9/19/14 - Local democrats are questioning county support for a combination ice rink and splash pad project proposed on the grounds near the historic courthouse in downtown Howell. A presentation on the plans was made by the Howell Main Street Downtown Development Authority to a subcommittee of the Livingston County Board of Commissioners. No formal recommendation was made to move the matter to the full board, prompting local Democratic candidates to issue a press release urging commissioners to take another look at the project. Howell Township Trustee Mike Tipton is running for the District 5 seat and says the DDA did its homework. Tipton says the project has overwhelming business and citizen support, a firm budget and a financing plan without using tax dollars and feels at a minimum, the plan should be further vetted and brought to the county commission for final action. County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Carol Griffith says the DDA was on a tight time frame to try and gain approvals to apply for a grant, which did not allow commissioners ample time for appropriate vetting. She tells WHMI they needed to consider a number of issues including liability, the use of the grounds and any potential deed restrictions on the historical property, as well as parking and accessibility for citizens and employees at the county administration building. Griffith says this was not a political move but based on business and good common sense. The project has attracted widespread support from county residents and the Howell business community. DDA officials previously said the concept that was created is one that will be sympathetic to the great history of Howell and the courthouse, and the intent was to work with the county and city to create a year round attraction. (JM)
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