Q&A
Paul Bishop, who was appointed to the Dexter Village Council in 1979 and elected in 1980, was the village president from 1982 to 1989. Bishop, who lives in Webster Township, is still active in a number of community groups. He recently participated in a Question and Answer with The Dexter Leader and discussed a number of issues:
Why should young people get involved in politics?
Everyone should be concerned about their community and involving oneself in local politics is a good start. Commissions or committees are a good way to start to get your feet wet and see if you like it.
Are you worried that not many young people seem to get involved in the political process?
Depends on your idea of young. There are many younger folks involved right now in politics for many reasons. Some are concerned about their community while others are interested in higher office. Either is OK.
Why did you first get involved in village issues?
Being a member of the Dexter Jaycees was my first look into the Village's issues. A seat on the council came up and I was asked to fill out the term. I was concerned about many of the issues facing the council so I ran for the seat.
What was your first position and what was your first "big" issue?
During my first meeting as trustee, the village manager and the fire chief resigned, so filling those positions were big. Needless to say, it was quite an indoctrination.
How did Dexter change from the time you first got involved until the time you retired?
The village didn't have much money then and the new sewer plant was coming on line so things went from bad to worse as far as money goes. We had to increase water bills to pay for the new plant and increase taxes to get more money into the coffers. Today, as a result of some far reaching planning, the village is in good financial shape and the tax rate has fallen.
You had quite a few major accomplishments. What are two or three you are most proud of?
While the Dexter Business and Research Park is at the top of the list, the development of the Dexter Area Fire Department was just as tough to accomplish. Having five municipalities (Dexter Village, Scio, Dexter, Lima and Webster) agree to anything at that time was quite a task. After 20 years it is still operating well and doing what all thought it should. It took five years to complete and it was worth it.
The industrial park took five years as well but the need was understood and after the first two years, it was when instead of if it would happen. The village needed a new water tower and Baker Road fixed and there was no money to do either one. Creating Industrial Park provided the funding to pay for the improvements with no tax increase. Today, the bonds are paid off and the Village now collects about $500,000 in taxes.
Why do you think it's worked so well?
It was somewhat of a tough sell as folks couldn't understand all the financing involved. To do all what we did with no tax increase was unheard of and it usually is a failed plan, but the state and local agencies came through to help sell the project. With a couple of new companies and DAPCO relocating to the Industrial Park, success was no longer fleeting.
The preservation of Gordon Hall has been one of your passions over the years, why is it so important to save and preserve the home?
Saving Gordon Hall is a no-brainer. With all the farms in Washtenaw county disappearing, to be able to save 70 acres next to the village is an incredible happening. Since the grounds will be under a Conservation easement, Gordon Hall will survive for future generations to enjoy. The Dexter Area Historical Society and Museum will be the leader in this task and I am proud to be associated with this group
What do you want to see Gordon Hall become?
Gordon Hall needs to be restored to its past glories as much as possible. This takes a great deal of money but restoration is a must. The Historical Society is working on the plan so we can begin to request grant monies for the restoration. After restoration one can only speculate as to the use. Certainly opening it to the public is a must but I am not sure as to what form.
What are your thoughts on Dexter becoming a city?
Money wise, becoming a city is the correct step because of the taxes the residents would save. The village is in excellent financial shape to fund the services provided by the townships. I am curious as to the timing of it all. Since the council, led by Jim Seta, wants to annex over 300 acres of the Sloan farm and Kingsley property, which violates the agreement Dexter has with Scio Township, is changing to a city a way to circumvent the agreement. Adding 600 new homes to Dexter would be a disaster and wipe out all savings the residents would see as a city.
Why now? Why is there such a big push for this at this time? And is this the right time?
The village president has stated he is a doer and a great negotiator. I suspect he would like to be the first mayor or fulfill his dream of Harvest Valley on the Sloan Farm and Kingsley property. While the village can easily be a city, to do so with an additional 600 homes is unwise.
You are still very well-respected in the community.
What are your thoughts on the direction the leaders of
Dexter are headed?
Most of our council is younger and do not appreciate the experiences of past village and trustees. Mistakes of the past could be avoided if they did. While the present council has passed good ordinances, they micromanage every commission and usually ignore recommendations unless they agree with it.
Do you feel Dexter Village and Dexter, Scio and Webster townships are doing a good job balancing growth and the sense of small-town community?
All these communities have a difficult time managing growth and that will continue. Patience and community involvement is a must to this problem.
What can the village do to help the small business owner in Dexter?
Keep it small and quaint.
Do you have a favorite spot to relax in Dexter?
Any place you are.
If you are showing a friend from out of town why Dexter is special, where is your first stop?
The downtown. It is a great place.
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