Sumpter Township Board approves memorial courtyard construction

By Rosemary K. Otzman
Independent Editor
At its regular meeting June 10, the Sumpter Township Board of Trustees approved a proposal for township employees to construct a memorial courtyard on the south side of the township hall at a cost not to exceed $1,000 for the supplies.
In other business, the board:
• Approved a resolution authorizing the fire department to apply for a grant through Burnham & Flower insurance company. The request is for a grant for purchase of equipment and training with continuing education for fire fighter protection and safety while operating in or near moving vehicle traffic;
• Removed from the agenda reconsideration of park rules of allowing alcoholic beverages in township parks;
• Removed from the agenda consideration to approve having any future employees be in a defined contribution retirement program;
• Heard Trustee Bill Hamm report that Ordinance Officer Randy Lynch was rear-ended in a township truck and the other driver ran, fleeing and eluding. The truck was damaged. Acting Police Chief Eric Luke said the driver was arrested in West Willow after the occurrence and he is charged in Wayne County for a “slew of felonies” on this incident;
• Approved previously discussed non-union policies and procedures;
• Heard a complaint from Jessica McIntyre about how her handicapped grandmother was treated at Sumpter Fest. McIntyre wanted special transportation for her grandmother to the bingo area since she was on a walker and couldn’t make it down an incline. She said Kim Toms was rude. Toms explained he was tired and “had a bad moment.” He apologized in detail and she accepted his apology. Treasurer John Morgan who was presiding at the meeting said to Toms, “You acquitted yourself quite well. You are standing up like a man and taking responsibility”;
• Heard Charles Londo of Carleton introduce himself as a candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives He currently is the city manager of Luna Pier;
• Heard Mary Ban say Wayne County is doing Belleville Road again and, “I don’t know how long they’re going to keep digging. I beseech them to do Bemis Road.” She said Bemis is bad from Sumpter to Rawsonville and Huron River Drive in Belleville is a disgrace; and
• Heard Toms report that Sumpter Fest was a success and, “We’re in the black.” He said it will take about six weeks to get the total figures.