Community tensions are rising as local officials appear to dismiss widespread support for reopening the BACK 9 dirt bike track. In a recent public meeting, Supervisor Robert Lovenheim made statements that clearly signal his opposition to the project. Meanwhile, Supervisor Michael Albert acknowledged the community’s need for outdoor recreation and a safe, structured environment for dirt bike riding.
Despite overwhelming support from residents, opposition remains entrenched among just two supervisors and roughly a dozen residents out of a township population of nearly 7,000. Residents are calling for fair consideration and transparency on a decision that affects the broader community.
The situation has sparked vocal frustration from locals. One resident questioned the identity of a man “sitting behind the desk,” demanding accountability and expressing anger at what they perceived as dismissive treatment. The resident also speculated about potential commercial development on the land, suggesting that if property owners cannot keep up with taxes, outside interests might seize the opportunity for profit. “Somebody needs to fix it…because believe me, you’re not gonna want me down there riding an ATV,” the resident warned.
Another community member expressed exasperation over the lack of compromise, asking, “When’s the next meeting? I’m sick of this…there is no reason there can’t be a middle ground worked out here.”
Legally, the situation remains unchanged. The township initially indicated willingness to settle and negotiate per a judge’s request, but communications suggest otherwise. Allegations have surfaced that officials misrepresented correspondence, pretended to extend a settlement offer, and then ultimately refused to settle.
Residents continue to seek clarity and accountability from their elected officials, emphasizing that the community deserves a voice in decisions about public recreational resources. The ongoing conflict highlights the growing gap between local government actions and the expectations of the people they serve.
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Township Officials Show Complete Disregard for Residents’ Opinions.” This segment shows Supervisor Robert Lovenheim responding in a way that clearly reflects his opposition to reopening the BACK 9 dirt bike track. His comments speak for themselves. Meanwhile, Supervisor Michael Albert openly acknowledges that our community does need outdoor recreation and a safe, structured place for dirt bike riding.
Yet despite widespread support, two supervisors — along with roughly 12 residents out of nearly 7,000 — continue to oppose the track. Residents are simply asking for fair consideration and transparency on an issue that affects the entire community We are still at the same place LEGALLY- nothing has changed. The township said they were willing to settle and negotiate per the judges request…lied about correspondence, pretended to have an offer then said NO SETTLEMENT