Voters decide millage questions, choose slate

Voters throughout the area made their choices Tuesday, rejecting a Sumpter Township Police Protection 5 mill levy for 4 years, the first millage increase in the community in 15 years. Current millages, totaling 3 mills, expired last year. The average homeowner in the township would have seen an increase of approximately $250 annually with the approval of the ballot proposal.

SUMPTER TOWNSHIP POLICE PROTECTION MILLAGE: NO votes totaled 1,284 or 56.7 percent of votes cast while YES votes totaled 982 or 43.3 percent of votes cast.

NORTHVILLE TOWNSHIP OPERATING MILLAGE: With one precinct still unreported at press time, the Northville Township Operating Millage was approved by 7,616 YES votes and 3,913 NO voters.

NORTHVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE: With one precinct unreported at press time, YES votes 8,220, NO votes 3,913.

The CITY OF WAYNE LIBRARY MILLAGE was APPROVED with YES voted totaling 2,313 and NO votes reported at 1,919. 

A WAYNE WESTLAND COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPOSAL was approved by YES votes totaling 942 and NO votes reported at 5,560.

Early reports regarding the WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION MILLAGE with only just under half precincts reporting saw the proposal ahead with 218,659 YES votes and 111,441 NO votes on the question.

Voters in the CITY OF WAYNE CITY COUNCIL PRIMARY eliminated one candidate from the Nov. 3 General Election ballot reducing the field of candidates from seven to six. Voters’ choices were Kathy Lawrence: 1,374; M thew P. Mulholland: 1,164 votes; Shannon Rochon: 1,040 votes; Alfred Brock: 823; Brett Macek: 614; Donald L. Quarles: 496 and DeVincent A. McFarlin: 456 votes. McFarlin has been eliminated from the November ballot to select three candidates to serve 4-year terms on the Wayne City Council.

These are all unofficial results not yet certified by the Wayne County Clerk.

         Local water supply was not affected by cyber attack

Local water systems are safe and were not among those targeted in a cyber-attack last week, according to a spokesman from the Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA) which supplies water to local communities.

Despite news photos of the Plymouth, Minnesota water tower, the water in both the local Plymouth Township and city was not affected by the attempted sabotage, officials said in a prepared statement.

“The Great Lakes Water Authority is aware of reports regarding potential cyber threats targeting water systems and is closely monitoring the situation as it develops,” GLWA officials said in a statement. “At this time, GLWA’s water and wastewater systems continue to operate normally.”

The water authority provides water services to Belleville, Canton Township, Inkster, Northville city and township, Plymouth city and township, Van Buren and Sumpter townships and both Wayne and Westland. The communities individually manage local distribution of water to users.

While officials refused to identify the providers attacked, the Lansing system was reported by some news outlets as a possible target. In addition to Michigan, attacks were attempted on water suppliers in Minnesota. Federal officials said none of the attempts to disrupt the flow of water and sewer functions was successful and there was no impact on any of the targeted systems.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued a statement noting that the state first learned of the threat after receiving a federal cyber alert warning of attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems.

“Following that notification, we received a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” EGLE officials said in a statement.

In at least one case, officials said, hackers changed passwords and network settings, locking operators out and preventing them from controlling water flow.  Authorities have not officially named a suspect. However, U.S. intelligence and investigative officials view Iran as a primary suspect, according to news reports.

The incidents came days after federal agencies updated a warning about ongoing Iranian cyber threats targeting U.S. critical infrastructure, though investigators have not publicly linked the latest attacks to Tehran.

“Even water organizations with mature cybersecurity processes should validate their external connections,” the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said in an alert issued last week. It outlined several procedures, including adding extra layers of password security and disconnecting key systems from the internet. 

Dale George, the director of communications for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, said in a statement Saturday that “all systems continued to operate safely.”

Federal and state agencies continue to investigate the perpetrator of the failed cyber-attacks.

          Sumpter supervisor defies board, appoints son as deputy

Despite public outcry and over objections from trustees, Sumpter Township Supervisor Tim Bowman has appointed his son, T.J. Bowman, Jr. as deputy supervisor in the township.

Bowman removed the item from the July 28 meeting agenda after Treasurer Bart Patterson and Trustee Matt Oddy expressed objections to the appointment which failed by a tie vote at the July 14 meeting in Patterson’s absence.

Patterson said he felt the appointment was inappropriate while the township faced critical issues, including management positions which remain unfilled, the pending annual audit and financial governance.

Patterson also questioned the qualifications of T.J. Bowman and the description of duties he was to perform. Patterson noted that the tasks listed to be performed by the deputy were already assigned to current township employees, including answering phones and managing township hall maintenance.

“I just don’t see the need with the important issues pending,” Patterson said. “We already have all these things covered.”

Oddy also questioned the job duties as he did during Bowman’s first attempt to appoint his son at the previous meeting. The deputy supervisor duties are described as “statutory” and limited to taking phone calls for the supervisor and providing the necessary signature of a township official when the supervisor is unable to do so.

“You don’t have to appoint a deputy,” he told Bowman.

Patterson also reminded Bowman that during his original campaign for election to the job, he promised to “Drain the Sumpter Swamp” and “get rid of all the nepotism.”

“Those are your words, too much nepotism,” Patterson said asking Bowman if his opinion on nepotism had now changed. Bowman responded, “ Well then yes, my opinion has changed” after reminding the board of two township employees related to Sumpter officials.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, one resident told the board embers that she had taken a poll of her neighbors that morning regarding Bowman’s plan to appoint his son. She said the response was totally negative.

“Legal doesn’t mean it’s right,” she said. She also addressed Bowman’s conduct at the earlier meeting when he threw his paperwork to the floor and stormed out of the meeting following the failure of his proposal to appoint his son.

“As a public official you are held to a higher level of control,” she told Bowman. She said his “tantrum” undermined the confidence of the public in their township leaders.

A second resident agreed noting that he had no idea if the younger Bowman was a Rhodes Scholar or someone far less educated. “This is not the right thing to do. If I were king, it would be a felony. This is the wrong thing to do, period,” he said.

Township attorney Rob Young also took to the podium during the public comment segment and told the board members he wanted to speak as a citizen, not as the township attorney for 40 years.

“Local government is the last bastion of democracy,” he said. He cautioned the audience members that opinions about one board member should not influence their opinion of the efficacy of township services. He reminded the audience that the upcoming millage vote for support of the township police department should be based on the best interest of the township, not on dislike or opinion of one individual.

Young noted the exceptional reputation of the Sumpter Township Police Department throughout the area and at the county level. “Sumpter is viewed as the best department in Wayne County,”

Young said. He cited confidence in the Wayne County prosecutor’s office places in the township detectives and the leadership and training of the department.

“I hope everyone is voting in the best interest of the community, and I hope and pray the police department is supported,” he concluded.

This was the third attempt by Bowman to secure township employment for his son. The younger Bowman was not hired for a DPW part-time position, and the board appointed another candidate as the ordinance officer after the hiring committee deemed his position with his father’s construction company was a conflict of interest.

Plymouth trustee resigns citing  ‘deceitful’ nature’ of administration

Plymouth Township Trustee Mark Clinton attended his final meeting as a member of the board July 28, when he submitted a fiery resignation letter citing the “deceitful nature” of Supervisor Chuck Curmi and two other trustees.

Clinton criticized the conduct of Curmi and the two unnamed trustees who, he said, “knowingly excluded (him) from the process of selecting a new trustee during the most recent township meeting. The decision appeared to have been made behind the scenes and without my involvement,” Clinton said in his resignation letter.

Board members on July 21 appointed former planning commission Bill Ickes to fill the unexpired term of former Trustee Jen Buckley. Her July resignation letter cited a family relocation out of the township making her ineligible to serve.

“I believe the citizens deserve a process that is open, transparent, and collaborative,” Clinton said of Ickes’ appointment which was approved by a 5-1 vote. Clinton cast the lone dissenting vote.

"I wish Mark Clinton well and Plymouth Township thanks him for his service. We will be accepting his resignation on Aug, 5," Curmi said in a statement. He added the replacement process would follow usual procedure.

"We're going to follow the legal process that's been around for many years, most likely, but it's up to the board. The board makes a decision on who's the replacement. The way it works is the board nominates somebody, we deliberate and then we vote," Curmi said.

Clinton’s resignation is the fourth departure from the board of trustees announced this year. Township Clerk Jerry Vorva resigned in March but was not replaced until May 12 when the board members hired Kim Gaedeke. Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz recently announced his plans to leave office later this year, citing health concerns.

Vorva is currently embroiled in a lawsuit filed against fellow trustee John Stewart citing a hostile working environment in township hall and the “threatening” behavior of Stewart during meetings.

Clinton, who served as township treasurer from 2016 through 2021, criticized Curmi’s leadership citing what he described as the lack of meaningful progress during the current administration.

Former Supervisor Kurt Heise also had harsh words for the current administration and claimed in a social media post that in addition to the four board members, the township deputy police chief, the finance director, the ordinance officer and FOIA coordinator had all resigned. Heise claimed in a social media post that the long-serving township attorney also resigned “rather than have his ethics compromised.”

Critics of Heise’s administration, however, noted that township residents faced a significant tax increase and a new tax administration fee during those years. Heise, critics said, unsuccessfully attempted to move the Northville Downs racetrack to Plymouth and had publicly encouraged Meijer to sue the township. Critics also cited accusations of intimidation tactics, higher costs to residents and questionable spending practices during the years Clinton described in his letter as “making meaningful progress.”

“Serving the residents of Plymouth Township has been an honor, and I sincerely appreciate the trust they placed in me,” Clinton said.

Moving right along

There’s good news and bad news.

The continued improvements to the North Branch Big Swan Creek Intercounty Drain includes the recent opening one roadway and closed another.

In Sumpter Township, three road crossings on Willis Road are scheduled for replacement. The “west” Willis Road crossing located approximately 300 feet west of the Elwell Road-Willis Road intersection, and the “middle” Willis Road crossing located approximately 420 feet west of the Willis Road and Wilmot Road intersection have been completed.

Both crossings are scheduled to open tomorrow with replaced asphalt. The “east” Willis Road crossing, located approximately 1,400 feet west of the Sumpter Road and Willis Road crossing, has been prepared and installation of the new crossing was scheduled to begin July 29.

The tentative schedule for replacing all the Willis Road crossings and removing the Willis Road detour is the week of Aug. 10.

The work is being completed by the Monroe and Wayne County Drain commissions and the Washtenaw County Water Resource Commission.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Canton Roundabout is topic

Representatives from the Canton Township Engineering Services Division, along with the Wayne County Department of Public Service and The Mannik and Smith Group, will be hosting an open house to discuss the upcoming 2027 roundabout construction at the Sheldon and Palmer intersection.

The discussion is scheduled from 3 until 6 p.m. Aug. 13 at the Summit on the Park Banquet Room.

Staff and experts will answer questions, review materials, and showcase a to-scale model representation of how the roundabout.

More information is available at (734) 394-5150.

 

Duck Race tickets now on sale

The Annual Lucky Ducky Rubber Duck Race sponsored by the Belleville Rotary Club is set for 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 on Belleville Lake at Horizon Park. Tickets, limited to 1,100, are now available from any Rotary member.

For more information, visit the Belleville Rotary Club Facebook page.

 

Plymouth Fall Festival set

The 69^th Annual Plymouth Fall Festival and Rotary Chicken Barbeque is set for Sept. 11, 12 and 13 this year.

Tickets for the famous Sunday Chicken Barbeque are priced at $17 presale and $20 the day of the event.

Organizers said the traditional event which is a combined fundraiser for charities, civic organizations and school events will include the traditional popular attractions and some new features.

 

Belleville sets City Wide Sale

A city-wide array of garage and yard sales is set in Belleville from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13.

Clothing, furniture and housewares, children’s items and clothes along with books and collectibles will be sold by local residents at individual sales throughout the community.

Wayne County leads country in produce borne viral infections

Health officials report that while Michigan leads the nation in the number of debilitating cyclosporiasis infections caused by a virus on fresh fruits and vegetables,  Wayne County has reported more instances of the illness than any area throughout the country. More than 8,100 cases have been reported in the state and Wayne County has recorded 1,201 cases of the intestinal infection which stems from the Cyclospora parasite, heavily tied to fresh produce and leafy greens

A recent poll found that four in 10 Americans are carefully weighing the purchase of fresh produce in the area and have curtailed eating salads and garnishes of lettuce, tomato and cucumber, in light of the potential illness.

While Michigan officials say lettuce is the potential source, the Food and Drug Administration has yet to find a positive link to the parasite in any food product, leaving the investigation open.

The virus spreads via food or water contaminated with microscopic feces; it does not pass directly person-to-person, health officials said. Symptoms include frequent, watery diarrhea (often explosive); severe abdominal cramps and bloating; nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue and often a low-grade fever.

Offiicals said symptoms usually start about a week after exposure but can take up to two weeks. 

Medical experts advise residents to buy whole heads of lettuce instead of pre-bagged mixes, discard the outer leaves, and wash the inner leaves thoroughly under clean running water. Cooking greens destroys the parasite, they added. 

Those who have ongoing symptoms are urged to contact their physicians and specifically request a test for Cyclospora. Treatment relies on prescription antibiotics like Bactrim (TMP-SMX), medical experts advised.

40 and out

Romulus firefighter marks 4 decades of service at retirement celebration  

Romulus Fire Department Capt. John Thiede made his retirement official earlier this month and celebrated his four decades of emergency service to the community.

Thiede, has “answered the call with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community,” for 40 years, officials said. “His leadership, experience, and willingness to mentor those around him have left a lasting impact on our department and everyone fortunate enough to serve alongside him.”

One of the most memorable events in Thiede’s career took place immediately following the disastrous Flight 255. Thiede, a rookie firefighter in 1987 when the plane crashed immediately after takeoff killing all 156 souls aboard, was one of the first firefighters responding at the scene of the wreckage. He and two other firefighters discovered the only survivor of the crash, 4-year-old Cecila Chichan who was strapped into a booster device in her airplane seat. Her miraculous survival was celebrated across the country.

Thiede has since come to know Cichon as an adult and was even invited to her wedding.

Thiede has also gained fame with his second career as an actor. He is well-known throughout the area and beyond for his professional appearances in multiple stage and film productions. He trained at Second City Theater in Detroit and has appeared on Detroit 1-8-7 and All My Children among many other professional credits. He also hosted the weekly sports show Sports Talk 60 on the Comcast Sports Channel, fulfilling a lifelong dream, he said.  

Thiede is also the founder of the Hook and Ladder Theatre Company in Romulus which presents live stage productions in the community.

During his official retirement ceremony, he was presented with a resolution by Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight along with a certificate from Mayor Pro Tem Tina Talley.

Officials recalled details of Thiede’s long career and his well-known humor.

“Forty years in the fire service is more than a career—it’s a legacy of sacrifice, dedication, and countless lives touched. While his presence on the apparatus floor will be missed, the example he has set will continue to influence future generations of firefighters,” officials said.

In a Facebook posting, the department staff thanked Thiede “For your extraordinary service, leadership, and commitment. We wish you and your family nothing but health, happiness, and many well-earned adventures in retirement.”

Thiede recently accepted a position as City of Belleville Fire Chief.

Proposed deputy supervisor choice splits Sumpter Township trustees

Sumpter Township trustees were expected to vote again Tuesday on the proposed appointment of Supervisor Tim Bowman’s son as deputy township supervisor.

The proposal by Bowman to name his son for the annual $8,200 part time job was rejected by members of the board by a 3-3 vote during the July 14 meeting. Following the failure of his motion appointing his son to the position, Bowman abruptly left the meeting throwing his meeting paperwork to the floor and expressing his displeasure with the vote.

Trustee Tim Rush, a long-time member of the board, chaired the remainder of the meeting. Rush formerly served as deputy supervisor but resigned from the position. While Rush did vote in favor of the motion, he said in a later interview he realized the appointment of Bowman’s son was controversial in the township.

Trustee Matthew Oddy was opposed to the appointment and the practice of officials’ naming family members to township jobs noting during the meeting that the optics of such appointments were not favorable. He said past appointments of spouses, children or family members were not a good image for the township.

“I’m not a proponent of nepotism,” he said

This was the second effort by Bowman to secure a township position for his son, T.J. Bowman. In May, T.J. Bowman applied for a job as a part-time township ordinance inspector. Members of the township hiring committee noted that in that capacity, Bowman, operator of West Branch Building, would be in a position of authority over contractors working in the township, including work by some of his business competitors and possibly his own company. A hiring committee member cautioned the board members at the time that the appointment would be a conflict of interest.

Subsequently, trustees approved hiring another candidate during the May 26 meeting. Bowman criticized that vote and publicly stated at the meeting that the board had “discriminated” against his son, officials said.

The duties of the deputy supervisor are described as “statutory” with a limited scope of duties and authority.  During extended discussion of the proposed appointment during the meeting this month, Bowman said he wanted his son to “do more” and suggested the job be retitled as “Deputy Supervisor Plus.”  Oddy said his concern was that designation and assignment of additional municipal duties could result in the younger Bowman becoming an employee of the township. In that capacity, Oddy said, the position would not be answerable to the supervisor but would be directed by the board of trustees.

Bowman’s motion failed on a 3-3 vote, and in response Bowman loudly announced he was through with the meeting, threw his pen and paperwork to the floor and angrily left the meeting room. Rush chaired the remainder of the meeting during which several agenda items were approved and discussed.  Bowman reportedly later returned to the meeting room as the board went into closed session to discuss legal matters with the township attorney.

Oddy said that his objections were based on the lack of a detailed job description of the expected hours and scope of duties of the deputy supervisor, along with a discussion of benefits and pay “before the board approved paying someone $8,200 per year for a position that isn’t full-time.”

Trustee James Frazier voted in favor of the proposed hiring along with Bowman and Rush. In the excused absence of Treasurer Bart Patterson, the motion failed on a tie vote with Oddy, Clerk Don LaPorte and Trustee John Henry casting no votes.

The item was on the agenda for the meeting Tuesday.

Safety officials lower vehicle weight limit on Sheldon Road bridge

Safe travel across a Sheldon Road bridge in Canton Township depends on the make and model of vehicle being driven.

Following a safety inspection by staff members from the Wayne County Department of Public Services in May, the bridge has been determined unsafe for vehicles of more than 3 tons. That would include heavy-duty consumer trucks, commercial box trucks and large luxury SUV vehicles, according to a cautionary statement from Wayne County issued last week.

The bridge, which connects Michigan Avenue and Palmer Road was formerly designated as safe for vehicles up to 18 tons, officials said. Passenger cars, light-duty pickup trucks and most other vehicles usually weigh less than the 3-ton limit and can safely use the Sheldon Road bridge which provides access across the Sine Drain, officials said. Township officials noted on a media post that vehicles including the “Ford F-550, Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD, Ram 3500 and Lincoln Navigator L may exceed” the new limit imposed by safety inspectors.

The replacement of the bridge is scheduled for “sometime in the fall of next year,” according to a statement from Canton Township.

Officials said the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is usually found on the information sticker on the driver’s side door jamb. The information, sometimes labeled GVWR, is included with the tire and loading information provided by the vehicle manufacturer.

Wayne County officials said no disruption is expected to businesses or residents using vehicles within the new limit but cautioned drivers to use caution while crossing the bridge.

More information is available from the Wayne County 24-hour customer service center at 888-762-3273.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Canton Roundabout is topic

Representatives from the Canton Township Engineering Services Division, along with the Wayne County Department of Public Service and The Mannik and Smith Group, will be hosting an open house to discuss the upcoming 2027 roundabout construction at the Sheldon and Palmer intersection.

The discussion is scheduled from 3 until 6 p.m. Aug. 13 at the Summit on the Park Banquet Room.

Staff and experts will answer questions, review materials, and showcase a to-scale model representation of how the roundabout.

More information is available at (734) 394-5150.

 

Duck Race tickets now on sale

The Annual Lucky Ducky Rubber Duck Race sponsored by the Belleville Rotary Club is set for 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 on Belleville Lake at Horizon Park. Tickets, limited to 1,100, are now available from any Rotary member.

For more information, visit the Belleville Rotary Club Facebook page.

 

Farmers Markets are open

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Thursday through Oct. 29.

The market takes place at 550 Seven Mile Road.

The Canton Farmers Market is open Sundays offering weekly access to fresh food, local goods and family-friendly activities at Preservation Park. Located at 500 N. Ridge Road, the market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on most Sundays through Oct. 11, rain or shine.

The Plymouth Market, located in The Gathering across from Kellogg Park is open from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Saturdays.

Westland hosts a Farmers Market from 3 until 7 p.m. on Thursday at 1901 N. Carlson, Westland.

Developer’s arrest halts $3 billion Romulus project

Plans for a $3 billion sports complex in Romulus have been halted with the arrest of project leader Kenneth Bardwell by the FBI.

The West Bloomfield man has been charged with wire fraud after federal investigators accused him of collecting millions from investors for the proposed sports and entertainment complex which Bardwell told city officials and potential investors would cost up to $3 billion. According to court documents, federal investigators claim he used much of investors’ money paying for visits to strip clubs, luxury goods, rental vehicles and expenses for himself, his wife, his girlfriend and associates.

Bardwell, 66, was charged with one count of wire fraud in a criminal complaint filed July 14 in U.S. District Court in Detroit, stemming from a scheme investigators say dates from October 2018.

The proposed 450-acre Motown Sports development in Romulus was proposed to include a 10,000-seat arena, hockey rinks, an indoor football field, hotels, an indoor water and surf park, IMAX theaters, Topgolf, a spa and other attractions. Investors were allegedly told their money would be used to buy the land and would be returned from an escrow account if the purchase failed. Federal investigators said they found no such escrow account.

City of Romulus officials denied Bardwell’s request for $152 million in public bonds in 2024. City officials later told investigators they believed the project was a scam after Bardwell allegedly failed to provide detailed plans, site surveys, zoning submissions or complete other basic development steps.

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight said he felt the city avoided any financial loss after city officials investigated and questioned some of Bardwell’s financial claims.

“As mayor, my administration has made economic development for the benefit of our residents a priority. We will work with anyone who can legitimately help us move Romulus forward, because our city deserves the best in housing, retail, and job creation” McCraight said in a prepared statement following the announcement of Bardwell’s arrest and federal charges.

“Which is why we were supportive of this concept until receiving numerous contacts forcing us to question the legitimacy of the development,” McCraight continued. “The federal criminal charges appear to be the culmination of important work by federal law enforcement, which includes our referral of concerns that developed over time.  Most importantly, when the individual in question came asking for funds from our taxpayers, we said absolutely not. 

“We will not tolerate what appears to be an attempt to take advantage of Romulus and its residents,” McCraight said.
According to the complaint, Bardwell maintained a purchase agreement with Ashley Capital for seven years by making annual deposits of about $100,000 but never purchased the Romulus property. He paid $60,000 for a final extension on May 29, 2026, and was told he had until June 30 to produce the full $28 million purchase price. Bardwell allegedly told an employee, “my life depends on this,” while claiming 1,800 people had invested.

Investigators also questioned the reported crowdfunding support of the project. The page showed 449 reservations representing $6.74 million in investment interest, but 373 came from only 10 IP addresses. One address generated 203 reservations, and most of the addresses traced to the Philippines

Bank records showed $2.3 million in cash withdrawals, more than $200,000 in strip-club charges, in excess of $130,000 in luxury purchases and at least $420,000 spent on Rolex watches, purses and jewelry. Witnesses alleged Bardwell visited strip clubs several times a week and sometimes spent about $10,000 per visit. Among the investors was a Detroit church that wrote a $10,000 check with the memo “Investment for Church,” according to bank records cited in the complaint.

A woman described as Bardwell’s girlfriend received $19,000 from company accounts in just over a month, according to the complaint. Her social media posts allegedly showed cash, a Jeep, Cartier and Chanel items and home improvements credited to “KB” or “daddy.” Bardwell’s wife also allegedly endorsed investor checks, withdrew business funds, received payments and had apartment rent paid from Motown Sports accounts.

The complaint also claims Bardwell promoted other unsuccessful sports-complex proposals dating to 2009 in Pontiac, Vandalia, Illinois, and Winchester, Kentucky, and that an earlier version of this project in Waterford was abandoned.

Investigators further alleged Bardwell had not filed personal tax returns since 2019, except for a partial 2023 return involving gambling winnings.

The FBI is searching for anyone who may have invested money with Motown Sports Group Holdings, Inc., or with Bardwell.

Poses and noses

Maybury Farm offers popular Goat Yoga classes on Saturdays

Goat Yoga, a popular exercise discipline, is now offered at Maybury Farm in Northville.

The popular trend which began in 2015 in Arizona and has spread throughout the world offers yoga in a farm setting surrounded by playful baby goats. Organizers believe the playful energy of the animals creates a more relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.   

The initial Goat Yoga class at Maybury Farm took place this spring utilizing experienced yoga instructors, led by Morgan Wendland, along with a team of curious and sweet goat yogis. The misty rain and a chill in the air didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the guests who reserved a spot for the first goat yoga session, a spokesman noted.

Under protective tents and shades, the playful goats livened up the classes and the interactions are both fun and promote stress relief, she added.

“The good natured goats and human participants are a joy together - recently proven when the goats attempted to eat a future bride's veil during her bachelorette yoga party. The program has become a wonderful and well-attended addition to the offerings at Maybury Farm.”

Saturday morning sessions begin at 10:30 a.m. can be scheduled at www.mayburyfarm.org/goatyoga. Sessions are priced at $25.

Organizers said the Maybury Farm classes are designed for both experienced and beginning yogis and offer “a great way to unwind, connect with nature, and of course, play with some cute and cuddly goats.”

Sumpter voters to decide police operating millage on Aug. 4 ballot

Voters in Sumpter Township will be asked to vote yes or no on a 5 mill levy Aug. 4 to fund police protection in the community .

In an effort to help residents who have expressed some confusion about the issue or the impact of the funding, Sumpter Township Public Safety Director and Chief of Police Eric Luke recently provided some general information about department operations and details regarding funding of the department.

Luke explained that the Sumpter Township Police Department serves approximately 12,500 residents, an estimate based on the population increase during the past few years. The current staff includes 18 police officers who provide services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls for service have increased considerably during the past five years, Luke said, from 10,699 in 2021 to 20,663 last year.

“Despite increasing demands, our dispatch-to-arrival response times have remained consistent, averaging just over 8 minutes over that same period,” Luke noted in a social media report.

The Sumpter Township department has operated under the same two police millages, totaling 3 mills, since 2011. Those millages expired in 2025, and the remaining funding will support police operations only through the end of this year, Luke explained.

“It's been 15 years since Sumpter Township last asked for a police millage increase. During that time, the Sumpter Township Police Department has continued serving our community, responding to emergencies, protecting neighborhoods, and adapting to rising costs without asking taxpayers for additional support, he said.

“We've worked tirelessly to do more each year with the resources voters approved. We aim to continue providing the level of service residents have come to expect and deserve,” he added.

The cost of operating the police department has continued to rise across the country, the chief noted. Vehicles, equipment, technology, training, fuel, insurance, personnel, and everyday operating expenses all cost significantly more today than when the current millages were approved.

The proposal before voters would replace the two expired police millages with a single 5-mill levy for four years for police protection, operations, and maintenance. This proposal would provide stable funding for the next four years, enabling the police department to continue providing dependable service to the community.

When approved by voters, the proposal is estimated to generate approximately $2,428,884 during the first year. Those funds are restricted by law to be used for police protection, police operations, and maintenance of the Sumpter Township Police Department, Luke explained.

The average taxable value of a home in Sumpter Township is approximately $125,000. Today, the average homeowner contributes approximately $375 per year toward police services through the existing 3-mill levy. Under the proposed 5-mill levy, that amount would be approximately $625 per year, an increase of approximately $250 annually, according to officials.

The expired police millages generated about $1.4 million last year while the annual police department operating budget is approximately $3.4 million. The current millages funded only about 41 percent of police operations in the community. The balance of the necessary funding came from the Township General Fund, primarily through landfill royalty revenues, according to officials.

If approved, the proposed millage would increase the share of police funding coming directly from the police millage to approximately 71 percent of the department operating budget, Luke said.

“It is our privilege to serve the residents of Sumpter Township; we appreciate your support,” Luke concluded.

Sumpter Township voters will be asked to vote yes or no on the Aug. 4 ballot question.

Romulus Rotary Club elects new board, inducts new member

Members of the Romulus Rotary Club recently celebrated the installation of the 2026-2027 board of officers and welcomed a new member.

Outgoing President Stan Bragg closed his term with special words of recognition for each club member and a significant donation to the club “Every Member Every Year” Rotary International Annual Fund effort. Bragg passed the gavel to incoming President John Danci,

The club members presented Bragg with a Past President pin in appreciation for his service as president of the club.

New board members for 2026-2027 were sworn into office by Assistant District Governor Carol Bevard. The new officers include Darci as president; Helen Willis as secretary; Miranda Jones as treasurer and Trustees Sandy Tenney and Todd Barron.

The club members also formally inducted Rhonda Cenance and the new 15^th member of the club.

The Romulus Rotary Club welcomes new members and visitors. The club typically meets at various area locations at 7 p.m. on Thursday. As meeting locations change weekly based on project needs and community outreach, prospective members should check the official Rotary District 6400 Directory or reach out to the club directly at Rotary Club of Romulus, Michigan Facebook page to confirm the location.

11^th Annual Canton Rally on Ridge fundraiser set for tomorrow

It’s a big night in Canton Township tomorrow as the 11^th Annual Rally on Ridge takes place in Preservation Park.

The popular annual event is a fundraiser for the Canton Farmers Market and draws a large crowd for the array of food trucks and live music. The event takes place from 4 until 9 p.m. organizers said and is always popular with crowds

In addition to the gourmet menus available for purchase from a variety of food trucks, this event will also feature live music performed by the Dan Raferty Band. Eventgoers who plan to stay for the music are encouraged to bring along a lawn chair or picnic blanket for lawn seating, organizers said.

A variety of food trucks are expected to take part in this year’s event, including: Auntie Anne’s; Berry BOWL’D, El Jefe Tacos & More; Hogz Backyard BBQ; Impasto Detroit; KG’s African American Grill; Little Bite Big Taste; Meltdown Creamery; Mr. Pitt Master Barbeque; Shawarma Chef Food Truck; Smitten Beverage Company; Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck; and Wing Snob.

In addition to food trucks, a Beer Garden, featuring a curated selection of Michigan beers and hard ciders, will also be available for participants 21 years of age and older.

“The Canton Farmers Market is thrilled to welcome the community back for this annual fundraiser, which has become such a popular event of the summer season,” said Chelsea Straub, recreation manager. “We invite everyone to come and enjoy a beautiful summer evening outside, savoring tasty bites from an incredible lineup of gourmet food trucks, paired With the recent influx in “buy local” initiatives, the Canton Farmers Market is seeing an increase in both the number of participating growers and customers, organizers said. The market is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Sundays, rain or shine, through Oct. 11, 2026, in Preservation Park.

Community calendar

 

Rally on Ridge tomorrow

The 11^th Annual Rally on Ridge, a fundraiser for the Canton Farmers Market, will take place from 4 until 9 p.m. at Preservation Park tomorrow.

The popular event features a large number of food trucks and live entertainment.

There is no admission charge at the event which also features a Beer Garden with multiple specialty beers for those 21 and older.

Veterans benefit bootcamp Set at Schoolcraft College

Schoolcraft College is hosting a free Benefits Bootcamp for current military members, veterans, and their families from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 30, at the Livonia campus.

The event is free, open to the public, and no registration is required.

For more information, visit https://www.schoolcraft.edu/benefits-bootcamp-to-help

Vistatech is located at 18600 Haggerty Road. The event will take place in room 460

 

United Way School Supply Drive continues until July 31

The annual Plymouth Community United Way School Supply Drive will continue through July 31. The goal this year is to collect supplies to fill 200 student backpacks. Information regarding donations is available on the United Way website and social pages.

 

Duck Race tickets now on sale

The Annual Lucky Ducky Rubber Duck Race sponsored by the Belleville Rotary Club is set for 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 on Belleville Lake at Horizon Park. Tickets, limited to 1,100, are now available from any Rotary member.

For more information, visit the Belleville Rotary Club Facebook page.

 

Farmers Markets are open

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Thursday through Oct. 29.

The market takes place at 550 Seven Mile Road.

The Canton Farmers Market is open Sundays offering weekly access to fresh food, local goods and family-friendly activities at Preservation Park. Located at 500 N. Ridge Road, the market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on most Sundays through Oct. 11, rain or shine.

The Plymouth Market, located in The Gathering across from Kellogg Park is open from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Saturdays.

Westland hosts a Farmers Market from  3 until 7 p.m. on Thursday at 1901 N. Carlson, Westland.

 

Teachers’ lawsuit alleges district age discrimination

Officials from the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools have not commented on a lawsuit filed by four district teachers alleging age discrimination. The district does not comment on pending legal matters as a matter of policy, said Frank Ruggirello Jr., spokesperson for the district.

The four teachers, all formerly employed at Bentley Elementary School, filed the lawsuit in May, claiming in Wayne County Circuit Court documents that they were subjected to age-based discrimination and hostility as “the district engaged in a systemic effort to remove older teachers and replace them with substantially younger, less experienced individuals.”

Teachers Michelle West, 61, Linda Verduzco, 54, Julie Casser, 50, and Sheri Bowler, 55, all represented by attorney David Nacht, included Bentley Elementary Principal Edward Latour in their complaint which claims LaTour targeted older educators with openly hostile acts, false performance reviews and inappropriate re
tirement surveys. All four of the complainants said they had not planned on retirement but left their jobs due to the alleged conduct and discrimination by LaTour. All claim they were replaced by young teachers.

"We worship youth and vitality, but for skills like teaching, people get better the longer they do it," Nacht said. "In general, we learn from our mistakes, and we get better and improve. The idea that we would deprive our children of the best public-school teachers simply because they got older is just terrible public policy.”

When Latour became principal at Bentley in 2023, he allegedly did a retirement survey of teachers at the school demanding to know who intended to retire or transfer. He allegedly conducted a "targeted campaign" against older teachers who didn't want to leave and was “belittling and degrading in meetings and launched false accusations and patterns of intimidation” against them, according to the lawsuit.

“Defendant’s conduct was not isolated. It reflected a broader pattern and practice of targeting older teachers for removal based on age and cost considerations,” according to the lawsuit. “The district’s own independent investigation found Latour violated Board Policies governing staff ethics and professionalism.”

The teachers are seeking an unspecified monetary amount in damages; back pay;  lost wages and benefits and compensation for loss of future earning capacity.