Federal officials demand local 2024 election ballots

The U.S. Department of Justice is demanding that the Wayne County Clerk's Office relinquish the November 2024 election ballots citing disproven rumors of voter fraud.

Those ballots include votes from Canton Township, Inkster, Plymouth and Plymouth Township, Northville and Northville Township, Romulus, Sumpter Township, Wayne and Westland. Those elections are organized and managed by municipal clerks in each community.

In a letter to the office of Wayne County Clerk Cathy M. Garrett, whose office controls and certifies election results submitted from all municipal clerks in Wayne County, Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon requested election records, including all ballots, envelopes and receipts received in the November 2024 federal election. Dhillon wrote that the documents were needed to ensure "that the foregoing federal election laws were not violated in the November 2024 federal election."

The letter referenced three individual cases that were not from the 2024 election involving forged signatures and impersonating another to vote in an election. State officials say those cases "were identified as suspicious by local clerks, referred to Michigan's Bureau of Elections for investigation and successfully prosecuted by the department of the state attorney general."

Dhillon gave the clerk's office 14 days to respond with the requested documents.

"Failure to timely produce the requested records may result in the United States seeking a court order for production of such records," Dhillon wrote.

"Once again, President Trump is weaponizing the Justice Department in an attempt to sabotage our democratic process and turn it into his own personal agency to interfere in state elections. This request is as absurd as it is baseless," Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement.

Nessel sent a letter to Dhillon, urging her to reject allegations of voter fraud. 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also issued a statement, saying, "Michigan's elections are safe and secure, and any attempt to suggest otherwise is an attempt to take away Michiganders' constitutional right to vote."

"This demand is a poorly disguised attempt to justify more doubt and misinformation about our elections as well as direct federal interference. Let's keep working together to uphold the rule of law and protect voting rights," Whitmer later added.

"This is the Trump administration's latest attempt to interfere in our elections," Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said about the DOJ letter. "Their goal is to sow seeds of doubt about the legitimacy of the results this November and in 2028. We won't be intimidated by these tactics. We stand with Wayne County to ensure we protect the integrity of our elections and the privacy of Michigan voters."

The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan (ACLU) has condemned the DOJ demand for ballots and other election materials

“Our local communities run our elections. Not the federal government. Michigan elections officials and election workers work hard to carry out each step of the checks and balances in our election system to ensure every eligible voter can cast a ballot and that every vote is counted,” noted a prepared statement from ACLU officials.

“The ACLU will remain steadfast in our efforts to protect our elections and the dedicated and capable work of our local election officials across the state, including the hundreds of community members and volunteers who help run successful elections for our communities,” the official statement concluded.

Warm welcome

Century-old tradition celebrates arrival of new Romulus fire truck

The brand-new firetruck in Romulus was welcomed with a decades old tradition as firefighters and officials helped push the vehicle into the station for the first time.

The new fire truck, fully funded by a $1 million state grant, was helped into the station by Mayor Robert McCraight, State Sen. Darrin Camilleri and State Rep. Reggie Miller, along with firefighters. Miller was instrumental in securing the state funding for the new truck, officials said, and her efforts were acknowledged with a personalized fire helmet presented during the formal ceremony following the “push in.”

The new vehicle will be housed at Fire Station No. 4 in the city.  This new engine replaces an older unit to improve response times and public safety in areas often cut off by train traffic, officials explained. Calls at the Romulus Fire Department have doubled in the last decade and the much-needed  new truck will reduce response time and potentially reduce city insurance premiums, Miller noted in her budget presentation seeking funding from the state.

The fire truck push-in ceremony is a longstanding tradition, often described as a "ribbon-cutting" for the fire service, where firefighters and community members physically push a new apparatus into the station. The ritual dates back to the late 19th century when, after returning from calls, horses could not back heavy steam engines into the station. 

Firefighters back then had to disconnect the horses and, with the help of community members, push the apparatus into the bay. It symbolizes dedication, community partnership, and the activation of the new vehicle, fire historians said. “The ceremony serves to honor the past while celebrating new equipment,” they added.

The vehicle was custom-built to address the specific geographical challenges in Romulus, such as navigating around Detroit Metropolitan Airport and frequently blocked railroad crossings, officials noted. The vehicle is a Pierce Enforcer pumper engine truck. It is equipped with a 750-gallon tank and features a 1,500 gallon per minute waterous pump, according to statistics provided by the manufacturer.

Romulus Fire Station No. 4 is located at 28777 Eureka Road in the city.

Annual Community Day set at 34^th District Court next week

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. 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

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.

 Mayor’s State of the City celebrates community progress

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight delivered his annual State of the City address last week to a crowded auditorium at Romulus High School. McCraight discussed the balanced city budget, underspending of allocated funds by departments and increased investments in public safety, infrastructure and parks.

McCraight stressed that all the improvements in the city were finalized without any new taxes or added expense to residents. Superintendent of Romulus Community Schools Dr. Benjamin P. Edmondson outlined the progress in the school district during the years.

A special honor was presented to Romulus Middle School secretary Maria Scott who was instrumental in stopping an armed gunman’s attempt to enter the school Jan. 6. 

McCraight and his family are long-time Romulus residents.  Prior to being elected as mayor in 2021, the Romulus High School alumnus served as the city director of economic development and public services, which included the responsibilities of chief building official, director of building and safety and public services departments, and administrative liaison to the planning commission, zoning board of appeals, Downtown Development Authority and Tax Increment Financing Authority.  

 Annual Project Clean Sweep set for this Saturday in Romulus

Saturday will be a big day in the City of Romulus.

The 28^th Annual Clean Sweep will begin when volunteers meet at 9 a.m. April 25 at the Romulus Athletic Center to receive their assignments and supplies. The Clean Sweep program takes place every April and is focused on beautifying and cleaning up areas of the city, including the municipal grounds. Volunteers concentrate on blight removal and community beautification including litter pickup, landscaping, trimming bushes, mulching, and planting in public spaces.

Volunteers and staff also work on enhancing areas in the community and managing community gardens. Each year, the event is supported by local businesses who help defray the cost of supplies needed for the various clean-up projects. This year, sponsors who committed early to the project include: Amadi Venue; Aquatic Auto Wash; Commercial Freight Services; Freeman’s Lawn & Landscape; McDonalds- Chapatwala Family; Public Service Credit Union; Republic Services; SCI Floor Covering; Storage Rentals of America; Welch Packaging; YAPP USA Automotive Systems,  and senior community garden maintenance.

Officials noted that the event last year saw the highest volunteer participation in the history of the event.

The Romulus Athletic Center is located at 35765 Northline Road. Following the cleaning efforts, volunteers will meet at Blue Sky Ice Cream and Hamburgers at noon for ice cream and raffles. Please RSVP to kbasinger@romulusgov.com or call (734) 955-4535

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 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

 

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.

 

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.

 

Farm camp registration opens

Early registration for Maybury Farm Summer Camp is now available. The four-day, Tuesday-Friday, outdoor camp provides children with experience with animal care, gardening and maintenance. Camps take place from June 16 through Aug. 14 at the working farm on Seven Mile Road in Northville.

More information about the camp - including weekly session topics, dates, requirements, cost and registration is available at mayburyfarm.org/educate.

Board delays accepting resignation of clerk

Plymouth Township Clerk Jerry Vorva continues to receive his salary despite his Feb. 18 letter of resignation and his absence from township hall for more than 6 weeks.

Vorva gave the board 30-day notice of his resignation.

According to reports, board members have delayed accepting Vorva’s letter of resignation primarily to avoid a state-mandated special election to fill the office. Michigan State law requires a special public election for any elected office vacated prior to April 14. By postponing the formal acceptance of Vorva’s resignation until after that date, the board members retain the legal authority to appoint a replacement themselves. 

A regular meeting of the board members was postponed last week until April 21, a week after the state deadline.

The appointment of a clerk would allow the board members to select a candidate to finish Vorva’s term which expires in 2028.  The Plymouth Township clerk's position is paid an annual salary of $120,000, plus a 15 percent contribution to a retirement plan.

Those supporting the delay in accepting Vorva’s resignation claim it would trigger the state-mandated departure of Deputy Clerk Paula Jeffferson who has been managing the clerk’s office for several weeks following Vorva’s departure. Only the clerk and deputy clerk have authority to sign checks in the township, according to officials. Delaying the acceptance process allows the office to remain operational during the transition, they claim. Jefferson is not eligible for appointment to the clerk’s position as she is not a resident of the township. Naming a temporary clerk would require that individual to campaign for the office during an election while actually overseeing the balloting.

During his tenure as clerk, Vorva oversaw two elections during which he was a candidate for office.

Following his letter of resignation citing both his health and a “hostile working environment,” Vorva, 74, has been paid about $12,600 during his 6-week absence, according to critics of the current board actions. He is currently under treatment for stage four prostate cancer and is also involved in a lawsuit against board Trustee John Stewart.

That lawsuit, filed in August 2025, alleges that during a closed session of trustees “Stewart stood up from his seat and, with fists clenched, lunged across two other trustees...toward (Vorva) in an aggressive and threatening manner.” Vorva is seeking damages in excess of $25,000.

Stewart denied the claims in his response to the court and asked a judge to dismiss the lawsuit and award him sanctions, costs and attorney fees, noting the claims are "frivolous."

Vorva, who is touring Europe told reporters he is fulfilling items on his “bucket list.”

 Turmoil Tour

Congresswoman visits proposed ICE facility

Last week, Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight and U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin toured the area surrounding the proposed ICE detention facility on Cogswell Road in the city.

Slotkin said she and McCraight discussed the serious concern in the community about the controversial 300,000 square-foot facility proposed for the warehouse building.

“Throughout the visit, one thing remained clear: this is a warehouse and is not a place that is fit to house human beings, especially about 500 feet from neighborhoods full of residents,” Slotkin posted on social media following the bus tour.

“We are in the middle of an American cultural conversation about ICE and the role of federal law enforcement in our city streets. In the meantime, ICE has lost the trust of Michiganders and should not move forward with this proposal,” Slotkin added.

McCraight thanked Slotkin for her response to the situation and her time in personally visiting the site to experience the proximity of the proposed detention center to a residential neighborhood and school. He noted the center is “within 500-feet of where families live and children play.”

Michigan officials and the city of Romulus filed a lawsuit last month against the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement regarding the proposed center. In court filings, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel cites improper zoning, flood plain location and danger posed with the facility proximity to schools and neighborhoods.

Federal officials have argued that the facility would create roughly 1,458 jobs and inject $150 million into the local economy.  U.S. Senators Gary Peters and  Slotkin, along with U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, have expressed strong opposition to the proposed facility and have called it a  "warehouse prison.

The proposed facility has prompted multiple protests near the building and residents have expressed fears that the facility will bring instability and negatively impact the community. 

Currently, federal officials have confirmed the purchase price of several warehouse-type buildings across the county is under review. The Department of Homeland Security paid $34.7 million for the warehouse in Romulus. According to city records, which is 57 percent more than the sale price when the property was last sold.

Northville Township to seek millage renewal on August ballot

Northville Township will ask voters to consider a millage renewal on the Aug. 4 ballot to continue at 7.2054 millage set to expire at the end of the year.

If approved by voters, the millage would provide continuity of current services, funding township operations, including police, fire, EMS, Parks & Recreation, Senior Services and the Youth Network, according to Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo.

“The key point for residents to recognize is that this is a renewal of an existing millage, not a new tax,” said. “If approved, it would allow the township to continue providing the same level of services our community relies on today.”

The township would levy the millage for 8 years at the 2025 rollback rate of 7.2054 mills, which equals approximately $7.21 per $1,000 of taxable value.  The tax revenue would be allocated at 6.3447 mills for public safety, 0.7452 mills for parks, senior and youth services and 0.1155 mills for general operations, according to data provided by the township.

Public safety services account for the largest portion of the proposed allocation, officials said. “Community input has shown that residents want to maintain current service levels in these areas,” they noted.

The township follows a standard budgeting process that requires voter approval to continue millages when they expire and adjust due to state rollback requirements.

The proposed millage represents a renewal of an existing levy at the 2025 rollback rate of 7.2054 mills. The exact impact on individual properties will depend on taxable value.

Residents can estimate their individual tax impact by multiplying the proposed millage rate by their property’s taxable value.

More information is available at NorthvilleTownshipMI.gov.

Annual Spring Artisan Market is Saturday in Plymouth

The Spring Artisan Market will take place from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday between The Gathering, Penniman Avenue and Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth.

The market, organized by the Plymouth Downtown Development Authority, marks the beginning of the city event season with a variety of artisan goods, family-friendly entertainment, and live music. The event offers an opportunity to chat with local vendors and purchase unique handcrafted items, organizers said. The family-friendly entertainment will include live caricatures by Mark Berry, face painting by Face Flair, and Crazy Craig’s strolling entertainment.

Three “kid creator” booths will be in Kellogg Park featuring local artists aged 14 and younger with and their handcrafted items. Local nonprofit organizations will also have booths set up in Kellogg Park, offering the chance to build community and share their mission with event attendees, according to organizers.

This year, the Plymouth DDA is partnering with Lisa Howard from the Plymouth Community Arts Council and globally renowned artist Tony Roko’s Art Foundation to host a ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of Phase III of the Plymouth ArtWalk during the Spring Artisan Market. The ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m. near The Gathering, in view of Phase III artworks. The public is welcome to join local artists, city commission members, and DDA board members and city staff for the celebration.

“Expanding the Plymouth ArtWalk, to further enhance arts and culture in downtown Plymouth, is a strategic goal of the Plymouth Downtown Development authority,” said DDA Director Sam Plymale.

Plaques will be installed along the Plymouth ArtWalk experience featuring a QR code, giving viewers interactive access to a comprehensive list of artist and artworks info.

For a full list of vendors and a complete vendor map, visit www.downtownplymouth.org/SpringArtisanMarket. For additional information, contact the Plymouth Downtown Development Authority at dda@plymouthmi.gov.

Inkster police continue investigation into fatal shooting of teens

Inkster police are continuing an investigation into the shooting early Sunday morning which left two teens dead.

According to police reports, officers responded at about 4:50 a.m. April 12 to a report of a male gunshot victim seeking help at a home on the 26000 block of Penn. The home is located near Inkster Road and Michigan Avenue. Responding officers discovered a 17-year-old victim suffering from gunshot wounds. They immediately began lifesaving measures, according to police reports, and the victim was transported to a nearby hospital by Inkster emergency services. The teen was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, police said.

Inkster officers along with troopers from the Michigan State Police began a canvass of the neighborhood seeking any witnesses to the shooting. Officers discovered a trail of blood from the scene leading to the back yard of a home on the same block of Penn where the first shooting victim was discovered.

The blood evidence led to the discovery of a second shooting victim pronounced dead at the scene. A firearm was also recovered nearby the second victim identified by police as a 15-year-old boy.

The incident remains under investigation, police said, and Inkster detectives are reviewing  video surveillance recordings and continue to interview witnesses Police have requested the public’s help and anyone with information regarding the incident or the victims is asked to contact Inkster Police Det. T. Parker at (313) 563-9869 or Michigan State Police D/Sgt. Cobb at (313) 236-7903.

Plymouth Chamber honors businesses

The Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce hosted the 11th Annual Business Awards Dinner recently at Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center, honoring 10 outstanding businesses and individuals whose dedication strengthens and enriches our community.

The honorees this year are: Large Business of the Year, Laurel Manor Banquet & Conference Center; Mid-size Business of the Year, Sean O'Callaghan's Public House; Small Businesses of the Year Energizing Electrical Services LLC,  JAG Entertainment LLC, Laginess Insurance Agency and Maggie & Me.

The Legacy Award this year was presented to Ernie Hughes and Frank Ruggirello. A special Recognition Award was presented to orsa credit union (formerly Community Financial Credit Union) while the Community Contribution Award went to The Penn Theatre.

Northville names new Youth Network leader

Northville Township named longtime Youth Support Specialist Kerri Ann Sondreal as the new director effective April 3.

Sondreal replaces Amy Prevo who stepped down from her role after a decade of service as she and her family prepare for a new chapter on the west side of the state.

Prevo joined Northville Youth Network (NYN) as the interim youth assistance director on July 10, 2017. She was promoted to director Jan. 1, 2018. During her tenure, she led the organization with a strong focus on supporting youth and families, particularly those facing challenges, while strengthening partnerships throughout the community, noted a prepared statement from the organization.

Prevo said she is confident in Sondreal’s abilities and the positive impact she will have in continuing to grow and strengthen the program.

Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo agrees.

“Over the past several years, Amy Prevo has provided exceptional leadership to the Northville Youth Network, assisting youth and families throughout our community,” Supervisor Abbo said. “Her vision, dedication and passion for prevention-focused support have helped shape NYN into a truly unique and trusted resource. We are equally excited to welcome Kerri Ann Sondreal into the director role. Kerri Ann brings deep experience, compassion and a strong connection to our community, and her collaborative approach positions her well to build on Amy’s legacy and lead NYN into its next chapter.”

Sondreal brings eight years of experience with NYN, having served as a Youth Support Specialist since joining the organization during the transition from Northville Youth Assistance to the current model.

“It is one of the greatest privileges of my life to support people in their time of need,” Sondreal said. “Working in the community where I live and have raised my children has allowed me to encourage and support young people as they grow into their best selves.”

“This leadership transition reflects a thoughtful and strategic investment in the future of the Northville Youth Network,” said Township Manager Glenn Caldwell. “Kerri Ann Sondreal’s promotion, along with the advancement of Bridget Drzewicki and the expanded roles for both Bridget and Christine Spangler, strengthens an already dedicated team and enhances our ability to serve youth and families. These changes reinforce our commitment to collaboration and ensuring every young person in our community has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.”

Canton police veteran retires

Canton police Ofc. Peter Alestra has retired from the department.

Alestra began his 25-year career with the department on Sept. 11, 2000, and has spent his career in the patrol division, primarily responding to calls for service, providing traffic enforcement, and conducting investigations.

Throughout his career, in addition to his road patrol duties, Alestra was a member of the department Rapid Response Unit, Bicycle Unit, Field Training Officer unit, and a regional Special Operations Team. For the past 18 years, he has served as a Department Range Instructor working as part of a specialty team tasked with providing tailored, consistent training to improve officer safety and operational readiness. As a Range Instructor, Alestra provided specialized and realistic training scenarios, addressing specific department threats while also fostering mentorship and building officer confidence through personalized instruction.

Alestra has received numerous awards and has collected a notable amount of thank you letters and emails from members of the community, commending his professionalism, empathy, and respect for their individual situations, noted police officials. Among his peers, Alestra is commended for the way he carried himself in the field, demonstrating a calm and level-headed approach to police work regardless of the caliber of emergencies he was responding to.

“Officer Alestra’s quiet, even-handed approach to police work helped to maintain order and reliability within the department, and we thank him for 25 years of dependable service as he enters retirement,” said Joseph Bialy, Interim Police Chief.

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 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

 

Firefighters serve pancakes

Sumpter Township firefighters will host a Pancake Breakfast at the Sumpter Township Fire Station from 9 a.m. until noon this Saturday, 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.

 

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.

Future of planned detention center under review

The future of the planned immigration detention center in Romulus remains unknown following the pause in the purchase of multiple warehouses across the country ordered by new Department of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin.

The federal lawsuit filed by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel last week challenging the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility proposed in Romulus continues, according to officials, who announced the pause while the prices paid for potential detention centers across the country are “reviewed.”

In Romulus, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paid $34.67 million for the 250,000 square foot building at 7535 Cogswell Road, 57 percent more than the 2003 sale price of $22.1 million. It is not clear whether Mullin plans to move forward with plans to convert the Romulus building or the 10 other already acquired warehouses into detention centers, all purchased at prices well over market value.

The review of purchases and pricing began less than two weeks into Mullin’s appointment to the job.
More than $1 billion was paid by DHS and ICE on 11 industrial warehouse properties across the United States as of early April 2026, often paying premiums of 11 to 13 percent—and in some cases double—the appraised market value to convert them into detention centers under former Secretary Kristi Noem. 

The acquisitions were part of a massive billion plan to ramp up detention capacity as part of the Trump administration's mass deportation agenda. 

Multiple public protests took place at the Romulus site and Romulus Mayor Robert A. McCraight opposed the proposed facility since learning of the plan.  Members of the city council unanimously approved a resolution opposing the detention facility.

In the lawsuit, Nessel claims the (DHS) officials did not follow the federal procedures for the acquisition of property which include public input and accordance with local ordinances.  The filing seeks to halt actions by ICE in converting the warehouse into a 500-capacity detention center claiming failures of the federal department to evaluate alternatives, complete environmental reviews, and coordinate with state and local officials.

The court filing also 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 McCraight noted the failure of the federal government to comply with the regulations posed a threat to the community.

“Any project of this magnitude must go through all required permitting and legal channels,” McCraight said during the announcement of the lawsuit.

“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,” McCraight posted on social media.

“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 Representative 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.”

Career path

The Career Fair co-hosted last week by Romulus Senior High School and Mayor Robert McCraight drew a large crowd of enthusiastic students to the display manned by Romulus police officers. Students tried on safety vests, helmets and even goggles under the watchful eyes of officers. Police Chief Robert Pfannes stopped by and officers said they “had a great time” sharing information and answering student questions about careers in law enforcement. “We were proud to support local students as they explore their futures,” noted a social media post from the department.

Sumpter Town Hall meeting set to discuss road conditions

Sumpter Township residents will have a chance to present their concerns about the condition of the roads in the area during a town hall meeting requested by Supervisor Tim Bowman now set for 6 p.m. April 28.

Bowman initially suggested the meeting for April 10 but following a discussion at the March 24 Board of Trustees meeting, the new date was approved. The meeting is scheduled specifically to discuss road conditions in the township, which Bowman said “beat your guts out” due to the severe potholes. Township officials declared the road conditions an emergency situation last month in a strongly worded letter to Wayne County officials. The letter cited the dangerous road conditions and the threat to public safety the hole-riddled roads cause.

During the meeting, Bowman explained that his 91-year-old mother had waited “one hour and 10 minutes” for an ambulance after an accident left her bleeding and needing medical attention. He said it took first responders from the fire department 45 minutes to navigate the pothole-filled roads to arrive to provide aid in the emergency situation.

Bowman reiterated that the township roads are the responsibility of Wayne County, but little or no response has been received to the township demand for attention to the matter. He told the board members that in addition to the occasional grading, the roads require the installation of gravel and crowns so water will drain. He added that the ditches along the sides of the road are in need of cleaning, which is also the responsibility of Wayne County.

Bowman said he wanted a town hall type meeting to allow residents to speak about road repairs and conditions in the township in an effort to prompt some attention from the county. He suggested that the remarks from residents might help in filing a lawsuit against the county for the failed road maintenance.

“I want to hear first-hand how it affects residents,” Bowman said.

25-year police veteran retires from Canton department

Long-time Ofc. Jeffrey Seifert has retired from the Canton Township Police Department.

Seifert began his 25-year career with the Canton Police Department as a Public Safety Service Officer (PSSO) in 2001. During his quarter century on the job, he served as a police and fire dispatcher, 911 call taker, and jail attendant. Five years into the position, he was selected as the first PSSO to participate in the department Career Development Program, which provided sponsorship to the police academy. In 2006, Seifert was officially sworn in as a Canton Police Officer.

Seifert was first assigned to the patrol division, where he responded to calls for service, conducted traffic enforcement, and carried out investigations. In his duties of providing emergency services to individuals in need, Seifert displayed the highest levels of respect, kindness, and professionalism, fostering trust and treating all individuals with dignity, officials said.

For the past 12 years, Jeff has served as a Field Training Officer (FTO), mentoring, training, and evaluating 42 new officers as they transitioned from the academy to active duty. In this role, he has played a critical part in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, ensuring recruits understand department policies, follow safety protocols, and uphold the highest standards of ethical policing, according to a statement from township officials.

Seifert has dedicated the past nine years to serving as a department recruiter, representing the Canton Police Department at job fairs and community events to promote the profession of law enforcement. In addition, he has become the informal department historian, donating countless hours of his own time to research and preserve department history, a contribution made even more meaningful as the department celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Throughout his career Seifert has been recognized with numerous awards and citations, including Officer of the Year in 2015. He has also received countless letters and notes of appreciation from citizens complimenting his professionalism, compassion, and genuine kindness he consistently demonstrated in a wide range of situations and emergencies.

“After 25 years of service, Jeff leaves a legacy of kindness, integrity and quiet strength that has touched so many. His example of policing will continue to inspire long after his watch has ended,” said Joseph Bialy, interim police chief.

Belleville Rotary honors members

The Rotary Club of Belleville recently honored several members, celebrating their meaningful service to both the community and internationally.

Rotarians Joyce Rochowiak, David Brown, Ray Eissinger, Keith and Ginger Bruder, and Dr. John MacDermid were presented plaques marking their exemplary service in the Educate Ghana project. A financial donation from the Belleville was matched by Rotary International for a total contribution of $5,000. The funding was used to renovate the Assin Kyinaso D/A Basic School building in Ghana and provide furnishings and classroom supplies. Five of the classrooms display plaques honoring the Belleville Rotarians who helped with the project.

The meeting included presentations from Cozadd Grant recipients who detailed the use of the grants awarded from the Rotary club. Speakers included Major Kris Wood from the Salvation Army; Sumpter Township Fire Chief Jamie Goode and Nicole Tomaszewski from Guiding Harbor. The funding was used to prevent homelessness for 13 families in the community, purchase a LUCAS chest compressions system for the fire department to aid response capabilities for first responders and the purchase of three endurance beds for the Girlstown residential foster care home.

Club member Rachel Kozlowski was honored by her fellow club members with the Paul Harris Fellows Award for her generosity to the Rotary Foundation and her commitment to Rotary.

‘HER’story

The Fourth Annual celebration of Women’s History Month took place recently at the Summit on the Park in Canton Township. This year, the event theme was "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future." Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak, center,  began the celebration which featured three notable speakers who have all made sustainability the focus of their careers. The first speaker at the event was the Rev. Faith Fowler, executive director of Cass Community Social Services in Detroit, where she leads innovative programs that provide housing, job training, and supportive services to individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Following her remarks, Madeline Walker Miller, the CEO and founder of NexTiles, a Detroit-based company that transforms textile waste into building materials spoke to the audience. The final speaker was Danielle Todd, the executive director of Make Food Not Waste, where she leads statewide efforts to reduce food waste and address food insecurity through education, policy advocacy, and community partnerships.

 

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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.

 

Farm camp registration opens

Early registration for Maybury Farm Summer Camp is now available. The four-day, Tuesday-Friday, outdoor camp provides children with experience with animal care, gardening and maintenance. Camps take place from June 16 through Aug. 14 at the working farm on Seven Mile Road in Northville.

More information about the camp - including weekly session topics, dates, requirements, cost and registration is available at mayburyfarm.org/educate.

 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.

 

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. The market will be open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.