11/2/12 - A Genoa Township board member is reacting to news that her colleague had two prior alcohol-related driving convictions from four years ago. Court records show that Trustee Todd Smith was charged in Brighton in 2008 and pleaded guilty to a charge of operating while impaired. They also indicate that he complied with all terms and conditions set forth, including random drug and alcohol testing, probation and community service. It was also reported by the Press & Argus that he was charged with a driving while intoxicated offense in Grand Haven the following year which âlanded Smith behind bars for 45 days and netted him a year of probationâ. That was erroneously reported though as Smith only served five days in jail, with the rest suspended as he successfully completed all probation terms. Smith has served on the Genoa Township Board since 2000 and is a member of the Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority Board. He is the President of Laurex Real Estate. Smith has served on the Genoa Township Board since 2000 and is a member of the Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority Board. He is the President of Laurex Real Estate. Board members were not made aware of the incidents and Trustee Jean Ledford told WHMI this was the first she had heard of it, but she considers it a personal matter that has not affected his work on the board. She points out that the incident happened years ago and hopes that Smith has learned from his mistake. She adds that this has never happened in Genoa Township before and expects the board will likely discuss the matter and whether or not any policy should be drafted to deal with incidents of this nature in the future. Smith did not return calls placed for comment but acknowledged making some bad decisions four years ago and says he takes full responsibility for his actions. There are seven candidates vying for four trustee seats on the board. They include incumbent Republicans Smith, Ledford and Jim Mortensen. The challengers are Republican Linda Rowell, Democrat Jim Delcamp and non-partisan candidates Terry Croft and Jeff Dhaenens. (JM/TD)
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