Federal lawsuit filed to halt Romulus ICE facility

A federal lawsuit has been filed challenging the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility proposed in the City of Romulus.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed the suit last week in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The filing seeks to halt actions by ICE in converting a warehouse on 7535 Cogswell Road into a 500-capacity detention center claiming failure of the federal department to evaluate alternatives, complete environmental reviews, and coordinate with state and local officials.

According to property records the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paid $34.67 million for the 261,450 square-foot building. Commercial real estate experts estimate this as a 57 percent premium cost for the property which was sold for $22.1 million in 2023. Similar overpayments for several other proposed buildings in multiple states are currently under review by the department, according to news reports.

The court filing claims that DHS and ICE violated the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to adequately consider alternative facilities like existing prisons, jails, or detention centers. The lawsuit claims the property has historically used for warehouse operations and was purchased by ICE without any notification to state, county or local governments or the public. The site had been positioned, authorities said, for city economic development and was expected to be sold to an automotive supplier which would have brought both jobs and tax revenue to the city. In the court filings, concerns about the proximity of the detention center to residential neighborhoods and schools, the location of the property in a floodplain and infrastructure limitations are cited.

During the announcement of the lawsuit last week, Romulus Mayor Robert A. McCraight noted the failure of the federal government to comply with the regulations posed a threat to the community.

“We are not asking for a handout, just the opportunity to grow and improve the quality of life for our residents, without being burdened by outside decisions that do not involve our community. Any project of this magnitude must go through all required permitting and legal channels,” McCraight said.

McCraight also took to social media to explain the city position regarding the detention center.

“Since everyone seems to have an opinion on this issue, and those opinions are largely based on assumptions and personal beliefs, let me be perfectly clear,” McCraight posted. “This legal action is about fighting for my community. Fighting for my home. My responsibilities don't permit me to allow my personal feelings to determine a course of action.”

McCraight posted that he believes the department officials would have determined the Cogswell Road building was unsuitable for the proposed facility had they followed official procedures established by the federal government for property acquisitions.

“This will be another negative impact on our city and a drain on our public safety,” McCraight posted. “Romulus has been ignored over objections over a deep injection well, airport expansion, incorrect floodplain maps, all driving housing values down. Not to mention, in addition to a lawsuit fighting radioactive materials being buried in a neighboring landfill,” he added.

“As the state's Attorney General, I have a legal and moral obligation to act if and when this administration behaves unlawfully and does so in a way that harms Michigan residents,” said Nessel. “The Romulus warehouse is simply not—and never will be—an appropriate place for a large-scale detention center. DHS…appears to have conducted an ill-conceived rush job, free from any traditional planning considerations or even basic concern for the many Romulus residents who will be impacted by their actions,” Nessel said during the official announcement of the lawsuit.

Members of the Romulus City Council voted to join the federal lawsuit. Council members previously approved an official resolution opposing the proposed ICE facility in the city.

“The people of Romulus have had unwanted infrastructure imposed on them before - last time it was a hazardous waste injection well, now it’s an ICE detention center. This proposed facility will drain police resources, hamper economic development, and bring chaos into our community,” said State Sen. Darrin Camilleri. “I applaud AG Nessel for her efforts to fight back against this unwanted project.”

“ICE has lost in court more than 4,400 times since October for wrongfully jailing people. Last year in ICE detention, we saw record deaths,” said State Rep. Dylan Wegela. “This year alone at least 13 people have died in ICE custody. It comes as no surprise that for an agency with a track record of terrible conditions for their facilities, ICE would choose a terrible spot for a new detention center like the Cogswell facility in Romulus. I represent the part of Romulus where this proposed facility is, and no one wants it. It’s a disaster in the making.”

Plymouth Township man hospitalized after dog attack

A Plymouth Township man remains hospitalized in stable condition following an attack by three large dogs last Saturday morning.

According to police reports,  police received an emergency call at about 6:35 a.m. March 28, reporting that a jogger was being attacked by three huge dogs. The caller told the 911 dispatcher that the man was on the ground “lifeless” and was no longer attempting to fight off the animals. The first officer on the scene in the 12000 block of Canton Center Road attempted to reach the victim but was aggressively confronted by the animals, according to police reports of the incident. The officer discharged his firearm in an attempt to clear a path to the unresponsive victim and one of the larger dogs was struck by the round. All three of the dogs ran from the scene in response to the gunshot.

Emergency first responders treated the victim, a man in his 60s, at the scene and transported him to a nearby hospital where he was reported in stable condition at press time.

After aiding the victim, officers searched the area and located one of the suspected dogs running loose near an elementary school. The animal, a Cane Corso, was secured and taken to the Huron Valley Humane Society facility for quarantine. The dog injured by the gunshot, also a Cane Corso, was located in the backyard of a neighborhood home, about five blocks from the scene of the attack. Several attempts by officers to secure the animal were unsuccessful and police were forced to dispatch the injured dog to protect the public, according to police reports. The third dog, a large pit bull, escaped from the scene and was captured by police early Tuesday morning in the area of Ann Arbor Road and Lilley, according to police.

According to breeder information, Cane Corsos are powerful mastiffs requiring experienced owners due to intense protective instincts, stubbornness, and massive size. Standard for the breed is in excess of 100 pounds. The dogs, according to the official website, “require firm training, secure fencing, and are generally not suitable for first-time owners.”

The owner of the dogs, a Plymouth Township resident, has been identified by police and the investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to police.

Anyone with any information about the incident is urged to contact police at (734) 354-3250.

Inkster mayor to challenge incumbent in democratic primary race  

Inkster Mayor Byron Nolen is challenging U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib in the primary election to choose a Democratic candidate for the Michigan 12th Congressional District.

Tlaib has represented the district since 2019. Nolen’s entry into the race signals a potential shift in what has largely been a stable seat for democrats in recent election cycles. Nolen said he is running on the idea that elected office should serve the public first.

“A congressional seat is a public trust, not a personal platform,” Nolen said, criticizing what he described as political leadership driven by personal agendas rather than constituents.

Nolen is currently serving as mayor of Inkster, where he has been credited with helping guide the city through financial challenges. Professionally, he is an employment attorney and small business owner. His campaign is expected to focus on civil rights, constitutional protections, and what he calls “genuine representation” for all residents of the district.

The 12th Congressional District includes parts of western Wayne County and downriver communities. Tlaib has not yet publicly responded to Nolen campaign announcement. She significantly outperformed other Democrats in her 2024 re-election, including areas like Dearborn, despite criticism from some local officials regarding her stances on the Biden-Harris administration. 

 Wayne Westland school district names new superintendent

Members of the Wayne-Westland Board of Education last week named Dr. Catherine M. Cost as the permanent superintendent of schools following a rigorous search and multiple candidate interviews.

Cost was named as interim superintendent last June. Her new title will become effective July 1, pending successful contract negotiations, according to an official statement from the district.

Cost is an experienced Michigan educator and school administrator who has served as a superintendent, assistant superintendent, and principal in multiple districts.  She has a career spanning two decades, focusing on school administration, public education, and supporting student and family services. 

She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, a master's degree from Oakland University, and a doctorate in Education Administration from Wayne State University. Cost served as the assistant superintendent for Farmington Public Schools for eight years and worked in that district as both a school principal and teacher.

Cost served as superintendent of Wyandotte Public Schools from 2014 through 2023 and as interim superintendent at Hazel Park Schools prior to accepting the interim superintendent position at Wayne Westland in June.

 Hop to it

 

The first event of the year for Sumpter Township Parks and Recreation was a huge success last Saturday, despite the cold temperatures, organizers noted. An estimated 250 to 300 children, at right, participated in the Easter Egg Hunt at Graham Park. Rumor has it that Township Manager Ken Marten may have been inside the Flop -E- Bunny costume having photos taken with the children.

More Easter events including marshmallow drops and Easter egg hunts are scheduled this week including:

 

In INKSTER:

Several Easter egg hunts are scheduled in and around Inkster including a unique Helicopter Drop Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. April 4, featuring free lunch, community activities, and candy-filled eggs. Another event includes an Easter Extravaganza with a, "Kiddie Disco" featuring a bunny meet-and-greet from 4 until 8 p.m. on April 4 at 27114 Michigan Ave. The event includes a bunny experience and egg hunt. Cost is $10 per child. 

 

In PLYMOUTH:

The annual Plymouth Township Easter Egg Hunt will take place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 4 at Plymouth Township Park baseball fields. The community event is sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club and is for children 10 and younger. 

Easter EggStravaganza is set for 10 a.m. until noon at Trinity Church March 28, and an Easter Brunch at Saint John's Resort is planned for 10 a.m. April 5

It is recommended to check the websites of the Plymouth Park Department or specific venues for potential registration requirements. 

 

In WAYNE WESTLAND:

Several Easter egg hunts and spring events are scheduled in the Wayne/Westland area  including the traditional Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop. Thousands of marshmallows will be dropped from a helicopter. Special prizes will be awarded for lucky finds.

The drop this year will take place Friday, April 3, at Nankin Mills Park, 33275 Edward North Hines Dr, Westland. The annual event will feature a special sensory Marshmallow Drop at 9 a.m. and a general drop at 11 a.m.

The event is free and is limited to children 12 and younger.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Firefighters serve pancakes

Sumpter Township firefighters will host a Pancke Breakfast at the Sumpter Township Fire Station from 9 a.m. until noon April 18.

The cost for breakfast is $6 per person.

The fire station is located at 20550 Sumpter Road in Belleville.

 

Law Day set at court

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

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.

The court is located at 11129 Wayne Road in Romulus.

 

Farmers Market date set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Market will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. Markets are set for 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

 

Mental Health Fair set

The Plymouth Community United Way will host the 5^th Annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25 in Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth.

The event is free and will include 120 booths, therapy dogs, a walk-through brain experience, free vision screening, chair massages and entertainment. There will also be a petting zoo, magician and face painter on hand.

Police officers, motorists injured in fiery crash

The six Canton Township Police officers injured while pulling trapped motorists from their vehicles during a fiery truck crash last week have each been released from the hospital.

At press time, three people trapped in a burning vehicle remain hospitalized in serious condition, according to updated reports.

The much-publicized multiple vehicle crash took place at about 1 p.m. last Wednesday, March 18 at the intersection of Ford and Haggerty roads, near I-275 in Canton Township. Interim Canton Police Chief Joseph Bialy initially told media representatives that an SUV was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Haggerty Road and crashed first into a truck and then into  the fuel tank of a semi-truck attempting to turn right at the intersection. The impact of the speeding vehicle caused a fuel spill from the semi, which ignited and trapped multiple motorists on Ford Road in their vehicles.

Canton officers were immediately on the scene and pulled passengers and drivers to safety but at least six of the officers were injured du
ring the rescues, according to police reports. The officers were treated and released from a local hospital along with the driver of the semi-truck who all suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The three people traveling in the SUV involved in the crash remained hospitalized early this week.

The crash and subsequent extreme fire damage closed the heavily-traveled intersection for several hours. Officials noted that firefighters battled the high flames and intense heat for the fire for some time. Bialy said the intense heat from the fire melted the traffic control signals at the intersections, which will have to be replaced.

“They fought courageously to get these flames down,” Bialy said.

An investigation into the circumstances and cause of the crash remains ongoing, according to police, and the final investigative findings will be referred to the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor for determination of any criminal charges.

Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak expressed her respect for the lifesaving actions of both the police and fire departments in the situation.

"Lives were saved because of the expertise and bravery of our public safety team," Graham Hudak said. "They moved quickly to secure the fire in the area and prevent further danger, and we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication."

Canton Township Deputy Fire Chief Jamie Strassner said the fast action of his department in controlling what could have been a disastrous situation.

He said fire crews quickly shifted into hazardous materials response mode while working to contain the ignited diesel fuel, protect nearby waterways and coordinate cleanup of the area while prioritizing care and transport of injured drivers and passengers. He said crews controlled the blaze and heavy black smoke within 10 minutes. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including mutual aid partners from neighboring communities.

Strassner said the rate of speed involved in the crash could have resulted in a much more serious outcome. Officials were grateful, he said, there were no fatalities in the incident.

Easter ‘EGGStravaganza’

Communities plan annual celebrations to welcome spring holiday

Easter events including marshmallow drops and Easter egg hunts are scheduled throughout the area and include multiple activities for children.

 

In CANTON TOWNSHIP:

Egg Hunt Poolooza is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 28 in the Summit Aquatic Center pools followed by a rubber ducky race. This is a unique egg hunt where children find eggs in the pools to redeem for prizes, organizers said. The cost is $15 for Canton residents and $20 for non-residents.

In INKSTER:

Several Easter egg hunts are scheduled in and around Inkster including a unique Helicopter Drop Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. April 4, featuring free lunch, community activities, and candy-filled eggs. Another event includes an Easter Extravaganza with a, "Kiddie Disco" featuring a bunny meet-and-greet from 4 until 8 p.m. on April 4 at 27114 Michigan Ave. The event includes a bunny experience and egg hunt. Cost is $10 per child. 

In PLYMOUTH:

The annual Plymouth Township Easter Egg Hunt will take place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 4 at Plymouth Township Park baseball fields. The community event is sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club and is for children 10 and younger. 

Easter EggStravaganza is set for 10 a.m. until noon at Trinity Church March 28, and an Easter Brunch at Saint John's Resort is planned for 10 a.m. April 5

It is recommended to check the websites of the Plymouth Park Department Plymouth Park Department or specific venues for potential registration requirements. 

In SUMPTER TOWNSHIP:

Sumpter Township will host an Easter celebration from noon until 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28 at Graham Park, 24560 Sumpter Road in Belleville. An egg hunt, coloring contest and egg relay race are planned along with photos with Flop-E-Bunny. There is no admission fee.In WAYNE WESTLAND:

Several Easter egg hunts and spring events are scheduled in the Wayne/Westland area  including the traditional Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop. Thousands of marshmallows will be dropped from a helicopter. Special prizes will be awarded for lucky finds.

The drop this year will take place Friday, April 3, at Nankin Mills Park, 33275 Edward North Hines Dr, Westland. The annual event will feature a special sensory Marshmallow Drop at 9 a.m. and a general drop at 11 a.m.

The event is free and is limited to children 12 and younger.

Wayne Church Egg Hunt is set for noon this Sunday, March 29 at the church located at 210 S Wayne Ave.

Sumpter Township man facing federal child sex abuse charges

A 30-year-old Sumpter Township man is facing federal criminal charges in connection to sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

Bryce Silas Patterson was charged with sex trafficking of a minor, sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography following an investigation by the Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crime (SEMTEC) Task Force, the FBI and the Sumpter Police Department according to United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. and Sumpter Township Police Chief Eric Luke.

Patterson appeared in federal court Monday, March 23, and was ordered detained by a magistrate judge. His preliminary court examination on the charges is set for April 2.

According to the criminal complaint, agents with SEMTEC conducted an undercover operation in an effort to recover a minor who was believed to be the victim of sex trafficking. Information gathered by the agents alleged that Patterson posted advertisements for commercial sex, which included photos of minor girls, on a commonly used website. In addition to posting the ads, Patterson would arrange for the transportation of the minor on sex dates and collect payments from the minor victims, according to claims submitted to the federal court.

A search of Patterson’s cellular device revealed images and a video which contained child sexual abusive material, which Patterson had created depicting one of the minor victims he trafficked, according to a charging statement. Sumpter Township Police and federal task force agents arrested Patterson last week, according to a statement from the federal authorities.

“The Sumpter Township Police Department extends its sincere appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their dedicated efforts and professionalism in successfully identifying and apprehending Patterson, a resident of Sumpter, for the alleged crimes stated in the complaint,” commented Luke. “The commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and pursuing justice has a direct and meaningful impact on the safety and well-being of our residents. We remain steadfast in our shared mission to safeguard our community from those who seek to do harm” Luke continued.

“These alleged crimes are disgusting,” commented Gorgon. “SEMTEC is designed to hunt down sex traffickers who try to sell our children. And we are honored to do this good work with our federal, state and local partners,” he added.

Federal agents and Luke requested anyone with information about this case or who may be a victim call the FBI at (313) 965-2323.

 Suspect facing charges in Sumpter shooting death

The office of the Wayne County Prosecutor has charged Jordan DeJuan Winn in the death of a Sumpter Township woman last week.

According to police reports, Sumpter Township officers responded to a report of a shooting at about 4:10 p.m. last Wednesday, March 18. Upon arrival at the Edgewood Rive location in the Rawsonville Woods Mobile Home, responding officers discovered a 20-year-old woman lying in the street with a gunshot wound to her upper torso. While emergency lifesaving measures were administered, the woman died at the scene.

Police said the suspected shooter, rumored to be the victim’s boyfriend, was arrested and two other individuals were detained for questioning. The victim and the detainees know each other, according to police who stressed there was no ongoing threat to the community.

Winn was arraigned Sunday on weapons charges including careless discharge causing injury of death. He was given a $10,000 personal bond and required to wear a tether. His next court appearance is set for March 31 at 34^th District Court.

Plans for new Ann Arbor Road LaFontaine dealership OK’d

Members of the Plymouth Township Board of Trustees will soon consider a plan for the development of a new LaFontaine Chevrolet dealership at the former site of Bennigan’s restaurant on Ann Arbor Road.

Plans for the new construction include a full-service dealership building along with a detailing and storage building and large lot for vehicles. The site plan was approved by a 5-2 vote of the Plymouth Township Planning Commission during the March 18 meeting. The approval is contingent on lighting adjustments, contributions to the township tree fund and changes to the façade on one of the buildings, requested by planning commissioners.

Max Muncey, corporate communications director for LaFontaine, said the goal is to make the new building the “Number one Chevrolet dealership in the entire world.”

LaFontaine acquired the former Lou LaRiche Chevrolet dealership in 2023 and that Plymouth Road building will remain open and will be used for vehicle service, used vehicle sales and internal operations, Muncey said.

Construction for the new facility will be completed in

two three phases, according to plans submitted to the planning commissioners. First, a new 52,000 square foot dealership building will be construction on the 3.5 acres of property on Ann Arbor Road. Following will be the construction of a 22,000 square foot detailing and storage building and vehicle lot on 9.5 acres behind the dealership building.

Some existing trees will be preserved, and a 60-foot buffer and new landscaping are planned to protect residential neighbors from noise and lighting at the building. Gary Laundroche, corporate facilities manager for LaFontaine, said the plan submitted met all township ordinance requirements and incorporates changes to accommodate concerns of nearby neighbors. He noted the buffer increased, a dumpster enclosure moved, landscaping added and noise reducing features were in the revised plans submitted.

No planned date for construction was announced as the plans now move forward for consideration by the board of trustees.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 

Court sets Law Day

The 5th Annual Community Day is planned for Friday, 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. 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.

The court is located at 11129 Wayne Road in Romulus.

 

Eco-Fair set in Romulus

The Romulus Garden Club is sponsoring the 2026 Eco-Fair from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2 at the Romulus Athletic Center.

More than 20 eco-friendly organizations and vendors will participate at the free event which includes speakers and presenters. Free activities for all ages are planned. Door prizes will be awarded.

The athletic center is at 35765 Northline Road.

  

Parking deck repairs begin

The 2026 Central Parking Deck Maintenance Project in downtown Plymouth was scheduled to begin last week. Crews will begin staging for the project with extensive work beginning this week. Approximately 15-20 parking spaces will be blocked off on both the lower and upper levels for the duration of the project

For approximately one week, at some point in mid to late April, the entire upper level will be closed for some traffic coating

The project is expected to be completed in May of 2026 Updates on the project will be provided at www.downtownplymouth.org and on Facebook.

 

Trees, deer habitat cleared by road project

A large, wooded area along Interstate 94 near Detroit Metro Airport in Romulus has been reduced to stumps, small logs and twigs to make way for the Restore 94 road project.

The formerly wooded area in the median in the area of Inkster and Ecorse roads was home to a large deer population but has been taken “down to the dirt” as rebuilding of the freeway is under way, according to Diane Cross of the Michigan Department of Transportation. Signs now caution drivers to be cautious of deer in the area but no increase in deer-related crashes have been reported, she said.  Wildlife behavior in the area was considered during the planning of the reconstruction, according to Cross. 

The Restore I-94 project is a 3-year, $353 million, 12.7-mile construction effort that began early this month to rehabilitate the I-94 corridor from Romulus (east of I-275) to Dearborn (west of U.S. 12/Michigan Avenue. Motorists have been advised to expect significant delays, with traffic reduced to two lanes in each direction through 2029. 

The Romulus area is part of "Segment 1," specifically focusing on the stretch between Wayne Road and Middlebelt Road, officials said.

The rebuilding will include bridge work, drainage improvements, and a new Ecorse Road interchange.

Officials said access to Detroit Metro Airport will be maintained throughout the project using Merriman or Middlebelt roads as well as I-275 and Eureka Road.

Cross said more than 100,000 drivers use the freeway daily and the reconstruction will reroute part of the aging roadway through what was the wooded area, requiring the removal of the trees. The trees will be replaced when the construction is complete, Cross said.

“We are putting back 3,000 trees once the project is done,” Cross said. “They will be along the outside lanes because we want the trees to help absorb the fumes coming off the freeway and help with noise, that kind of thing.”

According to Cross, the planting of the replacement trees is intended, in part, to discourage a large deer population from reestablishing itself immediately next to the roadway.

Hometown heroes

Members of the Romulus Fire Department were recently honored for their outstanding service to the community during the Annual Awards Ceremony.

Firefighter of the Year and Paramedic of the Year honors were presented to recipients for their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the citizens of Romulus. Honored were Firefighters Ewing H. Joyce V and Anthony Pegouskie. Pegouskie, pictured at right with Fire Chief David Havener, received double honors during the ceremony as he was named as Firefighter of the Year for two consecutive years. Paramedics Ryan Mehrhof, Ryan Wilson and Melani Arnold were honored for their outstanding service during medical emergencies in the city.

“These honors reflect the hard work, compassion, and excellence they bring to our department and community each and every day,” noted Havener.

Special recognition went to Capt. John Thiede for his 35 years of service to the Romulus community. “This incredible milestone is a testament to his unwavering dedication, leadership, and years of faithful service to the Romulus Fire Department and the community we are proud to protect,” Havener noted.

Law Day celebration set at Romulus 34^th District Court

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

Every year on May 1, communities across the country celebrate Law Day May 1 as a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of the rule of law in protecting citizens’ rights and supporting justice. It's an opportunity to reflect on how the legal system helps safeguard the freedoms the rule of law provides, according to court officials.

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 first half of the day at the Romulus court, 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 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,” the spokesperson added.

The court is located at 11129 Wayne Road in Romulus.

Wayne 29^th District Court offering month long amnesty program

The 29^th District Court in Wayne is offering a limited-time amnesty program during March for individuals with delinquent court cases. The program provides an opportunity for participants to settle outstanding financial obligations at a reduced cost, while also assisting the court in efficiently clearing a backlog of cases without additional court resources or collections costs, explained Court Administrator Denise S. Steffens in a prepared statement.

The program will continue only until March 31, she said and is open to any individual with a past due payable violation. To participate in the amnesty program, individuals must contact the court to determine eligibility and for instructions on participation.

Eligible participants will have default, late fees and warrant fees waived, reducing total amount owed to the original fine. Warrants will be canceled upon full payment of the original fine although a $45 clearance fee will still apply and cannot be waived.

“This is a one-time opportunity,” Steffens said. “After Marach 31, 2026 the curt will resume aggressive enforcement and collection efforts, including the full imposition of penalties and late fees,” the court administrator explained.

Payment must be made by cash, credit card with a 4 percent service fee applied, certified check or money order. Personal checks will not be accepted.

More information and eligibility requirements are available by contacting the court at (734) 722-5220 or at cityofwayne.com/200/29^th-Distrcit-Court.

Mental Health and Wellness Fair set in Plymouth Kellogg Park next month

Plymouth Community United Way will participate in the 5^th Annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair set for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25 at Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth.

More than 120 mental health and wellness booths are expected including therapy dogs, a walk-through brain experience, free vision screenings and Healing with Horses exhibit.

Children’s activities planned include a petting zoo, face painting and a clown and a magician performing at noon.

The event is hosted by the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools to promote mental health and to recognize the number of mental health resources available in the community.

The event is free and will include food and music, organizers said.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Sumpter celebrates Easter

Sumpter Township will host an Easter celebration from noon until 2 p.m. Saturday;, March 28 at Graham Park, 24560 Sumpter Road in Belleville.

An egg hunt, coloring contest and egg relay race are planned along with photos with Flop-E-Bunny.

There is no admission fee.

 

Parking deck repairs begin

The 2026 Central Parking Deck Maintenance Project in downtown Plymouth is expected to begin March 23. Crews will begin staging for the project the week of March 23, with extensive work beginning the following week. Approximately 15-20 parking spaces will be blocked off on both the lower and upper levels for the duration of the project

For approximately one week, at some point in mid to late April, the entire upper level will be closed for some traffic coating

The project is expected to be completed in May of 2026 Updates on the project will be provided at www.downtownplymouth.org and on Facebook.

 

Yard waste pickups resume

Plymouth Township waste haulers will begin sidewalk pickup of yard waste April 6.

Yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings, garden debris, branches and twigs can be placed at the curb by 7 a.m. on residents’ regular collection day but no earlier than 6 p.m. the night before.

 

Farmers Market dates set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Markets will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. Markets are set for 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. March 15, and April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

Opponents continue to battle Northville street closures

 Traffic patterns in the City of Northville were expected to change this summer with the approval of a special event permit by members of the city council.

Councilmembers approved a special event permit during the Feb. 2 meeting which authorized the closure of Main Street between Center and Hutton streets from 3 p.m. Fridays to 7 a.m. Mondays during summer months. Center Street was to remain open except during larger, long-running festivals.

The decision follows a continuing dispute about the street closures. A letter to the city from an attorney representing Let’s Open Northville, a group battling the street closures, claims the latest permit violates a court order opening the downtown streets to vehicle traffic.

Attorney Kyle Konwinski claimed in the letter that the repeated weekend closures amount to the same type of seasonal closures the court previously ruled against.

“Meaning, the City authorized its own consecutive 27-weekend closure of Main Street,” the letter said.

The group has been battling downtown street closures since 2023 claiming in court filings the closures were unlawful. The court agreed and ruled the streets could only be closed for special events. The court also ruled that all dining platforms along Main and Center streets be removed in a decision last year.

City officials contend the newly approved closures are in compliance with the court ruling.  The new plan will close the streets in alignment with Department of Public Works schedules. The $250,000 retractable bollards installed downtown will be raised Friday afternoon and retracted Monday morning, according to the disputed special event permit.

The Let’s Open Northville group is also challenging a planned 8-week shutdown of downtown streets during a $3.3 million improvement project at Town Square.

Konwinski’s letter claimed the city actions are an attempt to accomplish what the court expressly prohibited.  He suggested the group will seek legal redress if the issue is not resolved.

Northville officials say the special permit plan complies with the court’s order and the actions are consistent and fully within the parameters of the court orders.

The social media post from the city stated that the closures necessary during the Town Square project are routine during “municipal infrastructure work.”