatively with property owners where we can."

Check.