Owners facing felony charges in dog attack

The owners of three large dogs that seriously injured a jogger in Plymouth Township last month have been arraigned on multiple felony charges which carry 4-year prison terms.

Kelita Jackson Holland, 56, and Edward Alan Turner, 56, both of Plymouth Township, were arraigned May 8 before 35^th District Court Judge Joseph Barone. Jackson-Holland faces four counts of dangerous animal causing injury and Turner faces one count of the same felony offense.

The victim, identified by police only as a 64-year-old man, suffered severe injuries in the attack and was rushed to a hospital for treatment. He is still recovering from his wounds, police said.

The attack took place as the victim was jogging in the 12000 block of Canton Center Road at about 6:35 a.m. March 28. Plymouth Township Police received 911 calls reporting a vicious attack of a man by three large dogs. Callers told police the man had fallen to the ground and was no longer able to fight off the animals.

The dogs, two large cane corsos and a pit bull, charged at responding officers and prevented them from immediately helping the victim. Officers fired a warning shot to frighten the animals away from the man and one of the cane corsos was then captured at the scene. The other two dogs fled.

Police later located the other cane corso in back yard of a nearby home. Police reported that the animal again charged at them and was viciously aggressive during capture attempts forcing them to shoot the animal. The third dog, a pit bull, escaped capture for several days and was finally apprehended March 31 by officers in the city of Plymouth after a resident near Fairground Park notified police. Officers from both the township and city attempted to capture the animal, police said, but the dog again demonstrated aggressive behavior and charged at the officers forcing them to fire warning shots. One of the rounds struck the pit bull which had to then be forcibly removed from under a patrol vehicle by officers using animal control poles. The animal was taken to a veterinary clinic for treatment but died of the injuries.

“The failure to secure and control these dangerous dogs caused a violent attack of an innocent jogger,” said Plymouth Township Police Chief James Knittel. “This attack resulted in significant injuries to the jogger, who is still recovering.”  Reports of the incident were forwarded to the office of the Wayne County prosecutor who filed felony charges against the owners.

Knittel said the actions of residents calling 911 probably saved the life of the victim. He added that the township department is "committed to holding dog owners responsible."

“The last thing in the world we want to do is harm an animal if we don’t have to,” Knittel said. “But at the end of the day, our job is to keep everybody safe.”

Barone issued Jackson-Holland a $75,000 unsecured bond and Turner a $25,000 unsecured bond and required both to wear GPS tethers and have no possession of animals, especially dogs. They are also forbidden to possess any firearms and have no contact with the victim. They each face a preliminary court examination of the charges on May 29.

Honored

City clerk is Person of the Year

The long-term and consistent contributions to the Romulus community by City Clerk Ellen Craig-Bragg were recognized and honored last week as she was named Person of the Year by the Romulus Chamber of Commerce.

Craig-Bragg’s history of service includes her more than 15 years as city clerk and her previous term on the city council but her history of dedication to her community service goes far beyond her professional expertise, noted Mark Lewkowicz who acted as emcee at a Chamber of Commerce banquet honoring Craig-Bragg last week.

Honors, formal resolutions and awards were presented to Craig-Bragg by Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight; State Sen. Darrin Camilleri; Mayor Pro tem Tina Talley, Jazmine Danci of the Romulus Rotary Club; the Rev. John Cole of Union Grove Baptist Church; Carolyn Jones of the American Progressive Association and the Rev. Arthur Willis, among many
others.

Each presenter detailed Craig-Bragg’s history and dedication to volunteer work in the community and her church. While she was honored as the 2021 City Clerk of the Year by the Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks, her service, several presenters noted, goes far beyond her recognized professional expertise.

Her history of service began years ago in the Romulus Community Schools where she started as an aide and parent volunteer at Halecreek Elementary School. She worked as a substitute teacher coordinator in the school board office and eventually became the secretary in the Guidance and Counseling office at the high school. She coached cheerleading for the Romulus flyers and led programs at the local Boys and Girls Club prior to her service on the city council. She co-chaired the Martin Luther King Day celebration and the Juneteenth program and she is an active member of the volunteer Romulus Drug Task Force.

The celebration would not have been complete, however, without a nod to Craig-Bragg’s musical background. She has served as the entertainment coordinator for the traditional Pumpkin Festival and as the Music Minister at Union Baptist Church where her family worships.

She is uniquely qualified for the music ministry as the daughter of a recording artist and member of the Merced Blue Notes during the 1950s. In addition to her father’s musical career, her mother is a well-known gospel singer.

While attending Merrit College in California, Craig-Bragg sang with the Oakland Symphony Chorus. Her musical history also includes her time in Frankfurt, Germany where her husband was stationed during his military career. She was the music director for the Atterberry Military Chapel and led the 97^th General Hospital Chapel programs. The five choirs she led performed in community events and concerts throughout Germany.

Closer to home, Craig-Bragg has performed the national anthem at multiple civic celebrations and memorials including Wreaths Across America and Veterans Day celebrations.

During the multiple awards presented to Craig-Bragg, her exceptional volunteer work in the community was repeatedly noted by dignitaries noting the honor was “deeply deserved.”  The evening included musical performances in tribute to Craig-Bragg.

Fellow city and township clerks from several local communities were in attendance honoring Craig-Bragg along with multiple area dignitaries and her devoted family.

“An honor that is incredibly well deserved. Ellen’s dedication to public service and commitment to the Romulus community continue to make a real difference every day,” Lewkowicz noted as the crowd stood for multiple standing ovations to Craig-Bragg’s career of community service.

Township trustees expected to name new Plymouth clerk

The Plymouth Township Board of Trustees was expected to confirm the appointment of Kim Gaedeke as the new township clerk at a meeting Tuesday, May 12.

If approved, Gaedeke would complete the term of former clerk Jerry Vorva who resigned in March. Vorva cited his health and a hostile working environment as his reasons for leaving his role and is currently involved in a lawsuit with board Trustee John Stewart.

Board members appeared to agree to compromise and reach a 4-2 agreement to appoint Gaedeke after an extensive meeting with multiple candidates earlier this month

Gaedeke, is a 20-year Plymouth township resident who currently works for the University of Michigan Opioid Research Institute. She has previous experience in state government and has worked in leadership with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Gaedeke told the board members the clerk’s position would give her the opportunity to return to public service although it would be a “significant reduction in pay.”

The Plymouth Township Clerk is currently paid an annual salary of $120,000, plus a benefit package. 

“I prefer service over making a ton of money,” Gaedeke said. “I’m blessed that I’m financially in a situation where I’m able to take a pay cut.”

The appointment follows weeks of disagreement and a deadlocked vote on two clerk candidates who are also board trustees. Both Sandy Groth and Jennifer Buckley had expressed interest in the position which resulted in a tie vote of the six members eligible to vote on the appointment in recent discussions.

During the May 5 meeting, Supervisor Chuck Curmi, Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz, Trustee Mark Clinton and Buckley tentatively agreed to support Gaedeke. Groth and Stewart did not indicate their projected vote.

Northville Township fire chief moving to city department

 

Northville Township Fire Department Battalion Chief Brent Muller has retired from the department.

As one of the first full-time firefighters in the township, Muller has been part of the growth at the department for nearly three decades. He was 18 when he first put on township fire turnout gear. At the time, Six Mile Road was an unpaved dirt road and the current Northville High School had yet to be built. After 28 years, his last shift is set for today, May 14, and his official retirement date is June 1.

He is not going far, though. He will be stepping into a new role as the first-ever deputy fire chief for the City of Northville,

“It was just a very tough decision, because the work here is great,” Muller said. “The people on the fire department are great. The township has been great. These last three, four years have been the best out of my 28 years in the fire service.”

He was sought out for this new opportunity, though, he said, and he will be the first deputy fire chief in the city of Northville. In his new role, Muller will help lead a department that serves both the City of Northville and the City of Plymouth.

“This is a rare opportunity, not just professionally, but regionally,” said Township Manager Glenn Caldwell. “Having someone with deep roots in Northville Township stepping into a leadership role next door creates a stronger connection between our departments and ultimately benefits the residents we both serve. I’m excited for our community and for Brent.”

Muller echoed that sentiment, noting that his move is not a departure, but an evolution.

“I’m lucky. It’s right down the road. I already know the community, and I’ll still get to work with the people here from time to time,” he said.

When Muller joined the department in 1997, first as a paid on-call firefighter and then becoming  full-time career firefighter in 1999, crews responded to fewer than 1,000 calls annually. Today, that number has grown to nearly 4,000 runs per year, reflecting both the township’s expansion and the increasing complexity of modern emergency services, he recalled.

“The best part of the job is sitting down with your crew, sharing a meal, and just laughing together,” he said. “That’s your second family.”

Muller said family is the reason he pursued a firefighting career. His father, uncle and cousin were all in the industry. “It’s the family business,” Muller said. “I’m one of the lucky ones who knew what I always wanted to do since I was a young kid.”

Muller and his wife, Kristal, have three children. The oldest, Landon, 16, wants to be a firefighter as well. His 15-year-old twins, Dylan and Morgan, haven’t committed to it…yet.

Plymouth Township, city formalize joint police

Plymouth City Commissioners have approved the PCPP (Plymouth Community Policing Partnership), an intergovernmental agreement which formalizes long-standing cooperation between the City of Plymouth and Plymouth Township police departments and creates a structured framework for joint investigative efforts.

“Many people aren’t aware that the Plymouth community is served by two separate—but highly effective—police departments,” said Plymouth Director of Public Safety and Plymouth Police Chief Al Cox.

“Some residents don’t differentiate between city and township services, so it’s important that we successfully work seamlessly with the township to remain laser focused on keeping our residents safe and secure.”

The PCPP is designed to coordinate post-initial response to criminal investigations that would benefit from shared personnel, intelligence, and specialized resources. Rather than creating a new department or command structure, the partnership functions as a collaborative consortium in which both agencies remain equal partners, officials said. The formalized agreement also highlights some of the key objectives in the city of Plymouth 5-year Strategic Plan including, but not limited to: departmental collaboration, training opportunities, and partnerships.

The general purpose of the PCPP is to enhance public safety and quality of life within both communities through coordinated and cooperative law enforcement investigative operations, officials noted.

The agreement is authorized under Michigan law, including the Mutual Police Assistance Agreements Act, the Urban Cooperation Act, and other applicable statutes governing intergovernmental police cooperation. Each department remains responsible for its own personnel costs, equipment, insurance coverage, discipline, and administrative oversight. Investigative expenses are generally borne by the originating agency unless otherwise agreed.

Additionally, the PCPP will serve as a collaborative training consortium, allowing both agencies to coordinate in-service criminal justice training and share instructional and facility resources. “This agreement strengthens regional collaboration, improves investigative capacity, promotes efficiency, and enhances public safety, while maintaining clear lines of authority, accountability and fiscal responsibility,” Cox added.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Farmers Markets are open

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. today, May 14, and continue 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.

Library plans public meeting

The results of a community survey regarding the future of the Northville District Library will be presented by representatives from The Ivy Group at a public meeting set for 7 p.m. May 21 at the Northville Community Center. Information required pre- registration is available at the library website: www.northvillelibrary.org, by email at nortref@northvillelibrary.org, or by phone at  (248) 349-3020.

 

Liberty Festival dates set

Canton Township officials have approved changes to the traditional Liberty Festival set for June 18-20 this year.

The new focus for the 33^rd annual festival will be a renewed emphasis on family-friendly activities.

The traditional fireworks display will be moved to a later date in the summer to join the nationwide “America 250” celebration.

GM to invest $300 million in Romulus plant

General Motors will invest $300 million in the Romulus Propulsion Systems plant on Ecorse Road, according to a corporate announcement last week.

The plant, originally opened in 1976, produces engines for General Motors vehicles. These components are used in some of the highest-volume GM products, including next-generation full-size pickups and SUVs. The investment builds on a prior $300 million allocation announced late last year, in response to an announced demand for expanded output. Romulus employs about 1,000 workers, and the added capacity should stabilize operations as new vehicle programs ramp up, according to a prepared statement from General Motors.

“I am proud to continue working and growing with GM in Romulus. Thank you GM for your investment in our community and bringing additional jobs and opportunities,” noted Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight in a social media post.

The capital injected into the Romulus facility will expand production capacity for high-volume 10-speed transmissions, a key component of the GM truck lineup.

GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra has consistently framed such investments as a commitment to American manufacturing and jobs.

“We believe the future of transportation will be driven by American innovation and manufacturing expertise,” Barra stated earlier this year in a  statement regarding the company’s U.S. investment strategy. The company is leveraging its flexible manufacturing footprint to remain competitive and meet the robust demand for its vehicles from customers, she said.

This series of investments paints a clear picture of an automaker doubling down on its U.S. operations, analysts noted.

“By channeling funds into key component plants like Romulus, GM is ensuring its manufacturing ecosystem is primed to support a significant production ramp-up scheduled for 2027, solidifying the foundation for its next generation of trucks and SUVs,” industry experts noted.

Scams, frauds prompt warnings from area police

Local police departments have recently issued warnings regarding scams in the area.

In prepared statements and social media posts, police from Canton Township, Romulus and Wayne said their departments had become aware of a text‑based scam in which individuals receive messages claiming they have unpaid parking fines, along with a fictitious summons containing a QR code for payment. Those who use the QR code risk having their credit card information compromised, police warned.

Additionally, at least one Canton resident has been approached by a scammer impersonating a DTE worker in an attempt to gain access to her home. Police say this scheme is used primarily to defraud or rob senior citizens.

“We are also aware of similar schemes in which suspects falsely claim to be affiliated with the 36th District Court or other law enforcement agencies,” the statement noted. Residents are reminded that legitimate courts and law enforcement agencies will never contact individuals via text message to request payment of fines.

Police warned anyone who might receive one of these suspicious messages not to click on the links or scan the QR codes. Residents should not use any phone numbers provided in the message, police cautioned but should look up the official agency phone number on its website and contact them directly to verify.

“The Final Enforcement Notice going around is not legitimate. It’s a scam designed to scare you into paying or giving up personal information,” both Romulus and Wayne police warned.

Canton cautioned residents, especially seniors, to always ask for identification. All DTE employees and most contractors carry an ID badge—residents should ask to see it.

“If you’re unsure, keep your door locked and call DTE directly at 800‑477‑4747 to confirm whether a worker should be at your home,” police said.

“If someone refuses to show ID, becomes agitated, or acts suspiciously, do not allow entry and call 911,” officials added.

Residents are also reminded that DTE employees will never request or collect payment at your home or deliver cash refunds or ask to see your bill. DTE does not sell solar panels or ever require prepaid debit cards or threaten immediate shutoffs.

Anyone who suspects they may have encountered a scam, should report the incident to DTE and contact their local police department.

Judge orders Northville officials to open downtown streets

Downtown streets in Northville will remain open to traffic until a formal ruling on the issue from an appeals court.

Last week, Judge Charlene Elder of the Third Judicial Circuit Court of Wayne County denied a request from city officials for a stay on a previous court ruling opening the downtown streets while an appeal of that ruling awaits a court decision.

The original ruling opening the streets was in response to a lawsuit filed by Let’s Open Northville, a group opposed to the closing of all downtown Northville streets to traffic. Kyle Konwinski, the attorney representing the group, said he was pleased with the denial of the motion from the city.

He noted the court called the city request to close the streets, a “veiled attempts to thwart the court’s judgment’.” He said that the city’s request to open the streets during the pendency of the appeal made little logical sense, particularly because “the entire purpose of the week-long trial was to determine the legality of the city’s street closures.”

The original decision ruled the closure of the downtown streets were illegal for a number of reasons, Konwinski said. This effort was the second time the city attempted to “skirt the court’s judgment,” he said and added that he is “hopeful that the city will finally abide by the court’s clear and unambiguous judgment, even though the city is clearly dissatisfied with the result.”

The hearing also dealt with the city scheduling of 27 consecutive weekends of special events which would close the streets until Nov. 1, 2026.  Court documents from Let’s Open Northville objected to every weekend being considered “special” which the group alleged constituted a new version of seasonal closures -- already defeated in the June 2025 trial.  Elder agreed, stating this was “the city’s attempt to maneuver” around that ruling.

While the group also opposed the current construction on one block of downtown Main Street as possibly illegal, Elder said since the city had accomplished the demolition prior to the hearing, she would not stop this phase of reconstruction. She noted that the city had not requested approval from the court for the construction and therefore had not offered reasons the construction was necessary.

The latest ruling follows Elder’s ruling that the City of Northville must pay Let’s Open Northville $5,855 plus sanctions during the pendency of the trial as a result of past improper actions.

Happy anniversary

Wayne theater marks 80 years

 The State Wayne Theater is celebrating 80 years of serving audiences and acting as a beacon in the Wayne community.

Located at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Newberry Street, the theater first opened in 1946. Today, owners say preserving its historic charm has helped usher in new audiences.

"I think it’s about consistency. It’s about the history of what this is," Cory Jacobson, president of Phoenix Theatres, which took over the State Wayne Theater in 2012 said.

The State Theater was first operated by the Shafer family in 1946 for Wayne Amusements.

The theater was originally a single screen facility, later carved in four screens, when National Amusements operated the facility.

The City of Wayne began managing the historic 1,600 seat building in early 1990 after the theater had been closed and dark for many years, offic

ials said. The city added screens and seats but did not change the retro look of the exterior, including the giant lighted marquee.

Phoenix followed that example in preserving the historic image of the building while adding heated, reclining seats and a digital cinema experience to the building.

"We want you to drive by the theater today in 2026 and have it look exactly like it did in 1946," Jacobson said.

Officials said the 80-year-old building continues to attract audiences and about 100,000 tickets are now sold annually at the historic site.

Phoenix Theatres began showing first-run movies at the State Wayne in 2015, officials said.

Residential development planned at site of abandoned school

Members of the Westland City Council were expected to approve a proposal to demolish Marshall Upper Elementary School to allow a new 68-unit single-family home development on the property.

The Wayne Westland Community Schools District is offering to sell the abandoned building and land to the city for about $1 million to facilitate the development. The school was closed in 2020 due to declining enrollment and has been the subject of criticism and safety concerns from neighbors for several years. Neighbors of the Marquette Street building claim the abandoned site has impacted their own property values and city officials have acknowledged reports of break-ins and broken windows at the site.

Currently, Westland officials are reviewing a proposal to develop this property into a subdivision with single family homes starting at about $300,000. The proposed development would require the city to use money from the Brownfield Redevelopment fund, tax capture funds utilized specifically to clean up contaminated sites. In the case of the Marshall property, given the age of the building, there are potential concerns of asbestos within the school, officials said. Brownfield funds would be used to pay for a portion of cleanup and site remediation costs.

The total Brownfield capture of the Marshall Brownfield Middle school is projected to be $4,196,426 over 10 years, according to officials. The total eligible cost of the developer, Pulte Homes, is $1,868,405, which should be repaid within 5 years of the development. The remaining 5 years will include $1,868,405 in Tax Increment Financing Authority (TIFA) revenue to the Westland Brownfield Revolving Authority.

Another $49,821 will go to the Michigan state revolving fund and $409,756 will be used for administrative fees to maintain the administration and ensure all compliance measures are met. Officials claim the development will bring more than $700,000 in new local tax revenue to the community. Currently, they said, the property contributes nothing to the tax rolls in the city.

The city previously explored turning the 120,000-square-foot facility into a recreation/community center, a project which included a potential YMCA partnership.

That plan was abandoned due to the increased costs of asbestos remediation, demolition and reconstruction at the site.

Results of the councilmembers vote on the proposal were not available at press time.

Plymouth Central Parking Deck repairs under way, tree replacement on pause

Maintenance work at the Central Parking Deck in downtown Plymouth is nearing completion, according to officials from the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the group managing the repairs.

The upper level of the deck is expected to be closed the week of May 11 as crews make final repairs including sealant and traffic coating, officials said. During this closure, visitors can park all day at the Christian Science Church located at 1100 W. Ann Arbor Tr. All work is expected to be completed by May 22.

In addition, the city arborist has indicated that the majority of the trees on the Main Street median adjacent to Kellogg Park have died and will need be removed. Many of these trees have been in declining health for several years, officials said. As changes to the median are likely during the DTPForward Streetscape project, the “trees will not be replaced at this time.”

A broader street tree replacement program will be part of the streetscape program in coming years, according to the DDA. The Rotary Club of Plymouth plans to add additional plants in the Main Street median later this month. In addition, in mid-May the Adopt A Planter program volunteers will begin to plant flowers in more than 50 public planters around the downtown district. More than 40 clubs, businesses and residents take part in this annual tradition, according to a prepared statement.

The Adopt A Planter program has been ongoing for several decades and has received state and national recognition.

“The Plymouth DDA thanks all of the hard working volunteers that make this program possible,”  officials concluded.

New department directors are named in City of Westland

The City of Westland recently welcomed a new director of public service and a new city engineer.

Nicholas Bayley has joined the City of Westland as the new director of the Department of Public Service.

Originally from Guelph, Ontario, Bayley brings a strong background in engineering and municipal work, including experience with consulting firms, and the City of Ann Arbor, Westland officials said. Bayley graduated from the Queen’s University of Kingston Ontario in 2020. Prior to joining Westland, he spent several years working on City of Westland projects, giving him valuable insight into the community needs, they added.

Bayley and his wife Sonya are the parents of two children. During his free time, the new director said he enjoys downhill and water skiing, hiking, camping, and working on handyman projects around the house.

Dean Keffer has joined the Westland Department of Public Service team as a city engineer.

Originally from Dundee, Keffer graduated from the University of Toledo in 2016. He gained experience through internships across the country, from Phoenix, Arizona to Rockville, Maryland, before beginning his full-time career with OHM in Livonia, offiicals said.

Keffer spent nine years working as a consultant for the city before joining Westland full time.

Keffer and his wife recently welcomed their first child and said they are looking forward to involvement in Westland.

City of Plymouth Planning Commissioners apartment complex plans

Members of the Plymouth Planning Commission were expected to hear a concept review of a plan for 87 new apartments and townhomes at South Mill Street and Ann Arbor Trail.

Plans for the 3-acre site were scheduled to be presented to planning commissioners during a meeting last month for an informal review prior to submission of a formal plan for the development.

Plans were submitted by Walters Group for adjacent property at South 639 Mill St. and 166 East Ann Arbor Trail and would include a three-story, 81-unit apartment building with a mix of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans, along with two smaller townhouse-style buildings with three three-bedroom units each. 

A train viewing platform, designated parking, outdoor public spaces and pedestrian walkways are included in the plans, according to the documents submitted to commissioners for consideration.

Plans also include several public-facing elements, such as a train viewing platform, designated public parking, outdoor gathering spaces and improved pedestrian connections through the area, documents say. 

The Walters Group plan seeks a PUD designation, which would permit variance from regulated zoning requirements on the basis of “demonstrated public benefits and design considerations.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Fishing Frenzy in Canton

One of the longest-running traditions in Canton Township, the Family Fishing Frenzy, will return from 9 a.m. until noon this Saturday, May 9.

Heritage Park ponds will be stocked with largemouth bass, yellow perch, and hybrid bluegill. For more information and to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/ybcrrhrf

 

Farmers Market opens today

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. today, May 7, and continue each Thursday through Oct. 29.

The market takes place at 550 Seven Mile Road.

 

Library plans public meeting

The results of a community survey regarding the future of the Northville District Library will be presented by representatives from The Ivy Group at a public meeting set for 7 p.m. May 21 at the Northville Community Center. Information regarding registration required pre-registration is available at the library website: www.northvillelibrary.org, by email at nortref@northvillelibrary.org, or by phone at  (248) 349-3020.

 

Liberty Festival dates set

Canton Township officials have approved changes to the traditional Liberty Festival set for June 18-20 this year.

The new focus for the 33^rd annual festival will be a renewed emphasis on family-friendly activities.

The traditional fireworks display will be moved to a later date in the summer to join the nationwide “America 250” celebration, officials said.

Search for ‘Republican’ township clerk continues

Democrats need not apply.

Apparently political affiliation is a deciding qualification to fill the vacant position of clerk in Plymouth Township. An application for the position is currently posted on the township website following a deadlocked 3-3 vote of trustees for two candidates last week.

Township Supervisor Chuck Curmi was candid in his required qualifications for the position noting at the end of the meeting last week that he intends to appoint a Republican to the job.

"Jerry Vorva was a Republican and I want to see a Republican in that office because the voters voted for somebody who's a Republican,” he said. “I know Democrats feel they should have a shot at it, but you'll get that shot in (the 2028 election)."

Current board trustees, Jen Buckley and Sandy Groth, both Republicans, each expressed an interest in the post which pays $120,000, plus benefits annually. The elected office was left vacant with the resignation of Jerry Vorva in February. Trustees delayed accepting Vorva’s resignation

until the state mandated April 21 deadline for a special election to fill the job had elapsed. Had the board accepted Vorva’s February resignation prior to April 21, state law requires a special election to complete the term. Following that deadline, state law allows the board members to appoint a successor to the position. In his letter of resignation, Vorva said his last day on the job would be March 13, but his resignation has not yet been formally accepted by the board members. As of last week, Vorva was still receiving his full salary while touring Europe.

The continued employment of current Deputy Clerk Paula Jefferson was a deciding factor in at least one vote on the replacement clerk candidates last week. Trustee Mark Clinton said Groth’s failure to assure the board of Jefferson’s continued employment was a deciding factor for him. Buckley told the board members she would keep the current deputy clerk in her position.

Groth, who has administered elections in Plymouth, Plymouth Township and Livonia during her 25-year municipal career, said choosing a candidate for the position should be based on experience. Buckley, who has no clerk’s office experience, told her fellow trustees she has a  valuable “working relationship” with current clerk’s staff.

Groth was the choice of Curmi and Trustee John Stewart while Buckley received votes from Clinton and Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz. Each candidate voted for themselves.

The job was posted on the township website April 23 but does not include any designation of political affiliation. Responsibilities of the clerk’s office include the management and oversight of all elections and all official records, including township finances. The Plymouth Township clerk’s office is also a U.S. Passport facility and handles any Freedom of Information Act requests. Today, April 30, was the deadline for applications. The new clerk will be responsible for managing the Aug. 4 primary and Nov. 3 general elections in the community.

The board will revisit the appointment at a special meeting set for 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday, May 5, at Township Hall.

Curtain call

40-year Romulus veteran named new Belleville chief

After four decades serving the City of Romulus, Fire Department Capt. John Thiede has accepted the top post in the Belleville department. Thiede officially took the oath of office in Belleville as the new fire chief last week.

Thiede served with the Romulus Fire Department for more than 40 years prior to his official retirement where, officials noted, he served “with a lifetime of dedication, leadership, and commitment to protecting the communities he serves.” Thiede is also a well-known professional actor with numerous stage and TV appearance to his name. Pursuing that avocation, he is also the owner and founder of the Hook & Ladder Theater Company in Romulus. The theater produces numerous performances and has become a popular attraction in the community.

Among the highlights of Thiede’s career is his rescue of the only survivor of the 1987 crash of Northwest Flight 255 near Metro Airport. In the wreckage and carnage of the crash, Thiede, a rookie in his first weeks on the job, discovered the tiny 4-year-old still strapped in her airplane seat. He has often said the incident was a defining moment in his life.

“It’s not the kind of thing you just forget. It was during that dark time that I turned to the theater as an outlet,” Thiede said. “When you’re on stage, you’re someone else. You’re telling a different story.” 

Thiede’s acting career includes a stint at Second City Theater in Detroit and he has appeared on Detroit 1-8-7 and All My Children. He also hosted the weekly sports show Sports Talk 60 on the Comcast Sports Channel, fulfilling a lifelong dream.  

Members of the Romulus Fire Department, city officials and several Belleville firefighters attended Thiede’s official swearing in ceremony last week.  Judge Brian Oakley of the 34th District Court administered the oath of office and Thiede asked retired Romulus Battalion Chief BC Simko to pin his new badge on his new Belleville uniform.

Thiede’s appointment to the part-time position was by a unanimous vote of the Belleville City Council members. He was chosen by a committee including the Belleville public safety director and two professional fire officials as the top candidate for the job which includes an annual salary of $25,000.

Annual Community Day set at 34^th District Court tomorrow

The 5th Annual Community Day is planned for tomorrow, May 1, on the grounds of the 34^th District Court in Romulus.

The first half of the day, from 9 a.m. until noon will be dedicated to area fourth-grade elementary students. Students have been invited to participate in the court Art and Writing Contests centered on themes: The Rule of Law and/or The American Dream.

These activities are designed to promote civic understanding and inspire young minds to appreciate the role of the judicial system in their everyday lives, a court official noted.

The 2nd Annual Fieger Law “All We Do Is Win” High School Quiz Bowl will begin at noon featuring spirited competition among students from Romulus, Belleville, Summit, and Huron high schools. Teams will compete for The Fieger Law All We Do Is Win trophy in what promises to be an exciting and engaging academic showcase, she added.

Throughout the day, there will be public safety exhibits; a community car show; live entertainment; local vendors offering complimentary giveaways and a variety of food trucks on site.

Community Day is designed to bring residents, educators, students, and public servants together in a spirit of unity and shared purpose, organizers said.

The court is located at 11129 Wayne Road in Romulus.

Traditional student ‘Water Wars’ prompts police warning

Suspects armed with formidable weapons have been observed throughout the Plymouth-Canton community recently and local police have issued a safety warning regarding the juvenile offenders.

It’s all fairly harmless, however. The “warriors” are targeting senior classmates with huge Super Soaker water guns and even water-filled balloons as ammunition in the annual student Water Wars.

Yep, Water Wars are back in season and somebody or a lot of somebodies are going to get wet. Despite the warnings issued by both Plymouth and Canton police departments along with cautions from school administrators, the games continue. The game involves using water guns for elimination of fellow players and teams. Get wet, you’re gone.

Some of the sneaky attacks in the heat of the game have caused complaints and police warnings regarding trespassing and reckless driving. 

While the Plymouth-Canton Educational Park and local law enforcement strictly prohibit Water Wars on school property due to safety concerns, students find off-campus “battlefields” where the senior-led, off-campus game continues. Players can be found sneaking around trees, garages and fellow students’ family homes in pursuit of targets hoping their team is the last standing and the winner of the cash prize. Usually, each player pays a $10 entry fee and at the end of the game, winner (and driest) takes all.

While the games are meant to be fun, police have cautioned about safety risks and have warned players against trespassing on private property, acting suspiciously, or using vehicles recklessly during the pursuit of another team. In 2022, the Water Wars were canceled following safety concerns and complaints. Police have reported complaints from unaware residents who find the teen players on or near their property.  The game isn’t limited to Plymouth-Canton and senior students across several counties play the annual game.

Because “Water Wars” involves hiding, sneaking, and approaching others unexpectedly, participants may be perceived as suspicious or even dangerous. Police have received reports of  suspicious individuals, potential weapons, and possible trespassing or break-ins during past games. 

“These situations can create dangerous conditions, particularly when responding law enforcement officers encounter individuals carrying items that resemble real firearms. Squirt guns—especially those that are altered or designed to look realistic—can easily be mistaken for actual weapons, which could lead to serious or tragic consequences,” school district administrators cautioned in a communication to parents.

Players have been advised not to trespass on private property, avoid wearing masks, hiding on or near homes or entering businesses while participating in the games. Players are also warned not to carry or display squirt guns or airsoft-style devices in public, particularly those that resemble real firearms.

Residents are cautioned to be aware of the ongoing games and the resultant consequences they present to the public. One could get very, very wet.

Renovations now under way at Canton Summit on the Park facility

Visitors to the Summit on the Park in Canton Township will soon see what $2.5 million in government funding can do.

During the first phase of renovation at the recreation facility more approximately 10,000 square feet of space at the building will be renovated and remodeled. Plans include the removal of inclined theater seating in the Professional Development Center (PDC) to create level flooring and provide a new multi-use space. Additional enhancements will include replacing the Banquet Center carpeting with new multipurpose flooring and both sections of the building will be repainted.

Construction was scheduled to begin last week at the facility, first opened in 1996. During the four-to-six-week renovations, the entire Banquet Center wing will be closed. Fitness classes and other programs previously scheduled in the banquet rooms will be relocated during the renovations.

  "This short-term inconvenience will definitely bring long-term gains for individuals in the area who utilize our facility," said Summit Facility Manager Jason Lombardo.  "All of these renovations that will expand and modernize our facility are made possible by funding that was secured by State Rep. Ranjeev Puri’s office."

The proposed Phase II improvements include creating a new main entrance, expanding the fitness center by approximately 3,000 square feet, and increasing parking to provide improved access to the building for Club 55+ participants.

The Summit on the Park is located at 46000 Summit Parkway and offers an Aquatic Center, Fitness Center, Gymnasium, Track, and Banquet Center.  The Summit currently offers daily, 3-month, 6-month and annual memberships.   

For more information regarding the construction upgrades and available memberships, visit www.summitonthepark.org or call (734) 394-5460.