A local official will be joining the executive committee for the Economic Development Council of Livingston County.
The EDCLC contracts Ann Arbor SPARK to provide services they say attracts and retains businesses to their area of focus. Several municipalities have contracted the EDCLC in the past, seeking an avenue to help boost regional economic development. Handy Township, however, had not. Township Supervisor Ed Alverson says a void was created by the retirement of the townshipâs economic development consultant, which led the board to meet with the EDCLC and SPARK.
Alverson says there are industrial, residential, and commercial properties in the municipality that officials would like to see developed, and hope the two agencies can help them achieve that. Handyâs Board of Trustees voted last month to approve a three-year contract with the EDCLC at an annual rate of about $3,525.
Each municipality that joins has a representative on the EDCLCâs Executive Committee and on Tuesday, Alverson was appointed as Handy Townshipâs rep. Alverson says heâs âpretty excited about working with SPARKâ on the potentials for the aforementioned properties, with a goal to sell them within the next two years. (DK)
Alverson Appointed To Economic Development Council CommitteeAlverson Appointed To Economic Development Council Committee
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More Surveillance Photos Of Bank Robber Released More Surveillance Photos Of Bank Robber Released
The Livingston County Sheriffâs Office has released updated surveillance photos following Thursdayâs armed bank robbery in Genoa Township.
The incident happened right around 2:00pm at the Bank of America on Grand River at Grand Oaks Drive. Upon entering the bank, authorities say the suspect presented a note to the teller, showed a handgun and asked for all the money. The suspect fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of money, before getting into a maroon 1998 to 2002 Chevy Venture mini-van and leaving the area. The Sheriffâs Office is still seeking the suspect, who is described as a white male with a thin goatee standing approximately 6 feet tall.
Anyone with information or who might recognize the suspect is asked to contact Detective Marc King at 517-540-7953 or CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. (JM)
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Sen. Debbie Stabenow Visits Downtown Howell During Small Business TourSen. Debbie Stabenow Visits Downtown Howell During Small Business Tour
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow shared her ideas for stabilizing the economy and workforce during a leg of her small business tour in downtown Howell.
The Michigan Democrat represented the 8th Congressional District from 1997 to 2001 and says she specifically wanted to reach out to businesses within the community. Stabenow made stops this morning at Uptown Coffeehouse, Heart of Michigan, and Clearyâs Pub, and spoke with owners and employees about the challenges small businesses face.
Stabenow says one such challenge thatâs been brought to her attention is the inability to access capital that would help small businesses expand. Stabenow advocated for Small Business Administration programs that help bridge that gap. She says she also championed for historic preservation tax credits, which were almost lost during the creation of the tax overhaul plan. Stabenow opposed the reform legislation but spoke favorably of some of its developments, like Fiat Chryslerâs plan to bring jobs back to Michigan.
When asked about Democratic leadersâ recent comments about a âbig, blue waveâ sweeping Republicans out of office in this yearâs election, Stabenow says âweâll seeâ. Stabenow has lived in Michigan her entire life and says its residents expect their representation to work hard to earn their vote. She feels she does that every day and moving forward wants to remain âlaser-focusedâ on rebuilding Michigan's infrastructure, bringing high speed internet to every part of the state, and driving down the rising cost of prescription drugs.
Stabenow, who is seeking a fourth term in the Senate, is facing several challengers looking to unseat her in this yearâs race. (DK)
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Celebrity Dance Competition Coming To Benefit Local SeniorsCelebrity Dance Competition Coming To Benefit Local Seniors
Local celebrities and business leaders will be taking to the dance floor for a fundraiser benefitting Livingston County Catholic Charities. The annual Salute to the Stars & Celebrity Dance Competition will be taking place this year on March 3rd at Crystal Gardens in Genoa Township. 5 teams of two are currently selecting their songs and working on dance routines with coaches to help raise money for Catholic Charities.
Team #1 is Lynne Smelser and Michael Gackler. Team #2 is Tracy Patterson and Brandon Cathey. Team #3 consists of Kelly Roth and Eric Guerin. Dancing as Team #4 will be Leslie and Sam Johnson. Team #5 is made up of Peggi and Michael Bourke.
Beginning February 11th, snippets of each teamâs dances will be available online along with the opportunity to vote on a winner for $5 per vote. The dance team that collects the most votes online and at the competition will receive the Community Favorite award. A panel of judges will award the Overall Dance Competition trophy at the event. Dance team voting donations will support Catholic Charitiesâ Outreach Programs for Senior Citizens. Last year, this fundraiser helped the charity serve over 1,000 seniors who were struggling to meet their daily needs. The event will also feature a dinner, raffle drawings, an honoring of community star Dian Shields, a cash bar, a special performance by The Dance Project, and more.
Tickets and tables can be purchased online now at www.livingstoncountycatholiccharities.org. Sponsorships and tickets can also be purchased by phone by calling 517-545-5944. R.S.V.P. by February 23rd. (MK)
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Site Plan For Putnam Landscaping Company Recommended For ApprovalSite Plan For Putnam Landscaping Company Recommended For Approval
The Putnam Township Planning Commission reviewed a final site plan for a new development by a landscaping professional.
Representatives from Metro West Outdoor Services in Pinckney went before the commission Wednesday to present the site plan that would allow them to move the business to 10364 Dexter-Pinckney Road. The preliminary site plan was approved last fall but the planning commission still had a couple primary issues they wished to see fixed. Chairman Jeff Lomber said the design standard was one of them, but with the company already doing a lot of business in the area he expects theyâll be able to make it look like something really nice. The other primary issue was with landscaping and trees along the propertyâs frontage, but being they are a landscaping company, Lomber didnât suspect that would be a problem moving forward.
It was noted by the township planner that all of the outdoor lighting was proposed to be attached to the new building. Local ordinances require separate parking lot lighting, even when the business is only going to be open during daylight hours, like Metro West. Because of its proximity to residential zoning, they will only be required to install one light pole and fixture not to exceed 15 feet in height.
The planning commission recommended approval of the final site plan to the Putnam Township Board of Trustees by a 6-1 vote. The Board will make a decision on it at their next meeting. (MK)
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Brighton Schools Expect $5 Million Fund Balance by End of Fiscal YearBrighton Schools Expect $5 Million Fund Balance by End of Fiscal Year
At the Board of Education meeting Monday night, Brighton Assistant Superintendent of Finance Maria Gistinger told the board that the district is in line to have a $5.5 million fund balance by the end of the fiscal year on June 30th. Contrast that with the 2009-10 school year, when Brighton was projected to have $15 million worth of red ink if something werenât done to correct the situation.
Action by Superintendent Greg Gray, Gistinger and the board whittled that figure down to an $8 million deficit by the end of that year. Things have changed radically since that time. Gray tells WHMI that if current projections are correct, Brighton will end the year with the largest fund equity it has had since the state changed the way school districts are financed.
The Brighton district, like other public school districts, annually revises its budget, and the revised budget for 2017-18 will be acted on by the board at its next meeting.
Gistinger also gave the board an update on the new Brighton orchestra program. She says that response has been much higher than anticipated, and the orchestra â consisting only of Maltby Intermediate School 5th graders â has 82 students in four sections.
The district recently purchased 20 new musical instruments for $11,000, and also bought 110 like- new instruments for $13,000 from a neighboring district which is discontinuing its orchestra program. (TT)
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Man Sentenced In Indecent Exposure Case In New Hudson Man Sentenced In Indecent Exposure Case In New Hudson
A man has been sentenced in connection with an indecent exposure incident in New Hudson.
31-year-old Beau Jonathan MacNeill pleaded no contest to a single count of indecent exposure. He was sentenced in 52-1 District Court in Novi and ordered to serve 18 months of intensive probation with drug and alcohol testing, and complete five days of community service. He must attend intensive outpatient substance abuse counseling, an outpatient treatment program and mental health treatment with sex therapy. MacNeill is further not allowed to possess any pornography and cannot send any pictures out on social media.
The incident happened the afternoon of September 14th, when deputies with the Oakland County Sheriffâs Office Lyon Township substation were called out to the 58000 block of Grand River on a report of indecent exposure. Police said a school bus driver and a few other bus drivers who had gathered observed an individual standing naked in his door way, facing Grand River. One of the parties who witnessed the incident stated that they knew this individual from prior contacts at school. There were no minor children present during the incident.
Deputies knocked on the door but were unable to get MacNeill to answer the door. A deputy looked inside of the residence and observed him sitting on the couch, saying MacNeill then got up and ran into the bathroom. Deputies made repeated attempts to speak to MacNeill and were eventually successful when one noticed him outside working on his truck. He was later charged in the incident. (JM)
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Police Nab Serial Burglar From South LyonPolice Nab Serial Burglar From South Lyon
A serial burglar has been apprehended by authorities after getting caught breaking into a business.
The South Lyon man was wanted in connection with up to 22 break-ins at businesses over the last month and a lengthy investigation resulted. West Bloomfield Police say plain clothes officers from West Bloomfield, Novi, and Farmington Hills arrested the man this past week as he broke into a hair salon on M-59 in White Lake Township. Police were watching the suspect, followed him to the salon, and witnessed him throw a brick through the window to gain access. When he came out, police were waiting. He was taken into custody and police believe the man was committing the crimes to feed a drug habit.
West Bloomfield Police say it was a great partnership and effort by the officers involved. Investigators from various departments throughout Oakland County worked together on the case and were eventually able to identify the suspect. The suspect is expected to face charges in connection with various break-ins at businesses in Wixom, Lyon Township, Novi, Commerce Township, West Bloomfield, and Farmington Hills. (JM)
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Williamston Man Re-Appointed To State Boundary Commission Williamston Man Re-Appointed To State Boundary Commission
A Williamston man with a law enforcement background has been reappointed to a state commission.
Governor Rick Snyder recently announced the reappointment of Michael Rice to the State Boundary Commission. Housed within the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, the State Boundary Commission considers petitions at adjudicative sessions and public hearings, and evaluates statutory criteria and evidence submitted on the record. The three-member board has the authority to recommend the approval or denial of a petition. Snyder thanked Rice for his willingness to continue serving in the important role. Rice currently serves as a client education specialist for Straightline. He retired from the Michigan State University Police Department as the assistant chief of police after more than 43 years of service.
Rice will serve a three-year term expiring November 15th, 2020. His appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. (JM)
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Additions Coming To Hartland Township Retirement FacilityAdditions Coming To Hartland Township Retirement Facility
A retirement facility built in Hartland Township almost ten years ago will be receiving an addition.
Located on Highland Road and west of the old Hartland High School building, Village Manor Retirement as it stands was constructed in 2008. The projectâs original plans were approved in two phases, with the first being the main building containing 116 residential units. The second phase called for an addition to the north side of the building with 10 units on each side. However the second phase never came to fruition.
Josh Stein, Co-Owner of Village Manor Retirement, says the facility has been fully occupied for many years and Township Planner Troy Langer believes demand is strong, as owners are looking to finally move forward with phase two of the project.
The townshipâs Planning Commission reviewed a request from Village Manor on Thursday, which sought site plan approval for phase two. The 10-unit additions are slightly larger than the original plans had shown, making each a total of approximately 10,500-square feet. Langer says the site is large enough for the additions, there is adequate parking, and the building would remain in compliance.
Village Manor's request was unanimously approved by the Planning Commission and does not require approval from the Board of Trustees, meaning developers can move forward with construction and engineering plans. Stein feels Village Manor has a good reputation and relationship with the community, and that their support has helped make the facility extremely successful. (DK)
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$50,000 Grant Awarded to The Bridge High School in Brighton$50,000 Grant Awarded to The Bridge High School in Brighton
The Brighton Area Schools has been awarded a $50,000 STEM grant for the Bridge Alternative High School. STEM is an acronym that stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. There has been a concerted effort across the U.S. to train young students in STEM subjects, which are crucial in preparing them for success and the jobs of the future.
The STEM program is a competitive grant from the Michigan Dept. of Educationâs MISTEM Advisory Council. It was created by the Michigan Legislature in 2015 to make recommendations that will help make Michigan a world leader in STEM education. Brighton Area Schoolsâ Assistant Supt. of
Instruction Laura Surrey says the grant will be an opportunity to bring STEM curriculum and a STEM culture to Bridge students through Project Lead the Way. That is one of the council's approved STEM programs and a program already in use in Brighton for grades K-8. Surrey says the grant will be used to purchase the project modules and kits and the required ipad/chromebook devices and carts. Bridge students will be introduced to PLTW during the remainder of the school year.
The focus will be on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math principles, as well as project based learning, critical thinking skills, and collaborative learning. Surrey says the goal is to give students a highly structured, unique learning experience that will foster their interest in STEM fields and STEM learning.(TT)
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Millpond Restoration Squad Seeking VolunteersMillpond Restoration Squad Seeking Volunteers
The City of Brighton is looking for volunteers to help restore the Millpond to its former glory.
The Millpond Restoration Squad will be kicking off their 2018 efforts this spring. The squad is a volunteer effort that does what they can to help with the existing restoration plan for the popular downtown Brighton destination. That includes picking up trash, clearing brush, removing invasive species, and educating the community. The work they do helps restore the habitat for native and endangered species, improves the water quality, and ensures the overall health of the Millpondâs ecosystem. More volunteers are needed to help these efforts be as successful as possible.
More information, and a link on how to join the Millpond Restoration Squad can be found through the link below. (MK)
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Highland Township Board Approves Industrial Development District Highland Township Board Approves Industrial Development District
Highland Township recently approved a new district to aid manufacturing businesses that want to expand or others looking to relocate to the area.
A public hearing on an industrial development district was held during the January 10th board meeting. The board later approved a resolution as amended to establish the district. State law allows for the establishment of special districts to incentivize manufacturing activity and job creation.
Properties included within the district can then apply for exemption from certain taxes, if they can demonstrate that they will create jobs and foster economic development. However, only manufacturing and certain âhigh-techâ industries are eligible for such tax relief. Hometown Life reports board members commented the move could spur new development and help maximize use of the industrial area, while others agreed but emphasized a need to be cautious when it comes to granting potential abatements. Midwest Glass Fabricators is among those said to be interested in expanding and applying for an abatement.
The creation of the district doesnât automatically grant anything, as companies must still go through an application process that involves the state. The newly created district includes all of the industrial and technology-research zoned parcels along the Milford Road corridor, which totals 61 from roughly M-59 to Wardlow Road. (JM)
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Handy Township Sees Huge Reduction In Debt, Gets Highest Audit RatingHandy Township Sees Huge Reduction In Debt, Gets Highest Audit Rating
Handy Township officials are seeing the light at the end of a tunnel of legacy debt that came from a delinquent property.
The 200 acres at Grand River and Nicholson Roads, known as the âformer Mitch Harris Propertyâ, was in litigation for several years, during which time the delinquent taxes and penalties accumulated because it could not be sold. At one point the township owed approximately $2.1 million in chargebacks after the property came back into its possession.
However Supervisor Ed Alverson says the property went to tax sale in August and âit went really wellâ, greatly reducing the amount owed. Alverson was pleased to inform the Board of Trustees at their meeting Tuesday that the remaining debt is estimated to be $200,000 or less. Township Clerk Laura Eisele says the chargeback reduction is âhuge newsâ, noting the municipalityâs water fund is also seeing positive numbers after spending some time in the red.
The work in progress in escaping from long-held debt was a relevant issue at their most recent meeting as the board was also presented with the townshipâs audit for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Accounting firm Maner Costerisan issued an unmodified opinion, which is the highest rating a municipality can receive. (DK)
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Brighton & Pinckney To Battle At LCA This AfternoonBrighton & Pinckney To Battle At LCA This Afternoon
The Brighton Bulldogs and Pinckney Pirates boysâ basketball teams will be playing in the largest and most impressive venue theyâve ever played in today when they take on each other at the Little Caesarâs Arena in Detroit.
Brighton Athletic Director John Thompson says he, along with the Brighton Bulldogs team members, are going to be âa little wide-eyedâ upon entering the spacious arena. Thompson tells WHMI the Pistons organization extended an invitation to Brighton to play at the LCA later this afternoon after the game between the Pistons and the Charlotte Hornets. He was able to secure Pinckney as the opponent, making it an all-Livingston County contest.
But why invite high school teams to play at the new, state-of-the-art arena? The Pistons club may have invited Brighton in part to shore up attendance figures because parents and fans of the high school teams will buy tickets to see the games. Since the LCA opened in the fall, the over 20,000 seat arena has seen less-than-spectacular crowds, although there have been a lot of no-shows â those who bought tickets but didnât show up. In addition, the Pistons and the Red Wings, who also make the LCA their home court, say itâs hard to tell how many are at the games because large numbers of people are on the concourse, where there are huge screens showing the games as they are being played. And the concourse has a lot of distractions, like plenty of food, beverages and socializing with friends.
The Pistons-Hornets game starts at 12:30 , so given a break between the two games, the Brighton-Pinckney game should start at about 4 p.m. (TT)
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Marchers Brave The Cold Sunday In Milford To Honor Dr. KingMarchers Brave The Cold Sunday In Milford To Honor Dr. King
Marchers braved the cold Sunday to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
This year marked the 13th annual MLK March in downtown Milford organized by the Huron Valley Martin Luther King Jr. Day Committee to honor the legacy of the civil rights activist. The planning committee responsible for the event consists of volunteers aged anywhere from middle school students to senior citizens.
Nearly 200 people gathered at Prospect Hill where several local students opened the event by singing the national anthem. The marchers then proceeded to make their way through downtown Milford while Martin Luther Kingâs âI Have A Dreamâ speech played throughout the march. Many citizens also carried signs promoting equality and peace. The march ultimately ended at the Suzanne Haskew Arts Center, also known as The SHAC, where everyone was welcome to view MLK related art pieces, hear award-winning essays from Milford school students, enjoy free food and beverages, and listen to music.
Committee Chairman Isaac Perry told WHMI he was pleased to see the progression of this event since its inception in 2005. He explained when the first MLK March was planned, many were skeptical if the event would be a success due to Milford being a primarily white community. After 13 years, the event continues to draw big crowds.
Events honoring Martin Luther King will also be held today from 4pm to 7pm. Everyone is welcome to attend as the committee helps prepare meals for families in need and send positive letters to elderly patients who are in medical recovery. The event will be taking place at The SHAC. You can find details through the link below. (DF/JK)
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Volunteer Advocate Training Program Accepting ApplicationsVolunteer Advocate Training Program Accepting Applications
Residents who wish to become directly involved in the countyâs family court system will have that opportunity through a program run by LACASA Center.
The Court Appointed Special Advocate program is now accepting applications for its winter volunteer training. CASA volunteers are specially trained to serve as advocates for children from Livingston County who are in the foster care system or the family court system. The 30-hour training program involves a combination of in-person classroom sessions and online course work. Training begins on Thursday, February 8th and runs through March 1st.
Upon completion of the training program, volunteers are appointed to the CASA program by a Livingston County Family Court judge. CASA volunteers represent children who cannot return home because it is not safe. These volunteers collaborate with attorneys and the foster care system, write evaluations, issue recommendations, and advocate for the best interest of the child they serve in all court proceedings.
To learn more about the requirements and responsibilities of a CASA volunteer, visit the link below or contact CASA Program Manager, Melanie Cattermole at mcattermole@lacasacenter.org or by calling her at 517-548-1350. (JK)
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Grant Funds To Support Local Homeless Housing & Service ProgramsGrant Funds To Support Local Homeless Housing & Service Programs
A local homelessness planning agency will benefit from recently announced grant funding.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded nearly $70.3 (m) million to support 296 homeless housing and service programs in Michigan. The Livingston County Homeless Continuum of Care is a federally mandated body responsible for planning and coordinating services for homeless and those at risk for homelessness.
The Livingston County Homeless Continuum of Care will receive $231,017 â which HUD Midwest Regional Administrator Joseph Galvan says represents over a $12,000 increase. He tells WHMI the funds provide critically needed housing and supportive services for individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness.
The funding for the local agency is lumped into different categories, with the bulk dedicated to scattered permanent supportive housing sites. Other funds will go toward a rapid rehousing program, permanent housing, a planning project and a Homeless Management Information System. Efforts are very collaborative locally and the housing continuum spans from prevention programs to emergency shelter and services to transitional and supportive housing to affordable housing. The supportive services help ensure the housing is maintained.
More information about the Livingston County Homeless Continuum of Care Committee is available through the link. (JM)
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Woman Found Passed Out In Car During Snow StormWoman Found Passed Out In Car During Snow Storm
A South Lyon woman is facing charges after her car was found stopped at an intersection last week during a snowstorm, while she was passed out at the wheel.
South Lyon Police say they were called out just after noon on Friday to the area of Liberty and Warren streets, after a city DPW worker out plowing snow reported a silver Ford Taurus was stopped in the street with its hazard lights on. The driver was passed out and the front window down. Upon arrival, officers found the car running with both driver and passenger windows all the way down. The female driver, later identified as a 35 year old city resident, was passed out behind the wheel while a large amount of snow had accumulated inside the car.
The woman had to be physically shaken before awakening, at which point officers noticed her eyes were bloodshot and glassy. She denied she had been drinking and said had been on her way to work when she became stuck and then passed out. One of the officers asked the woman about a pipe on the front seat console, which she admitted she had used to smoke crack purchased in Detroit the night before. She also admitted to using heroin. The woman was arrested for Operating While Under the Influence of Narcotics, Possession of Heroin/Crack and Drug paraphernalia. A small baggie of suspected heroin was located during a subsequent search of her car.
A blood draw was later conducted in the booking room of the South Lyon Police Department by paramedics with Huron Valley Ambulance, with the samples then sent for further analysis. After sobering up, the woman was released pending results of the tests. (JK)
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Panel Weighs In On Mass Incarceration At Cleary's MLK Day EventPanel Weighs In On Mass Incarceration At Cleary's MLK Day Event
Cleary University held its first annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day event in Howell today, using it to focus on creating solutions for mass incarceration.
The event included a screening of the documentary â13thâ at the Historic Howell Theater and followed with a discussion at the universityâs Johnson Center in Genoa Township. A panel comprised of various perspectives weighed in on factors that impact mass incarceration, like substance abuse, current policies, and potential solutions.
The group spoke to the issue of substances been marketed to a target audience and law enforcement cracking down on that very same demographic. Panelist Mark Fancher of the Racial Justice Project of the ACLU of Michigan says there has never been a period of time in U.S. history when there was a good relationship between law enforcement and African Americans. Livingston County Sheriff Mike Murphy agreed, but responded to say the targeted enforcement stems from officers having to take on the role of parenting.
Murphy says law enforcement officers have been forced to address problems that weren't taken care of at home. Murphy admits there is room for improvement in the criminal justice system, but says instead of focusing on policy reforms, the community needs to put time into teaching values and morals, money into mental health services, and promote prevention programs.
Reverend Deon Johnson of St. Paulâs Episcopal Church in Brighton agreed with some of Murphyâs stance, but feels stigmas and profiling that began years ago still exists today, affecting which demographics are targeted by substance marketing and enforcement. Rev. Johnson says itâs important to âname and claimâ Americaâs history and recognize that itâs inherent in the countryâs institutions.
Another solution was offered by local resident and panelist Robin McCardle, who spent 12 years in prison and another two after her release. She says one of the biggest problems is using incarceration as an answer, instead of providing offenders with treatment and resources upon release.
Panelist Mary King, Executive Director of the Michigan Council on Crime and Delinquency, feels a good solution to mass incarceration is policy change. King believes in raising the age to 18 to prosecute a Michigan citizen as an adult, noting Michigan is one of only five states in the country that still automatically prosecutes 17-year-olds as adults. King says there is a movement called the âRaise the Ageâ campaign, which wants to give 17-year-old offenders a shot at the justice systemâs juvenile division, where theyâll receive services and treatment. King says if the offender commits a serious enough crime, the court still has the option to sentence them as an adult.
Clearyâs program leaders say the ultimate solution is continuing the conversation from todayâs event and working together to implement change. (DK)
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