Maybe I’m borin’ you with this same old subject? But the proposed burn ordinance is still bein’ hotly discussed. Two weeks ago I (and many interested folks) attended the township meeting. I’m plannin’ to drop in again this Monday ‘round 7:30.
 The folks nominally “in charge”, that is the supervisors and zoning officer, presented those attending a pleasant surprise last meeting? They made it clear, they’re more than willing to hear from their constituents concerning this ordinance. Stating they plan to listen to the citizens of the township “...as long as it takes...” in order to be as fair as possible concerning this contentious matter.
 I for one, was proud to see the way they’ve exhibited forbearance and knowledge (even humor) in addressing the (mostly) legitimate concerns of the taxpaying citizenry in attendance. Along those lines, I’ve also had a number of folks contact me (!) By phone, letters, on the street (as well as three stools down).
 Folks are not all in agreement with me (ouch). Some even questioned my “expertise” in this matter and zoning questions in general? Some have questioned my faculty to raise legitimate questions in the past (think school budgets or police chases). I admit it ..., sometimes I’m just one more good old boy with an (outspoken) opinion.
 But in any question concerning real estate or zoning I actually am an “expert”. Allow me some explainin’?
 In the early 70s I spent some years in construction. Carpenter on a 4-man crew building houses all ‘round Wayne and Pike counties. Played plumber in the south couple more years. Then while in college, new construction building inspector for a Florida bank.
 There I eventually went on to become a full time real estate appraiser. Earning (finally!) the professional designation Senior Residential Appraiser. Assumin’ you’re not familiar with the real estate industries professional career levels?
 Here’s a brief look at what becoming a “professionally designated appraiser” entails. Startin’ out after your college degree, it can take (on average) ‘bout seven years to obtain that designation (took me near seven and a half years!).
 Generally recognized throughout the real estate industry are eight (8) “Levels of Expertise”. The First (or lowest level) is real estate Salesperson. Next comes real estate Broker, and so on, up the ladder. Few advance beyond broker (or salesperson, for that matter).
 Progress up that ladder is based on extensive experience, education and expertise. Level seven (7) is “Designated Appraiser”. (Not the same as “state-certified” which usually requires but two years appraisal experience). Final level is “Consultant” (which some folks grant themselves?).
 My appraisal designation certificate (#1972, granted in 1985) still hangs proudly on the wall in my little office.
 Having spent 20+yrs. directly involved on a professional level (beginning 35+yrs. ago). I feel modestly (!) qualified to comment about real estate and zoning. Might just be I know as much about it as all the folks overseein’ these meetings? (not braggin’ mind ya, just sayin’). 
 While you may not realize it, you’re an expert too? Every time you sign that check payin’ your real estate taxes, you become an expert on who and what governs you! I recommend you come down to the meeting Monday evenin’ and voice your expert opinions.
  Now concerning these meetings, that last one was very productive! Turnout was high, with spare folding chairs called into service. Several folks spoke, favoring or against the proposed burn ordinance. While some (includin’ me) offered suggestions to make the ordinance more cohesive as well as less onerous.
 Folks running the meeting were helpful and attentive during these discussions. They’re well aware that sentiments run high whenever there’s a proposal that will have widespread consequences, such as this one under consideration.
 Listening (an’ readin’?) folks mighta got the impression I was against burnin’ ordinances? Partly true, ‘cuz I’m gen’rally against new ordinances, period! Seriously folks, I’ll always speak out about new ordinances, rules, laws. Mainly because each new one steals away another little piece of my (your) freedoms.
 However! There come times when we just might need a new one (ouch!). Judging by the calls I’ve received, this might be one of those times?
 Apparently the “morons” (folks burnin’ tires, plastic jugs, diapers and such) are overrunnin’ the sensible folks? They’re willin’ to be pigheaded enough in pursuit of their misguided right(eousness) in burning those stinky things, that the rest of us need an ordinance just to git some relief!
 I Don’t Know About You..., I believe government (townships included) needs your expert guidance. Not just now, but anytime, anyplace government gathers to “govern” you.
 Cal Teeple, founder of the Observational Cogitation Consortium is often found three stools down. He may also be ignored, accosted or contacted At: wayneindependent.com/cal.