Local Women Build Connections Across Chelsea, Saline And Milan

In Milan, Jessica Meingasner set out to create something simple: a community event where every family could participate, regardless of cost.

That idea grew into the Milan Area Historical Society’s Spooktacular, now drawing hundreds of residents each year for free food, activities and pumpkins.

Across Washtenaw County, women like Meingasner are shaping their communities in ways both visible and behind the scenes, from local government and libraries to grassroots events and organizations.

The Sun Times News spoke with women in Chelsea, Saline and Milan whose work is helping shape their communities, highlighting the impact of local leadership, service and connection during Women’s History Month.

Building Community In Milan

In Milan, Jessica Meingasner, director of the Downtown Development Authority and a member of the Milan Area Historical Society, said her work is rooted in building connections and creating accessible community events.

“I truly believe if you want community, you have to build it,” Meingasner said. “You have to get in the soil, get your hands dirty, and nurture it into your town.”

That mindset has guided her work with the Milan Area Historical Society, a group dedicated to preserving and sharing Milan’s history through education, events and local landmarks.

She focuses on creating events that are accessible and welcoming to all residents, including the society’s annual Spooktacular.

“I wanted it to be so accessible that it became a staple in people’s lives,” she said.

She described herself as a “connector,” someone focused on bringing people together and encouraging others to get involved.

“I like to think of myself as a connector, or a social catalyst,” she added.

Libraries As Community Hubs In Chelsea

In Chelsea, Virginia Krueger, head of marketing and outreach for the Chelsea District Library, said the library continues to serve as a vital community hub.

“Libraries play such important roles in the communities they serve,” Krueger said. “While we all love books, they are only part of our story.”

Krueger described the library as “a house of stories,” extending beyond its physical building to reach residents in a variety of ways.

Through music, art, bookmobile services and outreach to seniors, the library works to connect with people across the community.

“We try to make sure that we meet people where they are,” she said.

She pointed to moments when the library becomes especially essential, including providing heat, electricity and water during power outages, along with offering gathering spaces, youth programming and services for residents who are unable to visit in person.

“In this era of AI, you have a place where you can get help finding out what’s real,” Krueger said. “It’s about the people.”

Leadership And Public Service In Saline

In Saline, that same focus on community takes shape through public service and local leadership.

Nicole Rice, a Saline City Council member, said she sees public service as both a responsibility and an opportunity to strengthen the community.

“Being a leader and public servant is both a responsibility and a privilege,” Rice said. “I feel a strong sense of pride when I can bring people together around shared goals and solutions.”

Rice said effective leadership plays a direct role in building trust and connection within a community.

“Effective leadership has a direct impact on the health of a community by strengthening trust and helping people feel seen and heard,” she said.

Across Chelsea, Saline and Milan, that work may take different forms, but the goal is the same: building stronger, more connected communities.

Featured photo: Jessica Meingasner, photo by Heather Finch