By Ron Shamma, LOXII
LO Volunteer in Residence
The objective of LOXXI’s first class session was to raise awareness and to better understand the relationship of Government and the Economy and to be more informed about the activities and resources of Oakland County government.
Held on Oakland County’s campus, speakers helped LOXXI class participants through several exercises and panel discussions such as: how our road commission handles traffic, road construction, and snow removal; how the One Stop Shop can help you understand where your customers are, and how to reach them. Participants heard from the Center for Michigan, Michigan Municipal League and heard the latest from L. Brooks Patterson, Oakland County’s Executive. A panel discussion that included Pete Auger, Auburn Hills City Manager, Nic Banda, Deputy City Manager for the City of Rochester, Lola Are’, Director Oakland County Business Center and Michelle Zellan, Director of Communications and Events – Automation Alley garnered lots of questions from class participants.
So what did the participants think of the session?
• David Growth, Henry Ford Health Systems said: “I’m impressed on how much Government is trying to help small businesses.”
• Cindy Gier, retired/now consulting said: “There is a considerable amount of resources in Oakland County for starting and growing a business.”
• Sharon Grant, Reid Family Foundation said: “I have heard that Government can be complicated. It’s good to know that Government can be a support and not a roadblock.”
In talking with many of the current class participants it appears that they are coming to understand Leadership Oakland is wonderful learning/training opportunity for leaders!
Editorial note: I believe the best answer I have ever heard, “why we must all think and cooperate regionally”, came out of this session. L.Brooks Patterson mentioned in his presentation that during the County’s latest meeting with Moodys, their analysts’ said they take into consideration geography when determining ratings. Which means if you are near a Community in potential trouble, help them to improve, because your rating/value depends upon it!
