Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the Ashland County Board of Supervisors meeting that took place on June 6, 2023. The meeting covered various topics, including updates on ongoing issues and public comments. We will provide a detailed summary of the meeting, highlighting the key points discussed.
Synopsis of the Meeting
The meeting began with a moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was amended, and a motion was made to approve it.
Public Comment Period
During the public comment period, individuals were given three minutes to voice their concerns or opinions. One of the individuals, Scott Breding, spoke about the valuation of the town of Sanborn. He raised issues regarding the inaccurate mill rate and the inclusion of properties in the valuation. Breding provided documents to support his claims and expressed his frustration with the lack of accuracy in determining property taxes.
Several other individuals also raised concerns about different matters, including an employee grievance appeal and the conduct of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office. Kim Levasseur brought up her grievance appeal hearing, where she highlighted violations of policies by her supervisors and the sheriff’s lack of involvement in the investigation. She expressed concern over the smooth operation of the jail and the resignation of several staff members.
Sheriff Brian Zaku addressed the allegations made against him, stating that false accusations were being made and that sexual assaults had occurred in the jail. He defended his actions, claiming that he had taken appropriate steps to address the issues and that the accusations were an attempt to tarnish his reputation.
Line 5 Pipeline and Water Protection
Leanna Goose and Cheryl Burns spoke about the Line 5 pipeline and the need for its immediate shutdown. They emphasized the potential devastating effects of an oil spill on the nation’s economy and fresh water resources. They called for prioritizing water over oil and urged the government agencies to work together to protect the water.
Key Issues Discussed
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Valuation and Property Taxes: Scott Breding raised concerns about the inaccurate mill rate and the inclusion of properties in the valuation of the town of Sanborn. He provided documents to support his claims and highlighted the financial burden placed on taxpayers.
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Employee Grievance Appeal: Kim Levasseur discussed her grievance appeal hearing and the violations of policies by her supervisors. She questioned the smooth operation of the jail and the resignation of several staff members since her termination.
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Sheriff’s Office Conduct: Sheriff Brian Zaku addressed the allegations made against him and defended his actions regarding the sexual assaults in the jail. He stated that false accusations were being made and invited individuals to review the evidence in his office.
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Line 5 Pipeline: Leanna Goose and Cheryl Burns expressed concerns about the aging Line 5 pipeline and its potential impact on the nation’s fresh water resources. They called for its immediate shutdown to protect the environment and future generations.
Conclusion
The Ashland County Board of Supervisors meeting on June 6, 2023, covered various important issues and public concerns. Discussions centered around valuation and property taxes, employee grievances, the conduct of the Sheriff’s Office, and the Line 5 pipeline. The meeting provided individuals with an opportunity to voice their opinions and raise awareness about these pressing matters. It will be interesting to see how these issues develop and whether any actions or resolutions are taken in response to the concerns raised.
[Keywords: Ashland County Board of Supervisors, valuation, property taxes, employee grievance appeal, Sheriff’s Office conduct, Line 5 pipeline]