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Town Hall Meeting Scheduled To Discuss ET Rover PipelineTown Hall Meeting Scheduled To Discuss ET Rover Pipeline

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Questions and concerns about a new natural gas pipeline project will be addressed during a town hall meeting in Putnam Township this afternoon. Hosted by State Representative Lana Theis, the event will feature a roundtable discussion and an opportunity to gain feedback from local landowners about the ET Rover Pipeline project. The special town hall event is being co-hosted by Congressman Mike Bishop and Senator Joe Hune of Hamburg Township. The proposed pipeline would transport natural gas through several states, including Michigan, on its way to be sold in Canada. The planned route for the pipeline takes it north through Livingston County, bisecting Putnam Township and going through the property of many local homeowners. Those affected by the proposed path have voiced their concerns to the township government, saying the pipeline would present a threat to safety, the environment, and their property values. Putnam Township also officially intervened in the federal approval process for the pipeline and has a millage issue on the November ballot asking residents to fund the legal battle. Construction on the first portion would occur in 2016 and Rover anticipates finishing the rest of the pipeline to Michigan and beyond by June 2017. Today’s town hall meeting will allow community members to gain direct feedback from federal and state lawmakers, who will collectively address any question or concerns. It will be held from 4:30 to 5:30pm at the Putnam Township hall on M-36. (JK)

Cinderella's Closet Returns For Homecoming SeasonCinderella's Closet Returns For Homecoming Season

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Local girls looking for inexpensive options for Homecoming dresses can take advantage of a non-profit boutique this week. Cinderella’s Closet will hold its first of two seasonal weekend hours at Snedicor’s Cleaners in Brighton starting Thursday. The program, operated by LACASA, collects new or gently-used formal dresses over the course of the year and sells them for $25 apiece to high school girls before homecoming and then again in the spring during prom season. The boutique will again open its doors this Thursday, September 17th through the 19th and then September 24th through the 26th. No reservations or sign-up are required. Students who participate are informed by LACASA staff about the links between substance abuse and dating violence and then asked to sign the “Party Promise” to avoid drugs and alcohol during the events. In addition to providing affordable formalwear while educating students, LACASA Center officials say the event is also very eco-friendly, reusing formalwear rather than throwing it out. Dresses that go out-of-fashion are also donated to nonprofits, drama classes, and theater troupes in need of costumes. More information about Cinderella’s Closet can be found through the link below. (JK)

Wilson Interviews In Livonia, Board Reposts For New FinalistsWilson Interviews In Livonia, Board Reposts For New Finalists

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After interviewing the finalists, a suburban Detroit school district that had interviewed a former Howell superintendent says it is reposting the position. Ron Wilson was one of four finalists for the superintendent’s position in the Livonia School District. Wilson was terminated by the Howell school board last November after they concluded that he had wrongfully sought and received travel reimbursements he was not entitled to and then lied about afterward. Wilson was given an hour-long interview on September 8th. Also interviewed for the Livonia position were Sharon Irvine-Hawkins, Warren Consolidated Schools Asst. Superintendent, Armada Public Schools Superintendent Michael Musary and John VanWagoner, Associate Superintendent for the Shiawassee ISD. After conducting those interviews, the Livonia board instead decided to wait until December and re-post the position, only asking that Irvine-Hawkins return and take part. Wilson, who continues to work for an educational software form in the Grand Rapids area, is currently in arbitration with the Howell district over his firing. When asked for an update on that process, Tom Gould, the district’s Director of Public Relations, told WHMI that, "The process is ongoing; currently depositions of potential witnesses are occurring and binding arbitration will occur in the near future.” The arbitration process was ordered by a local judge after Wilson had sued the district for wrongful termination. (JK)

Despite Macomb Jail Easing Mail Restrictions, Lawsuit Against Livingston ContinuesDespite Macomb Jail Easing Mail Restrictions, Lawsuit Against Livingston Continues

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A publication suing Livingston County over its jail mail policy says it will continue a similar fight against another Southeast Michigan county jail, despite a loosening of restrictions there. Following a federal lawsuit filed by Prison Legal News challenging restrictions placed on inmate mail at the Macomb County Jail in Mount Clemens, officials there say they will now allow letters in envelopes and any magazines that don’t contain pornography or encourage violence. Previously, personal mail to the Macomb jail was restricted to 5-inch by 7-inch postcards, while magazine subscriptions were restricted to a list of 12 titles. Mail at the Livingston County jail is also restricted to postcards, although inmates are allowed to have books and magazines if they request and pay for them. Prison Legal News is still locked in a legal battle with Livingston County over the policy, which officials say is designed to cut down on contraband and reduce the time it takes officers to screen mailings and publications. Despite the loosening of restrictions in Macomb County, the publication is still seeking a legal injunction that would essentially make the new rules permanent. As for their lawsuit against Livingston County, a trial had been set for August of 2014, but was adjourned pending various legal motions. Prison Legal News has been involved in litigation against jails around the country since at least 1994. The American Civil Liberties Union has also filed a complaint about the mail policy, with a federal judge recently ordering their mail to be delivered. (JK)

Hamburg Road Closed Tuesday Through Thursday For Bridge Work Hamburg Road Closed Tuesday Through Thursday For Bridge Work

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The second phase of a bridge construction project in Hamburg Township starts tomorrow. Hamburg Road between Bauer and Maltby Roads will close Tuesday according to the Livingston County Road Commission. The project at the bridge over Ore Creek involves preventive maintenance and Tuesday will mark the second stage, which requires another closure but it will only impact traffic for three days this time. Crews will place epoxy overlay on the entire bridge deck, followed by a concrete surface coating. The closure will be in place from 7am Tuesday to Thursday, with Hamburg Road expected to be open Thursday night. The detour will again utilize Hamburg Road, Winans Lake Road, Rickett Road and Maltby Road. The Livingston County Road Commission said the two stages were designed to close the road only when the work needs to be performed and gain initial curing of materials. The overall project is slated for completion October 1st. (JM)

Detroit Mayor Shares City's Success During Stop In Livingston CountyDetroit Mayor Shares City's Success During Stop In Livingston County

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A power lunch in Genoa Township today hosted an inspirational spokesperson to share his success stories. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan was the guest of honor at the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce’s luncheon. Mayor Duggan has had many triumphs since he first took office in January of 2014. He has focused on physically cleaning up the city with major debris removal and demolishing abandoned homes that cannot be saved. Outside of the neighborhoods, Duggan says Detroit is “rapidly recovering”. Housing units are cropping up all over the city and several Fortune 500 companies have recently located their headquarters there. Detroit had its first balanced budget in 12 years and EMS response time has been cut in half. Last week, the 50,000th street light was installed so that all neighborhoods in the city are now lit. Duggan’s plans are made with the common good in mind. He tells WHMI he is conscious of areas across Michigan in making mutually beneficial moves. Mayor Duggan is also working on improving Detroit’s education system. He hopes to create a commission that will have a say in decisions for the area’s schools as opposed to the state being in total control. Duggan says while there is still work to be done, Detroit is “coming back”. He stands by the city’s ability to reclaim its once booming status and believes “Nothing Stops Detroit”. (DK)

Hartland School Bus Driver Praised For Actions In Accident With TruckHartland School Bus Driver Praised For Actions In Accident With Truck

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A Hartland school bus driver’s quick action kept an accident with a truck this morning from becoming a possible tragedy. The bus, with 55 to 60 students from Round Elementary School on board, was traveling eastbound on Maxfield Road at about 8:30am when a westbound semi-truck with trailer crossed over the center of the road and collided with the bus near Cundy Road. Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte says the bus driver, 58-year-old Patricia Kantola of Brighton, was able to quickly steer into a nearby yard and likely avoided much more serious damage. She was uninjured. However, Bezotte says that four students, ages 8 and 9, suffered minor injuries and were released to their parents at the scene. The rest of the students were taken by a second bus to school. The driver of the truck, identified as 50-year-old Jeffrey Thierry of Howell, was cited for having too wide a truck with no escort vehicle and not having the proper permits for that type of load. Bezotte says the department’s Traffic Safety Bureau is continuing to investigate. The Hartland-Deerfield Fire Authority and Livingston County EMS also responded to the scene. (JK)

Part of Hacker Road Closed For Construction Next Monday & TuesdayPart of Hacker Road Closed For Construction Next Monday & Tuesday

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A segment of Hacker Road in Genoa Township will be closed to traffic next week. Hacker Road between the two Clark Lake Road entrances will completely close next Monday and Tuesday between 7am and 7pm. The purpose of the project is to replace two drain crossings under Hacker Road and trenches will be excavated. Signs advising motorists of the closure will be going up this week and a detour including McClements Road, Hunter Road and Hyne Road will be posted. The Livingston County Road Commission reminds that weather adversities, changes in contractor schedules or other factors could alter the timing. (JM)

Conference Brings Real World Heroes To Brighton Friday & Saturday Conference Brings Real World Heroes To Brighton Friday & Saturday

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People from all walks of life who are working together to make a difference in the real world will be showcased during a weekend conference in Brighton. The Hero Round Table this Friday and Saturday will feature celebrities, comic book legends, top academics and real heroes at 2|42 Community Church. Several big names will take the stage including Len Wein, the creator of Wolverine of X-Men fame, who will offer insight into what real heroism means and whether fiction can influence it. Kathryn Bolkovac, who is nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize this year and helped end human trafficking in post-war Bosnia, will speak about real-life experiences. Also featured is international parkour expert Dan Edwardes and Star Trek actress Chase Masterson, who founded the Pop Culture Hero Coalition. Organizers say the big names will be backed up by top psychologists and philosophers who study why some people do heroic things and others freeze up. Educator Matt Langdon founded Real World Heroes, the only conference of its kind, and says attendees will leave knowing how to make a real impact in their communities. Speakers and the audience will interact face-to-face and Len Wein has also agreed to host an autograph session. Tickets can be purchased through the link below and discounts are available for teachers, students and non-profit employees. (JM)

Hartland School Board Appoints New MemberHartland School Board Appoints New Member

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A vacancy on the Hartland Consolidated School’s Board of Education was filled last night. Late last month a seat on the board was vacated when Michelle Hutchinson resigned. Two candidates applied for the seat and were interviewed during a recent meeting. Michelle Hemeyer and Brenda Bratt are both parents in the district. Board President Thom Thurmond says the both candidates had impressive resumes. Hemeyer received the appointment, was sworn in, and took her seat with the board. Thurmond thanked Bratt and encouraged her to continue her involvement in the district. Hemeyer says she planned to run next November anyway. She is PTO President at her son's school and spends much time volunteering there. Hemeyer says volunteering in the community is what she does. Hemeyer says at this point she just wants to jump in and get her feet wet working with the board. She plans to run for election in November 2016 to serve another four year term.

Residents Vent Opposition To State & Federal Lawmakers About ET Rover Gas Pipeline Residents Vent Opposition To State & Federal Lawmakers About ET Rover Gas Pipeline

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It was standing room only Monday as people jammed the Putnam Twp. Hall to address the board and elected officials about the planned ET Rover pipeline that would run through the township if approved. The overwhelming majority of citizens expressed opposition to the pipeline, while several blue collar workers said it would bring jobs into the community. Many citizens addressed the board to say that they are worried about the safety aspect in case of an explosion, since the pipeline would carry natural gas, and therefore were concerned about its proximity to their homes. Others cited damage to the environment as among their concerns. Putnam Township resident Bob Moenart says that people have complained of ET Rover using heavy-handed tactics against property owners. The planned route for the ET Rover pipeline would go through Livingston County, bisecting Putnam Township, and from there into Washtenaw County, crossing through part of Ann Arbor. State Sen. Joe Hune of nearby Hamburg Township says that after hearing the testimony at the meeting, he has real misgivings about the necessity of the pipeline. However, Lynn Coleman, director of the Michigan Laborers’ Training and Apprenticeship Institute, says the project would assure many jobs for area workers and, due to the rigorous training process, the highest safety standards would be adhered to. The township has intervened with legal action in an attempt to stop the pipeline from coming in by challenging the federal approval process. Township Treasurer Pat Carney adds that the board has approved placing a 1-mill issue on the November election ballot for one year to help defray any legal fees the township incurs. (TT)

Future Simply Fresh Market Planned in Genoa Township Future Simply Fresh Market Planned in Genoa Township

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Genoa Township residents and the community at large could have another option to purchase fresh, organic produce and flowers. A future Simply Fresh Market would be located at a site on Grand River near Euler Road. The proposal went before the Genoa Township Planning Commission Monday night and would be double the size of the current location in Brighton Township. Improvements would be made to an existing building on the property and a new trellis farm stand would be constructed with outdoor sales at the front. Reclaimed lumber, farm apple trees and LED lighting would be used and it was also worked out that reclaimed lumber would be used for a trash receptacle versus green, chain link fencing. A handful of supporters commented during a public hearing about the importance of healthy food, supporting local farmers and job creation. They also commented about how community minded and caring owner Tony Gelardi is. Yvonne Cavalli is the director of the Bountiful Harvest Pantry in Brighton and told WHMI she couldn’t think of a better addition and was thrilled commissioners recommended approval. Cavalli said those in need often receive food that fills them up but doesn’t do their bodies any good and they can’t afford the high cost of organic food. However, she says Gelardi makes it accessible by donating 300 to 400 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to the pantry every single week. Commissioners recommended approval of the preliminary plans, which will be before the Genoa Township Board next Monday night. There were some minor stipulations and discussion about the installation of sidewalk on the property, which totals less than an acre. The consensus reached was to have the owners put up a performance bond that could be utilized if any of the neighboring properties install sidewalk - instead of just installing a short path that leads nowhere and could potentially become a liability. (JM)

Economic Outlook Good in 2015-16 for Howell and Livingston County Economic Outlook Good in 2015-16 for Howell and Livingston County

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About 100 people attended Tuesday morning’s first Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Good Morning Livingston breakfast meeting of the season. Ann Arbor SPARK Vice President for Business Development Phil Santer, who was one of the main speakers at the meeting, tells WHMI that things are looking up for Livingston County in the three main categories of manufacturing growth, retail growth, and health care. Jeanne Clum is best known as the Livingston County United Way Marketing Director, but wears a second hat, working for the Howell Main Street DDA program without pay. She tells WHMI that 16 new businesses came to downtown Howell during the past year and only one business closed for every four new businesses that opened. Clum says that over $3.5 million from the private and public sector was invested in downtown Howell during the 2014-15 year. She adds that the DDA invested $100,000 toward improving downtown Howell stores during the past year, including façade improvement and interior upgrades. Also, SPARK’s Santer says that over one-third of Livingston County businesses queried say they plan to add jobs during the next year and 42% project sales growth in the coming year. Also, 7 out of 10 businesses say they would hire new employees if they had qualified applicants to fill the positions. (TT)

Byron Warns Residents That Water Quality Can't Be GuaranteedByron Warns Residents That Water Quality Can't Be Guaranteed

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An area village says its water is safe but it can't guarantee the safety of the supply after its only public works employee resigned. After Michael Granger's resignation was accepted last week at a meeting of the Byron Village Council, officials sent a notice to all residents and businesses saying it cannot guarantee the safety of its public water. Kit Brunell, village president, says there's "no cause for concern" and the notice was sent on the advice of the village attorney. Brunell says she's drinking the water and has been checking on the water treatment system daily via a phone alert system. Granger worked for the village for more than 30 years. Brunell says Granger was a "jack of all trades" who also dug graves and plowed snow. Companies may be asked to step in and perform Department of Public Works duties until a replacement for Granger is found. (AP)

Sunday Event Seeks To Wake Up Community To Substance Abuse IssueSunday Event Seeks To Wake Up Community To Substance Abuse Issue

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A community event reaching out to families affected by substance abuse is scheduled in Brighton this weekend. The free event is called Wake Up Livingston and is taking place on Sunday from 3 to 6pm at the 2/42 Church in Brighton. The event is being organized by Sunrise Rotary Director Brian Byrd, who says he had the dream about a year ago to bring all of the social services and substance abuse help available under one roof for people in need. Counselors, the sheriff’s department, and the Big Red Barrel program will also be at the event. Byrd feels it’s important to get more education into the local school systems. He also says that while the event started out being targeted towards youths, he knows that substance abuse can affect any family member at any time. The event will have many resources available to make a fair assessment towards whoever is struggling. There will be community speakers and hot dogs available throughout the afternoon. For more information, visit the link below. (JK)

South Lyon Woman In Custody After Fatal Crash South Lyon Woman In Custody After Fatal Crash

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Alcohol and distracted driving appear to have been factors in a fatal crash Monday afternoon in Lyon Township. Deputies with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Lyon Township Substation responded to the crash that happened around 4:20pm on Milford Road at 11 Mile. A 50-year-old South Lyon woman in a Ford Taurus was traveling westbound on 11 Mile Road and had stopped at the stop sign at Milford Road. Police say the woman became distracted while talking on her cell phone and pulled out in front of a Fed-Ex semi-truck and trailer. Police say the two vehicles collided, with the truck broadsiding the passenger side door of the Taurus. 89-year-old Betty Whitfield of Lyon Township, who was a passenger in the Taurus, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Fed Ex truck, a 58-year-old Redford Township man, was not injured. Both Milford Road and 11 Mile Road were shut down for more than four hours during the evening commute. Police say the crash remains under investigation but alcohol appears to be a factor and the South Lyon woman, who was initially hospitalized for her injuries, is currently in custody.(JM)

Crashes Reported Across Livingston County TuesdayCrashes Reported Across Livingston County Tuesday

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Multiple accidents caused traffic issues across Livingston County. Back-ups are still being reported at Grand River and M-59 due to a crash. In the Brighton area, an accident was reported on Old US-23 near Covington south of Hyne Road. That has since cleared but traffic remained heavy in the area. In Marion Township, an accident shut down D-19 near Sexton around 4:30pm and traffic was heavy in that area for a couple of hours. Finally near Hartland Township, a vehicle traveling on southbound US-23 near Clyde Road went across the median and onto the northbound US-23 shoulder. The driver is believed to have escaped serious injury. Tune in to 93.5FM for traffic updates. (JM)

Hartland Couple Honored For Community ServiceHartland Couple Honored For Community Service

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Hartland Township Clerk Larry Ciofu opted to read the proclamation to the Hartland Township Board honoring Richard and Barbara Krueger. Ciofu says he has worked with the Kruegers for years on the Hartland Community Council. The couple has served on the Hartland Community Council for the past 20 years, with Richard serving as president for 15 of those years. The township board presented the couple with a proclamation acknowledging their selfless dedication to the community. Richard and Barbara have spent countless hours volunteering and leading the Hartland Memorial Day Parade and Hartland Heritage Days. Barbara puts together the Heritage Days booklet every year. The Kruegers plan to continue supporting the Community Council, but their goal is to back away from leadership roles. (DS)

Howell Parks & Rec Board Addresses Budget And Staff Concerns Howell Parks & Rec Board Addresses Budget And Staff Concerns

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While one local recreation organization is dealing with budget issues, another is reportedly disbanding. The majority of Tuesday’s Howell Area Parks & Recreation Authority board meeting was spent clarifying the budget due to misinformation among staff and others about the future of events and the organization in general. Brief tension marked the start as some employees were under the impression the authority was going “bankrupt.” Officials said they apparently misinterpreted earlier comments made by Authority Director Paul Rogers related to cash-flow challenges, which happen throughout the year because certain things come in at different times. Rumors have been circulating that the Southeast Livingston County Recreation Authority, or SELCRA, is preparing to cease operations, furthering concerns among the Howell employees. It was stated publicly that the SELCRA board approved a resolution to wrap up by July and that Director Derek Smith has resigned. Smith says a resolution was passed to review their articles of incorporation and look into the dissolution of SELCRA for the purposes of merging with the Brighton Area School district, but that no effort is currently underway to cease operations. He adds that their finances are stable and they are just looking towards the best way to provide services for residents. Howell Parks & Rec board members commented that there’s a big difference between cash flow issues and going out of business, noting the upcoming budget projects a surplus to help build up reserves. Members also stated Howell is in a different situation than SELCRA and they don’t foresee significant program changes but are looking to control expenses and get revenue back up. Contingent upon city consent, the board approved changing the budget cycle from a fiscal year to a calendar year. That was recommended by auditors to provide a clearer snapshot of how programs and events are trending, thus allowing officials to better control and track expenses and income. The authority has three full time employees and a director while the rest are hourly, part time staff or volunteer. The authority is not required to offer insurance and the board is reviewing the cost of providing health care benefits. Festivals, Events and Enrichment Director Beth Schrader said she puts forth a lot of effort and understands cuts but feels full-timers are being somewhat targeted. Chairman Todd Smith told WHMI recent changes in healthcare law have raised costs dramatically so the board is trying to get a handle on them. Meanwhile, communication and morale issues among some employees came to a head during a special meeting in August. Members received letters of concern from employees and Smith says they’re trying to gather as much information as possible and will respond but noted some of the questions have already been answered and were related to confusion on the budget matters. The board is still working on obtaining proposals from independent management consultants for services and had previously discussed adopting a director action plan. Both of those agenda items were postponed to the October 20th meeting. (JM/JK)

Board Of Education Approves Facilitator Position For Strategic PlanBoard Of Education Approves Facilitator Position For Strategic Plan

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Leaders for Howell Public Schools are finalizing the details for a completed district-wide strategic plan. Howell Superintendent Erin MacGregor has been leading the way in implementing a strategic plan and will have some help during its second phase. MacGregor is looking to engage the community and use their input to determine the district’s strengths and weaknesses. The feedback will help formulate a plan to best use the resources at hand and keep Howell Schools on track to success. The Board of Education approved a facilitator position Monday night that will aid in the planning process for Phase 2 of the plan. MacGregor tells WHMI both phases are crucial. The facilitator position will be paid for within the Superintendent’s budget and will not exceed the cost of $6,450. A subset of the strategic plan includes financial and business responsibilities, specifically where the district will commit their resources. This division is coming into play as the Board of Education discusses wage reopener agreements with Howell’s Custodial Maintenance and the Howell Educational Support Personnel Association. Both groups have not received a wage increase in several years and the agreement would affect around 700 employees and staff members. The Board will make a decision on the contracts at their next meeting on September 28th. (DK)
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