A valuable history lesson, free of charge!
July 3, 2008

Much has been said and discussed with regard to the Fuerst Farm property lately. This valuable piece of land sits in front of Novi High School at the corner of Ten Mile and Taft Roads. It's an original homestead in Novi.

This week, Novi Mayor David Landry set the record straight and provided a valuable history lesson, outlining what City Council actually intended eleven years ago when the property was purchased, and what's happened since. It's an interesting read by a smart man that everyone should fully digest.

Most interestingly, it's now clear that the property was purchased with the intent that it be used for public purposes. Council at the time discussed and then specifically removed language from the purchase agreement with regard to historical uses of the property. History, it seems, was never Council's intent back in 1997.

Clearly, the city did intend to have this valuable piece of land used by the public; by everyone. Sadly, it has sat almost unused for the past decade with little interest expressed in it, until now.

Folks, that's hardly what Council intended in 1997 when it was agreed that supporters would raise money, and the city would chip in.

In fact, since 2000 the preservationists have reportedly raised less than $100 per year - less than $10 a month - while arranging for some periodic volunteer help to paint and clean up the property. Yes, they should be commended for trying to help preserve our history, but, the city has spent about $15,000 a year on it - more than originally planned - even though it was hardly used. And today, we are no further along than we were eleven years ago.

Soon, Novi will have a new library standing proudly next to the old Fuerst Farm. Already, one of the finest high schools in the nation sits proudly behind it. And out front stand some old barns (well, the barns look more like they're ready to fall than stand for much longer) and a house of little true historical significance, according to those who actually knew the former residents.

Folks, it's time for change. For progress.

We mean no disrespect to those who treasure history. In fact, we regularly quote famous voices from the past on this website. Lessons can be learned from history, and we would be the first to admit that. However, this isn't one of them.

We the People are very pleased that Novi City Administration and City Council have put their foot down regarding this underutilized city property; not an easy decision given the expected backlash from the preservationists in town. The proposed plans are exciting, and no longer will this valuable land sit vacant to please just a small minority of vocal residents. Instead, the property will be finally available for use by all, as it should be.

Perhaps next year, everyone can celebrate the  Independence of the new Fuerst Farm, Park.

p.s. - We find it quite odd that the "Friends of Fuerst Farm" set up a website to sell residents on the idea of preservation, but no where on the website can one determine who these friends actually are. We tried to find out - no reply. Friends, who are you?