50 corpses discovered in makeshift morgue

Following the public furor surrounding the abrupt closing of Beaumont Wayne last week, an inspection by officials of the Wayne County Health Department last Tuesday discovered more than 50 corpses in a makeshift morgue at the hospital.
The inspectors were initially refused entry to the hospital by staff members who demanded a search warrant before allowing the inspectors to enter. Phone negotiations resulted in that demand being rescinded and the inspectors, along with Wayne County Sheriff's deputies, entered the hospital campus where the bodies were discovered in a warehouse being used both as a morgue and supply storage center.
According to an official report from Bill Nowling, a spokesman for Wayne County, health inspectors discovered the approximately 50 bodies in a vacant building on the hospital grounds.

Canton Public Safety Director and township reach legal settlement

Joshua Meier

Joshua Meier will resign his position as Canton Township Director of Public Safety as part of a proposed settlement agreement in his lawsuit against the township.
Other provisions of the proposed agreement include the purchase of an equivalent 2.5 years of Municipal Employees' Retirement System (MERS) service credit at a cost of $150,233 which would allow Meier to retire. The settlement agreement includes a $75,000 payment to Meier and his attorney Todd Flood. Meier has 21 days from April 21 when the township board of trustees approved the settlement agreement terms to sign the agreement and seven days to revoke the contract after that signing date. According to township attorney Kristin Bricker Kolb, the township will not purchase the services credits until the eighth after Meier signs the agreement.

Romulus residents question waste well operators

While the method may have been new, the concerns of Romulus residents remained the same during a virtual webinar regarding the hazardous waste disposal well in the city.
Romulus residents have been protesting the operation of the wastewater disposal well for two decades since it was first proposed in the city and became operational. 
A subsidiary of Republic Services, Republic Industrial and Environmental Services (RIES), purchased the hazardous waste well facility located on Citrin Drive in the city last year. The transfer of the license was considered a minor modification to the permit and as such did not require public input under current state statutes. The state and federal well permits, and state operating license are issued for 10 years and may be renewed as long as the facility meets applicable requirements.

Canton Liberty Fest and other events canceled

Members of the Canton Township administration have suspended community events and festivals through June 30 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Canton is committed to helping contain the spread of COVID-19,” a township spokesperson noted in a prepared statement. One of the most significant and largest events to succumb to the effects of the pandemic is the traditional Liberty Fest which was scheduled from June 18-20. The event, which drew crowds from throughout the area to the township, has been canceled in an effort to keep resident safe and comply with the Stay Home Stay Safe executive order of the governor, which was extended last week.

Candidates file for August primary ballot in Plymouth

Don Howard, Staff Writer

Voters in Plymouth Township will choose the names to appear on the Nov. 3 ballot during the primary election set for Aug. 4 from a field including only one Democrat.

Popular incumbent Township Supervisor Kurt Heise will serve another four-year term as he is unopposed for the office on the primary ballot. 
Also unopposed on the ballot is incumbent Treasurer Mark Clinton, who like Heise, has served in his respective office for four years. 
Township Clerk Jerry Vorva, however, who has also served one term, will be challenged by another Republican candidate, long-time resident and former Deputy Clerk Sandy Groth who abruptly resigned her position last year. 

Township will request millage on primary ballot

Voters in Northville Township will be asked to approve a millage to fund police, EMS, fire, parks, recreation, senior and youth services on the Aug. 4 ballot.
While the millage is an increase of .5 mill, that amount will be offset by a decrease of approximately .5 mill in the millage used for the Seven Mile Road property purchase.
Therefore, according to officials, approval of the Aug. 4 millage will result in no increase in the amount taxpayers in the township are assessed. 
Members of the Northville Board of Trustees approved the new millage at the April 16 regular meeting. The existing millage to fund township operations will expire this year and trustees agree to place the increase of .5 mill on the ballot, effective for 6 years, from 2021--2026.

Northville candidates submit petitions for August vote

Don Howard, Staff Writer

In Northville Township, the slate of candidates seeking election Aug. 4 includes 12 Republicans and a lone Democrat.

Filing for reelection to the position of township supervisor were incumbent Supervisor Robert R. Nix, III and Mark J. Abbo, who served as supervisor from 2000 until 2012.
Nix said he's looking forward to another term and praised his board members and their commitment.
“Everyone here is dedicated and committed to serving the township and doing what's best for our residents.” Nix said.

Sign of the times

Members of the Romulus Police Department sent a thank you to all the residents and businesses who have “fed us, prayed for us, even thought about us during this thing. Some of us like many of you have been forever changed by the coronavirus, but it hasn't broken us. We are Romulus strong and we'll all get through this together,” read the post on the police department Facebook page prompted by this sign posted at the back gate of police headquarters. Officers sent a special thank you to Brian and Michelle. “It's the first thing our guys see as they are hitting the road...it means more than you'll ever know,” the officers posted.

Yard waste pick up resumes

Residents in the City of Northville could place yard waste at the curb for pick-up beginning last week.
Northville officials have come to an agreement with Waste Management, the city refuse contractor, to begin collecting the yard debris beginning last Monday.
Those with yard waste can place it at the curb on the regularly scheduled trash pick-up days, officials said.

Sumpter police awards go digital during pandemic

Sumpter Township Director of Public Safety/Police Chief Eric Luke has found a means of honoring the officers of his department while adhering to the  Stay Home Stay Safe executive order of the governor. That safety measure has curtailed official meetings of the Sumpter Township Board of Trustees and has delayed an important presentation to officers of the department.
Traditionally, the exemplary work of township police officers is recognized during an official meeting of the board of trustees attended by the public, friends and family members. With the delay of those meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those meetings have been delayed for the month of April, when the awards would usually be presented.

Candidates file nominating petitions for Aug. 4 township vote

Candidates for office in Sumpter Township had until 4 p.m. last Tuesday to file nominating petitions for office.
While The Eagle was able to print names of most candidates last week, due to an early press time, the names of all the candidates on the Aug. 4 ballot were not included.
Seeking the office of supervisor is incumbent Supervisor John W. Morgan who will be challenged by Nelson Po; Antoine Jordan; Tim Bowman and Denise Komora.
Incumbent Township Clerk Esther Hurst will seek reelection and will be opposed by candidate Sherry Olds.

Van Buren Township Fire Chief returns from leave

Fire Chief Amy Brow 

Fire Chief Amy Brow received a warm welcome when she returned to work last Monday following a leave of absence.
Director of Public Safety Greg Laurain said was pleased to see Brow return to her position.
“I'm pleased to announce that Amy Brow will be returning back to work as Van Buren Township Fire Chief and would like to thank Interim Chief (David) McInally for his leadership during Chief Brow's leave. McInally has performed an exemplary job these past several months, especially during the COVID-19 crisis,” Laurain said.
McInally has served as interim fire chief since January. He will return to his position of fire marshal in the township.

Westland mayor submits balanced budget to council

Westland Mayor William R. Wild presented a $72 million balanced budget to members of the city council last week.
The budget, for fiscal year 2020-2021, includes funding for planned infrastructure projects and planned water and sewer capital projects along with the purchase of a new fire rescue vehicle. The budget also includes funding for the retiree healthcare liability and funding for curbside recycling, approved by voters in August. The budget adds approximately $60,000 to the General Fund unassigned balance, preserving a “rainy day” fund balance at approximately $5.7 million, according to city officials. .
Highlights of proposed budget include an overall taxable value increase of 4.18 percent and a provision for the city match for 13 federally funded SAFER Grant firefighters, a plan to offer retirement-eligible Police Chief Jeff Jedrusik a 5-year contract to continue his employment, and funds to restart the Curbside Recycling Program.

On the job

Zeke, the therapy dog who joined the Wayne Police Department last December, has been an invaluable aid to officers during the recent pandemic, according to the official department Facebook page. Zeke's main role is to provide comfort and stress relief to officers at the police station. "It is important to remember that law enforcement is an extremely stressful job. Officers encounter nearly constant trauma throughout their careers - people dying before their time, people at their worst, horrific car crashes, etc. Having Zeke around is a great way to give officers a bit of stress relief. Zeke is always in a good mood, and he is always ready for petting and ear scratching," the Facebook post notes. Zeke is a 4-year-old Golden Retriever and is certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD). The dog has undergone 24 weeks of obedience training, testing, and observation in various settings in order to receive that certification. When not "on duty," Zeke lives with Police Chief Ryan Strong. Zeke has even been known to Facetime with officer's young children as he offers a friendly, furry face and a respite from the extremely stressful conditions the pandemic has imposed throughout the area.

Governor names ‘race force’ members

The racial disparity of the coronavirus will now be the subject of a state task force created by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last week.
The pandemic has disproportionately impacted communities of color, according to state statistics. While African Americans represent 13.6 percent of the Michigan population, 40 percent of deaths from COVID-19 are of African American race. The task force will act in an advisory capacity to the governor and study the causes of racial disparities in the impact of COVID-19 and recommend actions to immediately address such disparities and the historical and systemic inequities that underlie them, according to state officials.

Legislator praises promised insurance refunds

Jewell Jones 

State Rep. Jewell Jones, D-Inkster, offered some special recognition to the help offered to area residents by some state auto insurance companies during the current coronavirus pandemic.
“I would like to recognize the leadership recently demonstrated by some of Michigan's auto insurance companies, many of which have pledged to refund a portion of premiums during this pandemic,” Jones said.
“Socially responsible citizens obeying 'stay at home' orders have resulted in fewer cars on the road, fewer vehicle collisions and lower costs for auto insurance providers. My community not only pays some of the highest rates in the state but is also one of the hardest hit by COVID-19. Reducing premiums during this crisis is a show of good faith that will go a long way toward providing economic relief to Michiganders struggling to pay their bills after losing their livelihood through no fault of their own,” he added.
“I am hopeful that this spirit of cooperation can continue beyond this crisis and make rates more equitable in the future,” Jones concluded.

Closing of Wayne hospital prompts criticism

Photo by Sean Rhaesa

Beaumont Hospital in Wayne has apparently succumbed to the serious effects of the coronavirus, although administrators deny the rumored death of the facility which  stands empty.
The hospital, according to officials, has been closed and all patients either discharged or transferred to another facility. A Beaumont spokesman said last week that some staff members were transferred to other hospitals while others have been laid off.
The hospital issued a formal statement denying the widespread rumors that the hospital has been permanently closed.
Services at both the emergency and obstetrics departments at Beaumont Wayne were terminated March 26 by hospital management and the facility dedicated to the exclusive treatment of COVID-19 patients. Should there be another surge in coronavirus infections, a Beaumont spokesman said, the facility could be reopened for those patients.

Stop and go traffic

Repair of I-275 delayed as Cherry Hill Road work begins 

While one major road construction project in the area has been delayed as the state seeks additional funding to reconstruct a portion of I-275, work on another Canton Township project began this week.
Construction on Cherry Hill Road in Canton Township was scheduled to begin last Monday. The road will be resurfaced and widened from Canton Center to Haggerty Road, according to a statement from the office of Township Supervisor Pat Williams.
“There could be unexpected delays in the project start date due to the current COVID-19 pandemic,” Williams cautioned in a prepared statement.
Construction barrels were scheduled for placement along the side of Cherry Hill on Monday in anticipation of the roadwork.

Residents urged to complete 2020 Census forms

It's never been more important for everyone living in Michigan to be counted in the U.S. census, according to state officials.
The census impacts everyone from seniors to students, kids and parents and local businesses and neighborhoods. Participating in the census is a civic duty as important as voting in our democracy, they said in a prepared statement.
To help get the word out, the State of Michigan has launched the Be Counted campaign to communicate the importance of completing the census, dispel myths and help ensure every Michigander is counted in the 2020 Census.
The census form is available in several different languages in addition to English, including Spanish. Individuals are not required to be a citizen in order to complete the 2020 Census, and there are no citizenship questions on the census form.

Township supervisor urges safety during virus

Northville Township Supervisor Robert Nix has posted an update regarding the effect of the Governor's Executive Order in the community on the township website.
Nix thanked the residents, business owners, community members and partners who have followed the guidelines and stayed home when possible.
“We are still getting daily calls and messages about groups of people gathering outdoors and businesses still operating when they are non-essential,” he said in the post. “Our health care workers and first responders are relying on all of us to help slow the spread of this disease. Medical experts are advising that the virus will peak in the next week. This is the time to be vigilant in spite of the inconvenience and disruption to our daily lives” he added.

Schools continue to distribute meals for area students

Food service meals, including breakfast and lunch, will continue for all enrolled and non-enrolled students in the Northville Public Schools through the Michigan Department of Education waiver period, officials said last week.
These meals, served under the Unanticipated School Closure - School Food Service Program (SFSP) are made available at no cost to anyone (18) and under, or up to age (26) if they receive special education services.

Inkster residents cautioned about road paving delays

Photo by Sean Rhaesa

Construction on John Daly Street in Inkster will be suspended until the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is lifted, according to city officials.
Construction is currently expected to resume mid-May, if the order ends social distancing is not extended further.  John Daly Street will remain closed and the current detour will remain in place, officials said. 
Inkster allocated funds for the reconstruction of John Daly Street from Michigan Avenue to the Rouge River for about one third of a mile. The funds were budgeted for the construction of water main, sanitary and storm sewers, curb/gutter, concrete sidewalks including ADA ramps, material quality control testing, and concrete street reconstruction. There will be a few individual residences along John Daly Street that will have the driveways restricted throughout construction. The contractor will work with those particular residents if access to garage is required, a prepared statement from the city noted.

Romulus continues coronavirus safety measures

Mayor LeRoy Burcroff 

Romulus officials have issued an update regarding city services and preventative measures that will continue until the Stay Home Stay Safe order is lifted.
“City officials have worked around the clock to ensure we are doing all we can to slow the spread of COVID-19 while continuing to provide tremendous customer service to our residents,” Mayor LeRoy Burcroff said. “The health and wellness of our residents is our number one priority, and we remain committed to providing the resources needed during this critical time.”
Updates on city services include:
“Stay Home,” Stay Safe”-due to the expanded Governor's Executive Order, all city buildings are closed to the public, except the police department. Residents are encouraged to visit the city website with questions. If additional assistance is needed, residents can call any one of the city departments.

Township deems landscapers as ‘essential’

Landscaping services in Plymouth Township are now an “essential service” and will no longer be subject to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Stay Home Stay Safe executive order.
Professional landscaping has been one of the hotly contested businesses in the debate regarding essential services during the stay-at-home order in the state.
Last week, Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise weighed in on the issue and weeded out any doubt about the township position on landscaping services.
“As supervisor of the Charter Township of Plymouth, I am hereby deeming certain professional landscaping services as essential functions of our township government for the following reasons and conditions, and therefore not subject to police enforcement under the various orders of the governor,” Heise said, in a prepared statement.

Canton Yazaki company lays off 723 employees

Employees at a Canton Township automotive component maker received an unwelcome email from a corporate attorney April 10.
The email, from Michael Dersken, the director and lead counsel for litigation for Yazaki North America, notified 723 employees at three Haggerty Road locations that they had been laid off, citing the coronavirus pandemic as the reason for the work interruption.
According to a company statement, 622 employees were laid off at the Yazaki company headquarters on Haggerty Road and another 101 workers at other Canton locations.

Residents warned of ‘band’ scam

Several teens have struck a sour note with police in the area as they have solicited donations for a non-existent band trip.
According to police reports, a group of teens has been approaching people in parking lots and inside stores in the Plymouth and Canton areas asking for donations for a fake trip with the band.
The Plymouth-Canton Community Schools music boosters group issued a letter to residents late Friday warning of the impostors.

Letters

County treasurer shows 
support for Michigan Governor

Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree believes that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has made the best possible decisions to keep area residents safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
In a prepared statement, Sabree said, “ By issuing strict Executive Orders, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been aggressive and persistent in order to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
“The State of Michigan has seen a constant rise in the number of new COVID-19 cases and deaths. Over the past two weeks, Michigan has had the third or fourth highest number of COVID -19 cases in the nation. The greatest impact of COVID-19 in Michigan is in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties,” the county treasurer said.
“The Governor's recent order (Executive Order No. 2020-42) was enacted to further protect the health and safety of all Michigan residents. People are instructed to suspend activities that are not necessary to sustain or protect life. Most residents have complied with the previous stay at home order, while some have been slow to take the coronavirus threat seriously. People are still becoming sick because of interaction with others, and they are putting first responders, health care workers, and the rest of us at risk. The latest Executive Order is temporary and how temporary depends on our level of cooperation,” he continued..
“Over one thousand health care providers at the Henry Ford Health System have tested positive for COVID-19. This virus has put a strain on our health care system like never before. Our first responders are putting their lives on the line to save others. They deserve our respect and support. The least we can do is protect ourselves and those with whom we come in contact from becoming victims. To do otherwise is to be completely selfish. We all want things to get back to normal. We want to return to work, see a Tigers game, attend religious services, visit with family and friends, play golf, or take a trip to one of Michigan's many tourist attractions.
“We'll be able to do all these things again, but we must be careful,” Sabree cautioned.
“The decision to end the state's 'stay home' order should be based on several factors. One of them is the availability and implementation of widespread COVID-19 testing. We should know who is positive. We have learned that many who are asymptomatic (show no signs of being infected) could still test positive and thus could spread the virus to others. We also need to know who has truly recovered from the coronavirus and if they have the antibodies that can help others.
“The data has to indicate that the new COVID-19 cases and deaths are continuing to decline. This will give some real relief to our health care workers and protect our communities from a second wave of COVID-19 cases. This will allow the residents of this great state to feel confident that they can return to some form of normalcy. There must be a plan that involves the state and local governments and the private sector to gradually open the economy. It will take time for everything to become fully operational. This is nothing new as we have heard this information from several credible sources over the last month,” he added.
“Governor Whitmer has had to make difficult and timely decisions. Since there was such a slow initial response from the Federal government, Michigan needed strong and decisive action, and that's what we received. In the heat of the battle, and we are in a battle, mistakes are made. If the Governor errs at all, she errs on the side of caution. Lives are literally at stake here. We seek assistance through prayer and patience but we have to do our part. Social distancing is working.
“If we do this right the first time, we won't have to go back and do it again. Governor Whitmer is right by issuing Executive Order No. 2020-42.
“Stay Home and Stay Safe,” he concluded.
Eric Sabree,
Wayne County Treasurer

Search for district superintendent goes digital

Members of the Wayne-Westland Community Schools District took advantage of current technology in their search for a new superintendent of schools.
The board members were expected to engage in a virtual meeting to interview the final two candidates for the top job on Tuesday evening.
The two candidates for the job are Keith McDonald, Ed.S., the director of human resources for the Livonia Public Schools and John Dignan, Ed.S., currently the director of post secondary options and community partnerships in the Southfield Public Schools District. Each will be interviewed by the members of the board during the virtual meeting using the Zoom platform.

Westland reminds residents of rules about open burning

The latest extension of the governor's Stay Home Stay Safe executive order along with warmer spring weather has prompted Westland police and fire officials to remind residents to adhere to the city ordinances restricting open burning.
Officials said that “open burning” is defined as the burning of unwanted materials such as paper, trees, brush, leaves, grass, and other debris where smoke and other emissions are released directly into the air. During open burning, air pollutants do not pass through a chimney or stack and/or combustion of solid waste is not adequately controlled, posing a safety threat. 
Officials said it is a serious health problem and that while adhering to the stay at home order, residents looking for ways to stay busy have begun spring cleaning during the warmer weather, leading to open burning of debris and trash.
“As a police department, we understand how difficult this Stay at Home order can be at times. It is natural for us all to begin to feel restless in our routine. This is especially true as the weather becomes warmer. This is a good opportunity to review the City of Westland Open Burn ordinance,” commented Police Chief Jeff Jedrusik.   
The Westland City Ordinance prohibits any “open burning” that is not in an enclosed fire pit.  The fire pit should be no larger than 3-feet-wide by 3-feet-tall and it must be a minimum of 25 feet away from any structure or property line.  The site must also be a minimum of 15 feet from any other combustible materials, Jedrusik said.
Only clean wood can be used as fuel (no creosote, or other chemicals).  Leaves and other unwanted combustibles are not allowed to be burned.  When conducting an “open burn” in the approved manner, some form of extinguishment must be on hand.  Examples would be a fire extinguisher, a garden hose, sand or dirt. 
The “open burn” must have constant supervision and must be completely extinguished before leaving the fire pit. If smoke from the fire becomes a nuisance to others, immediate extinguishment is required by the city ordinance.
Air pollution created by open burning can irritate eyes and lungs, obscure visibility, create annoying odors, and pose other potential health risks.  Embers that are able to escape the seat of the fire can quickly ignite nearby vegetation and/or neighboring structures, officials said.       
“Emergency calls for this behavior will typically increase this time of year, however, it is vitally important that our emergency response resources remain available for true emergencies at this time,” commented Assistant Fire Chief/Fire Marshall Kelly Eggers. “We are asking for the community's diligence pertaining to the ordinance and in assisting our efforts to provide the most efficient and effective service our citizen's deserve.”       
Failure to comply with the Westland City Ordinance is a misdemeanor offense and is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500.

Officials reiterate safe water and sewer system practices

Westland officials have issued a warning to the public about the danger to the wastewater and storm water systems in the community during the current self-isolation order of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Officials said that with the majority of Westland residents at home in compliance with the Stay Home, Stay Safe order, it is crucial to keep wastewater flowing safely. Misuse of wastewater systems associated with COVID-19 has caused issues in Southeast Michigan and across the country, according to the prepared statement from the city.

Do not enter

This month, Wayne Department of Public Works employees used yellow caution tape to prevent the use of the playscapes in city parks. The play structures could easily harbor the coronavirus and infect children with COVID 19, state health officials said, and the climbing structures, swings and other features were taped off to protect children from the virus which can live on hard surfaces. According to the Wayne Facebook page, “We do not have the resources to sanitize the playscapes. For your own safety, please do not go on the playscapes.” The city has posted signs, warning parents of the danger of the virus and explaining the closures.” Photo by Sean Rhaesa

Dangerous drive

A Michigan State Trooper and a 20-year-old female were transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries at about 6 a.m. last Saturday. The accident took place at M-14 near Sheldon Road in Plymouth Township when the female driver was unable to stop and crashed into the rear of the patrol car. The trooper was seated in the vehicle on the right shoulder of the road when the accident occurred.  Officials said the heavy traffic and the number of people driving too fast for conditions at the morning hour required them to call additional troopers to the area to deal with 20 other vehicle accidents.

Meal assistance available for seniors

Michigan recently received additional federal funding to help provide meals to older adults as the state responds to the COVID-19 pandemic. These programs enable Michigan residents 60 years and older to obtain meals through home delivery and pick-up services.
The need for these services has increased as measures to slow transmission of COVID-19 have left many family caregivers unable to assist older loved ones.

SMART further reduces bus service routes

SMART implemented further bus service reductions last week as a way to better match service on the road with the reduced demand in light of the Stay Home Stay Safe initiative.
Officials said that ridership is at 80 percent less than a typical weekday, which has prompted SMART officials to reduce service an additional 40 percent.  Since SMART implemented the initial 30 percent reduction, ridership has leveled off and remains steady.

Officials reiterate safe water and sewer system practices

Westland officials have issued a warning to the public about the danger to the wastewater and storm water systems in the community during the current self-isolation order of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Officials said that with the majority of Westland residents at home in compliance with the Stay Home, Stay Safe order, it is crucial to keep wastewater flowing safely. Misuse of wastewater systems associated with COVID-19 has caused issues in Southeast Michigan and across the country, according to the prepared statement from the city.

Community meetings ‘zoom’ to residents’ homes

The coronavirus pandemic may have slowed municipalities down, but local communities are using technology to continue regular meetings and include the public.
Several have employed  Zoom software which allows each of the city officials to participate in the meeting remotely using computer access and can also be accessed by citizens who can attend the meeting electronically.
Zoom is a web-based video conferencing tool with a local desktop client and a mobile application that allows users to meet online, with or without video. Zoom users can choose to record sessions, collaborate on projects, and share or annotate on one another's screens, according to the company website.

Virus isolation may impact teens’ mental health

Julie Brown, Staff Writer

While Growth Works, Inc. has been around since 1971, the help the agency offers teens and others with addiction and mental health issues is crucial during the current pandemic.

Staff member Patrick Stropes said he was out recently talking to a neighbor as the men took out trash cans and he asked about the neighbor's daughter during this trying time.
Stropes, the public relations and court/public safety liaison for Growth Works, said he was gratified to hear, “She's doing really well.”
Such encounters can help with isolation associated with the current public health crisis, said Stropes. Some families are cutting out colorful construction paper hearts for paramedics, police, and grocery clerks as well as gas station attendants, to show their appreciation.

Massage parlor ordinance updated by trustees

Julie Brown, Staff Writer

Following complaints about criminal sexual conduct at a Canton massage parlor in 2018, members of the township board of trustees have updated the ordinance language applicable to these facilities, along with several others in the township.

In 2018, a young woman was living at the massage establishment, noted Township Supervisor Pat Williams during a meeting of the board of trustees recently, although police said she was not a target of an investigation at that time. The new ordinance includes explicit regulations regarding massage parlors, kennels, junkyards, arcades and fortune telling/palmistry.

Educator nominated for ‘Teacher of the Year’ award

Ashley Benson teaches her first grade class. Photo submitted

Ashley Benson, a first-grade teacher at Achieve Charter Academy in Canton Township, has been nominated as the 2020 Michigan Charter School Teacher of the Year.
“I am thrilled for Ashley to have been chosen as a finalist for Michigan Association of Public School Academies (MAPSA) Teacher of the Year,” said Jennifer Conley, principal at Achieve Charter Academy.
“Ashley is one of the most compassionate and caring teachers who provides a first-grade classroom that is focused on a combination of fun, firmness, and focus. She meets the needs of all her individual learners and is a huge asset to our school community.”

State to investigate racial disparity in COVID-19 victims

A new task force, created by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, will investigate the serious racial disparity in cases of COVID-19 in the state.
Whitmer announced the new investigation last week and said that the task force would be chaired by Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. Members will include leaders across state government and health care professionals from communities most impacted by the spread of coronavirus. The task force was expected to meet last week.
Statistics reported last Friday showed that more than 40 percent of COVID-19 deaths in Michigan are African Americans, while only 14 percent of state residents are African Americans.

Senior residents warned of latest telephone scams

Julie Brown, Staff Writer

Police and sheriff's departments as well as the American Association of Retired Persons are on the alert to help senior citizens stay safe during the current coronavirus pandemic.

Plymouth Township Police Chief Tom Tiderington and others in law enforcement remind seniors to be wary of phone calls which employ the “grandparent scam” when the caller pretends to be a younger family member and says bail money is needed immediately.
Police officials stress that seniors should hang up immediately and also recommend caller ID use to screen calls. Those calls should be immediately reported to the local police department non-emergency number, officials advised, to report those scams.

Commissioners delay Kellogg Park fountain project

An artist's rendering of the proposed Kellogg Park fountain.

The City of Plymouth and The Wilcox Foundation have mutually agreed to delay the Wilcox Fountain Project until the spring of 2021 due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, according to a statement from Mayor Oliver Wolcott.
“There is now just too much risk involved in trying to complete the project this year. The project schedule was already tight, and the current pandemic adds a significant number of unknowns and new risks to the schedule,” he said.

Curbside compost waste pick-up suspended in city

Curbside pick up of compost waste in the City of Plymouth has been suspended in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
City of Plymouth officials recently issued a statement regarding trash collection in the city during the Stay Home Stay Safe executive order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
“The City of Plymouth is taking enormous steps to provide business as usual in these times of trial, while also diligently taking steps to keep our residents and staff safe.” The statement begins.

Commissioners set date to discuss 2020-2021 budget

Members of the Plymouth City Commission took advantage of technology and met remotely using Zoom internet software April 6.
During the meeting, commissioners approved $8,549.27 in repairs to the city street sweeping machine.
City contracted mechanics determined the sweeper had major damage to the hydraulic manifold, necessitating the repairs. The work will be done by Bell Equipment Co. and the repair costs will be met with funds from city budget equipment fund, according to officials.

Saxton’s development OK’d

A final site plan for the Saxton's property on Ann Arbor Trail has been approved by a 5-3 vote of members of the Plymouth Planning Commission. The commissioners also recommended approval of a Planned Unit Development at the site.
The proposal from Jewell-Maple Development, includes renovation of the Jewell building and demolition of the adjacent building which formerly housed Saxton's and the addition of 10 residential units at the rear of the property along Maple Street, including townhomes.

Happy Birthday

Public safety officers help
celebrate kids’ special days

Blakely Cates and her dad, Doyle Cates, Jr., enjoy
the arrival of the Sumpter Fire Department trucks
and police cars to celebrate her 8th birthday.

As the coronavirus continues to rage across the state, isolating families and curtailing usual holiday celebrations, some local police and fire departments have found a way to brighten birthdays for area children.
The Sumpter Township Public Safety Department helped Blakely Cates enjoy a very special 8th birthday celebration last week, despite the limits of the current public health crisis, when township police cars and fire trucks drove by the Cates' Sumpter Road home with lights flashing and sirens blaring, all to let her know that this was, in fact, her special day.

Mayor posts message to residents

Romulus Mayor LeRoy Burcroff updated city residents about the current status in the city recently and offered some suggestions during the isolation.
“This week, Governor Whitmer extended her Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order through April 30. I know these are difficult times, but I am grateful for your efforts to stay home and help us flatten the curve. I encourage you to use this time to connect with your family and friends-whether via Snapchat, FaceTime or by picking up the phone to give them a call. I also ask that you continue praying for and thinking of our first responders and essential workers.” Burcroff said in a Facebook message.

Northville Township parks closed

All Northville Township parks, including the soccer, baseball and lacrosse fields have been closed in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's executive order to Stay Home Stay Safe.  The fields, courts, playgrounds, equipment and the dog parks will be closed at least until that order is listed, officials said in a prepared statement.

Wayne High School wrestling coach fired

Andrew Hein has been terminated from his position as wrestling coach and physical education teacher at Wayne Memorial High School.
The termination reportedly stems from an auto accident which took place at about 8:18 a.m. Feb. 8 on the I-96 exit in Howell. According to the accident report, the driver lost control of the vehicle while traveling at more than the 70 miles per hour speed limit and drove into the area between the highway and the exit ramp where the vehicle rolled over.

Westland mayor reports 29 coronavirus deaths

Westland Mayor William R. Wild had a sobering message for residents of the community last week.
“As of today, (April 10), Westland has 278 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 17 Westland residents have lost their lives as a result of contracting the virus,” Wild said.
On Tuesday, the number of deaths had increased to 29 in the city.
“Our staff is working hard to continue to serve the public while adhering to the directives from the State of Michigan and our primary focus and concern is keeping members of the community safe and doing everything in our part to slow the spread and minimize the number of people affected.”

Legislators demand more pandemic case information

State Reps. Kevin Coleman (D-Westland) and Jewell Jones (D-Inkster) are calling for more data on COVID-19 cases to be made accessible to the public.
Information on the number of daily hospitalizations, case severity, and available resources, including number of beds and personal protective equipment, is necessary for local governments to provide the necessary resources to combat the public health crisis. Hospitals and health care systems need to share their data with the state and counties to ensure local governments and residents fully understand the current situation, the legislators agreed in a statement.

Public safety, first responders take extra health precautions 

Don Howard, Staff Writer

Area public safety departments are taking extra precautions to make sure police officers and firefighters are safe when responding to 911 calls during the coronavirus pandemic.

Officials said that with the onset of the pandemic their departments are fastidiously following the established guidelines from both the federal and state government with respect to limiting exposure to firefighters, and patients alike.

IN PLYMOUTH, NORTHVILLE AND CANTON
Both Plymouth and Northville Township police chiefs have redeployed detectives to road patrol duty to accommodate the need for a greater public presence and to make staff available to secure un-occupied and vacant business establishments.
On a national level, public safety call centers report they are experiencing unexpected 911 emergencies during the virus pandemic; keeping people who answer the phone healthy. Dispatchers, also known as Public Service Aids (PSAs) are highly trained in handling emergencies and typically can't work from home.

Chief praises safety staff

Tom Tiderington, who has served as Plymouth Township police chief for 19 years and as a law enforcement professional for more than 40 years, issued a statement praising his staff.
He said that he has “seen many challenges, both man-made and natural, that have made me a better person and have shown me the true character and resolve of our police officers, fire fighters and dispatch staff.    As we continue to battle this invisible enemy, our Public Safety Officers continue to risk their lives each and every day to bravely serve our community.  I am extremely proud of all of them,” he said.

Virus threatens traditional community festivals

Several community events in the area are in jeopardy due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and several face cancellation.
In Belleville, Joan Bodnar, the executive director of the National Strawberry Festival, said the city has withdrawn all approvals and permit requests for permits for the 44th annual event scheduled for June 19, 20 and 2.
“Our main concern is public safety. We are going to listen to what the president says and what the governor advises and hope that we can re-present our requests to the city,” Bodnar said. “It is just really up in the air right now. There are just too many questions,” she said. She said that the committee is going to “wait and see” what the conditions are at the end of the month.

Workers protest at Romulus Amazon facility

About 20 workers at the Amazon facility in Romulus demonstrated in front of the facility April 1 holding signs protesting the prioritizing of profit over their health and stating they were afraid to go to work at the facility.
The demonstration was prompted, the protesters said, by the failure of Romulus Amazon management to warn them that a worker had tested positive for COVID 19. Since that first case, employees claim, three more people at the order-fulfillment center have tested positive for the coronavirus.

Special delivery

During March, Romulus Community Schools hosted the Book Mobile for the second time, visiting students around Romulus and Inkster. The Book Mobile and a team of reading specialists delivered more than 200 books to students and adults to promote reading at home. The books were for readers of all ages, including adults. “Our staff got a huge, positive response about the delivery of books and snacks. Reading is a fundamental part of learning; the more they read, the better learner they will become,” said Karensa Smith, who has served as district director of grants and curriculum for more than four years. “We wanted to encourage students to always have a physical book in their hands. The teamwork in our school district made this voyage of the Book Mobile possible,” she added. Those who may have missed the Book Mobile, can catch it again on July 23.  By Roderick Peterson Jr.

City officials suspend all home water service shut-offs

Inkster officials have suspended all water shut-offs in the city during the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, late fees for charges that were due by the end of March have been waived in recognition of the interruption of hours at Inkster City Hall.
Officials said that the city “remains committed to maintaining our vital water and sewer infrastructure.”
Inkster City Hall has been and is scheduled to remain closed as directed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Customers can continue to pay water bills in a timely manner utilizing one of several methods available.

Manslaughter suspect enters plea of ‘no contest’

Anthony Dominic Kesteloot 

Anthony Dominic Kesteloot still awaits sentencing on manslaughter charges stemming from the death of Olivia Rossi.
Both Kesteloot, 26, and Rossi, 23, were Westland residents. Kesteloot was originally charged with homicide, obstructing justice, tampering with evidence, failing to report the discovery of a dead body, disinterring and mutilating a dead body and removing a dead body without medical examination. Those charges were dropped by prosecutors in exchange for his no contest plea in court last month to the manslaughter charge which carries up to a 15-year prison sentence.

Congratulations

Wayne Police Ofc, Michael Bolton was selected as the 2019 Police Officer of the Year. Bolton was nominated for the honor by his peers and selected by the Awards Committee. Bolton was nominated and selected based on his work ethic, which also makes him a role model for younger officers, according to a statement from the department. Bolton made several notable arrests last year, including a home invasion suspect and the suspect in a very serious assault, officials said. Bolton will be presented with the award at a meeting of the Wayne City Council members when face-to-face meetings resume. The awards committee also chose several other award recipients in the department which will be announced at a later date.

Local attorney seeking judicial seat

Former Wayne City Attorney Breeda O'Leary will seek the non-partisan judicial seat at the 29th District Court created by Judge Laura Mack's retirement.
Voters will decide on a new judge at the court during the Nov. 3 presidential election.
O'Leary is a long-time Wayne resident and practicing attorney at Fausone Bohn, L.L.P. She has extensive trial experience, having served as a prosecutor for the 29th District Court in Wayne, and currently serving as a prosecutor for the 18th District Court in the City of Westland.
She has prosecuted thousands of misdemeanor cases and conducted numerous jury trials, bench trials, and formal hearings throughout her career, according to background information provided. In her private practice, O'Leary amassed significant civil litigation and landlord-tenant experience, she said.
“Having practiced in the district courts for my entire legal career, I am confident that I can continue serving the citizens of Wayne with the utmost integrity, fairness, compassion, and the same high level of services that they have come to expect” said O'Leary.
“If elected, I will continue the diversion and treatment programs implemented by Judge Mack, including the very important Western Wayne County Regional Behavioral Treatment Court, which is designed to assist adult individuals with mental illness who have encountered the criminal justice system.”
O’Leary said that she has the support of Mack for the seat.
O'Leary is the fifth generation of her family raised in Wayne. Her great-grandparents moved to the city in the 1930s, when the city was only a village. Her family has owned and operated several businesses during those seven decades including Foster's Market, and Riggs Wholesale Grocer. O'Leary attended St. Mary School and obtained her first job at Northside Hardware.
O'Leary moved from Wayne to attend college and returned to marry her husband at Goudy Park. Her daughter currently attends the Wayne-Westland schools.
O'Leary has been active in the community, having served the Wayne Senior Center with Free Legal Aid for Seniors for nearly seven years. She is currently vice-president of Wayne Main Street, a member of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan, an advisory board member for Families Against Narcotics (FAN) Northwest Wayne Chapter, and a member of the Wayne 100 Club.
“Wayne is, and always has been, my home town. There would be no higher honor for me than to humbly serve my community and its citizens as their next district court judge,” O'Leary said.

Man accused of assault on wife with electric saw

Oswald John Tallent

A 46-year-old Canton Township man is accused of attacking his wife with a power saw and dragging his 8-year-old daughter by the hair after slamming her to the pavement.
Oswald John Tallent is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest and arraignment in 35th District Court last Wednesday, April 1. He is charged with assault with intent to commit murder; a felony punishable by up to life imprisonment; torture; a felony punishable by life or any term of years; assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder or by strangulation, a 10-year felony; child abuse, 3rd degree, a 2-year felony and as a habitual offender third offense.

Manufacturing facility to close, lay off 66 workers

Photo: Google Maps © 2020 Google

Sixty-six workers at a Canton Township manufacturer will not have jobs to return to when the coronavirus isolation restrictions are lifted.
Worthington Specialty Processing, a steel fabrication plant at 5260 South Haggerty Road, will close both the 195,000 square-foot processing center and the 250,000 square-foot distribution facility at the end of May, according to a company notice sent to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity March 17.  The notification is required by law when job losses are planned, according to provisions of the Worker Retraining and Adjustment Notification (WARN) Act.

The library doors might be closed...but plymouthlibrary.org is open.
Following Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's orders, the physical building of the Plymouth District Library is closed at this time. 
That isn't stopping hundreds of folks from coming to the library every day for books, movies, music and more all downloadable with a library card.  Library policies have been modified to make increased online content available for cardholders.

Plymouth man is named to state health and safety board

Governor Gretchen Whitmer named several new members of the Michigan Board of Health and Safety Compliance and Appeals last week.
Among the appointees to the board was Frank K. Fischer, of Plymouth, who currently serves as the executive director of the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI).

Sumpter trustees reject re-assessment proposal

Property owners in Sumpter Township will not see a reassessment of values this year following a decision of the members of the board of trustees Feb. 25.
Members of the board opted not to approve the proposal of WCA, a professional assessment company, to revalue property on the township tax rolls, something that has not been done for about 30 years. WCA had proposed a $114,520 contract to perform the reassessment of residential property during a four to five year period.
During discussion of the proposal at a study session immediately preceding the regular board meeting Feb. 25, Supervisor John Morgan said that he felt the proposal and the reassessment made “good sense” as there had been so many changes in property since it had been reassessed.

Northville schools prepare to offer off-site learning

Northville Public Schools  officials have been working on a plan to shift from the current Home Learning Support framework to a Distance Learning Instruction model in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's order to close schools for the remainder of the school year.
Members of the district board of education voted unanimously in favor of the new distance learning for students, according to a prepared announcement.
Officials said that district educators are in the process of developing a plan which they hope to announce April 13. District officials said they are taking into account the stakeholder feedback received during the past few weeks, and the input of the instructional staff. 

Northville Township extends water bill payment dates

While Northville Township Hall is closed to the public and employees are working remotely during the COVID-19 crisis, officials have approved an extension for payment of April water and sewer bills.
Northville Township water and sewer customers should receive their next water and sewer bill on or around today, April 9. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order, Northville Township is extending the due date for the April bills from Monday, May 4 to Friday, June 5, according to Marjorie Banner, township clerk in Northville.

Wayne hospital to treat only COVID-19 patients

The emergency room at Beaumont Hospital Wayne has been closed as the facility continues to admit COVID-19 patients transferred from other Beaumont facilities.
The move is part of the hospital surge plan and was implemented last week as Beaumont recorded 650 COVID-19 patients already in care with another 200 cases awaiting test results.
Physicians at each of the Beaumont hospitals will choose patients to be transferred to the Wayne facility and those transitions began last week, officials said. In addition to the emergency room, obstetrical services will be moved from Wayne to the Dearborn Beaumont Hospital to make room for the coronavirus patients.
The move to Wayne was the best option in the effort to avoid overcrowding of patients at other Beaumont facilities, officials said. “It's centrally located, for one, for all of our campuses,” said Beaumont COO Carolyn Wilson, in a prepared statement. “Two, they have a lot of expertise in communicable disease being close to the Detroit airport. We've invested even more training and specialty into that campus to care for this type of patient.”

Speak up

Student among winners of veterans’ competition

Julie Brown, Staff Writer

American Legion Post 251 Chaplain Jack Stange congratulates
Wayne Memorial High School 12th grader/honoree
Julia Givens, as Kerry Hritz, Wayne Memorial Social Science
department chair looks on. 

Julia Givens, a 12th-grader in Kerry Hritz' American Government and Politics class at Wayne Memorial High School, recently was lauded in the Oratorical Contest of the American Legion, Post 251 of Westland.

“She is a wonderful student. She's dedicated, hardworking. She's definitely a leader,” Hritz said.
Givens memorized a series of speeches for the American Legion initiative, focused on the amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
“I'm super proud of her. Just a huge win for Wayne High,” added Hritz of the third-place win by Givens, whose speeches note our U.S. Constitution has the significance of “still being (a) meaningful body.”
It had been 10 years since a student from either Wayne Memorial or John Glenn high school had participated in the Legion Oratorical Contest. Givens will attend Wayne State University to major in Global Studies next year, noted Hritz, Social Science department chair at Wayne Memorial High.

Egg hunt, Sumpter Country Festival are canceled

Two popular Sumpter Township events have succumbed to the effects of the coronavirus.
Officials have cancelled both the annual Easter Egg Hunt and the Sumpter Country Festival for this year in response to the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic.
Both long-time events are organized by the township Parks and Recreation Commission, a volunteer group.
The Easter Egg Hunt, which was planned for April 4 usually attracts more than 40 youngsters up to age 12 who search in age groups for plastic eggs which can be redeemed for bags containing candy and a stuffed animal.

Wayne Main Street group names new director

Lori Morrow has been named as the new executive director of Wayne Main Street.
Morrow is a 10-year resident of Wayne with a background in business. She has s been a volunteer at Wayne Main Street for four years, helping with Downtown Days and serving on the committee for Toast Wayne.
Morrow has attended many Wayne Main Street events and is an active part of the community, according to a prepared release from the organization.
Morrow said she is looking forward to working with volunteers to help grow the community and businesses.

STEP up

Westland celebrates internship program

The City of Westland recently celebrated the success of the Services to Enhance Potential (STEP) Workplace to Success Intern Program in city hall. 
The STEP Supported Employment Services Department works to help individuals with disabilities and other challenges explore, prepare for, and become successful at a job of their choice, through training opportunities, education and outreach with community businesses, and ongoing support. These workplace internships permit individuals to experience what working in a variety of settings, including experience in custodial, housekeeping, food service, day care and others, according to a city spokesperson.
The success of two interns, Ryan Klotz and Tracy Kulikowski, who worked at Westland City Hall was recently lauded  by city and organization officials.

Inspire Theatre cancels Spamalot

Inspire Theatre in Westland has canceled performances of Spamalot in response to the executive order of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Managers at the theater are offering several options to those who may have purchased a ticket to any of the performances including waiting to determine if the shutdown of gatherings of more than 50 people is extended or cancelled.
The Spamalot tickets can also be exchanged for tickets to another upcoming production or purchases can request a refund. Refund requests will be accepted until noon April 24, organizers said. If the show dates are changes, necessary adjustments to accommodate ticket holders will be implemented.

Romulus council cancels regular April meetings

A combination of technology and common sense allowed the members of the Romulus City Council to meet in regular session and continue the business of the city last week.
Two council members, Mayor pro tem John Barden and Councilwoman Kathy Abdo used phone equipment to teleconference into the meeting and cast their votes on agenda issues.  Councilman William Wadsworth was absent from the meeting.
Barden designated Councilwoman Tina Talley to chair the meeting in light of the teleconferencing. In addition, City Clerk Ellen Craig-Bragg offered an email address at the beginning of the meeting which would have allowed the public to comment in real time on any issues during that section of the regular agenda. Any email comment would have been read aloud to the council members had anyone taken advantage of the opportunity.

Mayor praises performance of essential staff during crisis

Romulus Mayor LeRoy Burcroff recently posted the following email letter to residents detailing the status of coronavirus measures in the city.

Mayor LeRoy Burcroff 

Fellow residents:
I hope this email finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy.
I would like to extend my immense gratitude to our essential workers-police and fire, emergency medical professionals, grocery store and pharmacy employees, mail carriers, truck drivers and airport staff. I hope you will join me in keeping these workers, their health and the health of their families in your thoughts and prayers during this time.

As you know, Gov. (Gretchen) Whitmer has issued a "Stay Home, Stay Safe" executive order. All non-essential Michigan businesses are required to temporarily suspend in-person operations until April 13. It is my hope that we can all do our part to keep ourselves and our community healthy by staying home unless performing essential tasks. To support small businesses in our community, please visit our website to find a list of restaurants still open for carry-out.

Farmer’s Market may still open in June

The Romulus Farmer's Market is still tentatively set to open from 5 until 9 p.m. on the second, third and fourth Fridays of the month from June through August. The second and fourth Friday markets are near the Sounds in Downtown in the gazebo while the third Friday Farmer's Market will be in the pavilion during the Movies in the Park. For more information, call (734) 955-4531.

Schools continue food program for students

Roderick Peterson Jr., Special Writer

As the coronavirus sweeps through the nation and the world, Romulus Community Schools continues to provide breakfast, lunch, and educational lessons to students in Romulus and Inkster.

While many public school districts across Michigan are offering onsite meal pick-up service for its families, Romulus has gone a step further by delivering food to the community utilizing the district bus service partner, Auxilio Inc.
“After discussing the immediate needs of our students, we knew our families would be best served if we provided a food delivery option,” said Nicole Crockett, district interim superintendent of schools. “We have almost 100 volunteers, over 20 bus drivers and aides to make daily deliveries possible.”

Sumpter Township budget is topic at meeting

Members of the Sumpter Township Board of Trustees met March 24 for a public hearing on the upcoming 2020-2021 budget.
Township Finance Director Michelle Cole told the trustees that in light of the current state of emergency due to the corona virus she was going to discuss just the most important items in the budget.
“This is a budget planning document,” she said. “Everything will have to go through all channels of approval.”
Cole said the top item was the year end total which showed that township revenue was up. “Expenses are up, too,” she said, “but this shows that the township has done a really good job in closing the gap on previous water issues.”

Beaumont Van Buren to accept medical donations

Donations of medical supplies for Beaumont Health are now being accepted at the Van Buren Township facility at 29163 Ecorse Road.
Hospital officials said a central location for donations would better accommodate the distribution of the needed supplies.
“We're overwhelmed with the generosity and support from the public,” said Beaumont Chief Nursing Officer, Susan Grant. “We're thankful for their donations and grateful Gov. (Gretchen) Whitmer's Stay-at-Home order, still allows area residents to go out and drop off much-needed donations of medical supplies. We thank them for stepping up and making a difference.”
As the number of COVID-19 patients continues to climb, Beaumont Health is now accepting specific medical supplies and donations to help support the health systems ongoing efforts to protect staff and patients during the pandemic.

Belleville City Hall is closed

Belleville officials have closed city hall to the public in response to the coronavirus outbreak but essential city services will continue, “just in a different way.”
The city website directs residents to call 911 for emergency response from both police and fire or a medical situation. Non-emergency information is available at the 211 number. Residents can also use the emergency email Wecanhelp@Bellevilleonthelake.com for information and updates.
The city is accepting only online and drop-box payments and is unable to return change. In the case of overpayment, the amount will be credited toward the next utility bill and receipts will be mailed for cash transactions only.

Inkster council suspends meetings for 30 days

Members of the Inkster City Council have responded to the social distancing ordered by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer with a new resolution suspending public meetings for the next 30 days.
The resolution, number os-20-49-R, also permits Mayor Patrick Wimberly as the chief administrative officer to take all actions necessary to the continued operation of the City of Inkster.
The resolution was approved by a unanimous vote of the city council members during the regularly scheduled March 16 meeting.