Two men attacked a pastor at a Stockbridge Church with a stun gun during a robbery early this morning.
Deputies with the Ingham County Sheriffâs Office responded to the Good Shepherd Mission Church in Stockbridge Township around 4am on a robbery report. The Office says the pastor was awakened by two male subjects in his bedroom, one of which was armed with a stun gun. The stun gun was said to be used at least once on the pastor. The two suspects tied up the pastor prior to leaving with an undisclosed amount of cash. A person staying in the house who was not a victim was able to untie the pastor and call for help. The pastor refused medical treatment on scene. The two subjects are described as white males; one standing 5 foot 5 and weighing 140 pounds, and the other standing over six feet tall, weighing between 250-300 pounds.
The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Buckland at 517-676-8255. Photo: Google Street View. (JM)
Robbery Suspects Use Stun Gun On Stockbridge PastorRobbery Suspects Use Stun Gun On Stockbridge Pastor
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Hamburg Police Officers Recognized for Outstanding Casework & ResponseHamburg Police Officers Recognized for Outstanding Casework & Response
The Hamburg Township Police Department is honoring two of its own officers for their display of perseverance and courage in cases that occurred this past year.
Police Chief Richard Duffany recognized Detective Kim Leeds and Sergeant Megan Paul at a Hamburg Township Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday night. Duffany first presented Detective Leeds with certificates of merit for three separate cases she investigated; two of which were related to sexual assault involving minor children and the third related to credit card fraud.
In one of the sexual assault cases, Leeds received information that a teen male was sexually assaulting his younger sisters, prompting Leeds to immediately request that CPS remove the suspect from the family home. Duffany says CPS told Leeds there was not enough evidence to remove the suspect, but Leeds didnât back down. She then obtained a petition for removal through the Livingston County Prosecutorâs Office and had the suspect removed from the home pending her investigation. Her work led to the suspect being convicted on multiple counts of sexual assault this past July.
Leeds also investigated an alleged sexual assault involving a minor girl and an adult relative. The child, who lived out of state, said the assaults would happen when her family was visiting. Leedsâ investigation and work with out-of-state officers led to the suspect being charged in Livingston County on multiple felony counts of sexual assault. A jury found the suspect guilty on all charges and he was sentenced to four to 15 years in prison.
In the third case, Leeds commenced an investigation after an elderly couple reported unauthorized charges on their credit card. The detective obtained surveillance footage from a store where one of the unauthorized charges occurred and the couple was able to identify the suspect in the video as a woman they had recently befriended. Duffany says further investigation found that the suspect had also stolen the coupleâs identity and opened or attempted to open 21 different credit cards in their name, as well as successfully lease a car in the coupleâs name. The suspect also used one of the fraudulent cards to pay off court costs related to a similar case in which she was convicted in. Leedsâ investigation resulted in the suspect pleading guilty to multiple felony counts of identity theft and fraud, and a conviction of six to 15 years in prison.
Chief Duffany then presented Sgt. Paul with departmental citations recognizing her efforts in two separate cases that involved suicidal subjects. One case involved an 11-year-old boy who was threatening suicide. Duffany says when Paul and other officers arrived at the home, the boy was in an extremely agitated state, holding a 10-inch knife to his head. Paul began speaking to the boy and convinced him to put the knife down, before attempting to distract him by asking him about a lamp in his room, which he then threw at her. When she went to hand it back to him, she pulled him toward her, grabbed him in a bear hug and carried him out of the bedroom. He was taken to the hospital without further incident.
In the second incident, officers including Sgt. Paul were dispatched to a home on a report of a man threatening suicide. Paul was speaking with the manâs wife when the man entered the living room with a loaded shotgun and sat down in a chair with the butt of the gun between his feet and the barrel pointing towards his head. Duffany says the wife was removed from the home and officers took cover. Paul spoke with the man through an open door for about 20 minutes. During that time, the man attempted to place his toe on the trigger to discharge the weapon on multiple occasions. Paul convinced him to place the gun on the floor, where she was eventually able to grab it. The man was also transported to the hospital without incident. (DK)
Top picture: Chief Duffany & Sgt. Paul
Bottom picture: Chief Duffany & Detective Leeds
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Man Charged in Credit Union Robbery Ordered to TrialMan Charged in Credit Union Robbery Ordered to Trial
The man accused of robbing a local credit union has been bound over for trial.
28-year-old Warren Charles Gordon of Novi was bound over on two felony counts Wednesday, after waiving his preliminary exam and arraignment in Livingston County Circuit Court. Future court dates have not yet been scheduled.
Gordon is charged in connection with the December 10th robbery of the Lake Trust Credit Union in the City of Brighton. Authorities say Gordon had walked into the bank, slid the teller a note and demanded money. A weapon was implied but never seen. He was arrested two days after the robbery at his home in Novi, where police said he provided investigators with locations of key evidence.
Gordon is charged with Bank Robbery, a felony punishable by up to life in prison. He is also charged with Armed Robbery, based on the allegation that he represented he was in possession of a dangerous weapon. Armed Robbery is also a felony punishable by up to life in prison. (DK)
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Prosecutor's Office Dismissing Some Marijuana CasesProsecutor's Office Dismissing Some Marijuana Cases
Following the legalization of recreational marijuana, it appears some criminal cases are being dismissed locally.
In November, Michigan became the 10th state in the country - and the first in the Midwest - to legalize recreational marijuana use. The law officially took effect December 6th. Since that time, some prosecutors have begun to quietly dismiss certain marijuana-related criminal charges that no longer apply, such as use or possession. In Livingston County, Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt tells WHMI generally, cases charging possession of marijuana that are open and have not yet been adjudicated are being dismissed. He says the new law is not retroactive and so dismissal is not required, but under the circumstances this is an appropriate way to handle those cases. Vailliencourt says to the extent that there are violations of the new law that are civil infractions, local law enforcement will be handling those situations consistent with the new law. For conduct that continues to be criminal under the new law, he says they will review the circumstances of those cases and determine if prosecution is appropriate. Vailliencourt says while the new law generally allows a person to possess marijuana or share it with someone else, it does not change the law prohibiting the sale of marijuana or possession of marijuana by a person over age 21 on school property.
Meanwhile, there is no process established yet for businesses to apply to open marijuana facilities and the state needs to set guidelines and rules for issuing licenses. Many local municipalities have elected to âopt outâ of allowing facilities until the state develops implementation rules. The state has until December 6th of 2019 to do just that. If nothing happens, then local jurisdictions will have control over regulations. (JM)
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Friday Deadline To Apply For Brighton Township ClerkFriday Deadline To Apply For Brighton Township Clerk
Those interested in applying for the vacant Brighton Township clerk position has one day left to do so.
Longtime Clerk Ann Bollin is moving on after being elected in November as a Representative for the 42nd State House District. Bollin had served as the townshipâs clerk since 2003. Applications are being accepted from individuals interested in serving out the remainder of Bollinâs term through November 20th, 2020. Township Manager Brian Vick tells WHMI the submission deadline is this Friday for all interested parties to make submissions. Once all of the information is received, he says the township board is scheduled to meet January 2nd and 3rd as those are the two designated dates to bring in applicants for interviews.
Interested candidates must be a qualified elector of Brighton Township and registered to vote. To be a qualified elector, a person must be 18 years of age, a US citizen, and have lived in the township at least 30 days. Property ownership is not required. Resumes and a letter of interest must be submitted by noon this Friday. Details are available through the link. (JM)
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Huron River Watershed Council To Hold PFAS PresentationHuron River Watershed Council To Hold PFAS Presentation
An upcoming seminar will help educate and update the public on the extent of PFAS contamination in the water.
Laura Rubin, Executive Director of the Huron River Watershed Council, will conduct a presentation at the South Lyon City Hall Auditorium on Wednesday, January 9th from 1:30 to 2:30pm. Entitled âWhat We Know And What We Need To Know,â Rubin will share the latest news and specific details about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, that have been found in the Huron River. The seminar will end with the public having an opportunity to ask questions. PFAS are man-made chemicals found in a variety of common household products, construction materials, electronics and firefighting foam.
Rubin shares some solutions that she and the Watershed Council are looking for and hoping to spread. She said, for one, they want to raise public awareness and teach residents what the greatest risk is. She says, âItâs not through canoeing or swimming. Itâs consuming it.â The Huron River Watershed Council also is hoping the state develops a drinking water standard, as many communities arenât sure what they should be regulating for, if anything.
Rubin says that experts are beginning to understand the chemicals more and are getting a better handle on the problems they cause like thyroid problems, fertility problems, and threats to cancer. She says there are technologies that can take PFAS out of water systems pretty easily, but communities and residents often need guidance about whether itâs needed. Filters and testing can be expensive, Rubin says, and are sometimes unnecessary. (MK)
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Howell Educator Wins FCSEM Teacher Of The YearHowell Educator Wins FCSEM Teacher Of The Year
A Howell teacher has been recognized above all others in the state with a prestigious award. Howell High School teacher Leah Brinker has been named the 2018 Family and Consumer Science Educators of Michigan, or FCSEM, Teacher of the Year. Brinker teaches classes in interior design, hospitality and tourism, child development, career education, and personal finance. Brinker said that each day she strives to be better than the day before and that this award means much to her. She said that it reminds her of the âscaffoldingâ around her that has helped her along her teaching path, helped her improve her teaching, and helped her better meet the needs of each student. Howell High School Principal Jason Schrock congratulated Brinker, saying she is an outstanding educator and they are lucky to have her on staff. In addition to teaching the many Family and Consumer Science Classes, Brinker also serves on the Highlander College and Career Council, the Human Reproductive Health Council, and was instrumental in helping to plan the LOC Teen Financial Reality Fair. Brinker was presented with the award at the 2018 FCSEM Conference last month. The Howell Public Schools Board of Education honored her for this recognition during their regular meeting last week. (MK)
From left are Jason Schrock, Howell High Schol principal, Leah Brinker, and Erin MacGregor, Howell Public Schools Superintendent.
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Prison Term Ordered For Motorcycle Club Break-InPrison Term Ordered For Motorcycle Club Break-In
Sentence has been handed down to the man charged with a break-in at the Scorpions Motorcycle Club in Lyon Township.
40-year-old Kinley Rae-Thomas Kelm pleaded no contest last month in Oakland County Circuit Court to charges of breaking and entering with intent, larceny of firearms, being a felon in possession of a firearm and two counts of felony firearms. A no contest plea is not an admission of guilt, but was considered as such at his sentencing Wednesday, when a judge ordered him to serve between 29 months and 30 years in prison. He was also ordered to serve a consecutive two years on the felony firearms conviction and must pay $10,000 in restitution.
Kelm was charged after police say he was identified as a suspect in the break-in the Scorpions Motorcycle Club headquarters building on Milford Road that took place on September 22nd, 2017. Members of the club witnessed him wearing a Scorpions t-shirt in the days after the crime. When questioned about his affiliation, he provided answers that made them suspicious and alert police.
The club was severely damaged in a fire that authorities say broke out as a result of the break-in, likely when propane lines were damaged by a Bobcat loader that Kelm used to crash through the clubhouse wall and move a large safe. (JK)
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Brighton Township Board Votes To Prohibit Marijuana EstablishmentsBrighton Township Board Votes To Prohibit Marijuana Establishments
The Brighton Township Board of Trustees voted 7-0 Monday night to prohibit recreational marijuana establishments and the sale and consumption of marijuana in public places.
The board had discussed the ordinance at the December 3rd meeting before âopting outâ last night. It will go into effect as soon as the township has it ready for publication. In her last meeting as clerk before taking state office, Township Clerk Ann Bollin motioned to pass the ordinance and Treasurer Rose Droulliard supported.
The state government has yet to make regulations and rules regarding the newly legalized substance and most local communities have also opted to prohibit marijuana sales until the state clarifies its policy. Brighton Township Manager Brian Vick told WHMI that the township can decide to opt in at a later date, but believes the board made the right call with the way things stand now...
âThe actions from the various communities surrounding Brighton and the greater Brighton area, have all been resolute. This just is good housekeeping to protect the interest of the citizenry and the jurisdiction. So basically, thereâs no doubt the vote passed, no one is trying to take anything away from that, itâs more about now that it has passed, thereâs information that needs to come out of the state before we say yes, weâre in favor and hereâs what weâre going to do to participate or not participate.â
Vick added that the decision to opt out is similar to the decision the township made in regards to medical marijuana...
âBased on those conversations, I would have made the recommendation that letâs find out. This wouldnât be the first time a law was passed and things needed to be hammered out. Brighton Township does not have our own police department, how would that impact a jurisdiction that has no police power? We rely on the state police and the county to enforce and protect. In a jurisdiction that doesnât have its own police, it might mean something different from a population that has 20 police officers.â (AV)
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Findings Issued Against Brennan; Kowalski To Get New TrialFindings Issued Against Brennan; Kowalski To Get New Trial
A much anticipated report has been issued by the judge who presided over the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission hearing on a formal complaint filed against 53rd District Court Judge Theresa Brennan - which will likely result in a new trial for a man serving life in prison.
Retired Judge William Giovan was appointed special master to preside over the formal hearing and heard evidence in the case in October. He has issued his findings in a report to the Commission, which may be accessed through a link at WHMI.com. Brennan is accused of unethical acts that could lead to her removal from the bench. The Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission says Brennan used staff to perform personal services and failed to disclose a relationship with a police officer during a murder case. Former State Police Detective Sean Furlong was the chief prosecution witness in the 2013 murder trial of Jerome Kowalski, over which Brennan presided. Testimony and other evidence that came to light during Brennanâs divorce indicated the pair engaged in an affair before, during and after the trial. They have both denied that and said the affair began only after the trial was over.
Giovanâs report states âPerhaps the most serious charge proven against respondent Theresa Brennan is her failure to disqualify herself from the case of People v. Kowalski, Livingston County Case No. 08â17643-FC, because it was not only serious misconduct, but also one that infected the integrity of a serious criminal proceeding, a charge of double homicide first-degree murder that resulted in a sentence of life imprisonment without parole.â He cited multiple instances that were âmore than sufficientâ to have required Brennanâs disqualification. Giovan noted the âdenial of disqualification was all the more egregious, however, because, by the time of the disqualification motion and for a significant period before, Judge Brennan had a romance with detective Furlong. Yes, a romance.â
Livingston County Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt tells WHMI: "I have just reviewed the report of the Special Master, which was only released today. Based on that report, I have contacted Mr. Kowalskiâs attorney to discuss the next steps to be taken to enter an appropriate court order vacating Mr. Kowalskiâs convictions and granting him a new trial. At that time, I anticipate that future court dates will be set. We will once again present the evidence to a fair and impartial jury for them to make the determination of guilt or innocence."
Meanwhile in regard to Brennan's alleged mistreatment of attorneys, litigants, witnesses and employees; Giovan states Brennanâs persistent abuse and discourtesy constitute violations. As for accusations that Brennan knowingly lied about destroying evidence from a cell phone during a deposition in her divorce case, Giovan said âMore likely than not, Judge Brennanâs attempts and eventual success in obliterating the data from the cell phone rendered her guilty of the felony described in MCL 750.483a(5)(a)â.
Now that Giovan's opinion has been issued, the Judicial Tenure Commission will review it and make a recommendation to the Michigan Supreme Court, which could result in Brennanâs removal from the bench.
Meanwhile this afternoon, State Senator Joe Hune, Senator- elect Lana Theis and state Rep. Hank Vaupel issued a letter to Valliencourt stating that Jerome Kowalski deserves a retrial in the wake of scandal-plagued Brennanâs unfair handling of Kowalskiâs case. The letter to Valliencourt concludes, âWe respectfully ask that you give Mr. Kowalski the fair and impartial trial that he deserves and which justice demands.â The press release was issued prior to Giovan's report. The letter is attached. When asked for an initial response, Vailliencourt had not yet received their letter and told WHMI it appeared to have been sent to the media first. His comments in regard to a new trial were based on the findings of Giovan's report. (JM)
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Livingston County Animal Shelter Hosting "Pawliday Wishes"Livingston County Animal Shelter Hosting "Pawliday Wishes"
An event taking place today and tomorrow aims to help get shelter animals into loving homes this holiday season.
The Livingston County Animal Shelter âPawliday Wishesâ event will take place from 11am to midnight tonight and then from 11am-3pm on Saturday. During those times, all adult dog and adult cat adoption fees will be sponsored, so the adopter will only be in charge of covering the $10 dog license fee. All kittens will have a $50 adoption fee and puppies will be available with a $175 adoption fee. Shelter organizers ask that those who plan on adopting be patient as they will be trying to complete pre-approval applications the same day. Refreshments will be provided.
A link to the event page is provided. (JM)
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Green Oak Twp. Begins Preparing 2019/2020 BudgetGreen Oak Twp. Begins Preparing 2019/2020 Budget
The budgeting process for the coming fiscal year is already underway in Green Oak Township.
Township Supervisor Mark St. Charles presented a very preliminary draft budget at a Board of Trusteesâ meeting Wednesday. He says while the overall budget doesnât change too much from year-to-year, aside from some minor adjustments, there are a couple of factors that will have a noticeable effect on the budget for the 2019/2020 fiscal year.
St. Charles says one of those components is the M-36/Lehman Road non-motorized trail project. The township is receiving a $580,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation for the project; however that requires the municipality to provide that amount in matching funds. St. Charles says that provision, along with principal and interest payments on the townshipâs new police station, will hit the fund balance pretty hard at approximately $1 million.
St. Charles says planning for the Building Department is probably the biggest difficulty as its expected revenue and expenditures are mostly unknown. The departmentâs level of business will certainly increase, based on the number of subdivisions that have been approved, but where theyâre at in the development process and how soon permits will be needed is âanybodyâs guessâ.
Several budget sessions will be held at the beginning of the year as officials work to make adjustments before the current budget expires on March 31st. A public hearing will also need to be held at least 30 days prior to that expiration date. (DK)
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Trial Date Set For Pinckney Woman Charged With EmbezzlementTrial Date Set For Pinckney Woman Charged With Embezzlement
A trial date has been set for a Pinckney woman charged with embezzling from a small electrical company where she worked as the bookkeeper.
Tracey Lynn Sindlinger is charged with ten counts involving her alleged embezzlement from Stein Electric in Manchester. At a pretrial hearing earlier this week in Washtenaw County Trial Court, a trial date was scheduled for May 6th of 2019. Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post conducted the investigation, which reportedly uncovered an embezzlement scheme that occurred over a three year period, beginning in 2015.
Sindlinger was the company accountant at the small family owned business. After she was terminated, authorities say the owners went through records and noticed discrepancies. An investigation commenced, which resulted in the criminal charges and an arrest warrant being issued for Sindlinger, who remains free on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. (JK)
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New Trial Possible For Imprisoned ManNew Trial Possible For Imprisoned Man
Following the release of a report responding to a complaint against Judge Theresa Brennan, Livingston County Prosecutor Bill Vailliencourt is taking steps toward vacating the convictions and granting a new trial for Jerome Kowalski, a man serving prison time for a case Brennan presided over.
Retired Judge William Giovan was appointed special master to preside over a formal hearing and heard evidence in the case regarding allegations of unethical behavior committed by Brennan. He has issued his findings in a report to the Judicial Tenure Commission, which may be accessed below. In response to the report, Vailliencourt tells WHMI: "I have just reviewed the report of the Special Master, which was only released today. Based on that report, I have contacted Mr. Kowalskiâs attorney to discuss the next steps to be taken to enter an appropriate court order vacating Mr. Kowalskiâs convictions and granting him a new trial. At that time, I anticipate that future court dates will be set. We will once again present the evidence to a fair and impartial jury for them to make the determination of guilt or innocence."
Kowalski is currently serving a life sentence in prison after being convicted in a double murder case that Brennan presided over. Kowalskiâs son, Jared, has been calling for a retrial for his father after an affair between Brennan and former Michigan State Police Detective Sean Furlong came to light. Furlong served as the chief prosecution witness during Kowalskiâs trial.
Jared spoke with WHMI after learning of Vailliencourtâs intentions to pursue a court order to grant Jerome Kowalski a new trial. He said, âIâm very happy; very thrilled. This is the right decision and itâs time to prove my father Jerome Kowalskiâs innocence and have true justice for my uncle and aunt.â
In the report that led to Vailliencourtâs decision, Judge Giovan states âPerhaps the most serious charge proven against respondent Theresa Brennan is her failure to disqualify herself from the case of People v. Kowalski, Livingston County Case â¦because it was not only serious misconduct, but also one that infected the integrity of a serious criminal proceeding, a charge of double homicide first-degree murder that resulted in a sentence of life imprisonment without parole.â
Giovanâs report also addresses allegations including mistreatment of attorneys, litigants, witnesses and employees. As for accusations that Brennan knowingly lied about destroying evidence from a cell phone during a deposition in her divorce case, Giovan said more likely than not, Judge Brennanâs attempts and eventual success in obliterating the data from the cell phone rendered her guilty of a felony.
JTC Executive Director and Examiner Lynn Helland tells WHMI both sides have an opportunity to object to Judge Giovanâs report. The objections go to the JTC and at an appropriate time, possibly late January or early February, the Commission will hold a public hearing on the objections. The Commission will then prepare a report for the Supreme Court, in which it will recommend a sanction. Both sides would get to brief the case in the Supreme Court, which could hold an oral argument. The Supreme Court would then decide whether to accept or reject the JTC recommendation.(DK/MK)
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Appointments Made to Green Oak Twp. Governing BoardsAppointments Made to Green Oak Twp. Governing Boards
The townshipâs Board of Trustees approved a recommendation for the appointments and reappointments at a meeting Wednesday.
Lamberto Smigliani and Keith Lee have both been reappointed to the Planning Commission, while Stephanie Kramer has been appointed to the commission, all of which are for three-year terms expiring in December of 2021. Township Supervisor Mark St. Charles says he expects Kramer will be a great addition to the group.
Kathy Williams has been reappointed to the Fonda Island Briggs Water Authority for a three-year term. For the townshipâs Board of Review there were four reappointments made, all of which are for two-year terms, those members being Amy Crotty, Lynn Gardell, Dawn Goldburg and Deborah Yu. Three appointments were made to the Historic District Commission as well. Ginger Jones, Diane Wynings and Jo Ann Williams will all serve three-year terms set to expire December of 2021.
St. Charles says he also will soon be interviewing a candidate for the Zoning Board of Appeals, as he has been âlooking desperatelyâ for someone to fill a vacant seat. (DK)
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Changes to County Employee Manual Prohibit Use of Marijuana While WorkingChanges to County Employee Manual Prohibit Use of Marijuana While Working
A drug-free work place policy for Livingston County employees is being amended as a result of the legalization of recreational marijuana.
The county adopted a Drug-Free Work Place Policy Statement in 1992 and a Personnel Manual for non-union employees that was last revised in September of 2017. The original Personnel Manual stated that employees cannot possess, distribute, use or be impaired by alcohol or illegal prohibited drugs on Livingston County property, while on Livingston County business, or during working hours, including rest and meal periods. It also stated that if management believes an employee is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the county can require the employee to submit to blood, breath or urine testing.
However officials recently requested an amendment to the manual and policy, after voters last month passed Proposal 1, which established the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act. The proposal legalized the purchase, possession and use of marijuana with a few restrictions. County officials say after reviewing the Personnel Manual and policy in light of the recent change in law, counsel recommended clarifications and updates to the document.
The amendments specifically list marijuana as one of the substances that cannot be possessed, distributed or used by employees while on county business or during working hours. Marijuana has also been added as one of the substances that employees can be tested for if management believes them to be under the influence. The countyâs Board of Commissioners approved the amended policy and manual at a recent meeting. (DK)
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Hamburg Twp. Trustees Send Waters Edge Plans Back to Planning CommissionHamburg Twp. Trustees Send Waters Edge Plans Back to Planning Commission
Plans for a proposed housing development in Hamburg Township are being returned to the municipalityâs Planning Commission, as officials hope for a compromise with developers in regards to the projectâs density.
Developers for the proposed Waters Edge Village project first submitted plans to construct 154 single family homes on a 93-acre lot off of Winans Lake Road. After the density of the development was met with disapproval by both residents and the townshipâs Planning Commission, project planners revised their site plans to reduce the number of homes in the Open Space Planned Unit (PUD) development to 144. Planners also brought forward a parallel plan that, without the PUD, would restrict the number of homes to 77, though developers have said they arenât too keen on that option.
Planning commissioners still felt that 144 homes was too high and sent the projectâs preliminary site plan to the townshipâs Board of Trustees with a recommendation to deny it. The Board discussed the plan at a meeting Tuesday, with a look at various options for the Open Space PUD. The major concern, from both residents and board members, was again density. Township Supervisor Pat Hohl felt there could be negotiating on the density, despite a representative stating that developers are firm on the reduced lot count.
The Board voted to send the site plan back to the Planning Commission for further discussion and hopefully, a compromise. Residents have spoken out against the project, citing concerns that include the number of homes, compatibility and traffic.
Hohl told community members attending the board meeting that officials do value their input, adding "We're not trying to screw you guys over." But he also indicated there is a need for more housing in the area. Hohl says the township already has a lot of residents and the number is continuing to increase. He feels without some kind of development, there could be a housing crisis âin the next 10 to 12 yearsâ. (DK)
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Hearing To Determine If Man Heads To Trial In Murder CaseHearing To Determine If Man Heads To Trial In Murder Case
An upcoming court hearing will decide whether the case of a man accused of shooting his friend will be bound over for trial.
22-year-old Floyd Bryon Blalock Jr. of Argentine Township is facing charges of second-degree murder and felony firearms. Court records indicate a judge found him competent to stand to trial earlier this month. A probable cause conference, which will determine whether there is enough evidence to send his case to Genesee County Circuit Court, has been scheduled for January 10th.
Blalock is charged in the September 22nd incident that authorities say took place in an apartment on Seymour Road in Argentine Township. Police responded after receiving a call about the shooting. 28-year-old Christopher Baldwin was pronounced dead at the scene after allegedly being shot by Blalock.
The Tri-County Times reports police recovered a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and that it is believed that Blalock had removed the magazine from the gun and pointed it at his friend thinking the weapon was unloaded. Police Chief Daniel Allen said a bullet remained in the chamber, despite Blalock pulling out the magazine.
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Salvation Army Seeks Donations, Volunteers For Red Kettle CampaignSalvation Army Seeks Donations, Volunteers For Red Kettle Campaign
This marks the last busy shopping weekend before Christmas and the Salvation Army of Livingston County is seeking help from area residents.
The Red Kettle campaign is the groupâs largest fundraising effort of the year and runs until January 31st. The local corps has raised $222,800 of its $385,000 goal. Bell ringers will be stationed at stores around Livingston County throughout the Holiday season.
Money raised during the campaign goes towards a number of programs, including energy assistance to keep heat and lights on, homeless shelters, rental assistance, food for the hungry, youth mentoring programs and more.
Major Prezza Morrison says she has faith in the community and cited the generosity of one local resident who recently donated a gold coin worth around $1,200.
The organization is looking for bell ringers on Christmas Eve as well. You can sign up at www.registertoring.com.
Donations can be mailed directly to P.O. Box 647, Howell MI 48844, dropped off at the local corps (503 Lake Street, Howell) next week , Monday, December 24th 9am-12pm, Wednesday, December 26th through Friday, December 28th 9am-5pm and Monday, December 31st 9am -12pm. Donations can also be made online at www.SalvationArmyLivingston.org, Individuals can also start a Virtual Bell Ringing campaign to help too. (AV)
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Hune Returns Unused Funds From Annual Office BudgetHune Returns Unused Funds From Annual Office Budget
State Senator Joe Hune announced Wednesday that he will return more than $5,000 from his office budget to state coffers. Senate offices receive an allocation of about $54,000 per year to cover costs like office supplies, mail and postage, and other necessities.
Hune says he is happy to return the unused portion of his office budget back to the state in the hopes that it will be saved or spent wisely, if necessary. The Fowlerville-area Republican says he believes that government should respect the peopleâs money.
Hune, who is term-limited, will be leaving elected office after December 31st. He wrapped up his legislative career last week by making final remarks on the Senate floor. Hune began his career in Lansing in 2002 after winning a Republican primary for State House by two votes, the closest margin in Livingston County history. He spent six years in the House before being elected to the Michigan Senate in 2010 and serving two terms. In honor of Huneâs career, the Senate unanimously adopted a resolution recognizing his service in the House and Senate.
Hune has yet to announce what his future plans are once his term ends.
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