Up North Green Party

A Local of the Green Party of Michigan

Charlevoix & Emmet Chapter Minutes
6/11/03

A combined meeting of the Up North Green Party and Emmet County Greens was held at the Dilworth in Boyne City. Next meeting will also be a joint meeting to be held on July 16, 2003 at Horizon Books in Petoskey starting at 7pm.

Topics of business:

1. 2004 Election. Talked about the role of the Green Party in the upcoming election and the conflict between adherence to Green Party values or supporting the Democratic candidate in the event that one might be electable. No concensus so far. Bruce pointed out that contributions made prior to June 28 can be matched with federal funds.

2. Instant Runoff Voting. Need to bring this into the mainstream by demonstrating how efficiently it works. Joanne agreed to try a sample IRV election at the Kite-In June 14th. Noted that election reform is imperative.

3. Kite-In. Will be held Saturday June 14 at the park in Boyne City. Volunteers will be at the G.P. table. Jean made wonderful bandanas.

4. Jordan River Nature Education Center work day. This will be June 21 at the Sportsmen's Park in East Jordan. Go west over the bridge; turn left toward the marshland. We will be working on the building so bring hammer and gloves.

5. Nurses' strike. There are about 50% on strike. Cannot petition for new election while unfair labor practice charge is pending. Letter was sent to the Attorney General requesting removal of non-profit status from hospital. Continue to support.

6. Wind turbines. There is an organized resistance to commercial wind turbines by some who object to them on aesthetic and other grounds. Townships are taking up this issue as we speak. Individuals would be wise to attend county meetings and find out which way the wind blows in their area. Michael mentioned that the county website has good information about issues that are of concern to the average voter and it might be useful to become familiar with these issues before the next election.

7. Other. Update on Boyne City marina and Walmart. WATCH is involved. Joanne noted that we might want to work with tribal groups who are concerned about environmental issues. And have money.

Meeting adjourned before 9pm.