[HISTORY: Ratified by the voters of the Village of Spring
Lake 2-17-1997, effective 4-1-1997. Amendments noted where applicable.]
PREAMBLE TO THE CHARTER OF THE VILLAGE OF SPRING LAKE
This revision to the Charter of the Village of Spring Lake reflects
present concerns and sensitivities of local government in its current
work and as it prepares for the future. The document is a further
expression of Michigan home rule which provides community self-determination
within the framework of law.
It is imperative that a high degree of professionalism be maintained
in order to keep pace with changes in the environment in which the
Village operates. Maintaining the community's dedication to the
Council-Manager form of government, which combines the strong political
leadership of elected officials in the form of the Village Council,
with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government
manager, will allow the Village to continue serving its residents
in an efficient and effective manner.
The Charter recognizes the need to plan for inevitable change
and to direct it where possible. Expansions of law and advances in
technology signal changes in the governing process. Persons in municipal
service are therefore advised to continue related education and training
programs.
As the community changes and the demand for services intensifies,
imperatives arise for joint ventures with neighboring municipalities.
The Charter recognizes the need for cooperative efforts.
The use of the court system has long been the traditional means
of dispute resolution in our society. Movement towards alternative
means of dispute resolution ultimately will save government and citizens
time and money, and more effectively reconcile neighbors with one
another. This policy matter should be considered by the Village now
and in the future.
Every community is defined by its culture. The citizens of the
Village of Spring Lake recognize the economic and social importance
of having cultural amenities which will allow a desired quality of
life to be enjoyed here.
Conservation of precious resources, both natural and human,
is a health, safety, and welfare consideration central to local government.
It is hoped that policy-making will focus on the protection of the
environment at every step.
Plans which affect citizens generally are to be shared by government.
The Charter recognizes that the good of the community is the paramount
concern of the government and that citizen input should be utilized
to determine what is in the best interest of the Village of Spring
Lake. Accordingly, the Village will undertake to keep the public informed
about issues affecting the community.
The Charter claims the broadest powers available within the
home rule framework. It is hoped that the advantages afforded by this
system will be valued by future generations who live and prosper within
the Village of Spring Lake.