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Friday, May 17
Brighton & Hartland Host Relay for Life Events
5/18/13 - Survivors, supporters, family and friends will continue to walk and raise funds until there is a cure in the fight against cancer. The Relay for Life events raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society. Entertainment, activities and fundraisers are featured during the 24-hour relays. Brighton’s event got underway Friday at Brighton High School. A survivor celebration was held prior to opening ceremonies Friday evening and a luminary ceremony was later held at dusk. The Brighton Relay for Life had a Carnival for a Cure theme, with a tropical and upbeat feel. The actual relay was held in the parking lot of Brighton High School’s Performing Arts Center this year because of ongoing construction and renovations to the football field and track. As of Friday evening, 45 teams and 378 participants had raised approximately $74,000 online. The set goal for the entire event is $114,000. Another Relay for Life event kicked off at 9am Saturday at Hartland High School. Community members are encouraged to stop by either and offer support or donate during the course of the weekend. To learn more about Relay for Life, click on the link below. (JM)
| Web Link: | http://www.relayforlife.org/ |
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Howell School Board Extends Superintendent Contract
5/18/13 - The Howell School Board voted to extend the contract of Superintendent Ron Wilson at its regular meeting on Monday. Board President Mike Witt tells WHMI there is an unusual process by which the district maintains Wilson’s employment. He was hired with in March of 2010 with a three-year contract, but the board has voted to extend it by another year at the end of each school year to prevent the expiration date from drawing closer. Wilson has consistently received positive reviews from the board. The motion unanimously approved by the Board of Education will extend his contract through June 30th of 2015. No other terms of the contract have been altered, unlike last year’s extension which was changed to be more similar to those of other administrators and increased Wilson’s contractual duties to recognize the extra work he was already doing within the district. (TD) Fugitive Enters Plea to 2008 Sexual Assault in Unadilla Twp.
5/18/13 - A Mexican fugitive has entered a plea in connection with a sexual assault in Unadilla Township. 31-year-old Varnet Brito was originally charged with 3rd degree criminal sexual conduct for assaulting an incapacitated victim in Unadilla Township on March 19th of 2008. On Friday, he pleaded guilty to a lesser included offense of assault with intent to commit penetration and must register as a sex offender. He entered the plea with assistance from an interpreter who was present for the proceedings in Livingston County Circuit Court. He will be sentenced June 20th. Brito spent four and a half years on the run before being arrested by the Blackhawk County Sheriff's Department in Iowa for disorderly conduct and public intoxication. He was extradited to the Livingston County Jail, where he remains incarcerated and a deportation detainer has also been placed on him for having illegal immigration status. (JM) Murdock Named 2013 Hamburg Kiwanis Citizen of the Year
5/18/13 - A well-known Hamburg Township man with a community spirit was honored with what officials say was a well-deserved award. Ron Murdock was named the 2013 Hamburg Kiwanis Citizen of the Year during a special ceremony held at a local tavern this past week. The award is bestowed upon individuals who have devoted time and energy volunteering but also helping those in need in the Hamburg community. Murdock had his leg was amputated after being diagnosed with a rare blood disease but continued on with his work and community involvement, which was noted in his nomination. He was named Chairman of the Hamburg Township Parks & Recreation Department for many years and worked on a number of projects during that time including the development of the Lakelands Trail. In earlier years, the father of two spent years coaching youth softball and baseball and served for more than a decade as president of the Pinckney Hamburg Baseball Softball Association. (JM) Murder Charge Filed in 2012 Gun Range Death
5/17/13 - A Howell Township man set to be sentenced next week for manslaughter in a fatal shooting last year has now been charged with open murder in the case. 20-year-old Jessce Lincon Stearn had pleaded guilty to the manslaughter charge in the June 2012 death of 21-year-old Charles Kimball at the Livingston Conservation and Sports Association gun range in Brighton Township. Stearn told authorities his replica AK-47 had jammed and that when he tried to clear it, it misfired and hit Kimball in the head, killing him instantly. Sheriff Bob Bezotte said they were unable to reproduce the malfunction and that witness statements contradicted the claim that it was an accident. However, prosecutors said they filed a manslaughter charge because there was no evidence Stearn intended to kill Kimball. But that has now changed, prompting a new charge of Open Murder and Possession of a Firearm in the Commission of a Felony. Livingston County Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt said the charges were based on new evidence in the case, reportedly statements that Stearn made to fellow inmates in the Livingston County Jail that he had intentionally killed Kimball over an unpaid debt. However, when he was arraigned on the new charges this morning in 53rd District Court, Stearn denied it and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. The manslaughter count was dismissed and Stearn was ordered held without bond pending a May 22nd pre-exam conference in front of Judge Theresa Brennan. If convicted on the open murder count, Stearn would face life in prison without the possibility of parole. (JK) Two Suspects Jailed In Hamburg Home Invasion Case
5/17/13 - Two men were arrested and a stolen car recovered yesterday in connection with a home invasion earlier this week in Hamburg Township. Officers from Hamburg were dispatched on May 13th to a break-in at a home on Bishop Lake Road near Chilson Road. They say the invasion occurred while the residents were at work and several items were stolen from the house, including the owner’s 2006 Mercedes Benz. An investigation followed, which led Hamburg police and the Livingston and Washtenaw Narcotics Enforcement Team, or LAWNET, to observe the area near Ford Road and Haggerty in Canton Township. Yesterday at 1:00pm, a Hamburg officer spotted the stolen car and gave chase to the location under observation by police. Officers from both agencies worked to stop the car and arrest the two men inside without incident. Both suspects are 25-year-old men from Fowlerville. They are being lodged at the Livingston County Jail awaiting charges. (TD) Bond Could be Revoked for Man Charged w/ Scrap Yard Thefts
5/17/13 - A Jackson man accused of helping steal catalytic converters could have his bond revoked next week. The charges against 32-year-old Jeffrey Kern were amended last month to a count of larceny $1,000 or more and receiving and concealing stolen property. Records show prosecutors have since filed an emergency motion seeking to revoke Kern’s bond, which will be heard Monday by Livingston County Circuit Court Judge David Reader. Kern and 23-year-old Heather Anders were arrested on January 28th by officers patrolling the area near Michael’s Auto Salvage in Howell. They discovered 13 catalytic converters along Lucy Road that had been stolen off cars within the junkyard, along with saws and other tools. Kern was taken into custody at the scene while Anders, the alleged getaway driver, was found waiting in a nearby parking lot and arrested. Anders was sentenced earlier this month to 45 days in jail and 18 months of probation. She pleaded guilty to a charge of larceny between $1,000 and $20,000 but if she successfully completes probation, that charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor. (JM) Congressman Rogers Delivering Graduation Address in Howell
5/17/13 - Livingston County’s voice in Congress will offer some words of wisdom to graduating seniors in Howell. Congressman Mike Rogers is a 1981 Howell High School graduate and will be the keynote speaker at the graduation ceremonies on June 1st at the Breslin Center in East Lansing. He met recently with Howell High School’s “We the People” students who had traveled to Washington, DC to take part in the national competition that’s based on the Constitution. Rogers, a Howell Republican, was a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army and then served as an FBI special agent before being elected to the Michigan Senate in 1995. He’s served Michigan’s Eighth Congressional District since 2001. He’s authored three bi-partisan intelligence authorization bills, which were signed into law. In 2011, he was appointed as Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and is a leader on national security policy. (JM) Brighton Council Looks at Dredging Choked Mill Pond
5/17/13 - The Brighton City Council Thursday night decided to approach the Downtown Development Authority to ask for the funds to have the sediment at the bottom of the Mill Pond tested. The city is looking into the possibility of dredging the scenic Mill Pond, which is a popular attraction in the downtown area. It was reported the pond is becoming choked with sediment, dead weeds and other decayed organic material that has accumulated over the years. The city has dealt with the problem in the past by conducting regular, seasonal weed and algae removal procedures. However, Council Member Claudia Roblee says the pond is becoming choked and the city needs to be, in her words, “good stewards” of the water. Corrigan Oil Co. has offered to dispose of the accumulated sediment at no cost, if the state Department of Environmental Quality doesn’t require the city to have it disposed of in a landfill licensed to handle such materials. City Manager Dana Foster says the offer of the in-kind service would save the city $300,000. Potentially, it could cut the cost of the dredging nearly in half, from an estimated $700,000 to $400,000. Foster tells WHMI the sediment testing procedure will enable the city to ascertain the size and scope of a dredging project. When the results of the analysis are in, Foster says the City Council will be able to determine whether it is advisable to proceed with dredging or to take the far less expensive route of weed and algae control. The city has $6,000 left in its weed control budget for the remainder of this year and $10,000 in the budget for the next fiscal year, which starts July 1. It was also brought out that in addition to dredging, the bank of the pond needs to be stabilized and the spillway needs to be rebuilt. City Engineer Gary Markstrom of Tetra Tech told council the samples would be taken to a laboratory for analysis to test for metals and hydrocarbons. It was pointed out that since the Mill Pond is not a navigable waterway, the project is not eligible for grant money. (TT) Hearing Delayed For Accused I-96 Shooter
5/17/13 - A court hearing for the alleged I-96 shooter has again been delayed in Livingston County. Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette’s office is prosecuting Raulie Casteel of Wixom on terrorism, attempted murder and other charges in Livingston County, where a pre-trial hearing was scheduled for May 31st. However, on Thursday officials confirmed the date has been moved until June 7th. No reason was given for the delay. Casteel, who is accused of using a handgun to fire on two dozen motorists in a four-county area last October, was previously found competent to stand trial following state forensic testing but his defense team is seeking out an expert to perform an independent psychiatric evaluation. The findings of separate evaluations that were previously ordered to determine criminal responsibility also remain outstanding. A pre-trial in Oakland County Circuit Court is set for May 30th, where Casteel faces 60 charges including attempted murder for shootings in Commerce Township and in Wixom. (JK) Restaurants to Raise Funds For Howell Man Fighting Cancer
5/17/13 - A fundraising event for a Howell man diagnosed with cancer will take place next week with the help of two local restaurants. Matt Costello of Howell found out in October that he had cancer near the base of his tongue despite never having been a tobacco user. He underwent a 20-hour surgery in November followed by chemotherapy and radiation. The cancer has now spread to his lungs and tests are being performed around the country to determine the best treatments for him. Starting in February, the Costello family has been receiving support from fundraising events organized by family, friends, churches, and coworkers to help pay for Matt’s medical bills. His wife Tylene tells WHMI that the latest fundraiser was organized by one of Matt’s coworkers. It will take place on May 21st, when Sparky’s Bar and Grill in Highland and the Burger Joint in Milford will donate 10% of all sales to the fund that has been set up for the family. Sparky’s will run the promotion from 11am to 11pm, and the Burger Joint will offer it from 11am to 9pm. Tylene says her family is overwhelmed by the amount of community support they have received, with more than $10,000 having been raised for their medical bills so far. (TD) | Web Link: | http://www.gofundme.com/mattcostello.com |
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Hune Wants Fines & Criminal Charges in Steroid Deaths
5/17/13 - State Senator Joe Hune has called on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to fine the New England Compounding Center for producing tainted steroids. The center produced the contaminated steroid shots determined to be the cause of the fungal meningitis outbreak in many states, including Michigan. The total number of infections connected to the steroids is up to more than 300 total cases, including 16 deaths in Michigan. Of those 16 deaths, at least four were Livingston County residents. Hune, a Republican from Hamburg Township, said he would like to see the department fine the New England Compounding Center to the fullest extent of their authority. If the center were found to have engaged in negligence or a failure to exercise due care, it could be fined up to $250,000. But Hune says that should only be the beginning. He’d also like to see criminal charges filed against the company. Of the 320 people affected nationwide, 52 percent of the cases are in Michigan even though the state received only 13 percent of the contaminated drug that was shipped nationally. Health officials say the reasons for the disproportionate rate aren't clear, nor is it known if more cases will surface. (JK) Business Owners Honored For Care Of Howell's Historic Buildings
5/17/13 - The 7th annual Historic Preservation Awards were hosted by the Howell Downtown Development Authority last night. DDA Director Diane Larkin tells WHMI the awards honor building owners who have renovated, maintained, or preserved the historic buildings that characterize Howell’s downtown. She says the historic architecture of Howell is a unique feature that the city can promote and market as a centerpiece to the county. More than 50 people attended last night’s event, which was held on the third floor of First National Bank. The DDA awarded Casa de Bella on Michigan Avenue the Overhaul Rehabilitation Award for the exterior preservation and interior renovations it has undertaken in the past year. The Preservation Stewardship Award went to Harry Griffith for his work preserving the Crandall Realty building, which is the oldest structure in the entire city. The Yax family, owners of Yax Jewelers, as well as DR Electric on Grand River were both recognized with the new Heritage Business Award. Larkin says the award is meant to honor local businesses for their longevity and history of serving Howell residents for decades. At the end of the ceremony the DDA was presented with a book created by the students of the Girls on the Run group, which took a tour of the Fleming School before it was destroyed by fire in January. The book featured photos of the historic building as well as memories of the tour as retold by the girls. (TD) Bond Construction Moving Full Speed Ahead in Brighton
5/17/13 - A wide variety of construction projects are underway in the Brighton Area Schools district. It’s been more than 14 years since any major improvements have been made to district facilities and the critical upgrades are being funded through an $88.4 (m) million bond that was approved by voters a year ago. WHMI took a tour of the varsity athletic fields and football stadium area Thursday morning, where a lot of progress is being made and new concessions stands and locker rooms are going in. The grade of the varsity field is being finalized and workers will start to lay some turf in the next several weeks. Retaining walls around the field, plumbing and electrical are all going in as well. Superintendent Greg Gray says across the district, about $27 (m) million worth of work and construction will be done over roughly the next 70 days. Gray says all sorts of great things are happening and everyone is excited about the progress so far, noting lots of technology is coming in so kids are finally getting to utilize it in the classroom. Classroom and technology improvements totaling $16 (m) million are underway while the wired and wireless internet systems are going in and are almost complete but will wrap up over the summer along with fire alarm systems and security vestibules. The athletic fields across the district should be done by mid-August. All of the work should be wrapped up by the start of the next school year, with the potential exception of some minor items and the completion of the new facilities is expected to benefit the community for decades to come. (JM)
Thursday, May 16
Fenton Man Pleads Guilty As Charged To Gas Station Robbery
5/16/13 - A guilty plea has been entered by the Fenton man charged in connection with an armed robbery at a gas station. 23-year-old Michael Joseph Craig is charged with armed robbery and a separate count of using a firearm while committing a felony. He pleaded guilty as charged in Genesee County Circuit Court and will be sentenced on June 10th. Fenton Police say Craig robbed the Clark gas station on North Leroy Street January 23rd and fled the area. Officers and a K-9 unit were able to establish a track and canvassed the area, which led them to a home on North East Street. While a perimeter was being set up, police say a detective noticed a subject attempting to escape out a back bedroom window and a handgun was observed. A short standoff followed and Craig eventually surrendered. Fenton Police say the weapon, stolen cash and other evidence were later recovered at the residence. (TD) Democrat's Winans Dinner Features Senate Hopeful
5/16/13 - The Livingston County Democratic Party will host its 30th annual Winans Dinner this weekend featuring the man hoping to be Michigan’s newest senator. Congressman Gary Peters, now in his third term, represents Michigan’s 14th Congressional District covering parts of Oakland and Wayne counties. He recently announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in 2014 to succeed Carl Levin, who previously announced he would not seek a seventh term. Local party Chair Judy Daubenmier says Peters fought for loans to rescue the American auto industry and played a central role in shaping a financial reform law she says will provide common sense financial protections for regular Americans. Also set to appear at the dinner is Cindy Estrada, the first Latina vice president of the United Auto Workers, who lives in Hamburg Township with her husband and two children. Also speaking will be former prosecutor Mark Totten, a law professor at Michigan State University whose work has focused on Wall Street reform and consumer protection legislation. The event will be held Saturday evening starting at 6pm at the Lakelands Golf and Country Club. There will be live music, snacks, dessert, and a silent auction. Details are posted in the whmi.com event section. (JK) Howell History Days Celebration Planned Saturday
5/16/13 - A variety of family activities will offer a blast to the past during this Saturday’s Howell History Days. This marks the 10th annual celebration and attendees can view the inside of a bee hive, churn butter or scrub on a wash board. Tours of historic buildings are planned and a craft alley and ice cream station can be found on Wetmore Street. The event is hosted by the Howell Area Historical Society and highlights the history of the community, much like a newly released book that will be featured. David D. Finney Jr. and Judith McIntosh authored Howell, which is the latest book in the Images of America series. The book covers roughly 1850 to 1950 and has ten sections. Finney says the hope is that the book will preserve the memories and images of Howell’s past that would otherwise be lost. The Howell History Days celebration will run from 10am until 4pm this Saturday in downtown Howell. (JM) | Web Link: | http://howellhistorydayscelebration.webs.com |
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Man Scams Putnam Woman for Nearly $10,000
5/16/13 - The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a man accused of scamming a Putnam Township woman out of nearly $10,000. Authorities say that on Monday, May 6th an elderly Putnam Township resident said she was approached by a man offering to seal her asphalt driveway for $9,400. The man offered her a warranty and indicated he could start immediately. He was driving a newer model four-door red pickup truck with a yellow top light and was accompanied by a second individual in a white pickup truck which had a sprayer unit in the back. The victim attempted to stop payment on her check after observing the driveway was coated with a thin black substance that didn’t seal any of the driveways cracks, but he had already cashed the check. (Pictured here at bank) The suspect provided the name of Jimmy Carroll, and indicated he was from South Carolina. He spoke with a southern accent. Meanwhile, Sheriff Bob Bezotte says the incident is a reminder to residents that they have to exercise caution when dealing with anyone coming to your home offering services. Common scams include driveway seal coating, asphalt work or concrete work, in which the scammer will offer a discount if they can do the “work” immediately. The sheriff also cautions against allowing anyone offering such services inside your home or to leave your home to survey the potential work area, as that is often when a second individual will sneak inside looking for valuables. (JK) | Attachment: | 1301957TravelerScams051513.pdf |
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Pinckney Summit Discusses How to Create Draw For Village
5/16/13 - A community summit in Pinckney last night attracted about two dozen elected officials, business leaders, and stakeholders from the village and surrounding area. The summit was held at the village hall with the aim of improving the village by bringing people and businesses to the downtown. It built upon a meeting that took place two years ago, where lists of the village’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were identified so they could be addressed. The participants at last night’s meeting reviewed these lists and added new items, then split into smaller groups to identify which items could be addressed in the next six months. Some ideas included marketing the positive attributes of the village to real estate brokers, improving relations with the township, and creating a website to provide a one-stop source for links to all Pinckney area business and governmental websites. Village Clerk Amy Salowitz led the meeting, and she tells WHMI that many issues to be addressed by the village boil down to a need for improved communication between the village, the township, businesses, and residents. A communications group will meet before the next summit to discuss better ways to share information, particularly event calendars, between these different bodies. Another Pinckney summit will be held on June 17th. It will also be located at the village hall and the public is encouraged to attend. (TD) Picnic Celebrates Success of Local Volunteers
5/16/13 - The success of volunteers who work to strengthen and support programs in Livingston County was the focus of a celebration picnic at Howell City Park yesterday. As the need for human services continues to grow locally, the goal is to mobilize volunteers and help meet the needs of area non-profits and organizations. A program of the Livingston County United Way, Volunteer Livingston works in partnership with all agencies to identify and solve social problems affecting area residents. Volunteer Livingston Coordinator Candy Jones-Guerin says everyone works so well together in the community, the picnic offers a way to bring them all together since most volunteers work with multiple organizations. She says there really are a large number of people helping every single day in the community to make a difference. Volunteers who spoke with WHMI said it’s a rewarding feeling that cannot be matched, knowing you've given something of yourself to others. Most added that if they only had more time, they would do even more because there is still a lot of need. Officials say the continued volunteer assistance is crucial to help meet the needs of people in the community. Anyone looking for local opportunities is asked to visit www.volunterlivingston.com, where they can shop around for that perfect fit. A link is posted below. (JM) | Web Link: | http://www.volunteerlivingston.com/volunteer |
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Work Begins on North LeRoy Construction Project
5/16/13 - The project to rebuild and improve North LeRoy Street in Fenton is now underway. The $2.9 million project is mostly being handled by the Genesee County Road Commission, with most of the work to the road within the City of Fenton having been finished last year. The Tri County Times reports that barrels have been placed to divert traffic, trees and branches have been trimmed, and portions of the southbound lane from Garnet Road to Bly Road have been removed. The project will ultimately widen North LeRoy from Bly to Butcher Road. It is being paid for with local, county, and state funding, and should be completed in July. (TD) LACASA Art & Wine Fundraiser Planned This Weekend
5/16/13 - A wine tasting and art viewing event this weekend will be open to the public and benefit the programs at LACASA. The Howell Mainstreet Winery will host the event on Saturday from noon to 7pm. In addition to complementary wine tasting and house-made Sangria, guests will have the opportunity to peruse the works of Michigan artists Susan Gilland and Lisa Jarrell. They will be on hand to discuss their work, which is described as nature-inspired and expressive art made with organic materials. The artists selected LACASA to benefit from the event, which will donate a portion of the proceeds to the organization. Information on the event can be found in the events section. (TD) Howell Township Man Gets Prison Time For Donation Jar Theft
5/17/13 - A man accused of stealing a donation jar from a local store with his wife has been sentenced. 34-year-old Michael Cory previously pleaded guilty to larceny in a building and was sentenced yesterday to serve a minimum of 23 months and a maximum of 15 years in prison. He was also ordered to pay $50 in restitution. Cory was on parole for a previous retail fraud conviction at the time of the crime and is currently incarcerated at a correctional facility in Ann Arbor. The sentence handed down by Livingston County Circuit Court Judge David Reader will run consecutive to the one Cory is currently serving. Authorities say the couple walked into a convenience store at M-59 and Grand River with a child on February 16th. Police say surveillance video showed 28-year-old Tena Cory distracting a clerk while Michael stole the collection jar, which was for a girl in Arkansas with Down Syndrome to get a needed surgery. Several members of the community more than replaced the money after hearing about the story. Tena Cory was ordered to spend 21 days in the Livingston County Jail and complete 18 months of probation for her previous guilty plea to the same charge. (JM) Wednesday, May 15
LESA Superintendent Finalist For Similar Post in Kalamazoo Area
5/15/13 - The head of Livingston County’s intermediate school district is in the running for a similar position to the west. The Kalamazoo Regional Education Service Agency Board of Education selected three finalists from what was described as a strong pool of candidates following a special meeting Tuesday morning. One of the candidates is Livingston Educational Service Agency Superintendent Dave Campbell, who came to LESA in September of 2011 from Olivet Community Schools. The other finalists include Ypsilanti Public Schools Superintendent Dedrick Martin and Curtis Finch Jr, the superintendent of the Mecosta-Osceola Intermediate School District. KRESA is utilizing a consulting firm to assist in the search and oversees nine school districts based in Kalamazoo County. Public interviews of the three finalists are scheduled to take place next Thursday. (JM) Candidates Seek City Council Seats in Brighton & Howell
5/15/13 - Both Howell and Brighton will feature contested city council races this November. Following Tuesday’s filing deadline, Brighton City Clerk Diana Lowe says that incumbent council members Ricci Bandkau, Larry Schillinger and Shawn Pipoly will seek re-election to the four open seats in November and will be challenged by residents Kristoffer Tobbe, Shanda Willis and Susan Walters-Steinacker. Councilwoman Claudia Roblee previously announced she would not run again. Meanwhile, in Howell, Mayor Phil Campbell will run unopposed for another term. However, Howell City Clerk Jane Cartwright says the three open seats there will be sought by incumbents Jeff Hansen and Scott Niblock along with challengers Richard Grimes, Nick Proctor, Nikolas Hertrich and Daria Devantier. (JM) Aisin Holdings Property Rezoned For Research And Development
5/15/13 - A rezoning request by Aisin Holdings of America for an 80-acre plot near its main facility was approved by the Handy Township Board last night. Company representatives say Aisin recently purchased the plot, which is just east of its main 800-acre campus, simply because it was up for sale at a low price. They later asked the township to approve a zoning change from agricultural and residential to research and development, integrating the plot into the main facility. The change was recommended by the township planning commission and the county, and last night it received final approval from the township board. Supervisor Hank Vaupel says Aisin has not announced any plans to develop the plot of land, but it could be used to expand a new test track or provide a buffer to help protect the company’s confidential research. Township officials say there was no reason to deny the rezoning since Aisin has been a model corporate citizen since it came to Handy in 2003. The rezoning will take effect seven says after it is published by the township. (TD) Fenton Seniors Look to Past & Future For Exit Presentations
5/15/13 - As they prepare to move on to the next stage of their young lives, the seniors at Fenton High School have been giving presentations about themselves and their goals to guest evaluators from around the community. Every graduating senior in the district is required to give an exit presentation this year, which is observed and evaluated by community and business leaders who volunteer their time to give feedback on the presentations. Each presentation was divided into three parts: a discussion of the student’s character and accomplishments, a summary of his or her career goals, and an explanation of how those goals will be achieved. International Baccalaureate teacher George Kraloski says this is a final chance for seniors to reflect before graduation, and that his students put an impressive amount of individuality into their presentations. In addition to their peers and guest evaluators, several students had parents and family attend to watch them present. Several students said giving the presentation was intimidating, but they were glad for the chance to reflect on themselves and their futures. The presentations began on April 29th and will be completed on May 23rd. (TD) Debate on Common Core Held in Brighton by RetakeOurGov
5/15/13 - The local Tea Party group in Livingston County, RetakeOurGov, conducted a debate at Memories Restaurant and Lounge in Brighton Township Tuesday night on Common Core educational standards. Michigan is one of 45 states, plus the District of Columbia, that have adopted Common Core standards for its public schools. Taking opposite sides in the debate were Eileen Weiser, a member of the state Board of Education and supporter of Common Core, and Melanie Kurdys, who is opposed. Kurdys is a past candidate for the state board and former member of the Portage Board of Education. A show of hands in the capacity audience indicated that virtually everyone in attendance is opposed to Common Core. Weiser told the crowd that Common Core establishes educational standards in two subject areas – math and English/language arts – that she says are necessary if the U.S is to compete in the new global economy. Weiser says there are many misconceptions about Common Core, including that it supposedly establishes a specific curriculum for public schools, which she says is not the case. Kurdys told her audience that the people who established Common Core didn’t go about it right. Rather than sitting in a room dreaming up an entirely new set of standards, she says they should have followed the program used by Massachusetts. She says that state has consistently scored the highest among the 50 states in academic disciplines. Common Core was adopted in Michigan by the state Board of Education in 2010 and is supported by Governor Snyder, who has said politics is driving the opposition and not educational concerns. It is set to be implemented starting this year, but it has never been approved by the legislature. Now a state Republican House member from Rochester Hills, Rep. Tom McMillin, has introduced a budget amendment that would prevent the state Department of Education from using state funds to implement the Common Core standards and assessment tests. McMillin has also introduced a bill, now in a house committee, that would force Michigan to withdraw from Common Core entirely. State education officials say moving away from Common Core now would add “great cost” to districts and the state which has already paid to align curriculum towards those standards. (TT/JK) Ypsilanti Man Enters Plea to Police Chase & Standoff
5/15/13 - A man facing a number of charges after leading multiple police agencies on a chase across Livingston County has entered into a plea deal. 28-year-old Andrew John McCormick of Ypsilanti pleaded no contest yesterday to charges of illegal entry, felonious assault, resisting police, 4th degree fleeing and eluding and malicious destruction of property. In exchange, a count of 1st degree home invasion was dismissed. A no contest plea is not an admission of guilt but is treated as such during sentencing, which is set for June 20th. The March 30th incident began when police say McCormick fled from officers attempted to pull him over on M-36 near Pinckney. A chase ensued during which he struck one of the police vehicles and then continued on to a home on Merrick Drive in Putnam Township, which officers quickly surrounded. After about an hour of unsuccessful negotiations, a special response team went inside and discovered McCormick hiding in a bathroom and took him into custody. (JK) Handy Board Updated On West Grand River Sewer Project
5/15/13 - Last night, the Handy Township Board got an update on the ongoing West Grand River sewer project that is tied to the municipality’s looming sewer debt. After developers defaulted on sewer assessments, Handy Township was left with about $2.9 million in charge-backs to the county and twice that in unpaid bonds. The charge-backs will come due in 2014, and the township is currently working with the county to help mitigate the impact on Handy residents. Litigation is ongoing with all parties, but in the meantime the township is still required under contract to complete the portion of the sewer project on West Grand River. Last night, Livingston County Drain Commissioner Brian Jonckheere updated the board on the progress of that construction. He said a new engineer had been found to see the project through to its conclusion, which is scheduled for September. Township Supervisor Hank Vaupel says without the planned developments, the sewer project will serve about five residences. (TD) Expo Celebrates Planning & Growing Area Businesses
5/15/13 - An event this Friday will celebrate four years of planning programs that help create and grow businesses in Livingston County. The Livingston County satellite office of the Michigan Small Business and Technology Center will host the expo, and feature a broad range of businesses that have taken part in a variety of programs over the past four years. The extended business planning programs are hosted in conjunction with local chambers of commerce and the expo is an outreach to connect participants to the larger community and communicate with others about their business and ideas. Local satellite office director Nancy Johnson says they have a range of businesses from start-ups to others that have been around for 30 years but are diversifying at the expo. The business expo is free and will run from 8:30am until noon this Friday at the American Spirit Center off Grand River in Brighton. The public along with all small business owners in the county are encouraged to attend. (JM) | Web Link: | http://livingstonsbtdc.org |
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"Survivor" Game Raises $18,000 for Charity At Howell High School
5/15/13 - Howell High School students participated in a unique competition last month, raising thousands of dollars for charity in the process. Twelve Howell seniors competed in a challenge based on the television show “Survivor.” The game has been going on every year since 2008, with competitors staying within the school walls 24 hours a day from Sunday, April 21st to Friday, April 26th. Contestants compete in various contests and are eliminated as the game progresses. Meanwhile, donations are collected and tee shirts sold for students to support their favorite competitors. This year more than 1,300 tee shirts were sold and a grand total of $18,000 was raised for charity. That total will be split between National Alliance for Mental Illness and a fund to assist Howell High alumnus Zac Cain, who has been diagnosed with cancer. This year’s winner was Maddie May Kroll. Daily videos were posted online throughout the competition. They can be found by clicking the link below. (TD) | Web Link: | http://www.youtube.com/user/ADoddProductions?featu... |
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Tuesday, May 14
General Motors to Build New $100 Million Data Center in Milford
5/14/13 - General Motors has announced that it will spend $100 (M) million to build a data center in Milford this year as part of its overhaul of information technology operations. Construction will begin in early summer on GM’s second data center at the Milford Proving Grounds. The company says about $158 million worth of IT equipment will be installed there and it’s expected to open in July of 2014. GM says there will be 350 skilled trades’ workers on site at the peak of the project, and more than 95% of the construction jobs will come from southeast and central Michigan. It will be built as a companion to GM’s new Enterprise Data Center in Warren and both will focus on high-power computing, using much of the same equipment and material. Officials say the Milford location was chosen because of its specific proximity to Warren, allowing for “mirrored” data. Officials say that way if one facility is off-line for any reason, the other will have the same data available without interruption. The two new facilities replace a network of 23 data centers operated by GM and three information technology suppliers around the world. GM says it’s saving money by having the centers on existing campuses, which have negotiated bulk utility rates, existing infrastructure and security. The Milford Township Board recently granted GM a 12-year, 50% tax abatement for the project and Supervisor Don Green says it’s about job creation, both temporary and permanent. Green says it’s good to see General Motors rebounding and a lot of time and effort on the part of both parties was spent to make the project a reality. Photo © General Motors. (JM) Trial Underway in Fatal Stabbing of Pinckney Man
5/14/13 - The trial has begun for a man charged with stabbing a Livingston County man to death last year. The trial of 37-year-old Ronald Lewis Kennedy, who is charged with 2nd degree murder, began Monday in Oakland County Circuit Court. Kennedy is also charged with assault with intent to murder and domestic violence against his wife. Charles MacDonald Shiffman of Pinckney was found dead of multiple stab wounds December 1st in the front yard of a home in northern Oakland County's Rose Township. Police say Kennedy stabbed the 34-year-old Pinckney man several times after finding him at the house with his wife, 31-year-old Jessica Kennedy. Shiffman’s family say the two were long-time friends and that he had gone to the home at the woman’s request to help her get out of an abusive relationship. Kennedy’s mother claims her son was attacked inside his home and was merely defending himself. After stabbing Shiffman, police say Kennedy stabbed his wife and forced her into a car before fleeing the area. He was later stopped by police and arrested. Kennedy remains jailed with no bond. An earlier motion by prosecutors to admit other acts of domestic violence during the trial was granted while a separate motion to allow expert testimony was taken under advisement. (JM/JK) Two Relays This Weekend With One Goal: Defeat Cancer
5/14/13 - Two events this weekend in Livingston County will both have the same focus; celebrating cancer survivors while raising money for research and services. Separate Relay for Life events will be held at Brighton High School starting at 7pm Friday and then at Hartland High School starting Saturday at 9am. Both of the 24-hour gatherings will raise money for the American Cancer Society for services and research. The Brighton Relay for Life will take place at Brighton High School, but due to the ongoing construction it has been temporarily moved to a makeshift track set up in the school’s parking lot. Organizer Rick Beaudin says that won’t deter them from all of the usual hallmarks of the event, including a Survivor’s Lap to start things off and then a luminary ceremony at dusk to both remember those lost to cancer and those still in the fight. Hartland’s Relay for Life will also feature those signature events. Beaudin says he’s particularly excited about a special fundraiser Saturday at noon in Brighton featuring legendary Detroit Lions kicker Eddie Murray hosting a football clinic for a $5 charge. You can get complete details about Brighton's Relay for Life by Clicking Here. For information on the Hartland Relay for Life, Click Here. (JK) Genoa Planning Commission Approves Site Plans for Mt. Brighton
5/14/13 - If all goes as planned, improvements could begin taking shape soon at the Mt. Brighton facility in Genoa Township. The 220-acre complex off Challis and Bauer Roads was acquired by Colorado-based Vail Resorts, which is expected to invest nearly $10 (m) million enhancing the complex. The Planning Commission approved site plans along with an environmental impact assessment, which must still be approved by the township board. The overall project includes re-grading hills, new chair lifts, improvements to the lodge and snow making system, new terrain parks in the front and back of the mountain, a new area for kids and modifications to tow ropes. Additional language was added by commissioners pertaining to the assessment, stipulating a pathway or construction bond for one could be required as part of any future developments on the site. Basically the same lighting will be maintained, although any new fixtures would be shielded and existing ones retro-fitted so as to avoid any negative impact on residents and homes in the area. Assistant Township Manager and Planning Director Kelly Van Marter says the scale of the improvements are very impressive and long overdue, noting Mt. Brighton has always been a jewel in Genoa and the township is excited to have Vail investing in the community and the hill. Vice President of Mountain Development Tim Beck says they’re very excited to become a part of the community and have been working closely with the township on the project. If all moves along as planned, work could begin sometime in June, and Beck says last night’s approval from the commission marked an important step. The golf course will continue to operate and Beck says they’ll need to work through the construction process with it so some adjustments will be made, but overall, the public should see a lot of progress in the coming year. (JM) Hartland Optimist Club Honors Volunteer For Work At Teen Center
5/14/13 - The founder and leader of a Hartland after-school center for teens has been honored by a local volunteer organization for her efforts. Kay Fountain is a teacher with Hartland Consolidated Schools and founder of the Next Door Teen Center, located in the old township hall. She received special recognition from the Hartland Optimist Club during a presentation yesterday for her work with the center. She also received a check for the teen center totaling $256, which came from a donation drive last month that was matched by First National Bank. The Next Door Teen Center has 170 registered members, and every school day it hosts 30 to 40 students who take part in activities like soccer, pool, and video games in a supervised environment. It also features computers donated by the Hartland Cromaine Library. For more information on the teen center, follow the link below. (TD) | Web Link: | http://www.nextdoorhtc.com/ |
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Union Leader Claims Bylaws Broken by Howell Board Member
5/14/13 - The president of the Howell Teachers’ Association accused a school board member of misconduct last night for issuing a press release to defend his actions on the board. At the second call to the public during the board’s regular meeting last night, Howell Education Association President Jay McDowell, pictured, said a press release from Trustee Michael Moloney violated governance bylaws. McDowell said the press release, in which Moloney said that had the original contract proposal been approved, the district would have seen significant cost increases in the second year of the deal and thereafter. That was despite the recommendation from Superintendent Ron Wilson and Assistant Superintendent of Finance Rick Terres that the board approve the deal they said would actually save the district money due to teacher concessions. McDowell claimed that the violation undermined the board’s ability to conduct business and negotiate union contracts. Moloney did not immediately respond, but he tells WHMI that since the press release was identified as his own position rather than that of the board, he did not violate any bylaws. He says he simply released it in defense of his own stance when the board rejected a proposed contract by the HEA earlier this year. He said in his view McDowell’s complaint was trivial, technical, and made-up. The press release was issued after a particularly contentious meeting last month, at the end of which Moloney said it would not benefit anyone if school board members started bashing one another to the news media. Moloney says the press release did not contradict his statement during the meeting because he only clarified his own position rather than attacking others. He also disputed he had violated his standard following a Facebook posting in which he made mention of disgraced Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and his corrupt administration while also referencing a new state conflict of interest law that prevented School Board President Mike Witt and his wife, Board Secretary Kim Witt, from voting on the contract. (TD/JK) Semi Crash & Fire Closes Westbound I-96 for More Than 6 Hours
5/14/13 - A truck fire left I-96 motorists with some significant traffic delays and back-ups during the evening commute Monday. Michigan State Police say a semi-truck caught fire just east of Webberville around 5pm after the vehicle blew a tire and crashed into a stand of trees, which spread and caused a brush fire. The westbound lanes of I-96 were subsequently shut down around 5:30 and traffic was diverted off at the Fowlerville Road exit. Serious back-ups were being reported along both east and west bound I-96 for hours, stretching all the way to M-59. The freeway finally re-opened at around one this morning. The truck’s driver was not injured, although he was taken to Sparrow Hospital in Lansing as a precaution. Photo courtesy of Robert Kolm. (JK) Rogers Says Syria, Boston Bombing Delaying Senate Decision
5/14/13 - Congressman Mike Rogers says his decision on running for U.S. Senate has been delayed by his duties responding to the Boston Marathon bombings and challenges in Syria and North Korea. The Howell Republican chairs the House Intelligence Committee and is being pushed to run for Senate with Democrat Carl Levin's retirement in 2014. Rogers said Monday he'll talk to more people, including his family. He says he's having a "significant impact" on the intelligence committee and must decide if he can have more impact in the Senate. Rogers says it'd be difficult to chair the committee while running for Senate. Rogers has no deadline for deciding but knows other potential GOP candidates are waiting. He also says chances of him becoming the next FBI director are remote. That followed last week’s recommendation for him to assume that role by the FBI Agents Association. (JK) Howell Schools to Reduce Budget Deficit With Teacher Layoffs
5/14/13 - With a budget deficit of more than $3 million looming, the Howell School Board approved budget cuts last night that include teacher layoffs. Superintendent of Finance Rick Terres presented the plan to the board, outlining the budget cuts, new revenue, and fund balance actions that were needed to balance the budget for the coming year. The largest cut was the laying off of 16 teachers, saving the district at least $965,000. Also included was the elimination of 5 other positions within the district for another $335,000. The elimination of the teachers may be mitigated by retirements within the district, with seven retirements budgeted but as many as 14 expected to take place. This would allow some of the laid off teachers to simply shift within the district rather than leave altogether. The school board unanimously approved the recommended budget reductions, but they only add up to about $2.2 million. Terres tells WHMI the remaining $1.25 million will come out of the district’s $6.2 million fund balance. He says the district has set a 7.5% fund balance position, which is higher than the state average, and spending some of that reserve will help Howell balance its budget without impacting its educational programming. He says the board will have to deal with a budget deficit in the 2014-2015 school year as well, but that one should be less than $2 million. (TD) Newly Redesigned Livingston County Website Goes Live
5/14/13 - After months of planning and preparations, the county government’s new website went live yesterday morning. The website has been revamped to be faster, easier to navigate, and have more interactivity such as the ability to purchase LETS tokens online. The new website will also be easier to update, improving the county’s ability to keep online information up-to-date. Richard Malewicz was hired as the county’s new Chief Information Officer on April 29th following the retirement of Information Director Paul McNamara. He says the county plans to continue to update the website now that it is implemented. Its latest feature allows residents to buy LETS tokens online, but Malewicz says new features like calendars, surveys, and online forms could be implemented in the near future. The website was designed based around the Oakland County website as a way to leverage existing technology and reduce costs. To visit the new website, click on the link below. (TD) | Web Link: | http://www.livgov.com/Pages/default.aspx |
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Unadilla Man Facing Felony Drug Charges in Maryland
5/14/13 - State Police in Maryland say a Livingston County man is facing felony drug charges after being pulled over last week with nearly 40 pounds of pot in his minivan. Police say the van, driven by 52-year-old Stewart Robert Deerr of Unadilla Township, had a malfunctioning headlight and was pulled over on I-70 last Thursday. Troopers say the man was nervous in talking to the officer, who then called for a police dog to scan the vehicle. After the dog alerted and a search was performed, officers say the trooper found 39 bricks of marijuana in a drum case in the back of the minivan. Police say cocaine was also found in the vehicle.
Deerr has been charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and cocaine and other offenses. He’s being held on a $250,000 bond. (JK)
Deerr has been charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and cocaine and other offenses. He’s being held on a $250,000 bond. (JK)
Howell Township Will Initially Pay for Damaged Sewer Line
5/14/13- The damage caused by Enbridge Energy to a Howell Township sewer line has been deemed irreparable. The sewer line is among two pipelines that were damaged by Enbridge Energy while the company was upgrading a major natural gas and oil pipeline that runs through Livingston County. Neither of the parties involved have taken responsibility for the incident, but are working closely together to create a solution as soon as possible. Board members are working with an engineer to plan the construction of a new sewer line that will lie below the existing one and will follow the same path. This will allow the township to save time and money acquiring an easement to follow a new path. The project will be initially paid for by Howell Township and should be completed by the end of this construction season. (SO) Brockway Turns Down Plea Deal In Weight Rigging Case
5/14/13 - The owner of a Howell recycling company has turned down a plea deal on allegations that he used a device to manipulate weight scales. Regal Recycling owner Vern Brockway was charged with general weights and measures violations last month. Those charges follow a one-year investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Weights and Measures division as well as the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department. He rejected a plea deal in the case on Monday. He is scheduled to appear in court next on May 30th, with jury selection scheduled for June 6th. Authorities say that the DOA discovered a device on one of Brockway’s scales during a routine inspection in April of last year. They allege that the device could manipulate the scale to increase or decrease the measured weight of cargo trucks by up to half a ton. A review of the Sheriff’s Department reports by WHMI found statements from an employee who claimed to have seen the device used several times, mostly on trucks bringing scrap metal from a General Motors contract job in Flint. The report also included statements from other employees who said it was common knowledge that the scale was used to reduce the weight of incoming scrap. (TD)
Semi Crash & Fire Closes Westbound I-96 for More Than 6 Hours
5/14/13 - A truck fire left I-96 motorists with some significant traffic delays and back-ups during the evening commute Monday. Michigan State Police say a semi-truck caught fire just east of Webberville around 5pm after the vehicle blew a tire and crashed into a stand of trees, which spread and caused a brush fire. The westbound lanes of I-96 were subsequently shut down around 5:30 and traffic was diverted off at the Fowlerville Road exit. Serious back-ups were being reported along both east and west bound I-96 for hours, stretching all the way to M-59. The freeway finally re-opened at around one this morning. The truck’s driver was not injured, although he was taken to Sparrow Hospital in Lansing as a precaution. (JK) Monday, May 13
Semi Fire Shuts Down WB I-96 at Fowlerville Exit Monday Evening
5/13/13 - Motorists dealt with some significant traffic delays and back-ups during the evening commute Monday. A semi-truck is believed to have caught fire just east of Webberville, which apparently spread and then caused a brush fire late in the afternoon. The westbound lanes of I-96 were subsequently shut down at around 5:30pm and traffic was being diverted off at the Fowlerville Road exit. Serious back-ups were being reported along both east and west bound I-96 for more than three hours. Tune in to WHMI 93.5FM for complete traffic updates. (JM) Staffing Changes Planned in Brighton for Upcoming School Year
5/13/13 - Some administrative staffing changes can be expected when students return for classes in Brighton Area Schools next fall. Part of Brighton’s deficit elimination plan that was recently accepted by the state included the elimination of three administrative positions, which Superintendent Greg Gray says percentage wise, matches the give-backs of other employees. Gray says after a number of conversations, he feels they have an excellent plan to ensure a smooth transition for staff, parents and kids. He tells WHMI that Jack Yates, the current grade 11 principal at the high school, will be taking over the full time principal responsibilities at Horning Elementary next year. Gray says Yates has extensive elementary principal experience and will be a great fit there while Gray himself will be heading over to the high school to help fill that void but Gavin Johnson will remain the leading principal. Assistant Superintendent of Finance Dr. Maria Gistinger will be picking up additional responsibilities related to community education including overseeing all of the associate directors there, making sure the budget is taken care of along with the community ed brochure. Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Dr. Laura Surrey, who has building level experience, will be heading to Maltby Intermediate to work with Principal Scott Brenner and assist in any areas needed there. In Gray’s Friday letter to those in the district, he stated the hope is that the budget will continue to improve at the rate it has been lately and that they will be able to look at different options throughout the summer. (JM) 2012 State Representative Candidate Files for Brighton Council
5/13/13 - A one-time state legislative candidate has entered the race for a local city council race. In a press release today, Brighton resident Shanda Willis announced that she has filed to run for one of the four open seats on Brighton City Council this November. Willis ran unsuccessfully last year as a Democrat against Republican State Representative Bill Rogers, but says her desire to run for council came after her appointment to the Brighton Arts and Culture Commission and ongoing attendance at council meetings. The Brighton High School graduate obtained her nursing degree from the University of Michigan and now serves as a Nurse Case Manager for individuals catastrophically injured in auto accidents. Willis said her focus would be on local fiscal responsibility and economic development to ensure Brighton continues to prosper. The terms of Brighton City Council members Shawn Pipoly, Larry Schillinger, Ricci Bandkau and Claudia Roblee are up this November. Roblee previously announced she is not running for re-election and according to Brighton City Clerk Diana Lowe, Willis joins Bandkau and city resident Susan Walters-Steinacker who have already filed in advance of Tuesday’s 4pm deadline. Lowe says the other two incumbents, Schillinger and Pipoly, have taken out nominating petitions but haven't returned them with signatures yet. (JK) Local Salvation Army's "Doing the Most Good Week" Underway
5/13/13 - A number of volunteers will be out and about working to do some good and help better the community this week. The Salvation Army of Livingston County is celebrating national “Doing The Most Good Week” and a variety of community and human service projects are planned all over the county. It’s all part of National Salvation Army Week and local volunteers were out planting flowers today to help beautify downtown Howell. Other “help your neighbor” projects are planned in Brighton, Hartland and Pinckney all week long while summer lunch bunch collections and sign-ups are underway. On Thursday night, tickets are still available to a special mother and daughter night out event featuring a prominent comedian. Then on Friday, a community garage sale at the Salvation Army’s 503 Lake Street offices in Howell will round out the week and offer free tours and education about the local Corps. Also in honor of Doing the Most Good Week, the local Corps is selling t-shirts with The Salvation Army shield that read “Doing the Most Good” on front, and “I’m a Do-Gooder” on the back. Officials say this week marks a great opportunity for area youth, small groups, civic organizations, co-workers, family and friends to help by giving as little as two hours of their time and contribute to big results for the community. For more information or to volunteer, click in the link below. (JM) | Attachment: | SADoingTheMostGoodRelease2013.docx |
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| Web Link: | https://www.facebook.com/SalvationArmyLivingstonCo... |
Local Veterans Group Vying For $250,000 Online Prize
5/13/13 - The Livingston County-area is again being called on to help a local non-profit that focuses its efforts on veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or traumatic brain injury. Throughout the month of May, Stiggy’s Dogs of Howell Township is competing against twelve other charities from across the country as they seek votes in the Aprons in Action Facebook contest by Home Depot. The organization that receives the most votes during the month will win a $250,000 grand prize, with second place receiving $150,000 and third place getting $100,000. Stiggy’s Dogs, which transforms shelter dogs into individually trained psychiatric service animals for military veterans living with PTSD or brain injury, became eligible for the national competition by winning one of monthly qualifying rounds last July, With the $25,000 gift card and more than 50 power tools received last summer, the organization was able to renovate the sanctuary portion of its Howell Township facility on Bowen Road to meet the needs of veterans who stay at the facilities while training with their dog. Renovations included a wheelchair ramp, first floor bedroom and accessible bathroom, a large garden for sustainability, trails for walking and a training space. Facebook users can vote once per day through May 31st. A link is posted below. You can also hear an interview with Stiggy's Dogs founder Jennifer Petre by Clicking Here (JK) | Web Link: | https://apps.facebook.com/apronsinaction/ |
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Local Officer's Name Added to National Police Memorial
5/13/13 - A police officer from Livingston County was among those honored at a ceremony Sunday in the nation’s capital. West Bloomfield Sergeant Patrick O’Rourke, who lived with his wife Amy and their four children in Tyrone Township, was killed last September after responding to a domestic dispute. He was honored at the conclusion of the Police Unity Tour in which hundreds of police officers from across the United States rode bicycles from New Jersey to Washington to raise awareness and financial support for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. O’Rourke’s name was one of 321 added to the memorial this year with his name called out during a candlelight vigil. In total, 19,981 fallen officers have their names engraved on the memorial. O’Rourke’s name is also set to be added this coming weekend at the American Police Hall of Fame in Titusville, Florida. Photo courtesy of Officer Patrick O'Rourke Facebook page. (JK) Survey Guides Genoa Twp. on Latson Interchange Development
5/13/13 - Genoa Township sought the feedback of its residents through a recent mailed survey. The purpose of the survey was to get residents' opinions regarding taxes they would be willing to support and what they would like to see done with certain land. Residents who responded to the survey said they were most willing to support taxes that aid road maintenance. There are two proposed ideas for the land south of the Latson Road Interchange that were popular among Genoa residents. Most residents would like to see the land remain rural, while others would like to see it used as some sort of campus. Possibilities include a hospital, business headquarters, or even a university, but nothing official has been proposed. Assistant Township Manager Kelly VanMarter says the survey was just a step in what will be a very long process before a decision is made. Board members agree that the survey sheds light on what residents support in the area, but will not be a basis for any decision due to the variables that exist with the actual survey process. There will be multiple public hearings and meetings before the Genoa Township Board of Trustees and Planning Commission before a decision is made regarding the Land Use Master Plan. (JK) Howell Officials Holding Budget Work Sessions
5/13/13 - The Howell City Council will discuss the upcoming year’s budget during a couple of work sessions this week. Two work sessions are planned tonight and tomorrow to review the 2013/2014 fiscal year budget, which begins July 1st. Howell City Manager Shea Charles tells WHMI the budget struggle continues but there are a few bright spots, including the fact that they've processed most of their tax tribunal disputes and are looking for some stability in the budgeting process. Both of the Howell City Council budget work sessions begin at 6:30pm in the basement of City Hall and are open to the public. (JK) Seminar to Focus on Smoother Divorce Process
5/13/13 - A group of local professionals will host a free seminar on better alternatives to traditional divorce proceedings this month in Brighton. The Livingston Interdisciplinary Professional Association, or LIPA, is an organization made up of local attorneys, mediators, therapists, financial professionals, and counselors. It has planned a seminar to let the public hear advice from professionals, including District Court Judge Carol Sue Reader, on how to reduce the cost and confrontation of the divorce process. Mediator Gary Marsh says the traditional method, wherein both parties hire individual lawyers to compete in the courtroom on their behalf, is expensive and breeds conflict between the parties. He tells WHMI the seminar will highlight alternative routes through the process. Those include hiring a mediator to facilitate discussions and decision-making between the two parties. Marsh says this divorce process is less expensive and can avoid conflict by helping the parties cooperate to find outcomes that best suit everyone. Space is limited at the free seminar, which will be held at the Brighton District Library on May 22nd. Anyone interested in attending should register ahead of time to reserve space by calling (734) 998-0746 or by emailing ajackson@ewmadvisors.com. (TD) Machete-Wielding Howell Man Enters Plea
5/13/13 - The man accused of slashing a woman with a machete at a local restaurant has entered into a plea deal with prosecutors. 30-year-old Benjamin Cameron of Howell pleaded guilty to charges of carrying a dangerous weapon with unlawful intent and driving on a suspended license in exchange for a count of felonious assault being dismissed. The plea was taken under advisement and Cameron will be sentenced in Livingston County Circuit Court on June 13th. Police say Cameron got into an unarmed fight with a man at a local tavern on March 1st, who was reportedly there with Cameron’s ex-wife. Police reports say the fight was broken up and Cameron left, only to return twenty minutes later with a machete and intent on attacking the other man. A woman intervened and was reportedly slashed on the hand with the machete. (JK) Jail Time Ordered for New York Check Forger
5/13/13 - An out-of-state man busted for counterfeit traveler’s checks at a local mall has been sentenced to jail time. 20-year-old Akhabue Ukpebor of Brooklyn, New York was sentenced to nine months in the Livingston County Jail with credit for 78 days served. He previously pleaded guilty to charges of possessing a counterfeit note with intent to publish as well as three counts of uttering and publishing. He agreed to the deal in exchange for the prosecution recommending jail time with no probation. Police say Ukpebor tried to pass a $100 American Express traveler’s check at a retailer in the Tanger Outlet Center in Howell Township to buy a shirt. The clerk says he grabbed the check and left the store when she tried to verify it. She then saw him enter another store in the mall and called the authorities. (JK)
Sunday, May 12
Ride to Remember for POWs, MIAs Rumbles Into Town
5/12/13 - Although the weather was chilly, a large crowd still showed up for the annual Ride to Remember event held Saturday in Livingston County. A contingent of Rolling Thunder Chapter 5 of Livingston County members and other supporters make the trip on motorcycles each year. It starts out at Memories Restaurant & Lounge near Brighton and ends at the County Courthouse in Howell, complete with patriotic speeches and songs. Chapter President Elaine Levin tells WHMI The Ride to Remember is held to increase public awareness of the plight of American prisoners of war and those soldiers who remain missing in action. Levin, who lives in Green Oak Township with her husband and family, is the mother of a former U.S. soldier who served two tours of duty in Iraq, American flags lined Grand River along portions of the route in recognition of the sacrifice American troops have made in the defense of freedom around the world. Although rain threatened to spoil the activities, the sun came out when the speeches began, buoying the spirits of the approximately 100 people who came to display their support for American soldiers and, in particular, POWs and MIAs. (TT) Accused 7-11 and BP Station Robber Bound Over To Circuit Court
5/12/13 - The Brighton-area man charged in connection with two robberies has been bound over to circuit court for trial. 34-year-old David Rentsch is accused of robbing the 7-11 store at Grand River and Pleasant Valley Road in Green Oak Township on March 15th, then robbing the BP gas station on Grand River in Brighton three days later. On May 8th he was bound over to circuit court for trial in the 7-11 robbery, where he is charged with armed robbery as a 4th time habitual offender. He had already been bound over in the BP robbery, for which he is scheduled for trial on Monday for the same charges. In both instances, police allege that Rentsch walked in to the business, displayed a handgun, demanded money, and then fled after receiving an undetermined amount of cash. He was originally taken into custody after the BP robbery, when police spotted him near the BECC building. (TD) Saturday, May 11
Thai Summit Donates $60,000 For Howell Opera House Facade
5/11/13 - The parent company of a local factory has donated $60,000 to the Howell Opera House for renovations to the historic building. A representative of Thai Summit, which owns the Ogihara Corporation, says the company is pleased to contribute to the preservation of the building as part of its philosophy of supporting the community of its employees. The donation will pay for repairs to 22 of the Opera House’s 2nd and 3rd story windows using old plate glass recovered from other historical sites. Mayor Phil Campbell says he hopes this project helps provide increased community support for the building as well. He says a fundraiser last spring practically eliminated the mortgage on the building, and the city wants to continue restoration work to show its commitment to the Opera House. (TD) Men Allegedly Pocketed Millions From Insurance Company
5/11/13 - A former CEO and bookkeeper have been charged with embezzling millions of dollars from an insurance company. 67-year-old Jerry Stage of New Hudson and 55-year-old George Bauer of Commerce Township surrendered to authorities this past week. The charges follow an investigation conducted by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. Stage, the former CEO of the Compensation Advisory Organization of Michigan or CAOM, is alleged to have embezzled approximately $2.6 million from the company during an eleven-year period while Bauer, the company’s bookkeeper, allegedly covered up his tracks. Stage is said to have submitted false or inflated expense reports for family vacations, tuition, wedding expenses, pet care and dining. Stage also allegedly inflated his own pay raises and bonuses before retiring in July of 2012. At that time, a review of expenditures was conducted to assess the company’s financial health. A number of financial reporting irregularities were discovered and the company then retained a firm to conduct an official audit, which revealed Stage allegedly embezzled approximately $2.6 (m) million. It’s alleged that Stage paid Bauer to help him cut checks to himself, paying Bauer for his silence. Both men waived scheduled preliminary exams and will be arraigned on the felony charges in Wayne County Circuit Court May 23rd. (JM) Gladwin Woman Enters Plea to Assault With an Axe
5/11/13 - A Gladwin County woman charged with attacking family members at a Putnam Township home and threatening them with an axe has entered a plea. 67-year-old Stephanie Maruszewski pleaded guilty as charged to a single count of felonious assault in Livingston County Circuit Court on Friday. Prosecutors agreed to reduce the charge upon successful completion of 18 months of probation and she’ll be sentenced by Judge David Reader June 13th. State Police Troopers from the Brighton Post were called out the afternoon of April 1st to an assault in progress at a home on Dexter-Pinckney Road. Police say a 19-year-old woman told a trooper that her grandmother, who she identified as Maruszewski, had punched and threatened her with a small axe. A 22-year-old man also claimed Maruszewski had choked him. Neither of the victims required medical attention but Maruszewski was arrested and later charged. (JM) Howell Parks & Rec Offers Scholarship Program to Kids in Need
5/11/13 - A local scholarship program aims to ensure that children can stay active and engaged when it comes to recreational activities no matter what the financial situation. A few years ago, The Howell Area parks and Recreation Authority designed and implemented a scholarship program to provide financial assistance to children who wish to experience and participate in recreational activities and programs. Scholarships are available to children in the City of Howell, as well as Oceola, Marion and Genoa Townships who are under 18-years-old. Officials say there are limitations on how much scholarship assistance families can utilize to ensure each deserving child will be able to participate in at least one activity per year. For more information, click on the link below. (JM) | Web Link: | http://www.howellrecreation.org/documents/Scholars... |
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Friday, May 10
Howell Woman Pleads Guilty to Charges in Fatal Crash
5/10/13 - A Howell woman has pleaded guilty to charges filed following a fatal drunk driving crash. 33-year-old Treena Jean Beazley pleaded guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated and causing the death of 56-year-old Roger Miles. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to recommend that she serve between 36 months to 71 months behind bars. Should that not be imposed when Beazley is sentenced on June 13th in Livingston County Circuit Court, she has the option to withdraw her plea. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department says Beazley was driving an SUV west on Clyde Road the evening of January 11th when she failed to stop at the Fenton Road intersection in Hartland Township. Her vehicle then collided with Miles' hatchback, which was southbound on Fenton Road. Miles was later pronounced dead at a hospital. (JM) Possible Meth Lab Raided in Fowlerville
5/10/13 - A Fowlerville man is facing charges after police say they raided a suspected meth lab. Fowlerville Police Chief Tom Couling says they received information regarding suspicious activity at a residence in the 200 block of N. Ann Street at about 12:45 Thursday afternoon. The caller said there was a lot of people going in and out of the residence at unusual times of the day as well as odd odors coming from a fire pit on the property that smelled like someone was burning plastic. Couling says after looking into the fire pit, they saw items clearly associated with methamphetamine production. That’s when he called in the State Police and the Livingston and Washtenaw Narcotics Enforcement Team, who then obtained permission from the home’s owner to search a shed attached to the garage. Once inside they seized evidence of a meth lab being operated. A 28-year-old Fowlerville man who was apparently living in the shed was questioned and is expected to face charges once lab tests are completed, which Couling said could be 6-8 weeks. (JK) River Community Church In Hartland One Step Closer To Reality
4/12/13 - Plans for a new church building on M-59 were reviewed by the Hartland Township Planning Commission and subjected to public comment at a meeting last night. The River Community Church is planning to construct a new 40,000 square-foot building on the southern part of a parcel located between Cullen and Hacker Roads on the north side of M-59. The plans were presented to the planning commission last night at a public hearing. It will include three parking lots, two driveways, exterior lighting, and a storm water management system that would be the first in the township to use bio-swales. A few citizens spoke up at the hearing, mostly residents of the adjacent Hartland Estates subdivision. They expressed concerns about lighting, privacy, development plans for the rest of the property, and the close proximity of a driveway and parking to the property line. Commissioner and Township Board Representative Larry Hopkins tells WHMI the commission shared many of these concerns. It recommended that the designers make sure the lighting and traffic have minimal impact on the nearby community, and that the eastern driveway be moved westward to provide buffer room for the homes. The project may lead to an expansion of M-59 around the entrances through the extension of the left turn lane and addition of a turning lane on the north side. The designers will make changes to the plans and could present them to the planning commission for further review as early as next month. They hope to begin work this construction season. (TD) Hartland Planning Commission Gives OK To School Solar Field
5/10/13 - The Hartland Township Planning Commission gave its stamp of approval last night to a site plan for an array of solar panels to be constructed on school property. The plan calls for DTE Energy to install hundreds of solar panels over a two-acre plot of land just north of Hartland High School. Once complete, they would provide enough electricity for as many as 60 to 80 of houses depending on conditions, as well as provide an educational opportunity for students. The site is an empty piece of land that served as a septic field before the high school hooked into the township water system. Zoning Director Dave Campbell tells WHMI that the original planned location for the array was the corner of Hartland and Dunham Roads, but the township asked DTE to relocate. That intersection is considered a gateway to the historic part of Hartland, and officials thought a fenced-in solar panel array was not the aesthetic they wanted for the area. The proposed site plan now goes to the township board for final approval, which could happen as soon as May 21st. DTE has not produced a proposed schedule for completing the solar array. (TD) Tyrone Man Heads to Trial on Choking Charge
5/10/13 - After police say he assaulted and choked a woman, a Tyrone Township man has been bound over for trial. 40-year-old Anthony Patrick Lafond is facing one count each of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder, domestic violence, and malicious destruction of police or fire property. He was bound over for trial to Livingston County Circuit Court on Thursday and a request to lower his $100,000 bond was denied. He is scheduled for a pretrial exam on June 14th, and if no plea deal is reached he will go to trial on July 22nd. Court records indicate Lafond was described as “very intoxicated” during the incident on April 25th, and police claim he kicked the victim in the face before choking her. The victim is a woman who did not live with Lafond. The legal definition of “great bodily harm” was recently amended to specifically include the act of choking. (JK) Substance Abuse Event Runs Up Record Fundraising Total
5/10/13 - An annual running event designed to raise both substance abuse awareness and money towards education did both in spectacular fashion according to organizers. The Run Against Drugs last Saturday brought out 98 runners and raised more than $13,100, the highest total in its 10-year history. Events included a 10K and 5K run/walk and a children’s fun run, which also attracted a record 20 entrants. The race, which had previously been held in June, was moved up a month this year to better accommodate the schedule of graduating seniors. The Run Against Drugs is put on by the Livingston County Community Alliance, which will use the money to fund programs that raise substance abuse awareness among students. One example of that is the Students Against Destructive Decisions chapter at Hartland High School, which used grant money from last year’s race to organize a Grim Reaper program in which a costumed Grim Reaper selects students to wear special T-shirts at school calling attention to teens who have lost their lives in drunk-driving accidents. (JK) Leading Cancer Researcher to Speak at Economic Club Luncheon
5/10/13 - A leading cancer researcher is the next featured speaker in Cleary University’s Livingston Economic Club Luncheon Series. Dr. Mina Bissell has been recognized for her lifetime contributions to the fields of breast cancer research, the enhanced role of extra-cellular matrix (ECM) and the nucleus environment to gene expression in normal and malignant tissues. Her work, which focuses on how cells interact within their specific environment, has become increasingly influential and accepted in the field of cancer biology and cancer therapeutics. The Senior Scientist at the Lawrence Berkley Laboratory tells WHMI her persistence paid off and it’s taken awhile for people to come around to her work, which was considered radical and out-of-the-box. Bissell says her talk will focus on breast cancer and why we don’t get more cancer than less cancer, noting there are 70 trillion cells in the human body and they all have the same genetic information. She says it’s a hopeful field, especially breast cancer. Bissell, who was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 2010, will be speaking at the luncheon series next Thursday at Cleary University’s Johnson Center and tickets are still available. A link to Dr. Bissell articles and lectures is posted below. (JM) | Web Link: | http://www.lbl.gov/LBL-Programs/lifesciences/Bisse... |
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Historic Building Awards Ceremony Next Week in Howell
4/10/13 - The Howell Downtown Development Authority will hold its 7th annual Historic Preservation Awards event next week as part of National Historic Preservation Month. The awards honor property owners in the city who have made efforts to preserve, restore, or improve historic buildings in the downtown area. That ceremony will take place on the third floor of First National Bank. DDA Director Diane Larkin says organizers hope to surprise guests with some new special recognitions in addition to the usual awards. The event will take place on Thursday, with a reception beginning at 6:00 and the awards ceremony kicking off at 6:45. It is free to the public, but organizers recommend calling the Howell DDA to reserve a place. That number is (517) 545-4240, extension 3. (TD) Thursday, May 9
New Ownership and Name for Skilled Nursing Facility in Howell
5/9/13 - A local facility that specializes in short and long term care is under new ownership but officials say families and residents won’t see any major changes. The former Howell Care Center facility is under new ownership and the name has been changed to White Pine Rehabilitation and Care Center of Howell. Located on Grand River near M-59, it’s also one of the few facilities in Michigan specializing in ventilator dependent care. Howell Care Center Administrator Lyndon Johnson tells WHMI the change has been in the works over the past year and the formal transition took place on May 1st. White Pine Management of Grand Rapids is providing management and support services. He says for the residents and families they serve, it will pretty much be business as usual as they work with their team to transition the operating systems of the center in the days and weeks ahead. He says primarily the same services will be offered, although with some enhancements to provide more rehabilitation capabilities. The licensed skilled-nursing facility offers a home-like environment and can accommodate up to 149 residents. Johnson says this type of facility is commonly run across the state but each company has its own way of doing things and its own type of paperwork, policies and procedures to maintain efficient operations. In a transition such as this, Johnson says all employees must re-apply for positions. He says of the 210 employees at Howell Care Center, the vast majority of employees retained their positions. Johnson says once the ongoing transition is complete, the enhancements will allow the facility to better serve the Howell community. (JM) Pay Raise Unanimously Approved For Hartland Twp. Manager
5/9/13 - The Hartland Township Board approved a pay increase for Manager James Wickman based on his performance over the past year. The decision came after a two-hour closed session to discuss Wickman’s progress between April of 2012 and 2013. The 3% raise approved unanimously by the board is retroactive back to the beginning of this year’s contract in April. Supervisor Bill Fountain Fountain says he personally believes communication, both with the board and the community as a whole, has been one area in which Wickman has excelled. He says Wickman and the township have been putting a lot of focus on increasing transparency and hired a new part-time employee to facilitate communication with the community. Fountain says Wickman has met or exceeded all township board expectations, and he is looking forward to further progress over the next year. (TD) Roseville Woman Facing Stalking Charges in Livingston County
5/9/13 - Police say a Roseville woman has been charged for stalking a local woman. The Unadilla Township Police Department says the stalking began when the Roseville woman learned about her ex-boyfriend dating a Unadilla woman and a four-month investigation was conducted that involved multiple search warrants. Police say the Roseville woman created a false Facebook account using the victim's identity to stalk and harass but also filed a false police report against the Unadilla Township woman. The Livingston County Prosecutor's office has since authorized felony charges against the woman in 53rd District Court for identity theft, using a computer to commit a crime, unlawful posting of a message on the internet, and misdemeanor charges for stalking and using a computer to commit a crime. (JM) Live Theater Company Finds New Home in Livingston County
5/9/13 - A local theater company has finally found a new, permanent home in an old building. Founders of The Dionysus Theater Steve DeBruyne and Matt Tomich are embarking on dinner-theater venture at 135 E. Main Street in the Village of Pinckney. The building was originally erected in the 1850s to serve as a vaudeville style theatre and opera house. In the 1900s, the building became the village hardware store, a boxing auditorium, and in more recent years, The Blue Martini and Bleachers. The space has sat vacant since 2010 and renovations are underway to have it double a live performance venue and a 120-seat dining room. The pair plans to bring up to six professional productions a year to Livingston County, including musicals and plays. All tickets will include a dinner buffet with the live performances. They say educational opportunities will be offered for youth as well as employment opportunities for actors, production team and office staff. Renovations have been ongoing for months at the building and an official opening is planned this summer. (JM) Sheriff And Townships Communicating About Patrol Contract
5/9/13 – The townships of Hartland and Tyrone are waiting on the sheriff’s department for comment on a contract proposal for dedicated patrols in their borders. For more than 30 years the two townships have contracted for a deputy to patrol their roads, which was seen as a way to maintain a police presence without the cost of forming their own police department. This year, however, the townships announced that a cost-benefit analysis had determined that it was not cost effective to continue the contract and allowed it to expire. They have since approved a new contract proposal that would allow them to pay for a deputy, but presumes the townships are entitled to 24/7 road patrols without extra payment based on their population. Hartland Township Manager James Wickman says a proposal outline was compiled and sent to Sheriff Bob Bezotte a couple of weeks ago. The sheriff’s response included questions regarding the feasibility of the plan, and follow up conversations have discussed that issue. Wickman says it is his understanding that Bezotte will get back to the townships sometime in the next week with ideas on how to accomplish their goals through the contract. Road patrols are not a statutory duty of the sheriff’s department, but are conducted throughout the county as an extra service. (TD) 5th Grade Class Gets Lesson From the Sky
5/9/13 - Some local elementary school students had a unique visitor literally drop in from the sky Wednesday as an AS332-L1 Super Puma helicopter landed on the soccer field outside of Hutchings Elementary School in Howell. The copter belongs to Howell-based Construction Helicopters, whose Director of Operations, Mike Jones, has a son at the school. Jones, a former school teacher, says he arranged for the landing as a way for kids to get a hands-on experience. And that's exactly what they got as they lined up once the helicopter had landed and were each allowed inside to take a tour and see the craft up close. Greg Prince is a 5th grade teacher at Hutchings and says the visit was a perfect capstone to their curriculum. "In science, part of our curriculum is forces in motion so Mr. Jones actually presented to the class a PowerPoint he had made about the history of helicopters, how they fly, about aerodynamics, the lift, the weight, all of that." Hutchings Principal Beth Wanlass said the visit was a great experience for the kids and she was so appreciative Mr. Jones was able to make it happen. (JK)
Rolling Thunder to Host Annual Ride to Remember Saturday
5/9/13 - A motorcycle ride this weekend will honor those from Livingston County who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. Anyone who wants to take part in the Ride to Remember is asked to meet at Memories Restaurant on Old US-23 in Brighton Township at 9am this Saturday before departing at 11am on the police escorted ride that will end at the historic courthouse in downtown Howell, where a ceremony will commence at noon. It’s become a rather large show of support to honor and remember those who have served and died for their country. Rolling Thunder Chapter 5 member Mike McMann says the goal is to keep the community aware of what’s going on and show local families that their loved ones are not forgotten. He tells WHMI community members are encouraged to gather and line Grand River with flags as a show of support in downtown Howell or at the historic courthouse. Since the motorcycle ride is escorted and the route runs along Grand River from Brighton into downtown Howell, traffic delays are possible between 11am and noon this Saturday. For more information call 517-518-4554 or 248-705-9194. (JM) Hamburg Man Heads to Trial in Sex Assault on Child
5/9/13 - Authorities have bound over for trial a Hamburg Township man who is charged with criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under the age of 13. 31-year-old Ryan Erskine is facing three counts of 2nd degree CSC with a victim under the age of 13 and one count of 2nd degree sexual assault. He was arrested in March by Hamburg Township police, who allege that he engaged in sexual activities with a young male victim in August of 2012. He was bound over to Circuit Court on May 6th. He is due to appear before Judge Michael Hatty on June 14th for a pretrial hearing, and is scheduled for trial on July 15th. He is currently lodged in the Livingston County Jail on a $50,000 bond. (JK) Lake Fenton Schools Looking to Add Full-Time Officer
5/9/13 - Lake Fenton Community Schools could be getting a grant to help pay for a police liaison officer. At its Monday night meeting, the Fenton Township Board approved applying for a $46,000 grant to pay more than half the cost of a single full-time officer for the district. The Tri County Times reports that the remaining $45,000 cost of the officer will be split between the district and the township. The officer would spend each school day patrolling schools in the district during the school year, then return to standard police duty during the busy summer season. Township officials say hiring the officer is a safety issue. Several school districts in the area have pursued the same solution following the tragedy at Sandy Hook, Connecticut. (JK) Wednesday, May 8
Four Hospitalized Following Morning Crash On I-96 Near Fowlerville
5/8/13 - State Police say a four-vehicle injury crash forced the closure of I-96 this morning for more than an hour near Fowlerville. The accident happened at approximately 9:45am on westbound I-96 near Fowlerville Road. Trooper Amy Belanger with the Brighton Post tells WHMI the occupants in three of the four vehicles sustained injuries and were transported to Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. She says one male driver sustained possible head, neck and spinal injuries but was said to be alert and conscious at the scene. A female driver suffered lacerations on her face when the airbag deployed and two other passengers were transported to be checked out for minor injuries including back pain. The westbound lanes were closed until approximately 11:45am while officials worked to assist those injured and investigate. The eastbound lanes of I-96 in the area were also closed for a short period of time as officials worked to clear the scene. The cause of the crash remains under investigation but police say it may have been due to a sign of slowing traffic in the area and a matter of people driving too fast when traffic started to slow down and got backed up. (JM) | Attachment: | MSPCrashRelease5813.doc |
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Injury Crash Closes I-96 Near Fowlerville This Morning
5/8/13 - State Police say a four-vehicle injury crash forced the closure of I-96 this morning for more than an hour near Fowlerville. Sgt. Mark Thompson with the Brighton Post says the accident happened at approximately 9:45am on westbound I-96 near Fowlerville Road. The westbound lanes were closed until approximately 11:45 while officials worked to assist those injured in the crash and then conduct an investigation. The eastbound lanes of I-96 in the area were also closed for a short period as officials worked to clear the scene. The extent of the injuries isn't known, but at least two people were taken to Sparrow Hospital by Livingston County EMS. (JK) Local Salvation Army Captains Ready for New Assignment
5/8/13 - Although there will be new leadership soon, the mission of the Salvation Army of Livingston County has not changed and will continue to serve those most in need in the community. It was announced today that Captains Aaron and Jenny Ortman will be transferred, effective at the end of June. It’s a bittersweet time for the Captains, who have been promoted to the organization’s divisional headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana, as the divisional youth secretaries. They will be in charge of coordinating youth programs for 27 locations as well as summer programming for The Salvation Army’s Hidden Falls Camp. Captain Aaron Ortman says they're excited for what God has is store for them in the new appointment but are truly going to miss working and living in Livingston County. He says "it's been a pleasure to interact with so many wonderful and caring individuals who have helped The Salvation Army here to truly make a difference.” The Ortmans have been in Livingston County for five years and have fine-tuned current programs, services and ministries of the organization, as well as laying the groundwork for new services and programs to come. Specifically, the Summer Lunch Bunch program, now in its fifth summer, was their vision to reach hungry families, having provided almost 9,500 meals last summer alone. Captain Jenny Ortman tells WHMI it's been a good run and feels they've accomplished a lot. She says the length of their assignment was longer than most officers typically serve in a certain community although there’s really no typical time frame and changes are usually related to promotions or leadership attrition. Ortman says it’s expected that the new officers will be announced in about a month from now and it will be an immediate transition but she says the priorities will remain the same with a focus on growing the local program and the presence in the community. The local Corps has also adopted a new vision statement: “Meeting Needs, Changing Lives and Guiding Hearts to God”. A community open house and farewell celebration for the Ortmans is planned on Thursday, June 20th at the Salvation Army’s Lake Street office in Howell. Meanwhile as part of the upcoming National Salvation Army Week, the local Corps will be celebrating with a “Doing the Most Good” week. Details can be found through the link below. (JM) | Web Link: | https://www.facebook.com/SalvationArmyLivingstonCo... |
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Hartland Father Allegedly Solicits Inmates in Murder-for-Hire Plot
5/8/13 - A Hartland Township man who pleaded guilty to kidnapping his son last year and served jail time is now facing scrutiny for allegedly soliciting inmates in a murder-for-hire plot. 53-year-old Mark Joseph Grabowski, a former football player who once played for the Detroit Lions, earlier pleaded guilty to a charge of unlawful retention of a child by a parent. The charge was filed following a massive search effort that began after Grabowski failed to return his then 11-year-old son Connor home to his mother prior to Labor Day weekend last year. He was arrested at a hunting ranch in South Dakota about a week later and sentenced in early March to 90 days in jail as well as five years of probation by Circuit Court Judge David Reader. It’s alleged that while incarcerated, he solicited inmates to kill four individuals connected to his case. Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte confirms that his department conducted an investigation and spoke with five alleged witnesses. He says they were made aware of the alleged plot about three weeks ago, in which Grabowski possibly tried to solicit someone to kill Judge Reader, the mother of his son, the prosecutor and his attorney. Bezotte says deputies talked to five people who had knowledge of the incident within the jail and the findings of their investigation were submitted Monday morning to the Livingston County Prosecutor’s Office. Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt has declined to comment on the matter. The alleged plot became public after Judge Reader recused himself from the Grabowski case all together, following communications from the Sheriff’s Department. It was re-assigned to Judge Michael Hatty, who heard a motion to amend Grabowski’s probation requirements. He ruled that the judge handling Grabowski’s domestic case will decide the visitation matter. (JM) Local Student Uses Skills From EMT Class to Help Save Man's Life
5/8/13 - When a stranger began going into cardiac arrest last month, a Brighton High School senior took action to help keep him alive until medical professionals could arrive. Senior Olivia Keller says she was shopping at a grocery store in Ann Arbor when she heard a thud in the next aisle. When she went to investigate she found a man on the floor, and she determined from his snorting respiration that he was going into cardiac arrest. Keller is a student of Howell High School’s emergency medical technician class, and using skills she learned in school she was able to administer CPR to help keep the man alive. Eventually a doctor arrived at the scene with a defibrillator, which was able to restore the man’s pulse. Keller says she became interested in the class after taking a health occupations course last year, and says she is excited to become a member of the medical community. (TD) Dexter Voters Approve Move Towards Cityhood
5/8/13 - The process of becoming a city was given the approval Tuesday from voters in the Village of Dexter. Unofficial results indicate that by a 53 to 47%, voters approved continuing the move towards transforming the village into a city. The approval clear the way for residents to elect a nine-member Charter Commission to create a city charter. That election could happen as early as this November. Once created, the draft charter would need approval from the Michigan Attorney General before going back to Dexter voters for final adoption. If ultimately approved, Dexter residents would no longer be able to vote for township offices or ballot issues. In addition, personal property taxes would be collected by the city and then distributed to the various units of government schools and Washtenaw County. Opponents have expressed concern that becoming a city will spur unwanted development that will change the small-town feel of Dexter. Supporters say moving towards cityhood will reduce election costs while eliminating an unnecessary layer of government. (JK) Community Invited to Family-Friendly Event at Lutz County Park
5/8/13 - The first Livingston County owned and operated park will be showcased during an event in June. Residents are encouraged to celebrate community and the environment at "Lutz Get Together", hosted by the Livingston County Park Advisory Committee on Saturday, June 1st. It has been nearly five years since the opening day of Lutz County Park and officials say they want to reintroduce residents and others to the natural beauty of the park, as well as the recreational improvements that have been made over time. A variety of activities are planned including information about the art of bee keeping from professionals at a family-owned farm located just north of the park in Deerfield Township. Alexandria’s Nature Bus will offer attendees a close-up look at birds of prey and an opportunity to learn more about the environment with interpretive staff. It’s run by the Howell Area Conference and Nature Center and all of the animals reside at the rehabilitation center there. The Michigan Barn Preservation Network will be raising a demonstration size barn and kids can also plant seeds in take-home containers. The “Lutz Get Together” will run from 11am until 3pm June 1st and guests are encouraged to bring a lunch and have a picnic. Complete details can be found in the attachment below. (JM) | Attachment: | LutzGetTogether.pdf |
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| Attachment: | LutzLocationMap.pdf |
| Web Link: | http://co.livingston.mi.us/planning/parks/lutz/def... |
Fowlerville Schools Administration Shuffled For Coming Year
5/8/13 - Actions by the Fowlerville School Board last night will shake up the administrative structure of the district starting this fall. The board accepted the resignation of Athletic Director Curt Copeland last night as he prepares to move to a Grand Rapids area school. Board President Mike Brown says the search for his replacement is going well, with eight interviews performed last Saturday. A new athletic director should be chosen by July. Additionally, Superintendent Richard Heinrich is retiring from the district this year and will be replaced by Assistant Superintendent Wayne Roedel. Heinrich tells WHMI the two are already preparing for the transition with many day-to-day operations already in Roedel’s hands and more responsibilities transferring over to him as the end of the year approaches. Also last night, the board approved hiring Tim Dowker to take Roedel’s place as assistant superintendent. Dowker, pictured left, is currently a secondary principal with Webberville Area Schools, but his wife teaches and his children attend school in Fowlerville. Dowker says he plans to speak with staff to learn their strengths and needs, and will increase focus on any areas where the district can perform better. Fowlerville will also see two teachers leave the district this year, including one with more than 40 years of experience. (TD) Voters Handily Approve Hartland Millage Renewal
5/8/13 - By a 3-1 margin, voters Tuesday in the Hartland Consolidated School district approved an 18-mill tax renewal. The final vote was 473 against, with 1,573 in favor of the tax assessed against non-homestead properties, which are mainly business properties, rental properties and vacation or secondary homes. The millage is expected to raise $4.3 million for the school district in the coming year, although that is estimated to be approximately $200,000 less than the current year because of declining property values. Also on the ballot were uncontested primary races for the Democratic and Republican candidates for the District 5 county commission seat that was opened up when former Commissioner Jay Drick resigned to become a magistrate. GOP candidate Don Parker, who is currently serving in that position as an appointee, drew 417 votes, while the Democratic candidate, Howell Township Trustee Mike Tipton, received 258 votes. They will now face off August 6th in a special general election along with Libertarian candidate Michael Brennan. (JK) Friday Final Day to Vote for South Lyon Girl in Local Hero Contest
5/8/13 - It’s the final week of online voting for a local hero contest in which a South Lyon girl is featured and hoping to win one of three wheelchair accessible vans. The public is voting for the person they feel most deserves to win a custom wheelchair accessible vehicle as part of the contest. 11-year-old Breanna Strange of South Lyon suffers from a rare disease called Dystonia, which is a neurological movement disorder. She attends South Lyon Middle School, where students have been passing out flyers and voting for her every day. Her family says it’s been a long and difficult road and both Breanna and her wheelchair have become too heavy to lift into their vehicle. However, with the amount of money that goes toward the expenses associated with Breanna’s care, they’re unable to afford a new vehicle. The family says the new van would go a long way to reduce the stress on their situation. The contest ends Friday and a link to the voting site can be found below. (JM) | Web Link: | http://www.mobilityawarenessmonth.com/entrant/brea... |
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Hamburg Man Fights Termination of Parental Rights
5/8/13 - A hearing to terminate parental rights has been scheduled for later this month for a Hamburg Township man accused of abusing his infant daughter. 25-year-old Robert George Albert is charged with 1st degree child abuse in Livingston County Circuit Court and is alleged to have intentionally caused physical harm to his then-9-month-old daughter last year. A parental termination hearing was held earlier this month, with a dispositional review scheduled for May 31st for a final judgment on that issue. Albert claims he only signed away his parental rights after his attorney lied to him, saying it was his only option and that his criminal case attorney agreed with that opinion. Possible injuries were discovered on the infant girl during a routine exam in May of 2012 and medical personnel later testified the girl suffered multiple fractures and hemorrhaging in her eyes – an indication of abuse. Albert’s brother and a friend also testified that he toyed with his daughter just to hear her cry as some sort of game and would put her in “stress positions” while also binding her arms when feeding her so she wouldn’t grab the utensils. They also alleged Albert and the infant’s mother smoked synthetic marijuana in front the girl. A jury trial in the criminal case against Albert is scheduled to begin June 17th, unless a plea deal is reached prior. (JK)
Students Get First-Hand Look at Drunk Driving Consequences
5/7/13- Hartland High School and the Hartland-Deerfield Fire Authority worked together to warn students of the consequences of drinking and driving through an accident re-enactment. Screams and sirens were the only sound to be heard as students watched firefighters work with a medical response team to re-enact a real life drunk driving scenario in their school parking lot. In the scenario injured people are extracted from crashed vehicles as one student’s decision to drink and drive cost another student’s life. The entire process took around 45 minutes, which fire officials say is the realistic amount of time it takes to extract a body from a smashed vehicle. Students were urged to seek help from school counselors if needed following the re-enactment. Hartland High School and the Hartland-Deerfield Fire Authority work together every couple of years to make the mock drunk driving accident possible, with hopes of leaving an impact on students that will lead them to make safe choices as prom and graduation season approaches. (SO) Brighton Business & Howell Orthopedics Office Raided Tuesday
5/8/13 - A doctor’s office in Howell and a Brighton business were both raided by federal and local authorities yesterday. A search warrant was executed by Drug Enforcement Administration agents at Livingston County Orthopedics on Byron Road in Howell yesterday morning. It’s the office of Dr. Michael E. Holda, who is a board certified orthopedic surgeon who has been practicing in Howell for more than 32 years and in the same location for 29 years. The search warrant was executed with assistance from the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department. Meanwhile, DEA agents also executed a search warrant for narcotics at the Grow Green Michigan warehouse on Canterbury Drive in Brighton yesterday and could be seen carrying file-type boxes. That raid was the result of a joint investigation by the Detroit DEA Field Office and Michigan State Police. Further details about the raids have yet to be released, and calls for comments have been placed by WHMI with the DEA. (JM) Tuesday, May 7
Grow Green in Brighton & Howell Orthopedics Office Raided Today
5/7/13 - Businesses in Brighton and Howell were raided today by federal agents and local authorities. The warehouse building where Grow Green MI operates is located on Canterbury Drive, off Old US-23 in Brighton. Drug Enforcement Administration agents and officers from multiple departments could be seen removing boxes this afternoon, and authorities at the scene confirmed for WHMI that a search warrant was being executed for narcotics. The business is described as a showcase for exhibiting various green technologies, and the warehouse is believed to have opened in 2011. Authorities say the investigation was conducted jointly by the Detroit DEA Field Office and the Michigan State Police. Meanwhile, in Howell this morning, Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte confirmed that deputies assisted the DEA in executing a search warrant at Livingston County Orthopedics on Byron Road, which is a practice operated by Dr. Michael Holda. (JM) | Web Link: | https://www.GrowGreenMI.com |
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Prosecutor: Shooting of Green Oak Man by Officers Justified
5/7/13 - The Livingston County Prosecutor’s Office announced today that the shooting of a man by a Michigan State Trooper and Green Oak Township Police Officer was justified. 31-year-old Kevin William Hassell was hit during the exchange and later died at a hospital. A release issued today says an autopsy confirmed that Hassell died from gunshot wounds. Police chased Hassell from a home on Bishop Road in Green Oak Township where a breaking and entering was reported to his mother’s residence on Twilight Drive, where the shooting occurred February 18th. Hassell is alleged to have fired on officers as he exited his vehicle and multiple shots were fired inside of the home by the three. According to an investigation by the Michigan State Police, Hassell produced a handgun, raised it, and pointed it towards the Green Oak officer as he approached Hassell’s vehicle. The officer then responded by firing one round through the passenger window of the vehicle towards Hassell. The investigation shows the trooper pursued Hassell into the house and followed him upstairs, where Hassell yelled that he had a gun. The trooper followed Hassell into an upstairs room and saw Hassell raise a handgun at him. The trooper then responded by firing his weapon at Hassell, and the trooper fell back down the stairs. From the first floor, both officers then observed Hassell point a gun at them and fire it towards them. Police returned fire and the scene was eventually secured by officers from multiple departments. Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt says the officers acted reasonably and lawfully under the circumstances, noting the shooting of Mr. Hassell was completely justified. The complete details be found in the attached release. (JM) | Attachment: | MSPGOTPDShootingPressRelease.pdf |
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Genoa Township Seeks Information To Possibly Re-Join SELCRA
5/7/13 - Genoa Township is taking steps to possibly rejoin the Southeast Livingston County Recreation Authority. The township decided against taking part in SELCRA a few years ago due to portions of the contractual agreement they did not agree with. This included an obligation on the township to pay for facilities and land purchased by SELCRA if the organization was bought out or taken over by a governmental body. That portion of the agreement has since been amended to require the approval of any member communities involved before the purchase of such property. SELCRA has approached the municipality about becoming a member again, which would give Genoa Township residents a preferred customer rate when participating in the organization’s programs. However, the township has continued to offer a voucher program that allows residents to be reimbursed for the difference between in and out-of-district rates for SELCRA programs. At Monday night’s meeting, board members voted to seek more information regarding an official agreement with the organization before officially signing on. (SO/JM) Bond Denied For Hamburg Man Charged in Fatal Crash
5/7/13 - A Hamburg Township man charged in a fatal head-on crash remains in jail after his bond request was denied. 44-year-old Richard Childress is charged with reckless driving causing death in the April 26th crash on M-36 near Kress Road. In court Monday, his attorney requested that the $150,000 bond be reduced, a motion that was adamantly opposed to by the prosecution and eventually denied. Police say Childress was westbound on M-36 in an SUV but veered left of center as he approached Kress Road, striking a station wagon head-on driven by 77-year-old John Pavlic of Hamburg Township. Pavlic died the next day at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor as a result of his injuries. Police say drugs are suspected as being a contributing factor in the cause of the crash. A search warrant was obtained for a blood sample from Childress and officials are now awaiting a toxicology report. Childress remains jailed on a $150,000 cash or surety bond and is due back in court for an exam conference on June 10th. (JK) Local Officer Killed Last Year Honored at Lansing Ceremony
5/7/13 - An annual memorial service for fallen police officers in Lansing paid tribute yesterday to an officer from Livingston County killed in the line of duty in September. Sergeant Patrick O’Rourke lived with his wife Amy and four children in Tyrone Township while working for the West Bloomfield Police Department. He was killed while responding to a domestic dispute. Every year, Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors, or MI-COPS, holds a memorial ceremony to bring attention to all police personnel with ties to Michigan who were killed in the line of duty during the previous year. The ceremony in front of the Capitol Building in Lansing honored O’Rourke as well as two other officers, a Denver police officer who had formerly served in Michigan and a corrections officer with family in the state. Over a hundred police officers from around the state and hundreds of civilians were in attendance. The family and friends of the fallen officers were invited to place roses on a wreath in remembrance, and traditions such as a 21-gun salute, a color guard, and Amazing Grace played on bagpipes paid tribute to the officers. Amy O’Rourke added that she thought the ceremony was a beautiful and appropriate tribute to her husband, and she is still overwhelmed at the support her family receives from the law enforcement community. She and her family will be going to Washington this Sunday when her husband will be honored as part of the Police Unity Tour and his name inscribed on the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial. (TD) Brighton School Board OKs Shared Time Services Contract
5/7/13 - The Brighton Area Schools’ Board of Education approved the shared time services contract for the coming year at its meeting Monday night. Shared services is a program by which private and parochial schools contract with a public school district to provide non-core courses for which the private school lacks certified teachers in that particular discipline. Under the contract, the district will pay School Financial Solutions of Livonia 6% of the amount the district will be receiving in state school aid for the students enrolled. Superintendent Greg Gray tells WHMI that the shared services program is a major revenue-producer for the school district. Gray says that administration is working hard to increase the number of schools participating in Brighton’s shared time services program, and he expects from 20-40 more schools to be added to the over 40 which are enrolled in the program this year. The matter of shared time services was a sticking point in the district’s earlier deficit elimination plan presented to the state, education department officials saying the numbers were overly optimistic. Gray says, however, Brighton school officials were able to convince the state in their latest presentation last week that the numbers were realistic. (TT) Injured Fowlerville Veterinarian Returns to Work
5/7/13 - A beloved Fowlerville veterinarian is returning to work more than eight months after he was critically injured in an accident. 56-year-old Daniel Paternoster was riding his bike to work at the Fowlerville Veterinary Clinic last August 28th when he was hit by a car whose driver had become distracted and drifted off the roadway. Paternoster was originally listed in critical condition and remained unconscious for several days. He has undergone intense rehabilitation and family members say he is now able to return to the clinic on a limited basis. Meanwhile, the woman who hit Paternoster, 50-year-old Robin Fournier of Webberville, pleaded guilty Monday to one count of a moving violation causing serious impairment of bodily function. Fournier will be sentenced June 11th. The misdemeanor charge carries a possible penalty of up to 93 days in jail. (JK) Genoa Township Seeks Opinions on Land Use and Taxes
5/7/13- Genoa Township sought the feedback of its residents through a recent mailed survey. The purpose of the survey was to get resident’s opinions regarding taxes they would be willing to support and what they would like to see done with certain land. Residents who responded to the survey said they were most willing to support taxes that aid road maintenance. There are two proposed ideas for the land south of the Latson Road Interchange that were popular among Genoa residents. Most residents would like to see the land remain rural, while others would like to see it used as some sort of campus. Possibilities include a hospital, business headquarters, or even a university, but nothing official has been proposed. Assistant Township Manager Kelly VanMarter says this survey was just a step in what will be a very long process before a decision is made. Board members agree that the survey shed light on what residents support in the area, but will not be a basis for any decision due to the variables that exist with the actual survey process. There will be multiple public hearings and meetings before the Genoa Township Board of Trustees and Planning Commission before a decision is made regarding the Land Use Master Plan. (SO)Balloon Launch to Help Heal Those Left Behind by Suicide
5/7/13 - A support group for family members affected by suicide will be holding an event next month to both remember and help heal. Each year, the Livingston County Survivors of Suicide Support Group remembers those who have been taken from them as a result of suicide with a commemorative balloon launch. The 10th annual event will be held June 4th from 7-9pm at Saint Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital on Byron Road in Howell. Group co-facilitator Laura Edwards says the loss of a loved one from suicide is a very different kind of loss than from diseases such as cancer. She says it often involves feelings of guilt over failure to have spotted the symptoms which lead to the suicide and that’s why the group is so important for those who are left behind. The balloons – released by family members and others who have lost a loved one to suicide – will contain a personal note to the suicide victim. Edwards and her husband Jeff, who live in Genoa Township, lost their 12-year-old son to suicide in 2003. Both speak before local school groups to talk about factors that lead down the path to suicide and how to spot the symptoms before it’s too late. (JK)
City of Howell Eyes Grant Program to Rehabilitate Apartments
5/6/13 - A new grant program could help provide some funding to downtown building owners to rehabilitate apartments in the City of Howell. The City has had several downtown building owners express an interest in re-creating and/or improving upper floor residential spaces. A rental rehabilitation program through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority offers grant funds to help offset the costs incurred for those types of projects. It offers a number of community development grants to assist municipalities with implementing local initiatives to improve the quality and diversity of housing stock. The program provides a zero-percent interest, five-year forgivable loan to property owners who meet certain terms and conditions but Howell City Manager Shea Charles tells WHMI a portion of the apartments must be dedicated to low-to-moderate income tenants. Given limited staff resources, the City will be using a third party administrator to run the program and Council authorized issuing a request for proposals at last night’s meeting. There would be no cost incurred by the City since the administrator would be paid through the grant funds. After staff reviews the requests, it will make a recommendation to the City Council for approval. The City will also need to approve local program guidelines and hold a public hearing before submitting grant documents and eventually proceed with promoting the resource to eligible building owners. (JM) Association Urges President to Nominate Rogers Next FBI Director
5/7/13 - A group representing FBI agents and retirees says it wants President Obama to make Congressman Mike Rogers as the next FBI director. The Howell Republican worked as an FBI agent before being elected to the Michigan Senate and later to Congress. The FBI Agents Association on Monday endorsed Rogers to replace FBI Director Robert Mueller, whose 10-year term was extended by Congress for 2 years and ends in September. The organization says Rogers is respected on both sides of the aisle and his background as a special agent "sets him apart." The 49-year-old Rogers chairs the House Intelligence Committee. He says in a statement he's honored and humbled by the endorsement. Rogers is also considering whether to run for the U.S. Senate seat opening with Democrat Carl Levin's retirement. (JK) Monday, May 6
Association Urges President to Nominate Rogers Next FBI Director
5/6/13 - The FBI Agents Association is throwing its support behind a Howell Congressman to become the next Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The association represents more than 12,000 active duty and retired agents and is urging the President to nominate House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Rogers to serve as the next FBI Director. Current Director Robert Mueller's ten-year term was extended by Congress for two years and ends in September. Rogers, a Republican, has served in the House of Representatives since 2001 and as Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee since 2011. He served as an FBI Special Agent before being elected to the Michigan Senate in 1995. The association says Rogers is respected by leaders on both sides of the aisle, his background as a Special Agent sets him apart, and he’s capable of confronting the wide array of challenges facing the country and the Bureau. It says the next Director must remain committed the Bureau’s primary mission of protecting the country from a wide array of threats ranging from street gangs and mortgage fraud to cyber-espionage and foreign and domestic terrorists. (JM) Voters to Cast Ballots in Special Primary Election Tuesday
5/6/13 - Local voters will cast ballots in a special primary election tomorrow and other school-related questions. The special primary is required by law to fill a vacant seat on the Livingston County Board of Commissioners. Former Commissioner Donald Parker is running on the Republican ticket but has been appointed by the board to serve in the interim while Howell Township Trustee Michael Tipton has the Democratic nomination for the District 5 seat. The district includes the City of Howell and both Howell and Cohoctah Townships. Since they are the only two candidates, they both automatically go on to face Libertarian candidate Mike Brennan in a special election on August 6th. While the cost and purpose of the special election has been debated, Tipton tells WHMI it’s a necessary process to officially set the candidate field and kick off campaign efforts, adding there are a lot of choices in the race. Meanwhile, voters in the Hartland Consolidated School district are being asked to approve a millage renewal for non-homestead property. Voters in Hamburg Township will cast ballots on two issues in Dexter Community Schools. Polls are open from 7am until 8pm Tuesday and local voters are reminded to bring a valid photo ID. (JM) | Web Link: | http://co.livingston.mi.us/countyClerk/electionInf... |
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City of Brighton Repainting Center Lines at Main Street & Spencer
5/6/13 - Anyone traveling in the City of Brighton Tuesday morning could experience some minor traffic issues. The City’s contractor will be re-painting the center lines on Main Street/Spencer Road from the city limits, west to Grand River. The City says some traffic inconveniences could occur in the area but the work shouldn't take too long and the cooperation of motorists would be appreciated. (JM) “Golfing for the Most Good” to Benefit Salvation Army
5/6/13 - With spring finally here, golfers across Livingston County are likely getting back into the swing of things and an outing this weekend will help support those most in need. The Salvation Army of Livingston County will host its second annual “Golfing for the Most Good” golf classic on Saturday at Whispering Pines in Pinckney. All of the funds raised benefit those in need in Livingston County and all of the programs and services that the local Corps offers, including its upcoming summer feeding program. Development Director April Dertian tells WHMI they have some great prizes and a variety of activities, including hole-in-one and putting contests. Some prizes being offered include an R1 Taylor-made driver and putter, a season of golf with passes to more than ten courses in the area, two-carat diamond earrings, more than $300 in shopping and dining in downtown Brighton and a silent auction with autographed memorabilia. Sponsorships and golf team space is still available. Golfers can register as a team or individually and the event has a 9am tee-off this Saturday. For more information or to register, contact the Salvation Army of Livingston County at 517-546-4750 ext 105 or log onto the site below. (JM) | Web Link: | https://www.facebook.com/SalvationArmyLivingstonCo... |
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Memorials to Honor Fallen Officer From Livingston County
5/6/13 - A police officer from Livingston County will be among those honored at a ceremony tonight in Lansing and then this weekend in the nation’s capital. Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors, known as MI-C.O.P.S., is hosting the 20th Annual Michigan Peace Officers’ Candlelight Memorial Service at 7pm on the steps of the State Capitol in Lansing. The three officers being honored this year are West Bloomfield Sergeant Patrick O’Rourke, who lived with his wife Amy and their four children in Tyrone Township. O’Rourke was killed last September after responding to a domestic dispute. Also being honored tonight are Denver Police Officer Celena Hollis, a former Detroit Police Officer killed while trying to break up a fight and Britney Meux, an Indiana Corrections officer who has family members living in Michigan. She was killed by a hit-and-run driver during a training exercise. Tonight’s memorial service in Lansing is open to the public. Survivors and other program participants will begin gathering at 6pm at Lansing City Hall, across from the Capitol. At 7, they will lead a procession along with an honor guard to the Capitol with a memorial wreath. O’Rourke will also be honored later this week during the Police Unity Tour. Beginning Thursday, hundreds of police officers from all over the United States will ride bicycles from New Jersey to Washington to raise awareness and financial support for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. O’Rourke’s name will be added to the memorial this year and his name called during a candlelight vigil after the Police Unity Tour riders arrive on Sunday. (JK)
Historic School's Owner Seeks Help in Restoration
5/6/13 - A historic schoolhouse in Putnam Township is facing demolition unless someone steps up to save the structure. David Keller put a "for rent" sign outside the Hicks School but says it's temporary. The former schoolteacher wants help preserving and relocating the 1850 building. Otherwise he'll have the building razed. Keller bought the one-room schoolhouse for $25,000 in December from Pinckney Community Schools. He owns three duplexes near the schoolhouse and plans to build another at the site. Efforts to strike a deal with the Livingston Centre Historical Society to take on the building failed because the society cannot afford it. The 924-square-foot red building has been dormant for at least the past five years. (JK) Lake Fenton Walk Highlights Anti-Bullying Awareness
5/6/13 - A group of walkers that included dozens of local students, parents, and staff members, and a state legislator announced its anti-bullying message through the Fenton area yesterday afternoon. The walk was an action by the Starfish Initiative, a Lake Fenton High School activism group. The group gets its name from a story in which a man sees hundreds of starfish washed up on shore and begins throwing them back into the sea. When he is told that he cannot possibly help them all, he points out that he is still doing good by helping those he can. More than 50 people, including State Representative Joe Graves, turned out for yesterday's walk, which traveled along Silver Parkway from Silver Lake Road to Owen Road and back. The group was led by a banner to display their anti-bullying message to passers-by. The walk included students from other districts from around the county, including Linden and Grand Blanc. A similar walk was held by the group in December. (TD) Fowlerville Man Enters Plea to Charges of Resisting Officers
5/6/13 - A Fowlerville man charged with fleeing from police last year will be sentenced next month after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. 39-year-old David Kluesner pleaded guilty Friday to charges of 3rd degree fleeing police, driving on a suspended license, and assaulting/resisting/obstructing a police officer. He was earlier found competent to stand trial after undergoing a forensic psychiatric exam. Kluesner faces up to five years in prison when he is sentenced June 6th, but can withdraw his plea if he doesn’t agree with the sentence imposed by the judge. Prosecutors say Kluesner was stopped by police July 29th, 2012 for driving on a suspended license. Police say he refused to cooperate or provide identification before trying to flee from the officer, who deployed a Taser with no effect. They say Kluesner then got back in his car and fled at a high rate of speed through a residential area to his home, where he again fled from officers. Police say he eventually returned to his residence and was arrested shortly thereafter. Kluesner claimed he was Tasered by the officer for merely asking why he was under arrest and that he fled in fear for his life. He also claimed officers beat him unnecessarily resulting is a broken clavicle and other injuries. (JK) Brighton Rec Area Opens Accessible Kayak/Canoe Launch
5/6/13 - The Brighton Recreation Area has installed a new launch system for kayaks and canoes, making it easier for people with disabilities to use the crafts on Bishop Lake. The EZ Launch System will make it possible for a visitor in a wheelchair to move themselves onto a bench and then into a kayak or canoe without assistance. The new system was installed by the Department of Natural Resources using funds awarded through the Michigan State Waterways Program. The system exceeds the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It is available for public use beginning this month. (TD) Sunday, May 5
Howell Township Woman Sentenced for Donation Jar Theft
5/5/13 - A Howell Township woman accused of stealing a donation jar from a local store with her husband has been sentenced. 28-year-old Tena Cory was ordered to spend 21 days in the Livingston County jail with credit for eight already served. She must also complete 18 months of probation and pay fines and costs following her previous guilty plea to larceny in a building. Her husband, 34-year-old Michael Cory, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge and will be sentenced May 16th by Circuit Court Judge David Reader. He was on parole for a previous retail fraud conviction at the time of the crime and is currently incarcerated at a correctional facility in Ann Arbor. Authorities say the couple walked into a convenience store at M-59 and Grand River with a child on February 16th. Police say surveillance video showed Tena distracting a clerk while Michael stole the collection jar, which was for a girl in Arkansas with Down Syndrome to get a needed surgery. Several members of the community more than replaced the money after hearing about the story. (JM) Brighton Contests and Settles Tax Tribunal Cases
5/5/13 - A major loss in tax revenue to Michigan cities, townships and villages in the last few years has seen tax bills that have been appealed by companies to the Michigan Tax tribunal. Public school districts, counties, colleges, libraries and other public entities have also suffered as a result of the appeals. According to Brighton City Finance Director Kelly Hanna, in 2011 and 2012 the city paid out $440,000 to property owners — mostly commercial and industrial firms — which appealed their local property taxes to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Hanna says 90 tax cases have now been settled between the city and the contesting parties for the years 2007-2012. City Manager Dana Foster tells WHMI it's very difficult for cities or townships to win cases that go before the tribunal. The MTT generally either rules in favor of the appealing party, or approves a compromise between the amount of tax relief the property owner is seeking and the value of the property according to the municipality. Foster says that thanks to the spirited legal defense presented before the tribunal by city attorney Paul Burns and his staff, the city has been able to get the $1.3 million in tax relief the companies sought whittled down to one-third that amount. Currently, the Aberdeen apartment complex; the Brighton Mall, which is contesting 2012 taxes; and Meijer - which is contesting 2011, 2012 and 2013 taxes — are the three largest unsettled cases. MJR Cinema,The Home Depot, the Brighton Mall and Summerville - a senior/assisted living development — are the four largest cases that the city has closed. The taxable value involved in those cases represents over one-third (34%) of the total taxable value in contention. In regard to the Brighton Mall, the mall owners contested tax years 2009-through-2011 before the court decided in the city's favor, ruling its property values should be maintained. As a result, the Brighton Mall received no refund. Still unresolved, Hanna says, are 220 properties before the tribunal for the years 2008-'12, representing a total of $31,000,000 in taxable value. Without being contested by the city, the cases would result in a loss of $540,000 in revenue to the city. (TT) Higher Water Rate To Take Effect In City Of South Lyon
5/5/13 - South Lyon residents on the municipality’s water system can expect increased costs beginning next month to help pay for system upgrades. The city’s current water rate is $1.95 per 1,000 gallons, but starting in June that rate will increase 6% to $2.07 per 1,000 gallons. The South Lyon Herald reports that this same rate of increase will be applied annually until 2016, when rates will level off at $2.49. This year’s increase will cost an average family of four about $9.60 per year. The increased rates will help pay for a $5.5 million project to replace aging water mains around the city, many of which are more than 50 years old. The city is responsible for half of the cost of that project, with the other half coming from a federal grant, and it should be completed sometime this fall or early next year. (TD) Saturday, May 4
Brighton's Deficit Elimination Plan Accepted By State
5/4/13 - Less than 24 hours after meeting with state officials, The Michigan Department of Education has approved Brighton Area Schools’ deficit elimination plan. District officials met with the state Thursday to discuss the plan and clarify projected student numbers pertaining to shared services. The plan was rejected twice previously based on those numbers, which the state felt were overly optimistic. Superintendent Greg Gray says he received an email early Friday afternoon notifying him the plan had been accepted. He tells WHMI the goal is to be out of a deficit situation by the end of next year and having a qualified deficit elimination plan means a number of things for the Brighton district. Board members have said state officials made it clear that the district needs to resolve the remaining $7.4 (m) million legacy deficit since they are entering the fifth year of deficit status. Brighton started the shared services program this year but plans to expand it next year. It’s projecting that $4 million in revenues can be realized by providing shared services with private and parochial schools in the areas of art, languages and technology. (JM) Brighton City Councilwoman Not Seeking Re-Election
5/4/13 - A Brighton City Councilwoman has announced that she will not run for re-election but says the future looks good for the community. Claudia Roblee says she has a number of new opportunities in her personal life that she wants to develop and needs the time to be able to do so. She says she learned a lot during her time but also believes that having the same people on Council or any level of government year after year can lead to stale thinking and feels making room for new blood and thinking is essential. Some of Roblee’s achievements include spearheading the drive to institute the four-point economic development approach of the Michigan Main Street Program. She also brought forward the Michigan Municipal Leagues Center for 21st Century Community Program and helped pave the way for a Volunteer Committee for the care of the Imagination Station. According to Roblee though her biggest achievement was “Envision Brighton” in which a visioning session was held to find out what stakeholders saw as the future for the downtown. She says current processes and boards have kept the city strong in her opinion and are the means for continued growth. Roblee has served on Council for six years now and was appointed to fill the seat of Cathy Jones in February of 2007. She then ran and won the seat in November of that year and again in 2011. Her full statement that was issued can be viewed below. (JM) | Attachment: | RobleeRelease.pdf |
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Parker Middle School Students Perform Anti-Bullying Flash Mobs
5/4/13 - Parker Middle School students got a surprise on Friday when more than 100 of their peers took part in a series of flash mobs with an anti-bullying message. The performances took place during the lunch periods for all three grades, with choir students standing up or coming in from the surrounding halls to perform a dance routine. The song “We're All in This Together” from the 2006 film “High School Musical” was chosen to fit with the school's week-long anti-bullying campaign. Students practice the routine for weeks, taking some time out of every choir class to rehearse. School councilor Kathleen Gut says the anti-bullying campaign included classroom lessons about different aspects of bullying and how to react to it. Teachers also encouraged students to interact with people outside of their normal social group to improve relationships between peers. Gut says the campaign is planned to take place in future years as well, and next year it will take place sometime I the all to help create an anti-bullying atmosphere early on in the school year. (TD)
| Web Link: | http://www.youtube.com/embed/BCOdL7xWamw |
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Man Heads to Trial on Charges Filed for Leaving Car on RR Tracks
5/4/13 - A Howell man charged with trying to derail a train is heading to trial. 29-year-old Adam Lezotte is charged with endangering the travel of a train, a felony that can carry a possible life sentence as well as a separate count of unlawful driving away of a vehicle. He was earlier ordered to undergo state forensic testing, including competency and criminal responsibility evaluations. It was determined that there was enough evidence against him for the case to proceed to trial at a recent hearing, and Lezotte was bound over to Livingston County Circuit Court on the charges. He’s scheduled to appear before Judge Michael Hatty for pre-trial hearing early next month and a July 15th trial date has been set. Lezotte is accused of intentionally leaving his former girlfriend’s car parked on the tracks at Dearborn and Marion streets the evening of Sunday, January 6th following an argument. An eastbound train was unable to avoid hitting the vehicle, which was empty at the time. (JM) Highland Man Pleads Guilty To Larceny, But Not Other Charges
5/4/13 - A Highland Township man charged in connection with a series of vehicle larcenies and breaking and entering incidents has pleaded guilty in one case in Livingston. 18-year-old Ross Dimercurio pleaded guilty as charged to a single charge of breaking and entering a vehicle to steal property worth less than $200 in Livingston County District Court this week. He will be sentenced on June 10th. There are three circuit court cases against Dimercurio as well, with charges including larceny and home invasion. He also pleaded guilty to more than a dozen charges in Oakland County and will be sentenced in those later this month. His co-defendant there, 18-year-old Devin Newell of Milford, will also be sentenced later this month after pleading guilty to nine similar charges. Police say the pair targeted unlocked vehicles in residential areas in Brighton and Hartland Townships during the late night and early morning hours. (TD) Friday, May 3
Lawsuit Filed Against Liquid Manufacturing for Breach of Contract
5/3/13 - A manufacturing company in Green Oak Township is being sued for an alleged breach of contract. Cintas Corporation filed suit against Liquid Manufacturing in Livingston County Circuit Court in February seeking $37,817.91 plus costs and attorney fees. Cintas is seeking compensation for goods and services of nearly $15,000 but the increased amount being sought is due to a provision included in the contract agreement for early termination and other charges for unreturned items. Court records show the suit was filed after Liquid Manufacturing terminated its contract with Cintas prior to its expiration and failed to pay the accounts receivable balance. Cintas Corporation has offices in Michigan that provide uniforms and other goods and services to a variety of businesses. The suit alleges that from August of 2012 through October of 2012, Cintas sold and invoiced goods and services to Liquid Manufacturing. It alleges Liquid Manufacturing failed and refused to timely pay Cintas and as such, breached the parties' contract. The parties are currently scheduled to appear for a status conference in July. A request for comment made by WHMI to Liquid CEO Peter Paisley was not returned. (JM) Man Crashes Truck Into Garage of Pinckney Home Friday
5/3/13 - Pinckney Police are investigating an incident this afternoon in which a man drove his truck into the attached garage of a home after experiencing a medical emergency. Police say a 57-year-old Putnam Township man in a Chevy Silverado was driving on West Unadilla Street, when he experienced a medical event and blacked out at around 1:30 this afternoon. Police say the vehicle veered off the right shoulder of the roadway, grazed a tree and struck the attached garage of a home causing what was described as moderate damage. The driver refused medical treatment at the scene and the incident remains under investigation. However based on his medical condition, Pinckney Police say they will be requesting that the Michigan Secretary of State examine whether the man is fit to drive or not. (JM) Crowd Packs Brighton Chambers to Support Business Owner
5/3/13 - A capacity crowd was in attendance at the Brighton City Council meeting Thursday night asking that the city stand behind a local business owner being threatened with sanctions because of allegedly running a dog kennel. Leonie Darnell owns Pawsitively Spoiled, which provides pet grooming for dogs and cats as well as supplies and gift items for pet owners and their animals. However, City Manager Dana Foster says they were notified in April that a citizen had registered a complaint to Livingston County Animal Control, alleging a kennel was being run there. That would constitute a violation of state law, since the business is not licensed to operate a kennel. He says they will have the city attorney contact the business and make sure ordinances are being followed. Darnell tells WHMI that she absolutely does not run a kennel, but had been allowing customers to leave their dogs until the end of the business day. However, she insists she has never kept animals overnight. Darnell says the entire episode has damaged her financially and destroyed her reputation. But she was pleasantly surprised at the show of support at Thursday’s council meeting. Approximately 50 residents packed the chambers and voiced their unanimous support of Pawsitively Spoiled, saying Darnell is conscientious and runs an excellent business. (JK) Designer Tabletops Will Take Center Stage for Cleary Auction
5/3/13 - Cleary University’s 21st annual fundraising auction this weekend will literally set the table for a good cause. This year, the university has invited Michigan designers to create a unique tabletop for the event, which will be held Saturday at the Johnson Center in Genoa Township. Proceeds will support student scholarship programs. Auction guests will be greeted with over 25 “designer tabletops” and will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite. The tabletop with the most votes will be crowned “People’s Choice”. Livingston County Undersheriff Mike Murphy and his wife Penny are co-chairing the event. Tickets for Saturday’s main event are $175 each which includes a gourmet dinner and access to a live auction for ten packages including trips and professional sports events. In addition, internationally recognized DJ Donna D’Cruz will keep the dance floor full. You’ll find details through the link below. (JK)
| Web Link: | http://www.cleary.edu/auction/index.aspx |
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Man Charged w/ Brandishing Gun on Freeway Heads to Trial
5/3/13 - A man alleged to have waived a gun at a motorist on US-23 in Hartland Township last year is set for trial this summer. 67-year-old Clarence Leroy Murphy Jr. of Flint is charged with two counts of felonious assault for an incident last fall in Hartland Township. He’ll go to trial July 15th if no deal is reached by the time of a June 7th pre-trial hearing. A driver told police she and her 12-year-old daughter were driving northbound on US-23 last October 29th when a minivan driven by Murphy tried to pass her near Crouse Road, then pulled alongside at which point he waived a handgun while laughing. He was eventually pulled over by police in Genesee County and taken into custody. A subsequent search of his vehicle turned up a starter pistol, a semi-automatic handgun and a loaded revolver. Murphy pleaded guilty last month in Genesee County to an assault and battery charge for an incident last September in Flint Township that also involved a gun. He was sentenced to 93 days of jail time already served. (JM) Renovations Planned For New Oceola Arts Center
5/3/13 - Several projects are underway to fix up what will be called the Oceola Arts Center before its lease is finalized. The building, which requires some minor fix ups, was given approval by the Oceola Township board at Thursday night’s meeting to move forward with the repairs. Oceola Township purchased the property adjacent to the township hall last month. Formerly owned by the 2/42 Community Church, it is being leased by Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority. Director Debbie Mikula says the renovations include door repair, broken window latches, an unused plumbing vent on the roof and new smoke detectors. Citizens Insurance donated 60 chairs, a stainless steel refrigerator and table tops to the new establishment which will have several uses. Mikula says they would like to use the largest room for renting out events, such as a bridal shower. The front room will be repurposed, but will stay an audio and video room and the 3 smaller rooms will be used for art purposes. The township purchased the adjoining property which includes a garage. The Howell Fire Department has also made an agreement with Howell Parks and Rec to use the building’s garage for trucks and storage. (DK/JK) Mother Of Murdered Boy Seeks to Withdraw Plea
5/3/13 - An ongoing hearing in Genesee County Circuit Court will determine whether the advice given to the mother of a murdered Argentine Township boy was not up to par. In August of 2010, 27-year-old Corrine Baker was ordered to serve between 13 and 30 years in prison for her guilty plea to second degree murder in the death of her son, 4-year-old Dominick Calhoun. Her plea also required her to testify against her ex-boyfriend, 26-year-old Brandon Hayes, who is serving a mandatory term of life in prison without parole after being convicted by a jury of first-degree murder and torture in the boy's death. But Baker is currently seeking to withdraw her plea by claiming the advice given to her by her attorney was ineffective. Baker claims her attorney said the only way she would be able to testify against Hayes was by accepting the plea. The Tri-County Times reports that hearing, called a Ginther Hearing in Michigan, challenges Baker’s plea and could overturn her conviction. Meanwhile her parents, Martin and Julie Baker, have adopted Dominick’s half-brother, 11-year-old Tyler Baker, after Corrine lost parental rights. The process was finalized in March and the family is now living together in Tyrone Township. (TD/JK) Brighton School Leaders Discuss Deficit Plan with State Officials
5/3/13 - Brighton Area School officials were in Lansing yesterday to clarify just one area of its proposed deficit elimination plan with state officials. The district has been working to eliminate its legacy deficit by the end of the 2013/2014 year. Its latest deficit elimination plan was twice rejected by the Michigan Department of Education. The state felt the revised plan submitted was too optimistic in predictions that $4 million in revenues could be realized by providing shared services with private and parochial schools in the areas of art, languages and technology. Brighton started the shared services program in the current school year and plans on expanding it next year, with the elective classes. Superintendent Greg Gray says that was the only portion of Brighton’s latest plan that was discussed yesterday. He tells WHMI those numbers will remain the same and they will continue moving forward while they await a response from the state. He says they will follow up in writing with the pieces the state wanted to see, including the numbers and the schools they’re talking to in relation to the numbers. Gray says that will be pretty easy to provide and expected it would be done yesterday. All deficit school districts in Michigan are required to submit regular reports to the state and provide itemized details on how they plan to eliminate their deficit. School Board Trustee John Conely also attended the meeting and has said state officials made it clear that the district needs to resolve their deficit as they are entering the fifth year of being a deficit district.(JM) Testing Shows Burkhart-Grand River Too Weak For Normal Speeds
5/3/13 - Testing has revealed that the damage caused by Enbridge Energy to the roadway near Burkhart Road and Grand River is too extensive to bring the intersection back up to normal operation for at least two weeks. Livingston County Road Commission Managing Director Mike Craine says while boring from the north to the south side of Grand River, Enbridge hit a Howell Township sewer line. That particular line is a forced main, which means it is only in use when needed, so Enbridge did not notice the damage and continued boring. It then hit an MHOG water main, which burst and flooded the roadway. Sinkholes continue to open up in the affected area, so the intersection will remain in an always-stop condition until it is repaired. Craine tells WHMI they initially hoped they could just patch the underlying holes and return the intersection to normal operation. Unfortunately, it appears that the disturbance goes 18 feet below the surface and that the layers of substrata beneath the road are continually collapsing as a result. Craine tells WHMI it will be two to three weeks before the intersection is stable enough to return to normal. It is still not clear who will pay for the damage to the pipes and the roadway, which is estimated to cost about $600,000. (TD) Brighton OKs '13-14 City Budget, Nixes Trash Pickup Fee Hike
5/3/13 - The revised $7.4 million general fund budget for the fiscal year starting July 1 approved by the Brighton City Council Thursday night will result in a projected surplus of $195,000. That's a substantial increase over the $72,000 fund balance contained in the previous proposed budget. The increase in the projected fund balance for next year was accomplished by an amendment approved by council which contained several changes to cut costs. They include a goal of a cap of a 1.5% pay increase for the three unions which will be negotiating new contracts with the city this summer, including the Department of Public Services, the police department unions and city clerical workers. Also the city will pursue agreement with three employee groups to pay 5% toward the MERS retirement system. Currently, only the clerical employee union and non-union city administrative employees contribute toward their retirement costs. Council also agreed to eliminate their aircards, saving $3,400. Aircards are a type of wireless broadband modem used for connecting to cellular networks and provide roaming access to the Internet from mobile computers outside the range of Wi fi hotspots. City Manager Dana Foster says the expenditure side of the budget will be increased slightly with council agreeing not to charge city users a proposed 2% increase in the refuse pickup fee, saving residents $3.36 per year. The city will save costs by not filling two vacant positions in the Department of Public Services. Council members Jim Bohn and Larry Schillinger repeated their opposition to leaving the positions unfilled, saying it will make it more difficult for the DPS to maintain the current level of service. Bohn also repeated his call on the city to eliminate the position of DDA and Community Development Director Matt Modrack and his assistant, Lauri French. He called these eliminations preferable to not filling the two vacant DPS positions, prompting a debate with others on council. (TT) Former Sergeant Ordered to Pay Legal Fees in Federal Suit
5/3/13 - A former sergeant who was fired from the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department and then filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in federal court but lost has been ordered to pay attorney fees. The civil lawsuit was filed by former sheriff Sergeant Tom Ash against Livingston County, Sheriff Bob Bezotte and Undersheriff Mike Murphy in 2010. A jury verdict was reached in September of last year and Bezotte prevailed. A motion seeking nearly $58,000 for attorney fees was filed, which was granted in part by a U.S District Court Magistrate. Based on variety of factors, including that the County and Undersheriff Mike Murphy were later dismissed from the case as defendants, it was recommended that the prevailing party’s attorney fees be awarded but limited to $1,698.30. It was also recommended that Ash pay the defendant’s taxed costs, for a total of $3,198.35. The parties now have 14 days to object or seek a review of the report and recommendation. Ash alleged he was transferred to work in the jail after making comments during a union meeting but Bezotte maintained it was because of Ash’s own repeated actions. Bezotte says Ash had been disciplined on a number of occasions and eventually, he was forced to terminate him, including lying during a promotions interview about an affair with an assistant prosecutor. Ash had sought damages in excess of $75,000 and the litigation stretched out for more than two years before Bezotte prevailed. (JM)
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