Title
Resolution to Recognize Outstanding Contributions and Service to the City of Ann Arbor by Ethel “Eppie” Potts
Memorandum
“Someone must take a positive approach to the city and its needs.” - Ethel [Kudrna, Lewis] Potts, 1970
Ethel “Eppie” Potts passed away on March 29, 2020 at the age of 95. This resolution recognizes the leadership, service, and example that Ms. Potts provided to the City of Ann Arbor.
Body
Whereas, The City of Ann Arbor has benefitted greatly from the transplant of Ms. Ethel Potts from Berwyn, IL in 1942;
Whereas, Upon Ms. Potts’ settlement in Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan, she embodied the definition of a Renaissance woman;
Whereas, Ms. Potts led a life fulfilled with music, as an oboist and singer; art as a potter; and community, as a tireless advocate and servant who endeavored to make Ann Arbor a wonderful place to live;
Whereas, Her community service ethic could be measured in countless statements of advocacy on issues that mattered deeply to the community; 11 years of service on the Zoning Board of Appeals, 9 years of service on the Ann Arbor Planning Commission; and a work ethic that extended to countless years of service on several master planning committees including the R4C/R2A Zoning District Study Committee and numerous other committees and workgroups extending ever further and deeper into the community;
Whereas, Ms. Potts’ positive and forceful advocacy for neighborhoods and historic buildings were perfect fuel for her service to the Old West Side Historic District, a district she helped establish;
Whereas, Ms. Potts was awarded Preservationist of the Year and recognized for her work with many groups that helped shape Ann Arbor’s civic life and physical environment, including the Preservation Alliance, Allen’s Creek Watershed Council, the Citizen’s Association for Area Planning, the Alliance of Neighborhoods, the League of Women Voters, the Ann Arbor Potters Guild;
Whereas, Ms. Potts through all her many civic endeavors was an informed critic, a supporter of thoughtful policy and sound community planning and neighborhood preservation, but most of all, a fierce, influential and tenacious advocate for Ann Arbor; and
Whereas, Ms. Potts was a positive force and inspirational mentor for many, and made an indelible mark on the community she loved and worked tirelessly to improve;
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and Council recognize the immeasurable community contributions and service of Ms. Ethel “Eppie” Potts.
Sponsors: Councilmembers Eaton, Lumm, Ackerman, Hayner, Ramlawi and Bannister