Subdivision under construction north of Ann Arbor could trigger more growth nearby
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Roger Harris can remember sitting outside his cousin’s home overlooking a cornfield just north of Ann Arbor, watching deer and foxes dart across the lawn. Today, the same view is framed by a construction zone for a 264-unit housing development rising across Whitmore Lake Road, at its intersection with North Territorial Road.
mlive.comDexter teen found safe, police say
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- Police have located a Dexter teenager they believe was groomed on social media. An alert was issued after Ea Kuhr, 17, on Feb. 1, after they intentionally avoided their family picking them up from Dexter High School that day. Kuhr has since been located and is now safe, the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office announced on social media around 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2. “Details are limited at this time but Ea is safe,” the office wrote in an announcement on Facebook. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Police asking for help locating Dexter teen they believed was groomed on social mediaAfter death of 5 year old, family and Michigan senator demand more transparency from CPSAnn Arbor nets $3.8M federal grant, most of any U.S. city, to make streets safer
mlive.comMan accused of killing wife’s dog pleads no contest to lesser charge
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Man facing a felony charge after allegedly fatally shooting his wife’s dog has taken a plea deal. In pleading no contest, his original felony charge of reckless discharge of a firearm in a building was dismissed. The rationale for the no contest plea, which is treated as a guilty plea, was Finney stated he had no memory of the incident. The charge stems from a December incident in Ypsilanti Township where Finney fatally shot his wife’s dog. Related: Husband shoots, kills wife’s dog in Washtenaw County homePolice were called at 8:52 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, to a home in the 2000 block of Holmes Road for a report of shots fired, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office.
mlive.com119-acre family farm near Dexter protected for generations to come
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - A farm near Dexter held by one family since 1950 isn’t going to change anytime soon. That’s because its nearly 119 acres are now conserved for generations to come, thanks to the farmland and open space preservation program in Webster Township.
mlive.comPolice asking for help locating Dexter teen they believed was groomed on social media
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Police are asking for assistance in locating a Dexter teen who may have been coerced to leave their home by someone on social media. Ea Kuhr, 17, was reported missing and endangered after they intentionally avoided their family picking them up from Dexter High School Wednesday, Feb. 1, and left to meet an unknown person, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. At this time it is believed Kuhr left of their own free will, police said. Kuhr was last seen leaving Dexter High School walking towards Shield Road while wearing light gray sweat pants, a gray backpack, white tennis shoes and a dark hooded sweatshirt. More from The Ann Arbor News:Downtown Ann Arbor power outages lead to cancellation of Washtenaw County board meetingAfter 3-year pandemic hiatus, Creative Washtenaw recognizes area philanthropists2 cars destroyed by fire in downtown Ann Arbor parking structure
mlive.comDowntown Ann Arbor power outages lead to cancellation of Washtenaw County board meeting
ANN ARBOR, MI - Washtenaw County leaders won’t be meeting as planned on Wednesday, Feb. 1 after county buildings in downtown Ann Arbor lost power. Agenda items will be rescheduled to the board’s next regular meeting, slated for Wednesday, Feb. 15, she said. At around 4 p.m., officials said several buildings downtown, including the courthouse, county annex and city center building, were without power. Power is estimated to be restored around 9:15 p.m. on Wednesday at the cluster near the county buildings, according to the map. More from The Ann Arbor News:After 3-year pandemic hiatus, Creative Washtenaw recognizes area philanthropistsHere’s why Ann Arbor is building a temporary water treatment plant319-million-year-old fish fossil at University of Michigan shows well-preserved ancient brain‘Skyrocketing’ housing costs, end of COVID aid prompting rise in homelessness in Washtenaw County
mlive.comTrue North Jerky and Foods near Chelsea to close
True North Jerky and Foods, 12855 E. Old U.S. Highway 12, recently announced it will be closing its doors on Sunday, Feb. 12. True North Jerky and Foods is a mix of a smokehouse, meat shop and specialty food store that sells smoked meat and fish. Before the Hellers, True North Jerky and Foods was owned by Joe Wesolowski until 2018. He encourages anyone interested in shopping True North Jerky and Foods to call beforehand. For more information about True North Jerky and Foods, visit the shop’s website and social media.
mlive.com‘Skyrocketing’ housing costs, end of COVID aid prompting rise in homelessness in Washtenaw County
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Emergency hotel stays during the coldest months of winter. These are all signs of a significant spike in people experiencing homelessness in Washtenaw County this winter — an increase prompting some housing advocates to raise the alarm. “We are seeing a large number of unsheltered families, families that are on the streets or in cars,” said Amanda Carlisle, executive director of the Washtenaw Housing Alliance, a coalition of nonprofits and government agencies fighting homelessness. “(This is) the first time honestly that I’ve worked here in Washtenaw County since 2014 that we’ve experienced unsheltered family homelessness, and that’s really concerning.”What’s driving the problem? That stems from a major transition in Housing Access for Washtenaw County, the hotline serving as the central access point for housing support services in the county.
mlive.comBundle up for upcoming luminary walk hosted by The Farm at Trinity Health Ann Arbor
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- Lace up some snow boots and get ready to explore The Farm at Trinity Health Ann Arbor with its upcoming Luminary Walk. The Farm at Trinity Health Ann Arbor was established in 2010 and is a hospital-based farm that offers fresh produce in an effort to help better the health of others. The farm is open to the public and can be found right across the street from the Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital, Sanders said. Read more: ‘Food as medicine’: Michigan hospital-based farms kick off yearly produce shareTo learn more about The Farm at Trinity Health Ann Arbor or the event, visit the group’s website or social media. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s business manager retires after 35 yearsZero-waste takeout containers successful despite low participation, Ann Arbor businesses sayWashtenaw County health officer joins board of Trinity Health hospitals
mlive.comMichigan State’s Khary Crump gets probation for post-game Michigan Stadium tunnel attack
Michigan State University football player and sophomore Khary Crump has been sentenced to probation on misdemeanor assault charges stemming from a post-game attack in the Michigan Stadium tunnel last fall.
A fight over light? Roundabout near Ann Arbor sparks lawsuit, light pollution concerns
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Roundabouts may be a divisive topic for Michigan drivers, but what about what they look like at night? In Washtenaw County, complaints over street lights at a new roundabout outside Ann Arbor snowballed into a lawsuit alleging they have turned the landscape around a neighboring home “dystopian.”
mlive.comMissing Ann Arbor-area teen found dead near Pioneer High School
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – An Ann Arbor-area teen missing since Friday has been found dead, officials confirmed. At 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30, a Washtenaw County canine unit located the body of Adriana Davidson near the athletic fields of Ann Arbor Pioneer High School, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. “Our sincere condolences go out to the friends and family of Adriana,” Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Derrick Jackson said. Davidson is a sophomore at Pioneer High School. The Ann Arbor Police Department will be taking over the death investigation as the scene is within city limits.
mlive.comWestbound I-94 near Chelsea is open again after extensive debris removed from highway
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Westbound I-94 near Chelsea has been reopened Monday afternoon after being closed for 10 hours due to an early-morning multi-vehicle crash. The highway was reopened at 3:22 p.m. after extensive debris was removed from the highway, officials said. Related: Multi-vehicle crash closes westbound I-94 near ChelseaThe initial investigation determined that one semitruck lost control due to snowy roads and jackknifed, causing the other vehicles to crash, Michigan State Police said. The Washtenaw County Technical Rescue Team was on scene assisting the Chelsea Area Fire Authority with a heavy vehicle extrication, freeing a trapped motorist in less than an hour, officials said. More from The Ann Arbor News:Washtenaw County health officer joins board of Trinity Health hospitalsMaking PTO funds equitable for all schools is goal of Ann Arbor parent groupDaddy’s Chicken Shack to open first Michigan location in Ann Arbor
mlive.comPolice continue search for Ann Arbor-area teen
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A Washtenaw County teen who did not come home from school Friday remains missing. Police are actively investigating the disappearance of Adriana Davidson, Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Spokesman Derrick Jackson said on Monday, Jan. 30. Davison, 15, of Scio Township, was last seen by friends around 11 a.m. Friday outside of Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor, located at 601 W. Stadium Blvd., police said. “I know our thoughts of care and support are with the family of Adriana at this critical time,” Swift wrote. More from The Ann Arbor News:Broadway smash “& Juliet” stars pair of University of Michigan alumsDon’t fall victim to scammers impersonating officers, University of Michigan police sayZero-waste takeout containers successful despite low participation, Ann Arbor businesses say
mlive.comMulti-vehicle crash closes westbound I-94 near Chelsea
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Westbound I-94 near Chelsea is closed Monday morning due to a multi-vehicle crash. The crash involving several vehicles was reported at 4:59 a.m. Jan. 30, west of the Old U.S. 12 exit ramp east of Chelsea, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation. Due to the crash, westbound I-94 has been shut down. Michigan State Police are on scene, but additional details regarding injuries or how many vehicles are involved are unavailable at this time. More from The Ann Arbor News:Here’s what a new report says about Ann Arbor traffic crash trendsThere’s a growing demand for zero-proof cocktails at Ann Arbor restaurantsSnowstorm is over for central Lower Michigan, here’s a look at snow reports
mlive.comPolice ask for help finding missing teen
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Sheriff’s deputies have asked for the public’s help in finding a missing teen. She was reported missing after not returning home from school on Friday, Jan. 27. Davidson was last seen by friends around 11 a.m. Friday outside of Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor, 601 W Stadium Blvd., police said. According to the sheriff’s office, Davidson last communicated with family members around 9 a.m. on Friday while on her way to school. Read more from MLiveHere’s what a new report says about Ann Arbor traffic crash trendsDeveloper unveils plan for student high-rise next to downtown Ann Arbor libraryTraffic watch: Road construction round-up for Washtenaw County, Jan. 29
mlive.comTraffic watch: Road construction round-up for Washtenaw County, Jan. 29
ANN ARBOR, MI -- There are a handful of construction projects in Washtenaw County that could impact commute times, traffic and road closures this week. Vehicles travelling south will detour west on Depot Street, south on Main Street and east on Kingsley Street. Eastbound West Madison Street traffic will shift into the left turn lane at the South Main Street intersection. OTHER AREAS OF WASHTENAW COUNTY:Lohr Road: The road between Textile Road and Regents Park Court will see an intermittent lane closure during the week of Jan. 30. Bemis Road: The road between Moon Road and east of North Warren Road will see an intermittent lane closure during the week of Jan. 30.
mlive.comFire destroys Washtenaw County golf clubhouse causing more than $1M in damage
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A quickly-spreading fire destroyed a Washtenaw County golf course clubhouse Wednesday night. Crews arrived to find the golf course’s clubhouse engulfed in flames and called for additional support, officials said. The fire caused more than $1 million in damage, officials said, adding the cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Ann Arbor Township Fire Department, Ypsilanti Fire Department, Ypsilanti Township Fire Department, Salem Township Fire Department, Northfield Township Fire Department, Northville Township Fire Department, Plymouth Fire Department, Canton Fire Department, Huron Valley Ambulance, the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and HART assisted at the scene. More from The Ann Arbor News:New president of Ann Arbor Hands On Museum says position is a joyA new Ann Arbor church aims to be a place where people are ‘seen, heard and loved’Upcoming $200M Eastern Michigan dorm seeks tax-exempt status
mlive.comCouple accused of letting father die in horrid conditions head to trial for murder
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A couple accused of letting the husband’s father die neglected and in filthy conditions are heading to trial for murder. Karen Wibbeler-Nelson and Robert Dorsey Nelson were both bound over for trial on murder charges Monday, Jan. 23. Public safety officers arrived at the scene and noted numerous dogs and cats in the home with fecal matter spread throughout the dwelling and raw sewage flooding the basement, police said. Prosecutors alleged Andrew Nelson’s death could have been prevented and that the couple’s failure to act as his caregiver led to his death. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for March 7 before Washtenaw County Trial Judge Patrick Conlin Jr.
mlive.comTraffic signal, turn lanes coming to North Territorial Road in western Washtenaw County
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - An intersection northeast of Dexter on North Territorial Road will look very different by the end of the year. The junction of North Territorial and Webster Church roads, in northern Washtenaw County, is set for a $1.4-million safety improvement project during the upcoming construction season, Washtenaw County Road Commission officials said. Meanwhile, Webster Church Road will close to all traffic between Lori Lynn Lane and Ralaric Drive, immediately to the north and south of the North Territorial intersection. When the project wraps up, both Webster Church and North Territorial roads will have left turn lanes at the intersection, Road Commission Assistant Director of Engineering Brent Schlack said during the presentation. North Territorial will stay open during that project, with daytime lane closures and flagging while it occurs sometime over the summer.
mlive.comMore than 300 crashes reported during snowstorm in Washtenaw County
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Police and rescue crews in Washtenaw County responded to more than 300 weather-related crashes, road run-offs and stuck vehicles during Wednesday’s snowstorm. Washtenaw County Metro Dispatch alone received 295 requests for weather-related crashes throughout Wednesday, Jan. 25, during the snowstorm that dumped upwards of seven inches of snow in many parts of the county, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to the 295 calls processed through dispatch, the Ann Arbor Police Department responded to 58 crashes and traffic hazards during the storm, Ann Arbor Police Spokesperson Chris Page said. Though there were more than 300 crashes during the storm, no major crashes or serious injury crashes were reported. More from The Ann Arbor News:5 fun things to do in Ann Arbor this weekend (Jan. 27-29)DTE Energy opposes Ann Arbor gas ban proposalIntegrating art on campus is the goal of $20M University of Michigan initiative
mlive.comCould Washtenaw County establish a western government service center? Officials want input
CHELSEA, MI - Many Washtenaw County Health Department functions are based in Ypsilanti. That could one day change, with county officials seriously considering the possibility of a new western Washtenaw County service center. Read more: Washtenaw County leaders advance $4.79M Saline courthouse expansion with solar fieldThey also directed staff participating in the county facilities assessment to include recommendations on a potential western county service center, an idea vocally supported by county Commissioner Jason Maciejewski, who represents District 1, covering the northwestern portion of the county. Ahead of the Chelsea input event, county officials issued a survey they are asking residents to complete to guide the discussion. It includes questions about which county services residents use and where, as well as the opportunity to add comments.
mlive.comWashtenaw County School closings for Thursday, Jan. 26
ANN ARBOR, MI - After steady snow reduced travel across southeast Michigan Wednesday, some Washtenaw County schools have opted to remain closed Thursday. Several of the district’s public K-12 districts opted close again Thursday, citing secondary and subdivision roads that have not yet been plowed after the area was hit with several inches of snow. The following schools in Washtenaw County are closed Wednesday:Chelsea School DistrictDexter Community SchoolsLincoln Consolidated SchoolsManchester Community SchoolsMilan Area SchoolsSaline Area SchoolsWhitmore Lake Public SchoolsYpsilanti Community SchoolsThis list will be updatedREAD MORE:See Washtenaw County school closings for Wednesday, Jan. 25Storm forecast, timeline for Ann Arbor, Detroit, Jackson shows who flirts with 6 inches of snow
mlive.comEastern Michigan University cancels evening in-person classes
YPSILANTI, MI - Eastern Michigan University has canceled in-person classes and activities Wednesday evening due to snowy weather. The university announced it has canceled all in-person classes and activities after 3 p.m. Jan. 25. Online asynchronous classes may proceed unless directed otherwise by instructor, university officials said. Several Washtenaw County schools opted to cancel classes Wednesday due to the a snowstorm moving across southeast Lower Michigan, Indiana and Ohio on Wednesday and Wednesday night. Detroit, Monroe, Dundee, Adrian, Morenci and Camden will be on the northern edge of the 4- to 6-inch snow area.
mlive.comWoman fatally shot outside Ann Arbor was beloved mother, mentor
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Andrea Grant was a warm soul who could capture the attention of everyone in any room with her smile. Members of Grant’s family could not be immediately contacted. Grant was found fatally shot Thursday, Jan. 19, in an SUV parked in front of The Den physical training center in the 3700 block of Plaza Drive. “Any time spent with them was time well spent.”The page, collecting donations for Grant’s family, has generated more than $18,000 in donations as of 8 a.m., Jan. 25. More from The Ann Arbor News:Marijuana company halts $1M development deal for dispensary on Saline city lotSee Washtenaw County school closings for Wednesday, Jan. 252 Ohio men arrested for murder in 1997 Lenawee County cold case
mlive.comNorthfield Township board picks new trustee to fill vacant seat
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Northfield Township’s board is back to seven members after officials appointed a Whitmore Lake resident and member of the township’s Parks and Recreation Board to fill a vacant trustee seat on Tuesday, Jan. 24. I understand the importance of listening to different points of view and being open to alternative solutions yet being decisive,” he wrote in his application for the open seat. The township board at first appeared to have a crowded field of residents interested in the open trustee position, with nine applicants listed in the Tuesday meeting packet. Each made their case to officials why they should be chosen for the open seat, supplementing applications they had submitted. Township officials held little discussion after questioning the trustee candidates, with Supervisor Ken Dignan motioning to appoint Saville.
mlive.comSee Washtenaw County school closings for Wednesday, Jan. 25
ANN ARBOR, MI - Schools in Washtenaw County opted to get ahead of the weather in canceling school Wednesday, Jan. 25, in anticipation of inclement weather. For Ann Arbor Public Schools, the decision to close was based on ensuring the safety of students and staff, Superintendent Jeanice Swift said. As is our commitment, when possible, we are sharing this school weather closure announcement tonight in order to give families some time to make arrangements,” Swift said. Detroit, Monroe, Dundee, Adrian, Morenci and Camden will be on the northern edge of the 4 inch to 6 inch snow area. Ann Arbor and Jackson will be just north of the 4 inch area.
mlive.comFuture of vacant Ann Arbor-area movie theater again up for debate
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - With its screens dark and doors shuttered, what was once a popular movie theater is nearing two years as a vacant building in a commercial area along Jackson Road, just outside Ann Arbor. It’s doubtful the silver screen is going to return to the former Goodrich Quality 16, and the theater will likely end up being demolished as part of a redevelopment plan, according to developers in charge of the building.
mlive.comBuy a new purse, help local organizations at this Washtenaw County event
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- Bid on a purse and enjoy a night filled with philanthropy at an upcoming United Way of Washtenaw County event. The 15th annual Power of the Purse event is 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, at the Morris Lawrence Building, 4800 E. Huron River Drive, on the Washtenaw Community College campus. United Way of Washtenaw County will select another group of organizations to support. At this event, United Way of Washtenaw County will also recognize Argus Farm Stop Owner Kathy Sample as its 2023 Woman of the Year. To learn more about the event or to purchase tickets, visit United Way of Washtenaw County’s website or its Facebook page.
mlive.comAnn Arbor Township treasurer resigns after 26 years in office
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - A veteran township official first elected in 1996 is ending her time in public office in Ann Arbor Township. Now as a result, DiPietro said, almost 1,700 acres in Ann Arbor Township have been protected from development. Read more: Ypsilanti Township leaders pick new trustee, amid concerns the process was ‘done in the dark’Ann Arbor Township tapped a candidate who had already been working in the township offices. MLive/The Ann Arbor News couldn’t immediately reach Colvin-Garcia via email Tuesday morning. More from The Ann Arbor News:Sweetgreen opening first Ann Arbor location with Wolverine apparel, baked good giveawaysResearcher no longer working at University of Michigan amid falsified data chargeAnn Arbor’s net-zero fire station project could cost over $10M, chief saysMaynard Street fire started in restaurant kitchen, Ann Arbor fire officials say
mlive.comDevelopment on farmland near Saline would have feel of Ann Arbor’s Old West Side, planner says
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - A plot of farmland across from Walmart just outside Saline could one day be a bustling neighborhood with space for a café, shops and a community garden. That’s if an initial vision developers pitched to planning officials in Pittsfield Township on Thursday, Jan. 19, comes to fruition.
mlive.comDexter man and his dog killed in fiery crash, police say
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A Dexter man and his dog were killed Saturday morning in a fiery crash. Crews arrived to find a man and dog dead inside the burning vehicle. The driver was identified as Karl Weber, 33, of Dexter, police said. The crash investigation indicated Weber’s vehicle left the roadway and crashed off the side of the road before catching fire. More from The Ann Arbor News:Molded out of clay with a 3D printer: Artist blends traditional techniques with technology‘Crying in H Mart’ author to speak at Ann Arbor’s Michigan TheaterMan pleads no contest to causing Ypsilanti crash that killed woman
mlive.comFrom ‘happy living’ to ‘fence it or close it.’ The history of a prison camp near Chelsea
Work on the Cassidy Lake camp began in September 1936 through the National Youth Administration, focused on providing work and education for young adults. The frustration bubbled over in the pages of the Standard, which reported on multiple heated meetings over the Cassidy Lake facility. The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners eventually got involved, requesting the state take action at Cassidy Lake in 1987. The Cassidy Lake camp is not the first correctional facility inside a state recreation area to be decommissioned, Olson said. And trainees from Cassidy Lake helped dismantle and cleanup Camp Waterloo, a prisoner of war camp during World Ward II in Jackson County.
mlive.comTraffic watch: Road construction round-up for Washtenaw County, Jan. 22
ANN ARBOR, MI -- There are a handful of construction projects in Washtenaw County that could impact commute times, traffic and road closures this week. West Summit Street: The road between Main Street and Wildt Street/Hiscock Street is expected to be closed until 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6. Eastbound West Madison Street traffic will shift into the left turn lane at the South Main Street intersection. Lohr Road: The road between Textile Road and Regents Park Court will deal with an intermittent lane closure during the week of Jan. 23. Bemis Road: The road between Moon Road and east of North Warren Road will deal with an intermittent lane closure during the week of Jan. 23.
mlive.comMan wanted in Ann Arbor area homicide found dead
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A man wanted in a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday morning outside an Ann Arbor-area physical training facility has been found dead in his home. Michael Anthony Elinski, 59, was found dead Friday, Jan. 20, inside his home located in Clare, according to the Pittsfield Township Police Department. Grant is the first homicide victim of 2023 in Washtenaw County. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Pittsfield Township Police Department Detective Bureau at 734-822-4958. More from The Ann Arbor News:Masks optional again in Ann Arbor Public Schools as mandate expiresAfter 5 break-ins and a fire, Ann Arbor restaurant considers closingMillions of dollars in purchases, contracts no longer go through Ann Arbor council
mlive.comPair of Ypsilanti-area dams near Willow Run Airport targeted for $4-5M removal project
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - A pair of 80-year-old dams on a creek running along the Willow Run Airport, vestiges of the area’s industrial past, may never see their centennials. That’s because they’ve been targeted for a removal project meant to eliminate the expense of maintaining them and improve the environmental health of Willow Run Creek, which ultimately discharges into Belleville Lake.
mlive.comWith draft charter in hand, Manchester inches closer to cityhood
MANCHESTER, MI - In the marathon of transitioning from a village to a city, the finish line might be coming into view for Manchester. In Michigan, cities and townships are the two primary units of local government, and Manchester village acts as a sub-unit of Manchester Township. The draft charter provides for a governing body of six city council members and a mayor who is also part of the council, all serving four-year terms. City elections would be done in odd numbered years, with terms staggered so preserve continuity, a priority of the commission, Wallace said. The draft charter also includes a means by which residents can petition to repeal ordinances passed by the City Council through referendum, another priority of the charter commission.
mlive.comMan wanted in fatal shooting of woman outside Ann Arbor-area gym
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Police have identified a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred Thursday morning outside an Ann Arbor-area physical training facility. Related: Woman found fatally shot in car parked outside Ann Arbor-area gymGrant, 50, of Plymouth, was found at 9:10 a.m. in a white SUV with multiple bullet holes in its front window. Police do not believe the shooting was random and there is no current specific threat to the public. It is not clear if the suspect and victim knew each other or how they were connected. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Pittsfield Township Police Department Detective Bureau at 734-822-4958.
mlive.comNewly-elected Judge Arianne Slay officially starts term with ceremony at Pioneer High
ANN ARBOR – Newly-elected Washtenaw County Trial Judge Arianne Slay was formally honored with an investiture ceremony Thursday night at her alma mater, Pioneer High School. Slay, a former Ann Arbor deputy city attorney and Washtenaw County assistant prosecutor, was elected last November with nearly 70 percent of the vote. Slay was presented her robe and gavel by her husband, Sean Slay, and their children Peyton, 14, and Landon, 10. READ MORE:Newly elected Washtenaw County Trial judge takes bench early with Gov. Whitmer appointmentVoters choose Slay to be next Washtenaw County Trial Court judgeAnn Arbor city attorney running for Washtenaw County Circuit Court Judge
mlive.comScuffle breaks out at Ann Arbor courthouse during murder sentencing
Devion Christopher Brooks, 19, was sentenced on a second-degree murder charge for the May 14 shooting death of Laryus Dottery, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office. Multiple Ann Arbor Police Department officers converged on the Washtenaw County Courthouse, 101 E. Huron St., for what they were told was an active shooter situation, said Ann Arbor police spokeswoman Lt. Bonnie Theil. He was arrested without incident and was held in the Washtenaw County Jail without bond. Brooks pleaded no contest to second-degree murder on Dec. 1, court records show. “All I can say is I’m sorry and ask for mercy and forgiveness on my soul.”Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Passenger charged in police chase crash pleads no contestDeveloper defends decision to not include solar for proposed Ann Arbor buildingScammers are pretending to be Washtenaw County sheriff deputies again
mlive.comWoman found fatally shot in car parked outside Ann Arbor-area gym
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A woman was found fatally shot in a car parked outside an Ann Arbor-area gym Thursday morning. Police arrived to find the vehicle with a victim, a 50-year-old Plymouth woman, dead inside, police said. The woman is the first homicide victim of 2023 in Washtenaw County. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Pittsfield Township Police Department Detective Bureau at 734-822-4958. More from The Ann Arbor News:Reparations for Black residents is focus of new Washtenaw County councilChelsea Treehouse will close in June, but could reopen later with new ownership5 fun things to do in Ann Arbor this weekend (Jan. 20-22)
mlive.comReparations for Black residents is focus of new Washtenaw County council
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Efforts in Washtenaw County to study the generational harms of slavery, mass incarceration and racist laws, while recommending reparations for Black residents, are going public. Read more: A ‘look back’ and a ‘look forward’: Washtenaw County committee studying reparationsBut its work has been conducted behind close doors, and officials only released some of its membership publicly. Now, the group has resolved to transition the efforts to a public Advisory Council on Reparations, reporting to the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners. Black communities face inadequate health care, unjust treatment by the criminal justice system, lack of quality food access and barriers to homeownership, it notes. Once established, the new reparations council would be made up of members serving two-year terms and representing a wide range of sectors, from housing and real estate to education and the arts community.
mlive.comTax hikes could be coming as Scio Township looks to improve fire services
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - Residents in Scio Township residents may be asked to consider footing the bill for a slew of fire services improvements. The pair of tax hike proposals, which could be coming this year, could eventually increase rates to a level more than three times their current state.
mlive.comPassenger charged in police chase crash pleads no contest
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – A man arrested in connection to a brief police chase in Superior Township and crash outside an apartment complex has pleaded no contest. David Tyrone Epps, 34, pleaded no contest Jan. 10 to one count each of delivery of a controlled substance and resisting arrest in connection with his roll in the chase, court records show. Related: Pair charged with multiple felonies for fleeing police, crashing into parked carsSmith fled police and hit several parked cars making his escape, officials said. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 7 before Washtenaw County Trail Judge Carol Kuhnke. Epps remains lodged in the Washtenaw County Jail with bond set at $50,000.
mlive.comScammers are pretending to be Washtenaw County sheriff deputies again
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – Scammers are once again targeting Washtenaw County residents trying to dupe them out of their money by pretending to be sheriff’s deputies demanding money to avoid arrest. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office issued an alert Tuesday, Jan. 17, warning it has received several reports of bogus callers claiming to be deputies threating residents with arrest if they don’t send money or gift cards. The suspects of these scams say they are employed by the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office and may use a current employee’s name, phone number and/or similar email address, police said. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office does not and will not ask for money, gift cards or financial compensation to be given specifically to any individual employee, police said. Residents who do receive a suspicious call should verify all phone and email communications purportedly from the sheriff’s office through the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Metro Dispatch; 734-994-2911 or 911.
mlive.comSuspected drunken driver dies in crash with tree between Ann Arbor and Saline
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI – An Ohio man was killed Monday morning in an apparent drunken driving crash in Washtenaw County. Rescue crews were called at 6 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16, to the area of Ann Arbor-Saline and Textile roads in Lodi Township for a reported single vehicle crash, according to the Michigan State Police. The driver and sole occupant, identified as James Howard, 69, of Toledo, Ohio, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. He was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, police said. More from The Ann Arbor News:Washtenaw County program links young people with local employers for summer internshipsPolice searching for suspect who opened fire on Ann Arbor apartmentGet authentic bao at this new Ann Arbor restaurant
mlive.com18 people want a vacant Ypsilanti Township board seat. Here’s the supervisor’s pick
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - There’s no shortage of residents hoping to take a seat alongside elected leaders on the Ypsilanti Township board. Officials received 18 letters of interest for a open position caused by the resignation of former Trustee Jimmie Wilson Jr., a Democrat who was elected as state representative in November, according to Township Clerk Heather Jarrell Roe.
mlive.comIcy roads, fog closes some Washtenaw County schools Tuesday, Jan. 17
ANN ARBOR, MI - Icy road conditions on some roads and poor visibility due to fog caused some Washtenaw County school districts to close Tuesday, Jan. 17. Dexter Community Schools closed Tuesday due to “icy dirt roads,” with many of the dirt roads throughout the community still “complete sheets of ice” Superintendent Chris Timmis said in a message to the district Tuesday. “The roads are better than they were last night but still need many hours of the higher temperatures to thaw,” Timmis said. Along with Dexter, Chelsea School District also closed Tuesday, “due to poor visibility and icy conditions of the dirt and rural roads,” the district announced. “The fog is very dense and visibility will be an issue for even the most seasoned drivers.
mlive.comTraffic watch: Road construction round-up for Washtenaw County, Jan. 15
ANN ARBOR, MI -- There are a handful of construction projects in Washtenaw County that could impact commute times, traffic and road closures this week. West Summit Street: The road between Main Street and Wildt Street/Hiscock Street is closing starting at 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16. Eastbound West Madison Street traffic will shift into the left turn lane at the South Main Street intersection. To keep up with road and lane closures in Ann Arbor and around the county, visit the city’s website, Washtenaw County Road Commission’s website or MDOT’s website. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:It took 15 rounds of voting, but Ann Arbor School Board finally picks president‘It is a dream come true’: Saline Celtic Festival plans to expand, change locations this yearConquer winter weather with Ann Arbor commuting challenge
mlive.comLocal artisans featured at new boutique outside of Ann Arbor
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- Looking to shop local? Misty Handmade Boutique & Crystals opened its doors on Saturday, Jan. 7, and is bringing over 45 local vendors under one roof. “It’s not a resale type thing ... it’s going to be top-notch handmade items.”Misty Handmade Boutique & Crystals at 299 N. Zeeb Rd. Sweet and Jennifer Thurman run Krafty Kreationz by J & J, which is one of the vendors in the boutique right now. The Ypsilanti-based Krafty Kreationz got its start last year, and decided it wanted a spot in Misty Handmade Boutique & Crystals.
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