Novi goes about
it's business

1/31/2008

Much of the nation has probably gotten quite a chuckle over Detroit's most recent headline news - the mayoral text messaging scandal. Perjury, pay-offs, careers ruined, and all the people get is an "I'm sorry?" Folks, that is not how to run a city.

What is unfortunate is that it puts the entire region in a negative spotlight, when in fact Novi and some other areas of Michigan are places where the quality of life is excellent.

The type of scandal that's rocking Detroit wouldn't happen in Novi, and that's exactly why Novi is growing while other areas of the state are faltering. Folks, it is because of solid leadership that Novi excels. As Mayor Landry noted in his State of the City speech last week, "tough times won't stop us."

He's right. Novi and a few other towns in Michigan are in fact doing quite well despite the tough times that have impacted Michigan. Head west to Grand Rapids, and you'll see an amazing mid-size city that's continually growing, with construction booming everywhere, just like in Novi.

What do Novi and Grand Rapids have in common? A positive can-do attitude, a welcoming culture, and "a diverse tax base," as the mayor put it. People want to be in Novi because it's an exciting, growing city that is well managed and has a bright future.

We the People continue to be pleased with the direction our good mayor, city council and city administration are steering Novi. New businesses, hospitals, and residents are continually coming to town - all in a city that chugs along while scandals and negative headlines rock areas nearby.

The mayor said in his annual speech, "maybe diversification is how we do it." That's part of it. Solid leadership is also a big part, but our good mayor is a little too humble to say that, so we will.
 

p.s. - A popular 20-year-old Novi resident passed away last weekend of an apparent drug overdose. Folks, if your friends or children need help, please talk to them and help them before it's too late. And if you need help, there are many in town who can help. Just ask.