Voting for the City We Want to Live in

written by Greg L. Hughes

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As we head to the polls tomorrow for the 2024 General Election, there is more than just candidates and policies on the ballot — the future of your community is at stake. Last week's World Cities Day (October 31st) reminded us of the values that should guide our choices: inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability. These aren't just abstract concepts — they're the building blocks of the city we want to create.

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Shaping the Future of a City

While national politics capture headlines, remember that the boxes you check on tomorrow's ballot (and the ballots of future elections) will impact how we'll move through Ann Arbor everyday. Will we prioritize policies that lead to accessible infrastructure like the Treeline Urban Trail? Will we vote for politicians who are dedicated to serving all our residents, not just those who are able to drive? These decisions start in the voting booth.

To influence the formation of the city we want to live in, the candidates and policies that we choose should be guided by questions such as: 

• Does this candidate value the importance of investing in non-motorized infrastructure?
• Does this policy support or hinder a more walkable, bikeable Ann Arbor?
• How are the needs of the community going to be met?

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Building an Inclusive Ann Arbor

Non-motorized infrastructure will benefit some of the most marginalized in our community. Those with disabilities require accessible pathways to ensure their own agency, while such pathways may be the only form of reliable transportation for residents experiencing homelessness. But there are also individuals who simply seek a lifestyle that is less reliant on driving a vehicle, or cannot drive due to health or legal reasons.

These are all members of our community. Directly or indirectly, the choices we make at the ballot box will influence their ability to participate fully in said community.

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Embracing Change and Innovation

Some voters may hesitate to support ambitious infrastructure projects like the Treeline, citing concerns about:

• Construction disruptions
• Extended development timelines
• Personal preferences for automotive transportation

But remember that not all community members have access to the same privileges, and that risk is needed for innovation. Yes, transformative projects can be messy. Yes, they take time. But investments in walkability, bikeability, and accessibility will lead to a stronger and more vibrant city that future generations will inherit.

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Your Vote and the Future

The Treeline represents the kind of forward-thinking development Ann Arbor needs. But it's just one piece of a larger vision where everyone can move safely and independently while development decisions are driven by community needs. Prioritizing green infrastructure despite the obstacles, the Treeline Conservancy believes innovation must be embraced, not feared. But the community must be involved in the decision-making process to make it a reality.

While tomorrow's general election is crucial, creating the Ann Arbor we envision requires ongoing civic engagement. Local elections, council meetings, public hearings, and community forums throughout the year all present opportunities to shape our city's future. The principles that guide us in this election should inform our participation in other elections. Whether it's a presidential election or a local millage vote, each ballot cast is a chance to reaffirm our commitment to a more accessible, sustainable Ann Arbor.

Like the Treeline, your vote tomorrow is an investment in Ann Arbor's future. Let's make it count tomorrow, and let's stay engaged in the years to come. The path to a more inclusive, accessible city isn't built in a single election cycle — it's paved with consistent civic participation and unwavering commitment to our community's values.

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