Communities prepare for new district court funding plan

Communities served by the 34^th District Court in Romulus are preparing to negotiate should a pending state effort to reform trial court financing be approved.

To prepare for possible negotiations, the City of Romulus has asked the four other communities served by the court to join in withdrawing from the original funding agreement. The 34th District Court serves the communities of Romulus and Belleville, and the townships of Huron, Sumpter, and Van Buren. It also handles legal matters originating from Detroit Metro Airport. The court was constructed under a cooperative funding agreement between the five communities, with Romulus providing full financial backing for the bonds used to build the new courthouse, located in the Romulus municipal complex.

In a unanimous decision at the Sept. 15 meeting, members of the Belleville City Council were among the first to agree to support Romulus in the request to withdraw from the original funding as a possible negotiating tool.

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight is now preparing to negotiate directly with the state as the Michigan Supreme Court works to standardize and reform trial court funding statewide. These reforms, if approved,  would follow recommendations from the Michigan Trial Court Funding Commission to establish a more stable and unified funding model across all jurisdictions. McCraight has long contended that Romulus subsidizes court operations and is now “on the hook” for the bond debt. The original bond proposal stated that repayment would come from court operations and currently a $25 fee is applied to every 34^th District Court case, earmarked for repayment of the bonds.

Belleville Mayor Ken Voigt told the city council members the withdrawal is an effort to prepare for expected changes in court financing.

"The City of Romulus is on the hook for this bond and needs the flexibility to negotiate with the state," Voigt said. "This isn’t an immediate withdrawal, but a necessary step to prepare for changes in how Michigan courts are funded."

As part of the resolution approved Sept. 15, Belleville also authorized the release of court financial data for fiscal years 2020 through 2023. This includes details on the number of tickets processed by the court, related payments made to Belleville, and the percentage of ticket revenue returned to the city.

The remaining communities served by the 34th District Court have not yet publicly announced their position on the withdrawal request.

Community mourns death of retired 35^th District Court Chief Judge

Judge John E. MacDonald, 90, who served on the 35th District Court for 24 years, including 18 years as chief judge, died Sept. 28, 2025.

Judge MacDonald retired from the bench in 2009 and continued to serve as a substitute judge until the age of 82. A resident of Holland, Judge MacDonald was born Dec 18, 1934, in Flint, the son of Raymond and Frances (Finch) MacDonald. He met the love of his life, Ann Woodruff, on Mackinac Island, where they both worked during their summer breaks from college. The couple married in June of 1958 and shared 59 years of devotion until her death in October of 2017.

Judge MacDonald lived in Detroit and Livonia before establishing his home in Northville in 1969, where he devoted many years to the community. He was a devoted member of Ward Presbyterian Church, where he served as both elder and deacon. John’s strong faith was central to his life, and his commitment to helping others was a reflection of his deep devotion to God, his family said. He moved to Holland in 2018.

Class president of his 1952 class at Mackenzie High School, he went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan before attending Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate degree. At U of M, he was a proud member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He has been a member of the Michigan State Bar since 1961.

Judge MacDonald began his legal career with Tinkham & Snyder Law Firm in Wayne, where he devoted countless hours to building his practice and earning the respect of his peers.  In 1985, he was elected Honorable Judge John E. MacDonald of the 35th District Court.

While Judge MacDonald’s family was always his priority, he dedicated his life to serving others and his community, giving generously of his time and talents, his family members recalled. He was a member and past president of the Wayne Kiwanis Club, as well as a past member of the Wayne Chamber of Commerce. His civic involvement included service as a Northville Township Trustee and supervisor. Within his profession, he served as president of the Livonia Bar Association and

Among his survivors are his children, Thomas (Karen) MacDonald, David (Lori) MacDonald, and Susan (Michael) Magante; his brother, James (Jan) MacDonald; his sister, Julia (the late John) Roberts; his grandchildren, Anne (Danny) O’Connor, John (Maddy Lyons) MacDonald II, Sharon (Michael) Marchbanks, Michael MacDonald, Thomas MacDonald, and David Magante, and his great grandchildren, Everett, Louise, Blair, and Morgan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Visitation will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Oct. 13, preceding the 11 a.m. funeral service at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Interment is planned at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Hess Scholarship Fund at Ward Presbyterian Church or the Salvation Army.

Northville Chamber of Commerce names Cracraft as new executive director

Longtime Northville resident Jim Cracraft has been named executive director of the Northville Chamber of Commerce.

Cracraft recently retired as Superintendent of the Gaylord School District. His 38-year career in public education included roles as a classroom teacher, building administrator, and school district superintendent. He served as superintendent of the Clinton Public Schools prior to his tenure in Gaylord.

Cracraft said he is excited to begin work at the Chamber of Commerce alongside the board of directors and staff. He added that he is looking forward to continuing to serve the Northville community during this exciting period of growth and development. Cracraft will also lead the chamber in preparations for the upcoming bicentennial celebration in the city.

Cracraft said he is also looking forward to working with both public and private schools in developing opportunities for all students, noting that a college and career-ready workforce is important for the Northville community and the state. Cracraft said he is excited to build relationships with stakeholders and businesses in the Northville and Metropolitan Detroit community.

Cracraft and his wife, Holly, raised their three children in the Northville community, where they have resided for 30 years.

Funeral services for beloved educator set for Monday

The death of Carol Godsave Saunders, 86, a dedicated educator and community service member is being mourned throughout the area. Mrs. Saunders died Oct. 2, 2025.

Mrs. Saunders was born Jan. 31, 1939, the daughter of the late William Albert and Hazel (Planck) Godsave and grew up in Montrose. She graduated from Central Michigan University in 1961 and began her lifelong career in education teaching history at Cherry Hill High School.

She left her full-time teaching position to dedicate herself to raising her two sons. As her children became more independent, she returned to her career as an educator working in adult education with the South Lyon School District, before bringing her talents to the Plymouth Canton Community Schools.

Mrs. Saunders was the creator, administrator, and principal of the Adult Education Program at Starkweather School. In this pioneering role, she instituted a new program, empowering countless adults in the community with new skills and second chances, her family recalled.

Mrs. Saunders was an active and dedicated long-time member of the Plymouth Rotary Club. She continued to mentor and guide the next generation as the Rotary advisor at the Plymouth Canton Educational Park Interact Club, helping young people develop leadership skills and a heart for service.

During her early years in education, she met and married Darell Saunders. The couple, parents of sons Travis and Todd, were married for 57 years before Mr. Saunders’ death in 2021.

A lifelong learner, Mrs. Saunders loved trivia and was a big fan of Jeopardy.

Mrs. Saunders was considered a pillar of the Plymouth community as she dedicated herself to the service of others.

Among her survivors are her sons, Travis (Carol) Saunders and Todd (Marla) Saunders; grandchildren Troy (Erika) Saunders and Jake (Jordan) Saunders; great-grandchildren Walker and Oakley; many loving nieces and nephews; her fellow Rotary Club members, and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Sandra J. Hill.

Funeral Services will take place at the Vermeulen-Sajewski Funeral Home, 46401 Ann Arbor Road West, Plymouth. Visitation will be from 2 until 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct.12, and from 11 a.m. until noon Monday, Oct. 13, preceding  the noon service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Mrs. Saunders’ memory to the Plymouth Rotary Club.

Farm aid

The Fourth Annual Golf-4-Good Charity Golf Outing Invitational at Northville Hills Golf Club on Sept. 10 was a fundraising effort to benefit the Northville Community Foundation which manages and supports Maybury Farm. Organizers said the event this year was a great success and will help fund operations at the educational farm located on 85 acres of farmland and forest in Northville. Maybury Farm features more than 100 animals, gardens, a farm-themed playground and Maybury General Store.  The working farm is self-funding and relies on admission fees, special programs and events, fundraisers and donations.  The farm receives no municipal, county or state funding.  Organizers said the event helped fund and bring awareness to a meaningful cause.

Start your engines

NASCAR-ARCA racecar drivers will pay a visit to Canton on Saturday

Race car fans of all ages will have a chance to meet several race drivers and collect autographs this Saturday during a special event in Canton Township.

The Bartlett’s Kids Club will host a special event this Saturday, Oct. 11 offering visitors an opportunity to experience an up-close and personal experience with NASCAR ARCA racecar drivers, as well as meet several stock car drivers and view their vehicles.

The family-friendly event will feature NASCAR ARCA professional drivers during the touch-a-racecar experience. Children will also be able to sit inside a parked racecar and experience what it feels like to be a driver, organizers said. Expected racecar drivers include Brad Smith, ARCA driver; Doug Litigot; Robbie Moore, Jr.; Mike Fuller, along with other stock car drivers. Visitors should provide ear protection, organizers noted, as the roar from the starting racecars is loud.

The Bartlett 200 event, which runs from noon-2 p.m. will take place in the Summit on the Park west parking lot, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton. The regularly scheduled Open Swim that typically follows all Bartlett’s Kids Club events will also be available from 2-4 p.m. in the Summit Aquatic Center.

"We are incredibly excited to share the thrill of racing with our Bartlett’s Kids Club members, as well as their families and friends," said Jennifer Girard, Canton Community Center supervisor. "This is a fun opportunity for race fans to learn all that goes into racing

from these motorsport professionals."

This special event is free to all Bartlett’s Kids Club members and their families. Fees for non-members range from $8 to $15. Pre-registration is required to attend. Sign up today at www.cantonfun.org/register with activity code: BKC200.

Plymouth officials seeking public input about redesign of downtown

Like an aging beauty, downtown Plymouth is beginning to show its years.

According to Downtown Development Authority Director Sam Plymale, the city is entering a multi-year planning process to determine what Main Street and the surrounding areas will look like for the next two or three decades. As part of a five-year plan that began last year, the city has hired SmithGroup, a planning and design firm, to lead the process of a new look for the downtown area.

Current areas of concern are the aging Honey Locust trees planted 30 years ago, which have reached the end of their lifespan; aging brickwork and planters, which show wear; and areas around Main Street could use upgrades and improvements to infrastructure in the city will need repair or replacement soon.

City officials have planned an informational open house from 5:50 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. next Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Plymouth Cultural Center. They are hoping for input from residents, business owners and visitors to help prioritize and design improvement plans. A presentation is planned for 6:30, but the public can enter any time during the 3-hour open house to view some plans and provide input.

“This project is really about what downtown Plymouth will look like for the next several decades,” DDA Director Sam Plymale said. “We want to be respectful to the historic nature of our downtown, but we also recognize there are things that need upgrading.”

Officials are hoping to attract the attention of younger residents who will be living with the designs and plans for the next few decades. No plans or designs have been finalized or selected, officials stressed, and the project is in the information-gathering stage.

The public engagement process will continue through June 2026, according to Plymale, and several future surveys and open houses are planned. An online survey is currently available at downtownplymouth.org. Final concepts should be available next summer, although no construction is expected to begin before 2027.

Community Calendar

One Romulus meeting includes pancakes

The latest "One Romulus" community meeting will be hosted by Mayor Robert McCraight at the Romulus VFW Post#78 located at 39270 Huron River Dr.  beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18. McCraight will be preparing pancakes but will step away from the grill at 10 a.m. to provide updates on city news and announcements, followed by time reserved for questions. This is a free event, but reservations are requested at (734) 942-7571 or at vtoliver@romulusgov.com by Monday, Oct. 13. 

 

Theater offers Scary Tales From the Cemetery

The next performance at the new Hook & Ladder Community Theater is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 30 when retired Judge Ron W. Lowe will present Scary Tales from the Cemetery. Lowe will portray the caretaker of the cemetery where long buried scary and spooky tales will be unearthed just in time for Halloween. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students.
The building was a fire station from 1952 to 1980 and has been renovated into a new operating theater.

The theater is located at 35255 Goddard Road in Romulus. Ticket information is available at  hookandladder.ludus.com.

 

Parking garage closed

The upper level of the Central Parking Deck in downtown Plymouth is closed as crews begin work on the ramp. The closure is expected to be in place for several weeks.

The DDA has leased some additional 8-hour public parking spots at the Christian Science Church located at 1100 W Ann Arbor Trail just west of Harvey Street for use during the closure. These spots are first come first serve.

 

Goodfellow holiday help applications now online

Applications for the 2025 Romulus Goodfellows Assistance Program are officially available.

If you or someone you know needs support, visit https://romulusgoodfellows.wixsite.com/.../applications...

Romulus Goodfellows

seootrnpSd1tit91469fA 6uu29hlls1th9t26a30m9621:gM2a 0 itu aA  to apply. Completed applications are due Wednesday, Oct. 15.

 

Dueling Pianos will fight polio

The Rotary Club of Plymouth AM and the Rotary Passport to Service Club are sponsoring Dueling Pianos for a Cause set for 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 at the Plymouth VFW Hall, 1425 S. Mill St. in Plymouth

Tickets are $50 and the event is fundraiser for the End Polio Worldwide effort of Rotary Clubs around the world.

Geff Phillips and Mike Caey will perform. Tickets are available from Rotary Club members.

 

Fire station open house is planned in Plymouth

The Plymouth Fire Department will host the annual Fire Safety Open House from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at Fire Station 1, 9955 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth. A full day of fire safety activities and demonstrations is planned.

 

Potters Guild sale set

The Village Potters Guild Annual Holiday Market is planned for Nov. 21-23, the weekend before Thanksgiving. The annual event will take place in Plymouth at 326 N. Main St., just north of the railroad tracks in the building behind Sidecar Slider Bar.

Sales hours are 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday Nov. 21 and 22 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Mayor urges ‘clean campaign’ in race for council seats

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight has issued a caution to all candidates seeking one of the expiring 4-year terms on the city council.

While McCraight said that it has been a “relatively quiet” election year, he warned candidates about inaccurate rhetoric.

“I thought that perhaps Romulus had turned a corner this election year,” the mayor posted. “It’s not too much to ask...just run a clean campaign. Candidates should stand on their work and accomplishments not spread false narratives and mislead residents to secure votes. Public officials should not intentionally mislead the public at any level, period,” he cautioned.

Absentee ballots for the upcoming Nov. 4 election have been arriving in the homes of voters this week.

Voters will choose all seven members of the city council from a field including both newcomers and incumbents. The elected candidates will serve on the city council for 4-year terms.

McCraight, City Clerk Ellen Craig-Bragg, and Treasurer Stacy Paige are unopposed in the election, which will return each of them to 4-year terms in office.

Current topics of campaign literature indicate that economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements, along with senior citizen services, will be the main topics in efforts to influence voters, some of which apparently prompted McCraight’s comments on social media.

“So, to set the record straight.... there will be NO cuts to senior services in our community. If anything, we are trying to find creative ways to expand them. Please make certain that any senior citizens in your family who rely on those services are aware. Have them contact me directly if they have any questions,” McCraight posted in response to some campaign rhetoric.

Newcomers and incumbents on the nonpartisan ballot include incumbent Kathy Abdo; James Bullock; incumbent Harry Crout; Tony Heimberger; incumbent David S. Jones; Judy R. Kennard; Jeffrey F. Kotlarek; incumbent Celeste Roscoe; Lonetta Silas; Nychole Smith; incumbent Tina M. Talley; incumbent William J. Wadsworth; Mark R. Wilhide; and Johnny Williams.

Current Mayor Pro Tem John Barden, a long-time member of the city council and one of the top voters’ choices in past elections, opted not to seek reelection for another term.

Festival of Lights

5^th Annual Diwali celebrating triumph of good over evil set in Canton

Canton Township will celebrate a 10,000-year-old Indian tradition again this year during the fifth annual Festival of Lights, a tradition of Indian culture celebrating the triumph of good over evil.

Canton Leisure Services is again partnering with several community groups to present the event, which is a celebration of lights that symbolizes the “victory of light over darkness.”  Sponsors of the event this year include: miindia.com and Lexus.    

Program activities available during this free event will include Indian cultural performances, music, and dancing, as well as free henna designs.  Indian snacks will also be available for an additional fee. Vendors will also be on hand selling clothes and other merchandise, and the community celebration will culminate with a short fireworks display.  

“Canton is proud to continue to host this annual celebration, which is open to all community members to learn and celebrate together,” said Laura Mortier, Recreation and Performing Arts manager. “By presenting this type of event, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and awareness of this 10,000-year-old Indian tradition within our community by providing this excellent opportunity to experience this type of cultural celebration.”

The event is planned for 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Heritage Park Amphitheater, located behind the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road, in Canton.

There is no admission fee to attend this special event. For more information, visit www.cantonfun.org or call (734) 394-5460.

Aide to imprisoned Inkster mayor admits lying to federal agents

The former executive assistant of imprisoned Inkster Mayor Patrick Wimberly entered a guilty plea last week to charges he lied to federal agents during their investigation into Wimberly’s bribery scheme

Saif Alsenad, 33, of Dearborn Heights, served as Wimberly’s executive assistant from May 2021 through June 2023. According to prosecutors’ claims, Alsenad lied to FBI agents and told them he was not aware that Wimberly had corruptly solicited, demanded, and agreed to accept $100,000 with the intent to assist an investor in acquiring a vacant 13-acre parcel owned by the city of Inkster. At the time he made the statements, prosecutors alleged Alsenad knew the claims were false because he knew Wimberly had agreed to accept cash bribes in exchange for Wimberly’s assistance in obtaining the parcel of land for the developer. Alsenad was charged with making a false statement or representation to a department or agency of the United States, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001(a)(2). This charge carries a maximum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. His plea agreement was taken under advisement, and sentencing is set for Jan. 14, according to federal court records.

In September 2024, Wimberly pleaded guilty to agreeing to accept $100,000 in cash bribes. He was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment following an investigation that federal prosecutors said involved transfers of money at a strip club, a Detroit bar, and the driveway of his home.

“When law enforcement officers are investigating a crime, lying to them to help shield the offender is never the right decision. This is especially true when those involved are government officials who have a duty to serve the public’s interest, not their own,” said United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.

"Today’s guilty plea by Saif Alsenad demonstrates the FBI’s steadfast commitment to investigate those who undermine the public’s trust, regardless of their position or influence,” said Reuben Coleman, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “Working for an elected official does not exempt anyone from accountability when engaging in public corruption. I want to thank the members of the FBI Detroit Area Corruption Task Force for their outstanding investigative work throughout this investigation.”

The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eaton P. Brown.

Alsenad was charged Aug. 14 in an information in federal court. He resigned as director of government and public affairs for Wayne County on Aug. 4. Alsenad was hired by Wimberly in 2019. According to court records, a local investor met with Alsenad in 2022 to inquire about buying a vacant, city-owned property. Prosecutors allege that Alsenad told the investor and a second person interested in purchasing the property that Wimberly expected a payment of $100,000 to ensure the sale and the necessary permits.

Wimberly was convicted of accepting cash bribes ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 from Nov. 18, 2022, through April 4, 2023, totaling $50,000. Alsenad told FBI agents during an October 2024 interview that he "never saw anything weird" during his employment with Wimberly, according to court documents.

Alsenad did not benefit financially from the bribes, according to the plea agreement.

Opening night

Hook & Ladder Theater opens tomorrow

Local theater enthusiasts and supporters of the arts will be on hand tomorrow for opening night at the new Hook & Ladder Community Theater in Romulus.

The new theater, spearheaded by professional actor and Romulus fireman John Thiede, will present Barefoot in the Park as the inaugural performance in the converted fire station on Goddard Road.

The show is already sold out for tomorrow, Saturday, and Sunday, and a few tickets are available for Oct. 1, 11, or 12. Curtain time is 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

The next performance at the new community theater is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 30, when retired Judge Ron W. Lowe will present Scary Tales from the Cemetery. Lowe will portray the caretaker of the cemetery where long-buried scary and spooky tales will be unearthed just in time for Halloween. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students.
The building was a fire station from 1952 to 1980 and served as housing for other uses since the fire department operations were moved. Under Thiede’s careful and professional eye, the building has been renovated into an operating theater.

“Now the theater will come alive. A place to gather and spread the love of the arts. Lots of ideas planned. The old gal will be reborn. Join us, support us, enjoy the arts,” Thiede said.

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

Thiede has performed in multiple professional roles on stage and TV and is a well-known actor in theater circles.

The theater is located at 35255 Goddard Road in Romulus. Ticket information is available at  hookandladder.ludus.com.

Absentee voter ballots arrive in City of Plymouth

Eight candidates are vying for the four expiring terms on the Plymouth City Commission. Voters will go to the polls on Nov. 4 to make their choice, while others will use the absentee ballots already delivered by mail to some registered voters in the city.

Three of the four candidates chosen by voters will serve four-year terms on the commission, while one will serve a two-year term.

On the ballot will be first-time candidate Joe Elliott; incumbent Jennifer Kehoe; incumbent Alanna Maguire; Kristin McHale Johnson; incumbent Nick Moroz; Jim Mulhern; Ronald Picard

Any voter currently on the Permanent Ballot List at the city clerk’s office will automatically receive an absentee ballot for the election. Voters not currently on the Permanent Ballot List, but on the Permanent Absent Voter Application List, should have received the application in the mail already. Applications can also be found online at Michigan.gov/vote and at the Clerk's office.
Beginning in 2026, the City of Plymouth will no longer maintain a Permanent Absent Voter Application List. This means that Absent Voter Ballot Applications will no longer be automatically mailed to residents prior to an election. These voters will need to individually request and return an application to receive a ballot in the mail.

Voters who wish to receive an Absent Voter Ballot automatically for all elections can sign up to be added to the Permanent Ballot List on the 2025 Absentee Voter Application, online at Michigan.gov/vote or at the clerk’s office.

Northville school district teachers ratify new union contract

Teachers in the Northville Community Schools District have a new contract, officially ratified by membership Sept. 23.

Northville Education Association President Richard Tabor, who has worked in the district for 32 years, said the teachers were pleased with the agreement and relieved that negotiations were complete. He said the main issue of the contract was teachers’ pay and that the new agreement includes a 3 percent increase in the first year, along with step pay increases for teachers who qualify. In the second year of the contract, teachers will receive both step increases and an increase of 2 or 3 percent, tied to the district fund balance.

Teachers who lead extra-curricular activities will also receive a stipend, an issue which proved problematic in early negotiations.

Tabor said the agreement sees many improvements and that the district negotiators were helpful and focused. The agreement, Tabor said, was also a result of the community support for the teachers.

Board of Education President Lisa McIntyre was also pleasedthat  negotiations were successfully concluded. She said the contract will provide stability for teachers and the district. She added that the new contract provisions will help the district recruit and retain teachers.

Both sides agreed that the uncertainty of state-level funding was a factor in the negotiations. Northville currently receives the minimum per-pupil foundation allowance from the state. McIntyre said the district is counting on state increases to sustain the wages the district hopes to offer teachers and other employee groups.

McIntyre and Tabor expressed gratitude to the community for the support and patience demonstrated during the negotiations.

Wall of art

As a part of the "Art in the R-District" initiative, a new mural created by Detroit artist Fel3000ft has been completed at 37135 Goddard Road. The artwork highlights development in the city and the history of the community.  The mural was created in collaboration with residents, the city officials, and the Romulus Downtown Development Authority. The artwork was funded by a Small Business Administration grant.

Construction, repairs to Ozga Road in Romulus remain on schedule

The Ozga Road repair project in Romulus remains on schedule and should be completed by Nov. 15, according to a briefing from city officials.

The project currently includes necessary construction waiting periods. Storm sewer installation is expected to begin pending weather conditions and timely delivery of materials. This work will take place in multiple locations along the project corridor, noted Romulus Director of Public Services & Public Works Roberto Scappaticci.

Currently, traffic is being allowed on the gravel base to help identify any weak areas. If any sections of the base are found to be inadequate, they will be removed and replaced before paving begins, he added.

Starting midweek of Sept. 29, the contractor will mobilize specialized equipment to mill the ramps on Ozga Road that pass over I-94. After this work is complete, the gravel base will be compacted and graded in preparation for the first phase of asphalt paving, scheduled for mid-October, Scappaticci said.

“Romulus is committed to delivering a high-quality, durable roadway, and we appreciate your continued patience and understanding throughout this construction process,” Scappaticci concluded in a Facebook post.

2 Northville Township first responders join elite Western Wayne SWAT team

Northville Township Police Ofc. Kevin VanDussen and Firefighter/Paramedic Jacob Fedel of the Northville Township Fire Department recently graduated from SWAT School and officially joined the Western Wayne Special Operations Team (WWSOT).

VanDussen was selected to represent the Northville Police Department as part of the township reentry into the Western Wayne Special Operations Team. After successfully completing the intense two-week, 100-hour SWAT School hosted by Schoolcraft College and the WWSOT Consortium, he now responds to high-risk incidents that go beyond the scope of standard police work.

Firefighter/Paramedic Fedel also earned his spot on the team after successfully completely a demanding physical test and interview. Trained alongside law enforcement, Fedel was held to the same physical, written, and shooting standards. Now serving as a medic on the SWAT team, he’ll support missions by operating SWAT vehicles, drones, and robotics—while providing critical medical care to team members in the field. Fedel’s brother, a Van Buren police officer, is a member of the SWAT training cadre

Community Calendar

One Romulus meeting includes pancakes

The latest "One Romulus" community meeting will be hosted by Mayor Robert McCraight at the Romulus VFW Post#78 located at 39270 Huron River Dr., beginning at 9 a.m.

McCraight will be preparing pancakes but will step away from the grill at 10 a.m. to provide updates on city news and announcements, followed by time reserved for questions. This is a free event, but reservations are requested at (734) 942-7571 or at vtoliver@romulusgov.com by Monday, Oct. 13. 

 

Parking garage closed

The upper level of the Central Parking Deck in downtown Plymouth is closed as crews begin work on the ramp. The closure is expected to be in place for several weeks.

The DDA has leased additional 8-hour public parking spots at the Christian Science Church located at 1100 W Ann Arbor Trail just west of Harvey Street for use during the closure. These spots are first-come first-served.

 

Goodfellow holiday help applications now online

Applications for the 2025 Romulus Goodfellows Assistance Program are officially available.

If you or someone you know needs support, visit https://romulusgoodfellows.wixsite.com/.../applications...

Romulus Goodfellows

seootrnpSd1tit91469fA 6uu29hlls1th9t26a30m9621:gM2a 0 itu aA to apply. Completed applications are due Wednesday, Oct. 15.

 

Recycling and shred day set

A Shred and Electronic Recycling Day is set for 9 a.m. to noon this Saturday, Oct. 4, at Plymouth Township Hall parking lot, 9955 North Haggerty Road in Plymouth.

Proof of residency in the city or township of Plymouth will be required.

Each vehicle is permitted to bring up to five file-size boxes for shredding. Some household and electronic items will be accepted. For information, visit the Plymouth Township website.

 

Dueling Pianos will fight polio

The Rotary Club of Plymouth AM and the Rotary Passport to Service Club are sponsoring Dueling Pianos For a Cause set for 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Plymouth VFW Hall, 1425 S. Mill St. in Plymouth

Tickets are $50, and the event is a fundraiser for the End Polio Worldwide effort of Rotary Clubs around the world. Geff Phillips and Mike Caey will perform. Tickets are available from Rotary Club members.

 

Fire station open house is planned in Plymouth

The Plymouth Fire Department will host the annual Fire Safety Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at Fire Station 1, 9955 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth. A full day of fire safety activities and demonstrations is planned.

 

Potters Guild sale set

The Village Potters Guild Annual Holiday Market is planned for Nov. 21-23, the weekend before Thanksgiving. The annual event will take place in Plymouth at 326 N. Main St., just north of the railroad tracks in the building behind Sidecar Slider Bar.

Sales hours are 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21 and 22, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Hazardous waste permit comment deadline extended

Concerned residents have been given additional time to comment on the proposed expanded hazardous waste operating license at Wayne Disposal in Van Buren Township.

The public comment period has been extended by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Materials Management Division until Oct. 31. The landfill is seeking an expansion of the hazardous waste permit, allowing the disposal of toxic and radioactive waste. The expansion is requested following the closure of a runway at Willow Run Airport, placing the proposed site within the regulated boundaries.

The company is seeking a 23 percent vertical expansion that would increase its capacity by about 5.2 million cubic yards. The site has accepted radioactive waste and some of the most harmful chemicals in existence, including PCBs, dioxins, and PFAS chemicals, according to reports.

Expansion and operation at the landfill, owned by Republic Service, has been the subject of public outcry and criticism from local officials in surrounding areas. Residents have expressed concern regarding the disposal of radioactive waste from the Manhattan Project, which produced the atomic bomb in World War II.
The draft license, application, and associated materials are available online and paper copies are also available at the Belleville Area District Library at 167 Fourth St., Belleville.
Email comments will be accepted at EGLE-MMD-HWS@Michigan.gov . Written comments can be mailed to: EGLE, Materials Management Division, Attn: Christine Matlock, P.O. Box 30241,
Lansing, MI 48909-7741.

A preliminary court injunction issued earlier this year blocked all shipments of Manhattan Project-era waste to Wayne Disposal, and said the facility could potentially impact local waterways.

“Runoff rainwater and/or contaminated surface water from the WDI Facility, if not fully contained and treated on site, would flow into one or more of the county drains and/or could drain into nearby Belleville Lake, the Huron River, and Lake Erie,” Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Kevin Cox said in the order. 

Bright lights

The 27^th Annual Romulus Pumpkin Festival last weekend drew huge crowds of residents to Historical Park for the three-day event which featured live entertainment all weekend; the Romulus Fire Department famous pancake breakfast; crafts; games; a Classic Car Show and the famous Pumpkin Chuckin’ contest. The Romulus Rotary Parade of Lights which traditionally marks the beginning of the festival drew major crowds and multiple parade entries again this year. From firetrucks to car haulers, buses to earth moving equipment, and most vehicles in between, the parade lit up Goddard Road to cheers from the crowds as the entries passed by. Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight was among the multiple entrants that drew cheers from the onlookers. The parade, sponsored by the Romulus Rotary Club, accepted online voting for the best entries in several categories this week. The winners this year were not available at press time. 

Death of former State Senator Bruce Patterson is mourned

Former Michigan State Sen. Bruce Charles Patterson, 78, died Sept. 15, 2025.

Born Feb. 7, 1947, in Detroit, Mr. Patterson earned both a Bachelor of Arts (1969) and a Juris Doctor (1972) from Wayne State University, launching a career that combined private law practice, higher education advancement, and public service.

Mr. Patterson practiced law for many years and served as president and partner of McCabe, Middleton & Patterson, P.C. Before entering elected office, he served as Director of Planned Giving at Eastern Michigan University (1991–1994), where he coordinated faculty/staff development campaigns and led planned-giving efforts to strengthen the university philanthropic programs.

Mr. Patterson served as a Wayne County Commissioner (1995–1998) before being elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1999. As a freshman state representative, he served as Associate Speaker Pro Tempore, and in his second term he was elected Majority Floor Leader. In 2002 he was elected to the Michigan State Senate representing the 7th District (Belleville, Canton, Northville, Plymouth), where he served two terms from 2003 to 2010. During his tenure in the Senate, he chaired the Energy Policy & Public Utilities Committee and served on the Health Policy, Judiciary, and Natural Resources & Environmental Affairs committees. He was known as a thoughtful legislator who championed consumer protections, environmental stewardship, and government transparency.

Mr. Patterson was a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather. He found great joy in hunting, golfing, fishing, and taking long drives — but family remained his greatest pleasure, his family recalled. Among his survivors are his wife, Phyllis; children Justin (Jess) Patterson, Denise (Anthony) Mettetal, and Lauren (Jeffrey) Winner, and grandchildren Tannis, Maverick, Arlette, and Winston. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Margaret Patterson.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to either the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or to  Angela Hospice, 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, MI 48154 in his memory.