Judge bans radioactive waste at local landfill

A Wayne County judge last week permanently banned the Wayne Disposal landfill in Van Buren Township from accepting radioactive waste.

Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Kevin Cox granted a permanent injunction prohibiting Defendant Wayne Disposal, Inc. (WDI) from accepting any TENORM (radioactive waste) from the Niagara Falls Storage Site in Lewiston, New York, and Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program material (FUSRAP) from any other site. His decision in a lawsuit filed Sept. 16, 2024 was issued May 27.

The suit was filed jointly by the City of Belleville, Canton Township, the City of Romulus, Van Buren Charter Township, and the Van Buren Township Fire Chief. On Oct. 3, Wayne County subsequently joined as an intervening plaintiff. The waste which prompted the lawsuit originated from a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site where it had been accepted and stored from 1944 until 1952. The waste was generated from the Manhattan Project, which developed atomic energy and weapons.

About 6,000 cubic yards of radioactive waste was scheduled to be transported to the Van Buren Township facility, prompting the local communities to file the lawsuit seeking to prohibit the federal disposal plan.

Cox’s written opinion addressed concerns regarding public health, environmental impact, transportation, and the proximity of the waste facility to residential neighborhoods, schools, waterways, and public infrastructure. Cox ruled that accepting the radioactive waste constitutes a public nuisance and poses irreparable harm, citing that “existing monitoring, engineering controls, and emergency readiness are insufficient for this volume of toxic waste.”

“Judge Cox’s ruling made it clear that the communities and citizens that fought against the disposal of any sort of atomic waste in a highly populated area contiguous to the Huron River watershed which feeds into the Great Lakes were right to be opposed to this foolish idea.  By fighting this issue, our communities made it clear that we would not quietly accept the importation of atomic waste in our backyard, which by its proximity to 21 percent of the world’s fresh water is in truth, everyone’s backyard.  We appreciate the efforts of everyone who stood together on this issue,” said Belleville Mayor Ken Voigt.

Evidence Cox cited in the ruling included data showing statistically significant increases in cancer rates near the Niagara Falls storage site; rising radiation levels at the perimeter of Wayne Disposal every year since the facility began accepting radioactive waste in 2017; lead detected in groundwater; allegations that Wayne Disposal manipulated monitoring thresholds and baselines at the site and testimony from area mayors noting declining property values and economic harm.

"We are absolutely overjoyed by this ruling. This victory belongs to the residents, Wayne County communities, and leaders who spoke up as one voice. It shows the incredible power we have when we stand up for our environment and our health. Safe fresh water is our legacy, and we will stay strong together to protect it." said Canton Supervisor Ann Marie Graham-Hudak. 

"The coalition expresses immense gratitude following Judge Cox’s favorable ruling. This outcome stands as a testament to the robust collaboration between Wayne County residents, local municipalities, and elected leadership. Moving forward, the group remains dedicated to protecting Michigan's freshwater infrastructure and ensuring long-term environmental safety." she continued.  

“This is an important moment for each of our communities and residents who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard,” stated Van Buren Township Supervisor Kevin McNamara. “I want to thank the hundreds of residents, community organizations, and neighboring communities who stood together throughout this process. Your advocacy, persistence, and commitment truly made a difference.”

McNamara also expressed appreciation for the efforts of community advocates, including Jeanine Rippey, Chris Donley, and members of Michigan Against Atomic Waste, as well as the many residents and organizations who supported the legal effort during the past several months.

“This victory reflects what can happen when communities come together and remain engaged,” McNamara added. “We are grateful to everyone who participated, attended meetings, shared concerns, and helped support this effort from beginning to end.” 

State Rep. Reggie Miller said her reaction to the decision was “pure joy.”

“This posed a real risk to public health and our environment, and this didn’t happen overnight. As you know, it happened because people spoke up, stayed engaged and refused to back down, Miller said.

Roman Blahoski, a spokesman for Republic Services, which owns Wayne Disposal, said the company disagrees with the court decision and will appeal. The landfill is a safe, well-managed facility specifically designed to handle such waste,” he said. “This ruling sets a troubling precedent that undermines protections afforded to interstate commerce and impedes site remediation,” he said.

A copy of the Court’s Final Opinion and Order is available through Wayne County Circuit Court records.

Family fun

Dominguez Circus appears at 33^rd Canton Liberty Festival

The 33^rd Annual Liberty Fest in Canton Township set for June 18-20, will offer an abundance of family entertainment including gravity defying motorcycle stunts and high wire acrobatic circus acts.

This year, the festival will feature performers from the Dominguez Attractions Circus, a renowned, third generation traveling big top. Hailing from Bogotá, Colombia, they are famous for their high-energy, death-defying stunts, including the legendary Globe of Death and high-wire acts including the Wheel of Danger.

As seen on America’s Got Talent and the NBA Half Time show, the Dominquez Family delivers entertainment for all ages.

A native of Bogotá, Colombia, Jorge Dominguez is a third-generation circus artist. He and his family came to the United States in 2004, where their “Globe of Death” act (motorcycles running together in a steel globe) was featured in the 132nd edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Alcira, Jorge’s wife, hails from Peruvian circus family with whom she came to the United States in 2006 to perform with Carson & Barnes Circus.
Circus performances are scheduled at noon, 3 and 6 p.m. at the Schoolcraft College LIVE! Entertainment area during all three days of the festival. The Liberty Fest also includes the annual Liberty Run, a midway, carnival rides, car show, and even more festivities for all ages to enjoy.

Beginning this year, the festival carnival and midway areas will implement earlier start times daily at 10 a.m. and closing at 8 p.m. each evening. 

This year’s presenting sponsor is Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Additional sponsors include Boost Mobile, IKEA, LeafFilter, Schoolcraft College, State Farm, Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, and WeatherGard.

As always, parking and admission to festival grounds are free.  Designated sensory hours will take place each day, designed for guests who are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. This year, sensory hours will be offered daily from 10 a.m. until noon.

 Death of former Plymouth mayor is mourned

Former City of  Plymouth Mayor Phil Pursell, 65, died May 30, 2026.

Mr. Pursell served as a Plymouth City Commissioner from 2001 until 2007 and as Plymouth mayor from 2007 until 2009. In that role, family members said, he made a lasting impact on the city.

Mr. Pursell was born on Jan. 23, 1961, in Wyandotte, the son of Congressmen Carl D. and Peggy Pursell, who preceded him in death.

Mr. Pursell owned the popular Main Street Auto Wash of Plymouth from 1991-2017. He passed on his legacy to his daughter Sarah and son-in- law Joe when he retired.

Among his survivors are his loving wife, Paula; his beloved children: Kim Reiher (Tim), Sami Werman (James), and Sarah Maltese (Joe). He was “Papa Phil” to Eleanor Maltese, Annabelle Werman, Paige Reiher, Noah Reiher, Hailey Perez (Cameron), Anthony Robinson, and Jack Robinson. He is also survived by his brother Mark Pursell (Barb) and Kathy Martin (Brad) along with nieces and nephews.

A visitation  is planned from 1 until 4 p.m. Sunday, June 7 at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home located at 280 S. Main St., Plymouth.

In lieu of flowers, family members have suggested those who wish to honor Mr. Pursell’s memory consider a contribution to VFW Post 6695, 1426 South Mill St., Plymouth, MI 48170. Contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Lucky ducks

Romulus firefighters avoided a “quack-mire” last week as Firefighter Anthony “Goose” Pegouskie lived up to his nickname with the rescue of seven tiny feathered fluffballs from a parking lot storm drain.

Pegouskie successfully led the daring duckling rescue mission to save the “quack squad” which had fallen into the drain attempting to cross the lot. Firefighters joked that Goose managed to use a fishing net provided by nearby resident Drew Ladach “while maintaining more composure than most of us do in the breakroom when the coffee pot is empty.”

Charges in airport SUV crash pending

The 67-year-old Southgate man who drove his Cadillac SUV into the Evans Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport last Friday morning has not been criminally charged as the investigation into the incident continues.

Authorities said criminal charges from the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor are pending but noted the man appeared disoriented when he drove into the terminal at about 9:41 a.m. May 29. Officials said the man told them he was at the airport to “meet Tom Cruise to save his dad” according to incident reports.

The driver entered the airport going the wrong way toward the departure gates, then maneuvered his vehicle through gaps in several concrete barriers, drove over the sidewalk and crashed through the glass doors near entrance number four, according to investigators. 

Authorities said this is the second vehicle crash at the airport since January.  No serious injuries were reported in the most recent incident although one woman experienced a minor injury to her leg while attempting to avoid the oncoming vehicle. Authorities said she refused medical treatment and boarded her flight.

Airport police arrested the driver at the scene according to Tadarial Sturdivant, vice president of public safety at the airport.

This is the second crash into airport doors since January.

Northville deputy director awarded top state honor

Northville Township Deputy Public Services Director Brad Lear was named the 2026 Michigan Rural Water Association (MRWA) Person of the Year, one of the most prestigious honors in the water and public works industry.

MRWA revealed the winner at the annual association conference, noting Lear’s talents, including his outstanding leadership, deep technical expertise, and his commitment to delivering high-quality public services to the community.

“In practical terms, Brad’s work helps keep water safe, services dependable and costs under control,” said Northville Township Manager Glenn Caldwell.

Lear oversees Northville Township public works operations, including water and sewer services, solid waste collection, and the recycling programs. His leadership supports critical infrastructure that serves nearly 32,000 residents and businesses across 170 miles of water main, while also contributing to the management of a regional wastewater system used by neighboring communities, officials said. He has 10 utility maintenance workers on his team.

“Being nominated and voted on by peers is truly an honor,” Lear said. “However, this award is a reflection of the hard work of an entire Northville Township team and not just myself.”

Notable projects under Lear’s leadership included the installation of the half-million-gallon Legacy Park water tower to reduce peak hour water demands from the Great Lakes Water Authority. Upon completion, it translated to significant rate savings and lower costs for residents.

Lear also expanded the Trimble Cityworks asset management system, which tracks the township infrastructure, allowing a dedicated maintenance schedule and an easy method to catalog equipment, all of which improves service delivery.

Since joining Northville Township in 2021, Lear’s career reflects decades of hands-on experience and leadership in public works, having worked his way through every level of the profession, from field operations to executive management, officials noted. He’s currently mentoring the next generation of public works professionals.

“I have worked with Brad for 27 years, and he is a true leader in the public works field,” said Northville Township Director of Public Services Bob Belair. “His knowledge of infrastructure systems, their operation, and the requirements to maintain these systems is top of class. He is the true definition of a public works guy and has worked his way through every phase of the industry—from mowing lawns, working in the trenches, operating heavy equipment, to now running the department. He has done it all. Brad is an amazing asset to have on our team, and Northville Township is lucky to have him. He is so deserving of this award.”

Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo agrees.

“Brad’s recognition as MRWA Person of the Year reflects not only his professional excellence, but also his dedication to serving our residents every day,” he said. “His leadership ensures that Northville Township continues to deliver reliable, efficient and forward-thinking infrastructure services. We are incredibly proud of Brad and grateful for the expertise and integrity he brings to our organization.”

Community Calendar

 

Naming ceremony planned

Zheshkwédokan Nature Area Naming ceremony is planned for 11 a.m. this Saturday, June 6 at the Lower Rouge Trailhead, located at Michigan Avenue and Morton Tayor Road in Canton Township. The special event will include a welcome by Canton Township Supervisor Anne Maire Graham-Hudak, as well as a brief history of the land and culture of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Native Americans. The ceremony will include a Potawatomi elder prayer, and a dance performance with drum accompaniment. The event is free and open to the public. 

 

Romulus celebrates Flag Day

The Romulus VFW Post 78 Color Guard will present the colors during the celebration of Flag Day set for 11 a.m. June 12 at Romulus Historical Park.

The event is a commemoration of the adoption of the United State Flag which occurred June 14, 1777. The park is located at 36095 Goddard Road in the city.

Community bike ride planned

Start summer with a free, family-friendly bike ride through the scenic paved trails of Maybury State Park. In partnership with the Northville Township Police Department, the event offers routes for all ages and skill levels. The ride will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. this Sunday, June 7 at the Maybury State Park Trailhead.

A recreation passport is required for entry.