While we need to stabilize the organization to ensure our fiscal stability, I don't want to fall completely into a reactionary mode. It's a delicate balance.We can't lose sight of our responsibility to invest in our community and continue striving toward greater collaboration with our partners, both internally and externally.  We need to get through the next couple years, but we also have to use that time to be proactive with inevitable change and stay committed to building a better future that includes economic growth and jobs.

• Update on Aerotropolis: And speaking of the future, Chair of the Board of Commissioners Rolland Sizemore signed the Aerotropolis Development Corporation Inter-local Agreement with Wayne County and 7 local jurisdictions.  Aerotropolis is an exciting example of looking out for our future through municipal collaboration. The project has a long term focus -  ten to twenty years  -  with the potential to create 60,000 jobs in Wayne and Washtenaw Counties.
  
• Budget Process - Retirees: Last week, Human Resource Director Diane Heidt, Deputy Administrator Verna McDaniel and I met with the AWARE group - a voluntary group representing the County's retirees.  In my mind, individuals who have retired from the County remain part of the County family.  It's important that they are kept up to date as we navigate this financial crisis.  As I've mentioned before, everything is on the table and that must include some of the benefits for our retirees. What will not be on the table are their pensions which are secured by the Michigan Constitution.
  
• Budget Process - Negotiations: We have been in contact with all our union partners and most have agreed to sit down to discuss the economic situation in the County and the dialogue will begin this week.  While the process isn't a particularly quick or easy one, I'm encouraged because it has begun. The negotiating team includes Human Resource Director Diane Heidt, Deputy Administrator Verna McDaniel, Parks and Recreation Director Robert Tetens, Trial Court Administrator Dan Dwyer, Management Analyst Joanna Bidlack and me.  These conversations are expected to continue throughout June and July.

The numbers of "viewers" and "visitors" to the Budget Process web site continue to grow.   Again, thank you for your attentiveness, and your understanding.

Remember I'm reachable with your comments or questions, here or by email.

Bob