Brown County Wastewater Infrastructure Strategic Planning Study

Uncategorized

Lochmueller Group_Wastwater Infrastructure Strategic Planning Study_Accepted Proposal

Lochmueller Group – Website

General Info

Project Status Reports

Current events

Feb 24, 2021. BCRSD and HRSD – Joint Meetings.   All options on table: regional sewer plan being discussed. By Suzannah Couch

Sep 17, 2020. BCD, GUEST OPINION: Sources of E. coli contamination being studied by Clint Studabaler

Sep 16, 2020.  BCD. Water sampling to take place in area creeks Friday By Staff Reports

Aug 13, 2020. GUEST OPINION: Water quality sampling efforts underway by  Maggie Sullivan

May 26, 2020.  GUEST OPINION: Human waste or animal? Study under way by CLint Studabaker (VP Brown County Regional Sewer District Board).
Background

In December 2019, the Brown County Regional Sewer District received a $118, 000 grant to fund the development of a  Wastewater Infrastructure Strategic Plan.

In January 2020, the BCRSD issued a Request for Proposals (RFPs) that will be used to select the contractor for this plan.

Dec 20, 2019.   ROI awards $1.86 million in Ready Communities implementation grants

  • Award to Brown County Regional Sewer District for a wastewater strategic management plan. – This grant will fund an engineering evaluation of existing septic treatment systems and study the technical and economic feasibility of regional wastewater collection and treatment options in Brown County.

April 2019. BCRSD April 2019 ROI Grant Application _ Studabaker Clint

 

Solar Co-Op

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BROWN COUNTY – Solar Community Share

Purpose: As a part of Earth Rising we are working together to make Solar Energy available to as many Brown County homes and businesses as possible.

Method: Solar PV prices are coming down but for many it is still considered too expensive for budgets. Through the Solar Community Share Solar Program we are attempting to buy panels in bulk to make them as inexpensive as possible. In addition we want to build a model of working in teams for the installation. This brings the cost down tremendously.

What is Team Installation?

We believe that those people who care about the environment and want solar panels would be willing to offer whatever skills they have to place an array on their home as well as on the homes of the other team members. So what skills are needed. Obviously there are electrical connections so some electrical knowledge is helpful. Some climbing skills and just ability to measure and install rails that the panels fit on.

Do not let this discourage you if you do not have these skills, others may and you can be a helper. If a team does not feel comfortable with certain aspects of the job like electrical and climbing we will augment your team with people that have those talents. We are also considering developing skills in several people who could treat this as a job. Our contention is that it offers work to local talent and we would negotiate reasonable costs for that service.

Conclusion

This plan can work because this is Brown County. We Brown Countians help each other. There is no nobler goal than to help us tread lightly on our earth than to switch from fossil fuel to sun power for our energy. It will help us feel like we are making a difference and we are thinking about how we can be helping our kids, grandkids and their grandkids.

We hope to get this plan implemented this spring. We are in the organizing phase and will be asking people to tell us of their willingness and interest.

BROWN COUNTY

Solar Community Share Program

Participation Questionnaire

Preliminary Form

There are many ways to get involved in the Solarize Brown County Community Share Program. The following areas are ones to consider at this time:

I Want to have a solar array connected to my electrical service Yes No

Willing to participate on a team Yes No

If yes I have the following interests or skills (check the areas that apply to you as well as circling your level of skill):

___ Helper

____ Electrical skill Basic Moderate Advanced

____ Willing to do some climbing Basic Advanced

Financial Support

For those people that do not feel their home is or is not conducive to Solar power but feel that the need is important you can help by investing or donating into the program. We need some start up money to buy the necessary equipment to due the jobs that are being requested.

More information on this aspect of the program will be made upon request and I hope we get lots of requests.

Name

Address

Phone No.

Email address

Comments:

Return this form to William Todd email: wbtodd@gmail.com

RDC 2021

Uncategorized

The Brown County Redevelopment Commission (RDC) is tasked with coordinating follow-on actions derived from the Brown County Economic Development Strategic Plan.

2021

Current and Planned Events

Feb 9, 2021.  GUEST OPINION: Survey process starting to address housing challenges By JUSTIN SCHWENK, guest columnist.  The Brown County Redevelopment Commission is beginning our Building Community Initiative in the coming weeks, and we would like to…

  • The Building Community Initiative is a three-phase project designed by the redevelopment commission to be a community-driven effort to:
    • identify vacant and abandoned homes,
    • rehabilitate them,
    • and return them to productive use — specifically as affordable starter homes that will be accessible to a greater number of people interested in locating to Brown County.
2020

Sep 15, 2020. BCD. Redevelopment commission planning land survey By Sara Clifford

May 28, 2020. BCD. County News. Redevelopment commission mapping out priorities

  • In a virtual meeting on May 7, the members — three of whom are new this year — learned about what the group had been working on last year. President Schwenk explained the concept of gathering data about abandoned, vacant homes in the county, which could possibly be rebuilt into affordable, habitable homes. All voting members supported continuing with this project. They also started thinking about others, and started working on a goals chart which is viewable online at https://bit.ly/BCRDCPLAN. The goals chart is on page 15.

Mar 21, 2020. RDC Discussion – 2020 Plan – 9:00 am, Community Foundation

Information

Assessment – Brown County Economic Development Strategic Plan

  • This plan meets the minimum requirement required by the State.
  • Strategies identify solutions without referencing the data that identifies the scope and extent of the respective problem.  Additional analysis is needed to identify the costs, priorities, and funding options.
  • The strategies were also derived with input from non-statistically valid surveys, and selected input from community members (see Methods below).
  • Not mentioned is the need to retain existing residents and to identify their priorities.  Over half the workers in Brown County have historically chosen to live in the county and commute outside the county for the better-paying jobs.
    • Brown County Democrat: What are best bets for future of  local economy? by Sara Clifford. Brown County’s greatest potential for economic growth is as a bedroom community, according to economists with the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University.

Governance and Plans

  • Handbook for Indiana Redevelopment Commission  (RDC) Members and Their Attorneys – June 2017  2017-handbook-for-indiana-redevelopment-commission-members-and-their-attorneys-3
  • IC 36-7-14 – Chapter 14. Redevelopment of Areas Needing Redevelopment
    Generally; Redevelopment Commissions  IC 36-7-14
  • Brown County Economic Development Strategic Plan  Brown County Econ Dev Strat Plan and Exec Summary 11.20.2019
    1. Several residents participated in interviews, public engagement sessions, and an online survey to offer public feedback, comments, and ideas for the creation of the following four overarching goals:
      1. Preserve and Promote Brown County’s Natural Environment;
      2. Establish Brown County as a home for young families and talented individuals;
      3. Foster Brown County’s identity as a destination for tourists interested in the arts, outdoors, and historic small-town charm; and
      4. Support Brown County’s interests within the Uplands Region through partnerships .

METHODS.  In addition to employment and census data, public input was considered through a web-based public survey, a town hall event, and individual interviews with key stakeholders. The electronic survey was available to the public and received a total of 185 responses. Responses from approximately 20 individuals were gathered during an open town hall event on January 23rd, 2019. Individual interviews were held with 11 stakeholders representing various positions and organizations within the county.

 

 

Zoning – West Robertson Road – For the Record

Uncategorized

Updated July 27, 2023

Summary:  The  Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) approved a special exception which was rescinded.  The Area Plan Commission (APC) then recommended a  Zoning change that the commissioners and BZA approved allowing for an industrial area  in an area zoned residential.  Issues involving the dispute escalated into claims of defamation that were pursued in small claims court. 

July 27, 2023.   Appeal to the Indiana Court of Appeals by Sherrie Mitchell of a ruling in Brown County small claims court. On March 2, 2023, Brown County Small Claims Court Judge Frank Nardi, Magistrate, issued a judgement that Mitchell’s comments were false and defamation per se. A motion to Correct Errors in the ruling was filed by Mitchell on March 28, 2023. The motion was denied on April 18, 2023. Appeal Sherrie Mitchell 20230727115710073 – Extract: Chronological list of all the actions and lawsuits:

    • October 1, 2019, Sherrie Mitchell, appellant, filed a complaint with the Brown County Planning and Zoning department regarding the use of residential property for industrial use. Defendant’s exhibit C, page 34, volume 1, Exhibit Index.
    • October 21, 2019, Brown County Planning and Zoning Inspector mailed a letter to Christine Buccos, appellee, informing her of the potential violation of the Brown County Zoning Ordinance. Defendant’s exhibit D, page 35, Volume 1, Exhibit Index.
    • October 22, 2019, Brown County Planning Director mailed a letter to Christine Buccos, appellee, informing her of the 2 zoning districts (Forest Reserve and Industrial) in which industrial uses are permitted in Brown County per the Brown County Zoning Ordinance. Defendant’s exhibit F, page 47, Volume 1, Exhibit Index.
    • January 29, 2020, Brown County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) granted a special exception for an industrial use inside of a Residential District.
    • February 21, 2020, Mitchell, appellant, filed a motion for Judicial Review of the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) decision granting a special exception for an industrial use inside of a Residential District. Cause # 07C07-2002-PL-000066.
    • October 28, 2020, BZA held a public hearing retracting the special exception granted to Christine Buccos. The BZA did not have the authority to grant a special exception for an industrial use inside of a R2 District (Residential). Prohibited in the Brown County Indiana Zoning Ordinance. Defendant’s Exhibit G, page 48, Volume 1 Exhibit Index.
    • November 10, 2020, Mitchell filed a defamation lawsuit against Ashley Dersch, girlfriend of Christopher Buccos, son of Christine Buccos. Dersch posted on Facebook that Mitchell, appellant, was a convicted drug dealer and convicted drunk driver. Cause #07C01-2011-SC-000051
    • February 1, 2021, Judicial Review of the special exception granted to Christine Buccos was dismissed due to mootness. Complaint was corrected.
    • February 5, 2021, Mitchell, appellant, made Facebook post. Plaintiff’s exhibit 2, Volume 1, pages 4 through 9, Exhibit Index.
    • February 9, 2021, Christine Buccos, appellee, and son Christopher Buccos, each filed defamation lawsuits against Mitchell, appellant.
    • March 19, 2021, Mitchell won her defamation lawsuit against Ashley Dersch, Christopher Buccos’ girlfriend. Mitchell was considered a public figure by the court and had to prove malicious intent.
    • March 24, 2021, Brown County Area Planning Commission approved a rezoning of 3 acres inside of the Buccos’ 140 acres of residential property in a Residential District to Forest Reserve.
    • April 7, 2021, Brown County Commissioners approved editing the zoning maps to reflect the 3 acres approved by the Area Plan Commission from a Residential District to a Forest Reserve District on the Buccos property, previously approved by the BZA.
    • May 26, 2021, BZA approved a special exception for an industrial use on the rezoned 3 acres for Christine Buccos.

Jun 15, 2021. Commissioners sued over zoning decision By

May 26, 2021. BZA Meeting. Approved the special exception.

May 11, 2021. Legal Notice – Special Exception. The purpose of the meeting is to consider a petition by Christina Buccos for a Special Exception to allow General Industrial Use.

May 4, 2021.  Letter: Efforts against the local ‘good ole boy system’ by Sherrie Mitchell

  • Planning and zoning only enforces the ordinance when a complaint is filed. So here I am now, four closed lawsuits with my neighbors under my belt. I won them all. I have one pending against the county and am initiating one today (April 29). I’ve been defamed, and just last week had my mailbox destroyed. All because I took a stand against an injustice.

May 3, 2021. Petition for Judicial Review  20210503141100785 Mitchell Challenge to Commissioners Decision

APC recommended approval; Commissioners approved.  BZA has to approve a special exception.

Apr 6, 2021. ZONING BRIEFS: Buccos rezone gets positive vote;

  • … changing the zoning from residential to Forest Reserve (FR) would allow the business to continue with a special exception.  … Mitchell objected. She said the land’s use was more industrial than it was “forest reserve,” and cited the comprehensive plan which says that industrial uses should be discouraged in residential or not-compatible areas. She said this was a spot zone considering the amount of R2-zoned property in the area. She also complained about the volume of large trucks using West Robertson Road, which is where she lives.
  • The county commissioners will have to approve this change, as the APC’s vote was only a recommendation.
  • … because a special exception from the BZA also is needed, that would require the approval of a site plan, and the business would have to stick with that plan.

The property did not quality for a non-conforming use.

Nonconforming Uses, aka “Grandfathered Uses” in Zoning

  • The county zoning ordinance was passed in “1965”.  Property Deed identifies the transfer of property on Oct 29, 1964. The business identified as “Masonry and Digging Contractor.” (Information provided to the BZA – see below).
  • “A nonconforming use is generally defined as a land use or structure that was legal when established but does not conform to the standards of the current zoning ordinance.” The pre-existing structures cannot be expanded or enlarged without approval from the Planning Office.
  • A decision to grant a nonconforming use must be supported with evidence – such as a deed and documentation as to the type and nature of the business.

Feb 10, 2021. Judge dismisses complaint against logging business, county. By Sara Clifford.

    • Before the case made it to the court ruling stage, the BZA revoked the special exception for general industrial use that it had granted Buccos, but Mitchell filed paperwork to keep her petition in the court system. In November, Mitchell filed a motion “to ask the court to grant relief” in the form of an injunction against the logging business and the repayment of her court fees.

Nov 3, 2020. BCD. Zoning dispute hangs over business By Sara Clifford

Oct 28, 2020.  Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) Meeting.  The BZA board rescinded the decision they made at their Jan 29, 2000 meeting that allowed for a special exception for an industrial park. The BZA was provided with erroneous information and have acknowledged that it is illegal for an industrial park to operate inside an area zoned as residential (R2).

At the Jan 29, 2020 meeting, Christina Buccos went before the Board seeking a special exception for “general industrial” use to keep running a business that has been operating for two generations

Those in attendance supporting the Buccos’ were under the impression that the business could be “grandfathered” in or have the support of neighbors.  These are not legal options.  It is not unusual in the county for landowners to overlook zoning laws and ask for any approvals after the fact.

Guidance: INDIANA CITIZEN PLANNER’S GUIDE Part 2: Board of Zoning Appeals Basics
by KK Gerhart-Fritz, AICP.  Developmental Standards Variance Criteria per IC 36-7-4-918.5

  • (1) the approval will not be injurious to the public health, safety, morals,
    and general welfare of the community
  • (2) the use and value of the area adjacent to the property included in the
    a variance will not be affected in a substantially adverse manner
  • (3) the strict application of the terms of the zoning ordinance will result
    in practical difficulties in the use of the property

May 13, 2020.  Facebook – Brown County Matters, by Sherrie Mitchell. Judge Wertz denied the motion by the BZA attorney to dismiss.

Mar 11, 2020.  Facebook – Brown County Matters.  Notification of formal complaint to the APC and BZA.

Mar 7, 2020.  Facebook – Brown County Matters by Sherrie Mitchell, Volume of truck traffic.

Mar 4, 2020, Facebook – Brown County Matters  – Zoning Overlays – County GIS Map by Sherrie Mitchell. Response by Tom Reoch, GIS coordinator

  • Tim J. Clark  CULTURE: The “culture” in the county that has been expressed at county meetings has been that people can generally do what they want with their property. If there is a complaint, then property owners can apply for a special exception or a zoning change. This issue started with a complaint by a neighbor. Upon further analysis, it was determined that the law governing the approval of the exception may not have been followed. It was also discovered that Board member (s) were appointed to the BZA in violation of Indiana law. Given the formal complaint, the county judge will now review the process that supported the decision by the BZA which may require that they re-hear the request for a special exception and/or determine that a zoning change may be needed.
  • Tim J. Clark . The PROCESS: The County Comprehensive Plan (meets minimum standards required by law), provides the guidance for zoning. The commissioners are “accountable” for the process. The Planning Director and GIS Coordinator work for the commissioners. The “voters” are “responsible”  for the performance of the commissioners.

Mar 3, 2012. Democrat. Zoning decision under review; member resigns, By .  Sherrie and Benjamin Mitchell filed a petition for judicial review on Feb. 21, asking that the court clear the special exception which the BZA granted for the Christina Buccos property on Gartner Drive in January.

Mar 2, 2020. BZA Meeting. Statement of Fact 20200302185331927

Feb 29, 2020. Democrat.  COUNTY NEWS: Speed limit reduced; update on courthouse remodel  By Sara Clifford

  • An ordinance reducing the speed limit on West Robertson Road to 30 MPH was approved unanimously by the Brown County Commissioners on Feb. 19.
  • The speed limit will be reduced on West Robertson from State Road 135 North to Richardson Drive east and westbound. The speed limit maximum will be 30 MPH unless weather or other conditions require a lower maximum speed limit.

Feb 24, 2020. Democrat.  Business gets OK to keep operating in neighborhood By Sara Clifford

  • A Brown County family has been granted the proper zoning permission to keep running the business it’s been running on its property for at least two generations.

Christina Buccos went before the Brown County Board of Zoning Appeals on Jan. 29 seeking a special exception for “general industrial” use. Her family formed Shady Oaks Logging LLC six years ago, but a log yard has been housed on Buccos’ 130-plus acres since before the county had a zoning code, according to Planning Director Chris Ritzmann’s research. Buccos was asking for the special exception for 3 acres of her land, all of which is zoned FR (forest reserve).

Buccos’ land is on a private road, Gartner Drive, which abuts West Robertson Road.

Feb 21, 2020. Facebook – Brown County Matters, Legal Complaint.  Sherrie Mitchell.

  • My husband and I, represented by Michael Carmin (attorney in Bloomington), filed a request for a judicial review in the Brown County Circuit Court, Judge Mary Wertz. If you read the article in the Brown County Democrat a few weeks back, you are aware that the Brown County BZA approved a logging yard in a residential neighborhood. This is absurd. This sets a precedent for our county and would allow industrial parks in every residential neighborhood. This has to be stopped.

Brown County Regional Sewer District (BCRSD) – For the Record

Uncategorized

Financial Information – Dept Local Govt Finance (DLGF) Reporting Unit: “Brown County Regional Sewer District”

Website – Brown County RSD.

Current Events

Jun 15, 2021.  COUNTY NEWS: Sewer boards pledge cooperation; COVID level rises; spending plans

  • The Brown County Regional Sewer District and Helmsburg Regional Sewer District boards have passed resolutions promising to work together to “combine some of their resources and manpower in an effort to secure funds” for wastewater projects.
  • Studabaker also didn’t give specific answers to questions from two members of the public attending the virtual meeting about whether or not a sewer plant is still planned to be built on land that had been proposed for it along State Road 135 North in Bean Blossom, or if another plan would be executed.

    “All options are on the table,” Studabaker repeated.

Mar 23, 2021.  COUNTY NEWS: Sewer district website; 

  • After more than two years of attempts and progress, the Brown County Regional Sewer District has an online presence.  The board has been trying to get the site up and running since the summer of 2018, (Ref: March 23, 2021,  BCD, County News: Sewer District Website.)

Mar 23, 2021. All options on table: Regional sewer plan being discussed By Suzannah Couch

  • Discussions – Helmsburg RSD, BCRSD, Lake Lemon Env Coop

Dissolution of the BCRSD – For and Against

BCRSD Board meets the second Tuesday of every month at 6:00 p.m.  Notes from the meetings available at the Facebook Group – Brown County Matters.

Sep 15, 2020. BCD. Lake Lemon homeowners seek help from sewer district By Suzannah Couch

  • Herndon said that the need for sewer in the Lake Lemon area may be greater than the need in Bean Blossom because when the water rises in the lake, effluent from septic systems goes into it. … “We want to figure out a way where we’re not waiting another five years to try to get sewers,” he said.
  • Resident Tim Clark also attended the virtual meeting on Sept. 8. He asked the regional sewer board if they had a percentage of people who supported bringing a sewer system to the Bean Blossom area, like members had suggested to the Lake Lemon cooperative. … “The letters of interest for the Bean Blossom project were from 1998. Has there been any effort to update those to see what current residents think?” he asked. … Project engineer Gary Ladd said the letters had not been updated.

Aug 11, 2020 –  BCRSD Guidance on Finance Controls

March 2020.  Brown County Wastewater Infrastructure Strategic Planning Study

History

In May of 2013, county health department employee and then-commissioner John Kennard alleged that there was “an environmental nightmare” in Bean Blossom.  His claim served as the premise to establish a county-wide regional sewer district, a proposed sewer project for Bean Blossom, and an aggressive septic maintenance program that would need to be supported with an ordinance.

  • Brown County Democrat May 1, 2013.  “Brown County Commissioner John Kennard called Bean Blossom an “environmental nightmare” due to many failed septic systems in the town located north of Nashville. The comment came during discussion of forming a countywide sewer district. Kennard said the purpose of the district would be to increase the chances of Bean Blossom acquiring a grant to pay for installation of a sewer system for the town. Commissioners voted 3-0 to pursue formation of the district, which could include a septic maintenance program.”

A new ordinance was passed by the commissioners in 2013, successfully challenged in court, and rescinded in 2015.  Mr. Kennard, in addition to the proposed new 2020 ordinance, led efforts to develop a new ordinance in 2017 and 2018. These versions were considered by the Health Board, opposed by citizens, and disapproved by the commissioners. Clint Studabaker, vice president of the Brown County Regional Sewer District Board, has also been a significant contributor to the proposed 2020 ordinance.

Since May 1, 2013, there has been no documented evidence that supports the claim of an “environmental nightmare” in Bean Blossom. The January 28, 2020 article in the Democrat – “Stream Sampling: Where’s the contamination coming from?” does not support the allegation of contamination caused by failed septic systems. To quote: “Is E. coli found in local waterways coming from humans or from animals? Short answer: We don’t know yet.”

2017/2018. Further, the past two Brown County RSD Board presidents – Evan Werling and Judy Swift- Powdrill acknowledged that there was no documented evidence of failed septic systems that would validate a need for a new sewer plant in Bean Blossom.

BCRSD Board. At their Feb 11, 2020 board meeting, Brown County Regional Sewer District (BCRSD) board members acknowledged that they did not know of any evidence of failed septic systems in their district.  Current board President Mike Leggins stated that Brownies Restaurant in Bean Blossom closed as a result of a failed system. Septic systems designed for commercial use are approved and inspected by the State.

Commissioners.  At their meeting on Feb 19, 2020, Brown County Commissioners (Diana Biddle and Jerry Pittman) also acknowledged that there is no documented evidence of failed septic systems in the county.

Cordry and Sweetwater Conservancy.  The conservancy has a septic system management plan and no issues with water quality.

More Information:

Wastewater (Septic Systems and Sewers) Strategic Planning

Uncategorized

I can’t think of a more important issue regarding our cost of living and quality of life than the decisions that are and will be made regarding wastewater treatment strategies.

The best decisions are the result of transparency, effective processes (habits) and citizen awareness of the overall process.  Ideal outcomes result from policies, ordinances, and plans where everyone benefits, or at least, are not any worse off in the long-term.

In December 2019, the Brown County Regional Sewer District received a $118, 000 grant to fund the development of a  Wastewater Infrastructure Strategic Plan.

In January 2020, the BCRSD issued a Request for Proposals (RFPs) that will be used to select the contractor for this plan.

Also in January 2020,  a wastewater treatment regionalization study was completed that identifies options for the size and location of treatment plants but not options regarding technologies.

  • FINAL REPORT  (received and posted Feb 7, 2020)- Preliminary Engineering Report – Regional Assistance Program.  
    • Summary: “Based on the analysis completed in this report, it appears that is most cost-effective to construct two regional plants to serve the areas under consideration. Table 6-11, following provide the cost and effective analysis of the various alternative combinations considered.”

Determining the optimum wastewater treatment options (septic systems and sewers) for the county cannot be determined until after the strategic plan is completed.

Consequently, the proposed Bean Blossom Sewer project should be “paused” (no more spending) until the wastewater strategic plan is completed.  As of February 2020, $200,000 of the $270,000 provided by the county council, has been spent.  Land for the plant has not been acquired nor have the 190 required easement agreements been obtained.

The BCRSD has asked to acquire land deeded to Parks and Recreation.  If land for a plant could not be obtained from property owners over the past “20 years”, how difficult will it be to acquire the needed easements?  Of the 240 potential customers, how many have submitted a letter of support for this project?

Do we need a Brown County RSD?

The regionalization study calls in to question the need for a “county-wide” regional sewer district (RSD).  Multiple RSDs that include Helmsburg and Gnaw Bone that have a proven track record of successful operation, maybe the best solution for the county.

  • The Gnaw Bone RSD Board requested that board members be elected by those being served by the RSD. Their request was approved by IDEM.
  • The Helmsburg RSD Board has also requested elections and will likely be approved.
    • The Helmsburg community has also formed a Community Development Corporation (CDC), established an economic development area and developed its own economic development plan. More information:

      Helmsburg Revitalization – Community-Led

  • A “decentralized” approach for county leadership was identified in the draft 1993 County Comprehensive Plan. This plan was not approved by the commissioners at the time. (See Hamlet and Rural Village Development).

Brown County Regional Sewer District – For the Record

 

Brown County Community Development Course – Jan 30-Feb 1, 2020

Uncategorized


Community development seeks to empower individuals and groups of people with the skills they need to effect change within their communities … that put people and places first

I had the opportunity to attend the 2.5 day Community Development course that was created by Ball State and sponsored by the Brown County Community Foundation. The information presented has the “potential” of resulting in a more effective and inclusive community where citizen input and participation is encouraged, respected, and valued.  Course description and materials below. At the conclusion of the course, several project ideas were identified and future meetings will be used to work through the process. I do plan on posting updates.

Instructors/Facilitators:

Course Materials – Dropbox

Additional Resources and Supporting Efforts

  • Brown County Leader Network – Support Materials
    • Model for  Improvement –  What are we trying to accomplish?  How will we know that a change is an improvement? What change can we make that will result in an improvement?
      • Plan change or test aimed at improvement
      • Do – Carry out the change – preferebly on small scale (prototype)
      • Study – Examine the results. What did we learn? What went wrong?
      • Act – Adopt the change, abandon it, run through the cycle again
  • Brown County Schools – Engineering Design Process
    • 1.0 Ask. What are the problems? What are the conmstraints?
    • 2.0 Imagine. Brainstorm Ideas; Choose the best one.
    • 3.0 Plan. Draw a diagram; Gather needed materials
    • 4.0 Create. Follow- the plan; test it out
    • 5.0 Prove. Discuss what can work better, Repeat steps to make it better
  • National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals

 

 

 

 

 

 

Information Ecosystem – Rural Communities

Uncategorized

The Center for Rural Engagement at Indiana University provided the funding for this exploratory research.  Additional guidance and support provided by Elaine Monaghan at the Media School.

About Kinzen.  Kinzen is a technology company that helps citizens engage with the publishers who inform, inspire and empower them. We’re building tools for individuals and publishers to access and present personalized news and information.

Jan 16, 2020.  Kinzen.com Understanding the Information Ecosystem in Rural Indiana, By Hanna Lennon.

Jan 15, 2020. Kinzen.com The Challenges for Local Publishers in Indiana By Hannah Lennon.

Brown County – Input provided by community members at a meeting hosted by the Community Foundation.

  • Brown County League of Women Voters – LWVBC Newsletter December 2019  Three Perspectives on the Media Discussion by IU Center for Rural Engagement (page 8-9). Comments provided by members Pam Raider, Robyn Rosenberg-Bowman, and Tim Clark.

 

Is America in The Midst of a Cold Civil War?

Uncategorized
Definitions  – OneLook Dictionary

  • Civil War – A  war fought between different groups of people within the same country – McMillan
  • Cold War – a condition of rivalry, mistrust, and often open hostility short of violence

Updates:

Feb 4, 2021.  The Zogby Poll (R): Will the US have another civil war?  Written by Zogby 

  • It’s quite astounding that nearly half of voters 46%) (think we are headed for bloodshed! 
  • Nearly half (16% very likely and 30% somewhat likely combined) of likely voters believe the country will have another civil war, while 42% (24% very unlikely and 18% somewhat unlikely combined) did not think we were headed for another civil war; 11% of survey respondents were not sure. 

Aug 1, 2020. Rhetoric About a New Civil War Is on the Rise , American Greatness  By  .

  • A New Civil War.com One place with all the latest news, op-eds, podcasts, and videos on the prospect of a new civil war

July 18, 2020, CFP. Have We Reached The Point Of Irreconcilable Differences Where Divorce Or Civil War Will Be The Only Action Left? Time is running out to quell this madness

June 15, 2020. Rasmussen.  40% of GOP Voters Think Civil War Likely

  • While Democrats were more worried about pending civil war in 2018, now Republicans (40%) are more likely than Democrats (28%) and voters not affiliated with either major party (38%) to see a second civil war on the horizon.

June 12, 2020. Political Polarization Peaking In America? Voters Embrace ‘All Or Nothing’ Mentality Along Party Lines  by John Andere

Is America in The Midst of a Cold Civil War?
By Tim J. Clark
Updated Feb 2, 2020

The polarity within the country involving political, economic, cultural and social issues symbolized by red states (conservative to right-leaning) and blue states (liberal to left-leaning) is commonly acknowledged. However, does this division as some commentators and scholars have concluded, represent a cold civil war with the potential of going hot?

Adding to the disunity are the special interest groups that benefit from the status quo and a divided, marginalized or disengaged populace. A special interest is defined as any individual or group that advocates for a respective position and too often believe that what is best for them is best for all.  At the local level, this would include pushing or forcing solutions without identifying the scope and extent of the problem.  At the national level, scholars have identified that when determining national policies, the opinions of 90% of the public essentially have no impact at all. (Reference: Represent.US: The Problem).

The late political consultant and pollster Patrick Caddell  through his Smith Project and in-depth surveys led to his assessment “that tactical politics were not enough and that the aspirations of millions of Americans were being ignored by the reigning political duopoly.”  The survey results also identified that “76% agree that the real struggle for America is not between R’s and D’s, but between mainstream America and the ruling political elites.”

One of the first steps in leading positive change is recognizing there might be a  problem.  The bigger the potential problem, the harder it may be to recognize and accept, and the easier to ignore. This situation is referred to as cognitive dissonance where the truth may be evident but fear of the implications prevents acknowledgment where ignorance is considered bliss.

Following is a selection of articles and presentations (video, audio) from a variety of sources that support an assessment that America is in a Cold Civil War.

How To Stop a Civil War, The Atlantic Monthy, Dec 2019.  (History: The Atlantic was established in 1857)

  • A Nation Coming Apart, The meaning of the American idea in 2019 By JEFFREY GOLDBERG

  • Counter position – Audio episode  – The Public Square, American Policy Roundtable, Jan 2020. Newsletter:  Four Minutes for America, Jan 4, 2020, Vol 36, Issue 1, How to Stop a Civil War.
    • The best way to stop a civil war? Don’t start one.
    • Woodrow Wilson (1913 – 1921) was the first U.S. President to attack the founding principles of America. The Progressives that follow him have continued the (civil) war ever since.
      • “The Atlantic has seen a thing or two, including the first Civil War. The longevity is quite respectable. It is sad, however, that their writers seemed to have missed the start of the second Civil War by at least 100 years.”
    • “Progressive insist we have outgrown the ancient myths. So it is now up to the government to define and grant all our rights and the task of the administrative state to make sure everything flows to a magical place called “Equality.”
    • “The American system of government was designed to be incredibly flexible. Our systems expand and contract largely upon the consent of the governed with checks and balances and separation of powers to protect the God-giv en rights of the individual.”

Rules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals, was written by community activist Saul D. Alinsky and published in 1971.  “The methods Alinsky developed and applied were described in his book as a guide on future community organizing for the new generation of radicals emerging from the 1960s.”

  • Lest we forget at least an over-the-shoulder acknowledgment to the very first radical: from all our legends, mythology, and history (and who is to know where mythology leaves off and history begins— or which is which), the first radical known to man who rebelled against the establishment and did it so effectively that he at least won his own kingdom — Lucifer

America’s Cold Civil War, Heritage Foundation, Panel Interview – Video, Jun 17, 2019

    • Is America in a cold civil war? Many prominent commentators think so. And not without reason. As the culture wars of the past several decades have intensified, the country now finds itself deeply divided. Americans disagree not just about politics, but also about foundational questions regarding the meaning of equality and very the purpose of our nation. As Americans grow apart in our understanding on these fundamentals, we seem to be becoming two distinct nations living in the same country. What remains unclear is where these growing differences will lead, if they can be resolved, and what principle will unify us in the future. Please join us as our panelists share their analysis of America’s divisions.

      • Ends in three ways: (1) Victory – we win, you lose; (2) Permanent cease-fire – live and let live, and (3) succession – we go our way, they go theirs.

Jonathan Roth – Civil War Coming to America? Nov 18, 2018.  (About: Jonathan Roth). Roth does not believe a civil war is imminent.

  • Questions for anyone saying there is going to be civil war:
    • Who is going to lead this war?
    • What will the ultimate aims be?
    • What will the nature of the fighting be and who is going to do it?
      • Causes for a Civil War are primarily economic and not grievance based
      • Media is an instigator  – “if it bleeds, it leads”
  • Rasmussen Poll (Jun 2018):  Is the United States about to engage in another civil war?  31% of likely voters said yes at some point within the next five years; almost 60% of all voters are concerned that those opposed to Trump’s policies will resort to violence
  • Pew Research Center – The Partisan Divide on Political Values Grows Even Wider 
    • More voters are on either the left or the right and don’t mix

  • VICE Special Report: A House Divided Aug 14, 2017.  ‘VICE Special Report: A House Divided’ is nominated in the 2017 Primetime Emmy Awards for “Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special.

IS AMERICA HEADED FOR A NEW KIND OF CIVIL WAR?  By Robin Wright, The New Yorker, Aug 17, 2017.

  • I began a conversation with Keith Mines about America’s turmoil. Mines has spent his career—in the U.S. Army Special Forces, the United Nations, and now the State Department—navigating civil wars in other countries, including Afghanistan, Colombia, El Salvador, Iraq, Somalia, and Sudan. 
  • In March, Mines was one of several national-security experts whom Foreign Policy asked to evaluate the risks of a second civil war—with percentages. Mines concluded that the United States faces a sixty-per-cent chance of civil war over the next ten to fifteen years.
  • Mines’ definition of a civil war is large-scale violence that includes a rejection of traditional political authority and requires the National Guard to deal with it. 
  • Based on his experience in civil wars on three continents, Mines cited five conditions that support his prediction:
    1. entrenched national polarization, with no obvious meeting place for resolution;
    2.  increasingly divisive press coverage and information flows;
    3. weakened institutions, notably Congress and the judiciary; a
    4. sellout or abandonment of responsibility by political leadership; and
    5. the legitimization of violence as the “in” way to either conduct discourse or solve disputes.
  • Eric Foner, the Columbia University historian, won the Pulitzer Prize, in 2011, for his book “The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery.”  “Obviously, we have some pretty deep divisions along multiple lines—racial, ideological, rural versus urban,” he told me. “Whether they will lead to civil war, I doubt.”

  • Foreign Policy Magazine – June 2017 – expert (Keith Mines) predicts 60% chance of civil war within America in the next 10 – 15 years

    • This Is Just the Beginning by Hamilton Nolan, 

    • What a new U.S. civil war might look like. Following an earlier 2017 survey, Foreign Policy’s Best Defense blog opened a poll about the likelihood of a second U.S. Civil War. BY  | 

    • What are the chances of a second American Civil War? (Foreign Policy,  A Best Defense update) BY  | Last time out, in early March, when we discussed this, the consensus number for national security experts was at about 30 percent, with some outliers at 60 percent and even 95 percent.

    • Will we have a 2nd Civil War? You tell me. What are the chances of another civil war breaking out in this country in the next 10 to 15 years? BY | 

      • I asked a group of smart national security thinkers that question the other day over my wild boar burger at Austin’s Dai Due. I was surprised that the range of answers ran from “five percent” to “95 percent.” I would say the consensus was about 35 percent.

America’s Cold Civil War, • Imprimis, Hillsdale College, Volume 47, Number 10 • Charles R. Kesler

  • I fear America may be leaving the world of normal politics and entering the dangerous world of regime politics—a politics in which our political loyalties diverge more and more, as they did in the 1850s, between two contrary visions of the country.
    • One vision is based on the original Constitution as amended. This is the Constitution grounded in the natural rights of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution written in 1787 and ratified in 1788.
    • The other vision is based on what Progressives and liberals, for 100 years now, have called “the living Constitution.” This term implies that the original Constitution is dead …
  • If one thinks about how America’s cold civil war could be resolved, there seem to be only five possibilities:
    • One would be to change the political subject.  ….  some jarring event intervenes—a major war or a huge natural calamity—it might reset our politics.
    • A second possibility, if we can’t change the subject, is that we could change our minds. Persuasion, or some combination of persuasion and moderation, might allow us to end or endure our great political division. 
    • … secession, which is a danger to any federal system—something about which James Madison wrote at great length in The Federalist Papers. With any federal system, there is the possibility that some states will try to leave it. 
    • So secession would be extremely difficult for many reasons, not the least of which is that it could lead, as we Americans know from experience, to the fifth and worst possibility: hot civil war. 

Quora – Is the United States in a cold civil war? Six answers – June – Nov 2018.

A Historian Explains How Close We Are to A Second Civil War Breaking Out in Trump’s America by Richard Miller / History News Network

  • Civil War, 2.0?  “Nah.  Always try to separate the noise from the thing that makes the noise.”

The Origins of Our Second Civil War By July 31, 2018 6:30 AM

  • How, when, and why has the United States now arrived at the brink of a veritable civil war?
  • We are now nearing a point comparable to 1860, and perhaps past 1968. Left–Right factionalism is increasingly fueled by geography — always history’s force multiplier of civil strife. Red and blue states ensure that locale magnifies differences that were mostly manageable during the administrations of Ford, Carter, Reagan, the Bushes, and Clinton.

America’s Second Civil War, By Dennis Prager, Tue, Jan 24, 2017

  • It is time for our society to acknowledge a sad truth: America is currently fighting its second Civil War.

We are in a Cold Civil War – Carl Bernstein, Oct 26, 2017.  Former reporter, Washington Post, co-author “All the Presidents Men.” Bio at Wikipedia

Sen. Josh Hawley: The Left Wants A Civil War, The Federalist, June 12, 2020.

Looking Ahead — Three Scenarios:

“The fundamental cause of the trouble is failure of people to understand
that what is best for the whole country is identical with what in the long run
is best for everybody.”   – W. Edwards Deming

  • Best Case – Optimum.  Grassroots advocacy for new strategies that will result in outcomes where everyone benefits or at least, are not any worse off in the long-term.
  • Status Quo – A Zero-Sum Game. Some will continue to win and some to lose. This scenario can result in short term gains while losers mobilize to continue the fight.
  • Worse Case. The status quo leads to a second civil war. Everybody loses.

A Way Ahead – Best Case Option

“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection
we can catch excellence,” – Vince Lombardi

  • By law (Constitution),  “We the People” own our system of government. The system was designed to be continually improved in pursuit of “a more perfect” (better) Union, community, village, town, city, county, state.
  • Volunteers in Brown County have been working to develop a collaborative leadership approach referred to as the Brown County Leader Network (BCLN). The intent for the program: To work together to develop  “a more perfect” (better) county that strives to address the needs and respects the values of our citizens.
    • How do citizens define more perfect or better?
    • What feedback is needed to determine that change resulted in improvement?
  • A new Brown County community development initiative has recently been introduced by the Community Foundation through a 2.5-day course.  The program has a focus on engagement and has the “potential” of resulting in a more effective and inclusive community where citizen input and participation is encouraged, respected, and valued.  At the conclusion of the course on Saturday, February 1, 2020, several project ideas were identified and future meetings will be used to work through the process.   Information on the course.