Several topics discussed at Chelsea Community Forum

​By Charla Hamilton [email protected]
Many important topics were on the agenda at the Chelsea Community Forum’s February meeting. The first being the discussion of the Wolf Property Development, located at the corner of Freer and Old US 12. There were summaries given by Council members Jane Pacheo and Rick Catherman on the recent activities and current status which includes: calling for a joint residential-medical office layout, some elements of the Lima Board appear reluctant to accept a 425 agreement with the city, which means this would eventually lead to incorporation of the area into the city itself. This would need to be negotiated between the two municipalities. (Lima Township will be discussing plans at their March 26 meeting).The biggest concern, however with the Wolf Property stems from traffic concerns, since the intersection at Freer and Old US 12 is already busy, especially during rush hours.  There was then discussion about possibly upgrading the intersection.
Chelsea Visioning Session was also discussed with these topics as priority: Council Rules, Economic Development, Zoning Ordinance Update, Parks and Recreation Plan Update, Transportation, Sustainability, Housing, Regional Opportunities, Goals and Objectives Review, and Key Dates.
Moderator of the Chelsea forum Rod Anderson discussed the Human Rights Commission Annual Plan. Rod explained that the goals of the plan are based on results of a survey administered in 2016 to area residents (mainly Chelsea residents and visitors and CSD students). He stated the survey showed that Chelsea residents are mainly happy with the environment but felt that diversity and its awareness were lacking. Specific problems discussed included bullying and racism, as well as a lack of diversity. He also stated that commissioners were asked to propose specific projects for year February 2020 to January 2021. Eighteen projects were submitted and evaluated in December with five being selected. Two projects will be carried out internally: HRC to participate in a web course on racial equality, and review city policies and recommend changes.  Three projects will be accomplished in the community: Set up community events where international students attending Chelsea High School will be welcomed, facilitate one or periodic discussion groups focusing on HRC priorities, and participate as a sponsor of the community (Martin Luther King Day activities).
There was no time left at the meeting to discuss the Chelsea Community Center, but hopes are good for that being discussed at the next meeting which will take place March 21 at the Chelsea Senior Center beginning at 9am.
 
 

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