Village of Lansing Misconception #1 - Clocktower

I wanted to do a top ten list of rumors, myths, and common misconceptions about the Village of Lansing but rather than waiting until I gather ten (appropriate) rumors, myths, and common misconceptions I figure I'd post them as I am confronted with them.
So the most common myth I hear is: "The Village spent tax dollars on the clock tower in downtown Lansing". I am have probably hear this at least 20 plus times. No exaggeration. It has definitely come up at the Meet the Mayor sessions in the past as well as Village Board Meetings.

The clock tower was in fact NOT a Village of Lansing project but one of the Lan Oak Parks FOUNDATION, which is also separate from the Lan Oak Park DISTRICT. The Parks Foundation is an organization whose purpose is to raise money from generous donors in order to improve and maintain the recreational and leisure quality of life to the residents of Lansing.

I believe that the clock tower is a wonderful addition to the downtown area and works well especially with the numerous activities that the Park District and Chamber host in the downtown area.

So for the record, Village of Lansing funds, whether tax dollars, grants, or State or Federal contributions were not used to build the clock tower. If in fact Village funds were used to construct the clock tower I would share in the frustration of those who believe this myth.

I can see where the confusion lies, as many organizations and different governmental taxing bodies such as the Lan Oak Park District and the school districts are situated in Lansing. This does not however mean that the Village has much control over such organizations and it certainly does not mean that the Village funds are spent on their projects.