Transformation to a charter government kicks off program series

A panel discussion, Macomb’s Transition to a Charter Government, will feature several of those who served on the Macomb County Charter Commission as well as the first-elected county executive, leading off the Lorenzo Cultural Center’s latest program series on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 1 p.m.

In November 2008, a partisan commission of 26 citizens was elected to determine the provisions for a county charter. Employing extensive study, public hearings and meetings, the commission developed a charter draft. The proposal was adopted by Macomb County voters on Nov. 3, 2009. A panel of several of those involved in the process will discuss some of the reasons for the change and progress over its first seven years. Panelists include:

• Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel
• Macomb County Board of Commissioners Chair Bob Smith, who served on the Macomb County Charter Commission
• Chief Judge Carrie Lynn Fuca, 41B District Court, who served on the commission and chaired its ethics committee
• Attorney Jake Femminineo, who served as chair of the charter commission
• Attorney Skip Maccarone, who served as executive director of the charter commission
• Vince Viviano, chief of staff, Macomb County Department of Roads, who served on the commission
• Marilyn Lane, strategic policy and government relations with the Macomb County Executive’s Office, who served as vice chair of the charter commission

The presentation is free, but preregistration is required by calling 586.445.7348 or by emailing [email protected]. The Lorenzo Cultural Center is located on Macomb Community College’s Center Campus in Clinton Township, at Hall and Garfield Roads.

For a complete listing of all Making Macomb: A Journey Through 200 Years programming visit: www.lorenzoculturalcenter.com.

About the Lorenzo Cultural Center

The Lorenzo Cultural Center (www.lorenzoculturalcenter.com) provides interactive learning opportunities for all ages, extending student discovery beyond classroom walls and creating multi-faceted experiences for community members to explore the influences and experiences that shape our community’s heritage.

About Macomb Community College
Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is one of the nation’s leading community colleges, providing learning experiences to nearly 40,000 students annually. Macomb nationally ranks in the top two percent in the number of associate degrees awarded by community colleges and is the largest grantor of associate degrees in Michigan. The college’s comprehensive educational programming includes pre-collegiate experiences, university transfer and career preparation programs, bachelor degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.