METRO SECTION ⚫ NEWS AROUND METRO FLINT

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 BY GARY JACKSON

CCN Staff Writer

FLINT TWP. (CCN) — A pedestrian was killed Thursday night (Jan. 16, 2025) in Flint Township after being struck by two vehicles.

It's the second serious accident involving a pedestrian in Flint Township being struck by a vehicle in an eight-day period in Flint Township. An arrest was made in the Jan. 8 hit-and-run incident and authorities are again asking for tips from the public if anyone saw Thursday's accident although Lt. Matt Van Lente of the Flint Township Police Department reported that both drivers stayed at the scene and cooperated with police.

A suspect was lodged at the Genesee County jail within one day in the incident at Corunna Road and Anoka Road after Flint Township Police Department detectives followed up on tips and other leads. Their efforts led to the discovery of the suspected vehicle and the alleged driver.

A 44-year-old female victim was taken to a local hospital where she was initially listed in critical condition. She was a Flint Township resident. No information has been reported yet about the suspect who was arrested and taken to jail on Jan. 9. The Daily Gazette has learned from reliable sources that he had possession of the dark colored 2011 to 2015 Explorer SUV with damage to the front grill that was reported by witnesses as fleeing the scene of the accident. It was dark because it occurred shortly before 6 pm.

Thursday's fatality happened at about 9:50 pm.

Lt. Van Lente said Flint Township police responded to reports of a pedestrian involved crash on Beecher Road near Glen Ellyn Drive. He said an investigation revealed that a 59-year-old male resident of Flint Township was walking in the roadway when he was struck by two different vehicles and was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts.

Lt. Van Lente said investigators do not believe speed, drugs or alcohol appear to be factors in this crash. 

Flint Township officers were assisted on the scene of both pedestrian accidents by the Genesee County Sheriff's department in the Flint Township Fire Department.

 Anyone who may have witnessed Thursday's accident is urged to contact Detective Lopez at (810) 600–3250.

Anyone who may have witnessed the Jan. 8 incident is urged to  contact Detective Weber at (810) 600-3250. To remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers of Flint & Genesee County by calling (800) 422-JAIL (5245).

 BY GARY JACKSON

CCN Staff Writer

FLINT (CCN) — Expect to see more employees ushered out the door at the WJRT ABC TV 12 studios on Lapeer Road in Flint.

Christine Burkart delivered the news via a post on social media earlier today (Jan. 17, 2025).

Her post on Facebook read: "It’s spreading fast but if you haven’t heard, Allen Media is laying off all local meteorologists company-wide. This is nearly 100 meteorologists at just over 20 stations across the country.  Mid-Michigan friends, it breaks my heart to say ABC 12 is on this list. Please keep these local meteorologists in your thoughts as they navigate big changes in the coming weeks, and their stations as they learn how to provide coverage without them."

Burkart left an on air job at ABC TV 12 last year.

She sometimes co-hosted the station's local Good Morning Mid-Michigan program weekdays at 9 am while delivering news stories and assisting with weather reports.

Multiple sources say meteorologists J.R. Kirtek, Kevin Goff and Isaac Goff will now lose their jobs in the latest round of layoffs by billionaire Byron Allen's Allen Media Group. The corporate media giant owns 36 ABC/NBC/CBS/Fox network affiliate broadcast television stations in 21 U.S. markets.

The company made headlines on the last day of 2024 by closing down The Weather Channel after paying $300 million for the cable station in 2019.

Allen Media Group also owns digital network TheGrio and a motion picture division that includes a distribution arm. Allen himself made noise early last year when he tried to buy Paramount Global for $30 billion after previously failing in a bid to acquire Paramount's BET cable station.

Allen Media Group has had massive layoffs at stations across the country since last fall by reducing sales staffs as well as slashing reporter and anchor jobs in news, sports and weather. 

ABC TV 12 cut weekend morning newscasts late last year.

Today's web site lists nine news team members at the Flint ABC TV 12 station along with the three meteorologists and two in sports — Yousef Nasser and Miriam Bingham. The news team includes Angie Hendershot, Matt Franklin, Matt Barbour, Dawn Jones,  Terry Camp, Sheryl Coonan, Tiffany Maddox, David Sackrider and Alyssa Erwin.

Allen Media Group paid $70 million to buy ABC TV 12 from corporate media giant Gray Television in April of 2021.  Atlanta-based Gray Television had owned the station since 2014 when paying $128 million to purchase it.

Federal regulatory laws forced Gray Television to sell ABC TV 12 when acquiring the Local Media Group division of Meredith Corporation by removing the only market overlap between the respective television station portfolios of Gray and Meredith, according to a Gray Television news release at the time. Meredith Corporation, known as a powerful magazine publisher, owned WNEM TV 5 — the CBS affiliate in the mid-Michigan market of Flint, Saginaw, Bay City and Midland which is one of 210 television markets in the USA.

Gray Television's $2.7 billion deal to add TV stations in Meredith Corporation's portfolio created the nation’s second largest television broadcaster with television stations serving 113 of the 210 markets. That deal gave Gray Television a reach of about 36 percent of all U.S. television households. 

Brock Rice, Vice President and GeneralManager at ABC TV 12, has not yet responded to a request for comments about social media posts saying layoffs have been served to Kirtek, Goff and Cleveland.

 ABC12 News Director Sean Mahon has also not yet responded to a request for comments.

Kirtek is the longest serving meteorologist in Mid-Michigan TV. He started at the station more than 25 years ago when a long streak began of ABC TV 12 dominating the local Neilsen ratings as the top-rated newscast in our market. 

Goff has been a weather man and reporter at ABC TV 12 for 25of his 35 years in TV news.

Cleveland joined the station shortly after graduating from Central Michigan University in May 2023.

Long-time anchors Bill Harris and Joel Feick were let go several years ago after one multi-million dollar sale by ABC TV. They had helped lead the way in capturing the No. 1 spot in local TV newscast ratings with Kirteck and the long-time sports duo of Greg Molson and Ryan Slocumb. All have now been eliminated from the staff along with several other veteran reporters.

Several WNEM TV 5 staff members staged a picket in front of their offices in Saginaw last month to protest Gray Television's management.

Mid-Michigan NOW, which airs newscasts on WSMH Fox 66 and WEYI NBC 25, made drastic cuts to its lineup of news shows late last year, too.

In fact, long-time anchor Dave Bondy left and has been an outspoken critic of local news since launching his own version of what he calls "news they don't want you to see."

Bondy took to social media earlier today with a post on Facebook as follows: "This means when it comes to weather there will be no reason at all to watch your local television news station. Did you know that most local TV news stations have just a few reporters to cover the news. My former station NBC25/FOX66 only has two or three reporters to cover all of Mid-Michigan. You can not cover the market with so few people. Local media companies like Sinclair, Allen Media and Gray are falling apart and only they are to blame. The ownership groups thought they knew what was best for the viewers, instead of actually listening to the viewers. In the not to distant future there may only be one TV station doing actual news in the Mid-Michigan market. It's a sad state of affairs."

(CCN) — Radio show host Tom Sumner of WFLT 1420 AM will have Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley as a guest on his show Saturday (Jan. 18, 2025).

Sumner announced it via a Facebook post, writing: "Tune in Saturday morning (1-18-25) to 1420 AM WFLT at 10 for Open Door with Tom Sumner featuring Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley on the role of MCC as a community institution and Foundation for MCC Chair Anthony Alexander talking about community activities recognizing Dr. Martin Luther King. Or stream it online by going to the President's page, clicking on 'MCC on the radio' and searching by date."

Sumner resumed spreading his on air talent late last year after being off the radio for an extended period.

Sumner is a former weekday host of radio programs for many years on WKUF 94.3 FM 

and the old WFNT 1470 AM station closed down last year by TownSquare Media.

Mayor Neeley hosts a show of his own known as "Community Update" earlier than Sumner's show every Saturday on WFLT 1420 AM.

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

 FLINT (CCN) — Add Dr. Ladel Lewis and Judy Priestly to the list of Flint politicians facing potential recall elections. Flint community activist Arthur Woodson is behind both of the latest filings on Monday at the office of Genesee County Clerk / Register Domonique Clemons.

Woodson took to social media via his Facebook page to openly recruit help in filing against Flint's 4th Ward City Councilwoman Priestly after supporters of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley filed recent recalls against two Flint City Council members supported by Woodson — Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer in the 8th Ward and Councilwoman Tonya Burns in the 6th Ward.

The filing against 2nd Ward Councilwoman Dr. Leis was a surprise.

Woodson had vowed via Facebook to drop a surprise on Monday.

Proposed language must be approved by the Genesee County Election Commission before circulators can gather signatures from residents to force an election to remove any elected official in Michigan. They have  180 days to collect a sufficient number of signatures within a 60-day window.

 The number of signatures needed to trigger a recall election is 25% of the votes cast in the elected officer’s district for all candidates for the office of Governor in the last gubernatorial general election.

Woodson filed six new recall petitions with proposed language to put Dr. Lewis on the ballot before voters. Nine sets of language were filed against Priestly by Deborah Clark.

Clark has never before been involved in Flint politics but Woodson previously filed recall petitions against Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley and former Flint Mayor Dr. Karen Weaver.

Woodson was unsuccessful in getting language to move forward against Mayor Neeley earlier in his fist term. Woodson had been visible in the first campaign Neeley ran against Dr. Weaver when she was an incumbent. He beat her with the support of Woodson who had previously backed Dr. Weaver in 2017 when she unseated incumbent Flint Mayor Dayne Walling.

Woodson collected sufficient signatures to force a recall election against Dr. Weaver in 2017 but he managed only 352 votes to 7,709 for Dr. Weaver who retained her seat.

Woodson later switched his support back to Dr. Weaver in her 2022 campaign to win back the mayoral position from Neeley after he won in 2019 with Woodson's support.

Woodson has been using his almost daily Facebook Live posts to blast Neeley's leadership shortly after he won in 2019. Neeley has said it's because he didn't give Woodson a job in his administration.

The recall language filed by Woodson against Coucnilwoman Dr. Lewis cites how she voted to approve the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to the Neighborhood Engagement Hub to serve as fiduciary for Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association.

The nine sets of language filed against Priestly cited reasons for the recall that ranged from failing to pay campaign finance fees to voting for ARPA funds to appointing Leon El-Alamin to the 1st Ward council seat after Eric Mays passed away.

Clemons said no hearings have yet been set on the latest targets of recalls.

He did announce via a press release on Monday, however, that a hearing by the Genesee County Election Commission to review language filed against Councilwoman Burns will be on Dec. 11 at 8:15 am in Genesee County Probate Judge Jenny Barkey's courtroom.

Language was approved against Councilman Pfeiffer to allow Lisa  Lisa Pasbjerg to begin collecting signatures.

The Commission consists of Clemons, Genesee County Clerk Deb Cherry and Chief Probate Court Judge Jenny Barkey. Sheriff Chris Swanson served as a sub for Judge Barkey on a 3-0 vote to approve Pfeiffer's proposed language. Sheriff Swanson also joined recent votes to reject proposed recall language twice against Flint Mayor Neeley.

Eddie Matten, who hasn't previously been involved in Flint's city politics, filed seven sets of proposed language against Mayor Neeley. The Commission ruled that none passed the state test for lack of clarity, according to Clemons.

Matten's reasons to remove Mayor Neeley ranged from the condition of the city’s water, to awarding a contract to a defunct ambulance company, to paying $75,000 for a company to continue managing the city's two golf courses when there were bids to pay thousands to the city. The top bid was posted by John Carpenter's Flint Golf Paradise. His bid was for $1.115 million.

Commissioners also rejected multiple proposed recall languages against Neeley afterMetro Flint News/Talk Radio's The Morning Gazette Radio Show reported that the filer did not live in the city. She was a resident of Flint Township.

Pasbjerg also had language rejected for lack of clarity in early November against Pfeiffer. She immediately re-filed because Pfeiffer's seat would have been safe for a year after election day on Nov. 5. State law prohibits any elected official from being targeted during the first or last year of a four-year term or the first or last six months of a two-year term.

Pfeiffer now has less than a year to go on his first four-year term.

This latest filing was the third time Pasbjerg has tried to remove Pfeiffer. She had language approved in April but did not collect sufficient signatures to force an election to be placed on the ballot. Her revised language approved by the Commission was because she said Pfeiffer was “censured for conduct unbecoming a city council member."

Similar language has been filed against Councilwoman Burns  who had been the lone member of the Flint City Council elected in 2021 who has not been targeted by a recall attempt.

Eva Worthing of the 9th Ward resigned before a recall election last year to remove her and Quincy Murphy in the 3rd Ward passed away a little over a month before a scheduled recall election to remove him from office.

Both Worthing and Murphy were supporters of Mayor Neeley who had a 5-to-4 advantage on the council until Murphy passed away in late September.

The council was deadlocked 4-4 on naming a replacement for Murphy within 30 days as required by the City Charter.

The council has also been deadlocked in 4-4 tie 411 times in three rounds of voting for a new President, Vice President and Finance Chair. The City Charter requires that to be done on the first Monday every November.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

 CCCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson hosted Michigan Attorney General Dan Nessel at his Flint office today (Dec. 23, 2024) to announce criminal charges against the owner of the now defunct Lockhart Chemical plant.

 Rajinder Singh Minhas, 60, was arrested last week at his Rochester home and was released on bail. He faces a Jan. 2 arraignment in Genesee County 67th District Court on numerous felony and misdemeanor counts.

A.G. Nessel and Sheriff Swanson said Minhas was solely responsible for ordering the release of dangerous chemicals into the Flint River, fixing records to hide it and misleading investigators.

State officials blamed his Dort Hwy. business for a 2022 chemical spill into the Flint River that stretched 22 miles, according to Sheriff Swanson.

He credited a fisherman with calling in a tip about an oily surface on the water as leading to the charges announced now more than two years later by A.G. Nessel. Sheriff Swanson said the charges came after extensive investigations by state and federal partners, including what he called "scientific" conclusions. 

A.G. Nessel said Minhas allegedly mismanaged and neglected critical maintenance and upgrades at the Lockhart plant that resulted in the unauthorized oil discharge into the river in 2022. She called it "placing band-aides on bullet holes" and credited Sheriff Swanson with pushing the case.

"She took my calls on weekends and late at night to get justice in this case," Sheriff Swanson said.

"After what was done to the Flint community with our water, this was just horrible," he added, displaying photos of the environmental damages that included turtles needing to be rinsed and cleaned by volunteers to live.

Lockhart filed for bankruptcy shortly after the Sheriff shut them down in 2022, prior to thousands of tax dollars going into a clean-up of the river that he now proclaims as "safe" for the community.

The most serious charges against Minhas are 14-year felony counts for "Falsely Altering a Public Record" and "Uttering and Publishing a False or Altered Public Record. He is also charged with a five-year felony for "Substantial Endangerment to Public" and a two-year felony for "Discharge of Injurious Substance to Waters of the State."

Minhas is also charged by the A.G. with a one-year misdemeanor for "False Statements and Omissions regarding Air Pollution Control" and he faces 11 misdemeanor offenses for violating hazardous waste statutes, permits, or rules and nine misdemeanor violations of the State’s Liquid Industrial Waste law for allegedly discharging industrial by-products, violating reporting requirements following a discharge, and violating other provisions related to properly labeling chemical containers, maintaining adequate records, and the storage, disposal, protection, and discharge prevention of liquid industrial waste.

He also faces general violations of Air Pollution Control laws that are punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 for eac0000h day that violations occur.

Nessel said he could face total fines of $1 million, saying, “Those who run a business have a responsibility to ensure their operations do not jeopardize public health or the environment, especially our precious water resources. Blatant neglect and disregard of this responsibility cannot be tolerated, and I will continue to make sure those who fail in this duty are met with the full force of the law.”

The Sherriff added: "It’s everyone’s responsibility to keep our world safe and free from contamination. When that responsibility is violated, there are consequences. I appreciate the hard work of the teams at EGLE and Department of Attorney General for holding this business owner accountable for polluting Flint.” 

Phil Roos, state Director of EGLE, added: “Water is a defining feature in Michigan, integral to public health and a clean environment. We should have little tolerance for those who violate the laws designed to protect them. Thanks to Attorney General Nessel and Sheriff Swanson for holding polluters to account.”

Lockhart was a Flint-based chemical processing facility that manufactured rust-preventative additives for the metalworking industry.

The 2022 spill happened on June 15 when A.G. Nessel said about 15,000 gallons of an oil-chemical mixture was released from Lockhart’s facility into the Flint River. She said a chemical fingerprinting analysis confirmed that the oil chemical mixture in the Flint River matched the material leaving Lockhart’s facility. 

Th A.G. announced in September 2022 the issuance of an Order by EGLE that required the company to immediately stop use of defective wastewater and storm water conveyance systems, to pump the facility’s wastewater and storm water for offsite disposal, to maintain and monitor a boom in the Flint River where the illicit discharge reached the river, and to repair or replace the defective conveyance systems. Lockhart then filed for bankruptcy. Sheriff Swanson said officials from the state and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have been involved in the bankruptcy to ensure that the facility is managed appropriately to avoid further releases. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is a photo displayed at Monday's press conference at the office of Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Leon El- Alamin became Flint's first elected official to offer support for the family of a 17-year-old shot and killed by Michigan State Police.

 El- Alamin, Flint's 1st Ward city councilman, isued a press release on Monday (Dec. 2, 2024) that read as follows: "We mourn the tragic loss of Rayvon Shahid, a 17-year-old student who was fatally shot at the hands of Michigan State Troopers. This case is under investigation with the District Attorney's Office. As Councilman, I am committed to fighting for solutions to end gun violence. We stand with Rayvon’s family and the entire community. Let’s work together to ensure no family has to endure this kind of pain again." 

The case is not under investigation by the Genesee County Prosecutor's office in Flint.

Two troopers were placed on administrative leave after the shooting which took place on Nov. 7 near  Pasadena Avenue and  Essex Street. The case is being investigated by the Michigan Attorney General's Office.

Family and friends conducted a protest outside the Michigan State Police Post on Corunna Road in Flint Township with Flint community activist Arthur Woodson on Nov. 16. Woodson said the family wanted to see body cam video of troopers or any video seized from nearby cameras that may have captured what happened.

The Morning Gazette Radio Show on Metro Flint News/Talk Radio initially reported that friends and family members said Shahid had never been in trouble before and was shot despite being unarmed. They alleged that troopers planted a gun at the scene.

The State Police commander at the Flint Township post, Col. James F. Grady II, has said it's routine for  troopers to be placed on administrative leave while investigations take place following officer-involved shootings. He said the troopers say the suspect ran from the scene when they tried to stop him while walking after dark. They reported finding a Glock handgun with an extended magazine near the suspect after he was shot.

Friends and relatives of Shahid were joined by more than 100 people at the Nov. 16 protest outside the State Police post on Corunna Road. Never more than 50 were on hand at one time although about 100 more stopped by to spend short spans with them in the protest. The group yelled "Black Lives Matter" and "No Justice; No Peace" while shouts of "F*** the Police" punctuated the entire 2 1/2 hours.

Community activist Woodson reported that he demanded potential trouble makers leave the event. "We had people from Black Lives Matter and I told them to get out of here with that," he said. "We had Palestine people show up and we told them we didn't want that here. We were there to let people know the family demands to see the body cam video and any other videos from around the scene that they may have taken. The family wants answers and they deserve that even if the kid was robbing a store or something, which he wasn't because I've talked to witnesses."

Three more protests without Woodson were staged the following weekend (Nov. 14-16) by Dewaun Robinson who is President of Flint's chapter of Black Lives Matter. One was at the State Police post in Flint Township, one was on the lawn at Flint City Hall and the last one was near the scene of the shooting at Pasadena and M.L. King.

Robinson has demanded that the troopers be arrested for murder.

While City Councilman El- Alamin became the first elected official in Flint to speak out about the shooting, Flint Township Supervisor Kryn Miller offered support for the group's right to protest in front of the State Police post before the first gathering. 

(See Special Section with more stories about the State Police shooting of Rayvon Shahi)

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is  Flint's 1st Ward City Councilman  Leon El- Alamin who became Flint's first elected official to offer support for the family of a 17-year-old shot and killed by Michigan State Police.

GRAND BLAN TWP.  (CCN) — Funeral arrangements have been announced for former Grand Blanc Township Trustee and long-time local businessman Ken Thomas.

He passed away on Thanksgiving morning.(See Related Story in Today's Business Section of The Daily Gazette)

Thomas, 57, was known for his numerous charitable contributions over the years to many local non-profit organizations as owner of Thomas Appliance for many years. He served as a member of the Grand Blanc Township Board of Trustees and was a long-time member of the Flint Area Chamber of Commerce's Executive Board.

 Funeral visitation for Thomas will be at  Swartz Funeral Home on Hill Road in Mundy Township on Saturday (Dec. 7, 2024) from 3 pm until 8 pm and Sunday (Dec. 8, 2024) from 3 pm until 8 pm with a rosary at 6 pm.

A funeral mass will be on Monday (Dec. 9, 2024) at   St John’s Church in Davison, with a luncheon to follow at Flint Elks Club in Grand Blanc.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Ken Thomas who passed away on Thanksgiving morning.

DAVISON (CCN) —Funeral services will be on at 11 am on Saturday (Dec. 7, 2024) for Evangelos Papadopoulos of Davison who was known to friends and family as "Angelo" druing his many years of ownership at Angelo's Coney Island on Davison Road on the east side of Flint.

He was the co-creator of Angelo's in the 1960's. (See Related Story in Today's Business Section of The Daily Gazette)

Papadopoulos died on Nov. 30. He was 89.

An obituary said he passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his family.

The funeral service will be held at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church which is located at 2143 South Center Road in Burton.

Father  Matthew-Peter Butrie will be officiating.

Burial in Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.

Funeral visitation will be from 4 pm until 8 pm on Friday (Dec. 6, 2024) at Swartz Funeral Home on Hill Road in Mundy Township. A Parastas Service will be held at 7 pm.

Angelo will be at the church from 10 am on Saturday until the time of the service.

He was born in Bouf, (Macedonia), Greece on Feb. 15, 1935, the son of Petre and Alvona (Branoff) Popoff. In 1956 he emigrated to the United States. In 1960, he met the love of his life, Eleni (Helen) at a Macedonian dance in Detroit and married her on Feb. 12, 1961.

Angelo started out working as a short order cook at Nite Owl Coney Island in Flint. In 1962, he became a partner of Angelo’s Coney Island, retiring in May of 1998. He enjoyed going to work every day; he loved his staff and especially his customers. He was an avid golfer, loved being a part of the Macedonian Open; and golfed every chance he got.

Surviving are wife, Eleni; daughters Kathy (David) Condon, Mary Papadopoulos and Elva Selmi;

grandchildren Dakota (Nick) and Austin;

brother John (Fanny) Popoff; sister-in-law, Magda Popoff; many nieces and nephews that he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Sime (Stasia) Popoff; sister, Kata (Risto) Antoniadis and her son, George; brother, Alex Popoff and his son, Peter. His obituary notice offered a special thank you to his friend John and caregivers Hillary, Alicia, Renee, Liz and Hannah.

PHOTO CLAPTION: Pictured above this story is Evangelos "Angelo" Papadopoulos.

  FLINT (CCN) — A judge may decide on Dec. 11 what to do with the stalemate on the Flint City Council over appointing a replacement for 3rd Ward City Councilman Quincy Murphy who passed away.

The Flint City Charter required a new council member be appointed within 30 days after Murphy died on Sept. 29.

The council has deadlocked in 4-4 ties 411 times during three rounds of voting.

he City of Flint's Ethics and Accountability Board (EAB) filed paperwork with the Genesee County Circuit Court in an attempt to sue Flint City Council for violating the city's charter.

EAB Chairman Joe King filed the action on behalf of his board.

Recall actions are currently pending against four of the eight Flint City Council members. (See Story Above)

 BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

FLINT (CCN) — Another recall has been filed in the City of Flint. This time, 6th Ward Councilwoman Tonya Burns is the target.

Sandra Smith filed four petitions with proposed language to begin collecting signatures to force it on the ballot to remove Burns from office.

It's the second city council member to face a recall this month. Proposed language was approved by the Genesee County Election Commission last week for Lisa Pasjberg to begin collecting signatures in hopes of getting it on the ballot to remove 8th Ward Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer.

Pfeiffer and Burns have been among four council members who have been opposed to many resolutions pushed hard by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. They've been joined by 1st Ward Councilman Jonathan Jarrett and 5th Ward Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter.

They've been locked in a 4-4 deadlock over naming a new council representative for the 3rd Ward and electing a new President, Vice President and Finance Chair. Both are violations of law since the City Charter requires these positions be filled. They had 30 days to name a replacement for 3rd Ward Councilman Quincy Murphy after he passed away on Sept. 29. The city charter sets forth that one-year terms expire on the first Monday of November for council leadership positions.

Supporters of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley's administration have been Councilman Leon El-Amin in the 1st Ward, Councilwoman Dr. Ladel Lewis in the 2nd Ward, Councilwoman Judy Priestly in the 4th Ward and Councilwoman Candice Mushatt in the 7th Ward. 

Flint community activist Arthur Woodson has now vowed to get behind a recall effort against Councilwoman Priestly.

Murphy was a supporter in Mayor Neeley's previous 5-to-4 advantage on council. 

Seven sets of proposed language were also rejected last week as unclear on Eddie Patten's attempt to recall Mayor Neeley.

It was the second recall attempt against Mayor Neeley within a month. The last effort failed when the Commission rejected language submitted by  Renita Robinson because she lives in Flint Township instead of residing in the City of Flint. Only residents of a municipality can target their elected officials for recall.

Voting on the Commission's recent decisions on the clarity of proposed language have been Genesee County Clerk Deb Cherry of Burton, Genesee County Clerk / Register  Domonique Clemons of Mundy Township and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson of Fenton.

Swanson has been subbing for Chief Probate Judge Jenny Barkey of Flushing who has been off the bench for weeks because of health problems.

Cherry will be replaced on the Commission when her term expires at the end of the year. She did not seek re-election and will be replaced by Sam Muma of Flushing.

State law requires that a hearing must be at least 10 days and mot more than 20 days from the date the recall petition is filed.

Smith, Pasjberg, Matten and Robinson had never been involved in local politics before filing their recalls. Pasjberg, an employee at the Flint Registry, had language twice rejected before getting authorization to move forward earlier this month against Councilman Pfeiffer. 

She has 180 days to collect sufficient signatures within a 60-day window ending on the date they are turned in to the City Clerk. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Flint's 6th Ward City Councilwoman Tonya Burns.

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

 FLINT (CCN) — Community activist Arthur Woodson of Flint racked up another victory on Tuesday (Nov. 18, 2024) in court against the City of Flint. Genesee County 67th District Court Judge William Crawford dismissed all charges on a misdemeanor count for "disorderly conduct and disorderly persons." 

He was arrested last summer after using a tri-pod while taping a Flint City Council meeting.

Woodson spent a night at the Genesee County Jail after multiple Flint police officers hauled him out of the council chambers at Flint City Hall.

Flint City Council President Dr. Ladel Lewis ordered police to remove Woodson after saying the council leadership had made new rules to restrict cameras and tri-pods to an area in the back of the room for media.

Woodson is not a member of the media.

State law permits filming of city council meetings.

Woodson posted on Facebook: "My attorneys are 5-0 against the City of Flint... I will not stop until we show them that we are not going anywhere. Let's stand up Flint!!! We The People have the POWER!!! 

Woodson was arrested again last week when thrown out of another Flint City Council meeting. He also has a pending case against the city for Mayor Sheldon Neeley erecting medal detectors at  the doors to the council chambers last year. Woodson filed a lawsuit with Flint community activist Beverly Biggs-Leavy, 810NewsMedia Group podcast host Trevor Berryhill, Michigan Gun Owners,Michigan Open Carry, Inc., and the Michigan Coalition for Responsible Gun Owners foled the lawsuit after Mayor Neeley declared Flint City Hall as a "gun free zone" in October 2023.

Only school buildings, court buildings and federal buildings are allowed to use medal detectors as "gun free zones" under the law.

Genesee County 7th Circuit Court Judge Brian S. Pickell awarded a temporary restraining order about a year ago to make Mayor Neeley remove his medal detectors as well as signs proclaiming a "gun free zone" at Flint City Hall.

Temporary restraining orders are rarely used by judges because they essentially mean "it's more likely than not" that the plaintiff will win at trial.

Still, Flint Mayor Neeley appealed the decision.

"He is costing the city thousands in all these lawsuits he keeps losing," Woodson chirped in a Facebook Live video when predicting a victory in his court case regarding the arrest after he was thrown out of a city council meeting. "Then, I'm gonna get paid. The Moose (his nickname for Council President Dr. Lewis) can't just throw people out of meetings as a puppet for Sheldon 'Santos' Neeley."

She did it again last week, arguing that Woodson did not properly fill out a slip to City Clerk Davina Donahue required to speak at council meetings.

Woodson argued that the Michigan Open Meetings  Act allows comment from the public at board meetings of any municipality. Several officers led Woodson out of the chambers and arrested him.

Court documents show that Jacen Bausick is the Flint police officer who arrested Woodson last summer in the case dismissed on Tuesday. No arraignment has yet taken place on last week's arrest that Woodson contends was also illegal.

Mayor Neeley could not be reached for comment.

Woodson took to social media on his Facebook page outside the court building on Tuesday, saying, "This lawless city council, lawless Mayor and lawless Flint Police Department — they're getting ready to pay... We've gotta stop being afraid ... and start standing up. When I start getting paid, I don't want to hear no haters... Stop being afraid of them and start hitting their pockets."

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is community activist Arthur Woodson of Flint on a Facebook Live video after his victory Tuesday in court against the City of Flint..

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

FLINT (CCN) — Chair Andy Everman of Flushing has had some controversial moments over the past year on the Board of Trustees for Flint's Mott Community College. But he apparently saved his biggest move for last.

Everman, a lame duck board member voted out of office earlier this month, pushed for a vote to give Shaunda Richardson-Snell a three-year contract as the permanent President at a special meeting called in the middle of the afternoon on Monday (Nov. 25, 2024).

Wendy Smith Wolcott of Davison, Jeffrey Swanson of Flint and Janet Couch of Mt. Morris joined Everman in providing a 4-to-3 vote to offer a three-year deal to Richardson-Snell.

She had been selected as the interim President in July, touching off plenty of controversy because she didn't have a doctorate's degree like other applicants and she had no previous leadership roles in higher education. She also has never been in the classroom as an instructor at a junior college or university, or at a private or public school elementary, middle school or high school.

Members of Mott's faculty union packed a subsequent board meeting when a contract was awarded to Richardson-Snell as the new interim leader. Faculty members blasted the decision as "embarrassing" to their institution because of her lack of Qualifications.

John Daly of Flint joined Everman, Wolcott, Swanson and Couch in the July vote to hire Richardson-Snell. A recall was mounted against Wolcott, Couch and Daly by Patrick Hayes of Flint.

Daly reversed course on his position and did not vote to offer the three-year contract Monday.

He also engaged in a heated argument with Chair Everman on why the board would ignore an offer by Ridgeway White of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to pay for a national search by a consulting firm.

Trustees Art Reyes and Michael Freeman joined Daly in opposing Everman, Wolcott, Swanson and Smith in Monday's vote.

A similar vote failed on Nov. 18 when Swanson didn't vote to support Everman's push to make Richardson-Snell Mott's permanent President.

 “I think the president’s doing a wonderful job, as you can see, she has already saved us money in the 90 days she’s been here. She fits right in with the administration we have and that’s why I’d like to reconsider," Swanson said at Monday's meeting when announcing he had changed his position. 

The board had voted on Oct. 8 to accept  grant from White's organization to conduct a national search for a new leader.

Two new board members take their seats next month. In addition to Everman being voted out, Freeman didn't seek re-election.

Kenyetta Dotson of Flint Township and  Candice Miller of Burton will take office in January.

Freeman called the last-minute motion to rescind the previous decision “by design” and told audience members on Monday: "At this point, it is not going to appear that the position was earned. It was given. I would think that if you are the best candidate, that would come out in the interview process.”

Trustee Wolcott said she took a poll of Mott faculty and determined that there was a "silent majority" who wanted Richardson-Snell to be the full-time pick by the board.

Trustee Reyes scoffed at this notion, claiming the entire episode "stinks" and said: "ffering this job to somebody who has not gone through the full vetting process that we have laid out is a mistake and a disservice to the community, the college and the candidate."

Trustee Freeman added: “This is bad business. The reputation has been soiled of this institution. Thank God the voters got you out, Andy. Thank God you lost. Because after this meeting, when they swear in new members, you cannot do this anymore.”

Daly, facing a recall which many political observers say could kill his chances to run for Mayor of Flint as rumored by many, took shots at Everman, too. He said: “You are on dangerous, slippery ground doing this. Particularly, you, chairman Everman, you bear, in my opinion, the bulk of the responsibility for this.”

Daly's wife (Wendy Braun Daly) sent shockwaves through the campus with a social media post promoted after the meeting by recall organizer Hayes.

Braun's post was as follows: " I want to thank Andy Everman, Wendy Wolcott, Jeff Swanson, and Sue Couch for destroying MCC by their choice of appointing Shaunda Richardson Snell and bypassing the search committee that Ridgway White was kind enough to offer to pay for. It looks like the fix was in, because why did she buy her new house (two) months ago, long before today. Also, why did Wendy Wolcott talk to 27 staff members before she voted today. Michael Freeman, John Daly and Art Reyes were ignored like they weren't there.  Our family has had a Foundation in my mother's name since 1988 for the nursing program, and I'm going to make sure that it's gone. I'm going to tell everyone I know that politics has taken over the college, and the students are no longer the first priority."

Mott Community College Education Association President Kim Owens expressed “significant concern” with the decision despite Trustee Wolcott claiming a "silent majority" supported the selection.

MLive quoted the faculty union leader Owens as saying, “Tonight’s decision to skirt the original process agreed upon at the October meeting of hiring a search committee to assist in a national search for a qualified President is a travesty, The objection to Shaunda Richardson-Snell had nothing to do with her personal beliefs and everything to do with what was a blatant disregard to the process. At no point was there input from the students, faculty, the staff and the community, the stakeholders most impacted by this decision. Instead, we now have a President who was chosen by a handful of bad actors who clearly have an agenda that does not have the best interest of Mott Community College at heart... Sadly, the ones who will pay the price for this myopic and self-serving appointment will be the students and the community MCC has served for just over 100 years. It is indeed amongst the darkest days in our long history.

PHOTO CAPTION: PIctured above this story is Shaunda Richardson-Snell who was given a three-year contract as the new President at Flint's Mott Commuinity College.

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

 FLINT (CCN) — Recall language was approved Tuesday (Nov. 19, 2024) by the Genesee County Election Commission on one City of Flint elected official but denied against another one.

Language was approved against Flint's 8thWard City Councilman — Dennis Pfeiffer..

Language was rejected on seven sets of proposed language for petitions against Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley.

The Commission voted 3-0 on each of the eight hearings. The Commission consists of Genesee County Clerk / Register Domonique Clemons, Genesee County Clerk Deb Cherry and Chief Probate Court Judge Jenny Barkey.

Barkey was absent and Sheriff Chris Swanson served as a sub for her.  

Proposed language must be approved by the Commission before circulators can gather signatures from residents to force an election to remove any elected official in Michigan. They have  180 days to collect a sufficient number of signatures within a 60-day window.

 The number of signatures needed to trigger a recall election is 25% of the votes cast in the elected officer’s district for all candidates for the office of Governor in the last gubernatorial general election.

Eddie Matten, who hasn't previously been involved in Flint's city politics, filed seven sets of proposed language against Mayor Neeley. The Commission ruled that none passed the state test for lack of clarity, according to Clemons.

Matten's reasons to remove Mayor Neeley ranged from the condition of the city’s water, to awarding a contract to a defunct ambulance company, to paying $75,000 for a company to continue managing the city's two golf courses when there were bids to pay thousands to the city. The top bid was posted by John Carpenter's Flint Golf Paradise. His bid was for $1.115 million.

Commissioners also rejected multiple proposed recall languages against Neeley after Metro Flint News/Talk Radio's Morning Gazette Radio Show reported that filer did not live in the city. She was a resident of Flint Township.

 Lisa Pasbjerg also had language rejected for lack of clarity earlier this month against Pfeiffer. She immediately re-filed because Pfeiffer's seat would have been safe for a year after election day on Nov. 5. State law prohibits any elected official from being targeted during the first or last year of a four-year term or the first or last six months of a two-year term.

Pfeiffer now has less than a year to go on his first four-year term.

This latest filing was the third time Pasbjerg has tried to remove Pfeiffer. She had language approved in April but did not collect sufficient signatures to force an election to be placed on the ballot.

Her revised language approved by the Commission on Tuesday was because she said Pfeiffer was “censured for conduct unbecoming a city council member."

BY MELISSA MARTIN

CCN Staff Writer

FLINT (CCN) — Chair Andy Everman of Flushing has had some controversial moments over the past year on the Board of Trustees for Flint's Mott Community College. But he apparently saved his biggest move for last.

Everman, a lame duck board member voted out of office earlier this month, pushed for a vote to give Shaunda Richardson-Snell a three-year contract as the permanent President at a special meeting called in the middle of the afternoon on Monday (Nov. 25, 2024).

Wendy Smith Wolcott of Davison, Jeffrey Swanson of Flint and Janet Couch of Mt. Morris joined Everman in providing a 4-to-3 vote to offer a three-year deal to Richardson-Snell.

She had been selected as the interim President in July, touching off plenty of controversy because she didn't have a doctorate's degree like other applicants and she had no previous leadership roles in higher education. She also has never been in the classroom as an instructor at a junior college or university, or at a private or public school elementary, middle school or high school.

Members of Mott's faculty union packed a subsequent board meeting when a contract was awarded to Richardson-Snell as the new interim leader. Faculty members blasted the decision as "embarrassing" to their institution because of her lack of Qualifications.

John Daly of Flint joined Everman, Wolcott, Swanson and Couch in the July vote to hire Richardson-Snell. A recall was mounted against Wolcott, Couch and Daly by Patrick Hayes of Flint.

Daly reversed course on his position and did not vote to offer the three-year contract Monday.

He also engaged in a heated argument with Chair Everman on why the board would ignore an offer by Ridgeway White of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation to pay for a national search by a consulting firm.

Trustees Art Reyes and Michael Freeman joined Daly in opposing Everman, Wolcott, Swanson and Smith in Monday's vote.

A similar vote failed on Nov. 18 when Swanson didn't vote to support Everman's push to make Richardson-Snell Mott's permanent President.

 “I think the president’s doing a wonderful job, as you can see, she has already saved us money in the 90 days she’s been here. She fits right in with the administration we have and that’s why I’d like to reconsider," Swanson said at Monday's meeting when announcing he had changed his position. 

The board had voted on Oct. 8 to accept  grant from White's organization to conduct a national search for a new leader.

Two new board members take their seats next month. In addition to Everman being voted out, Freeman didn't seek re-election.

Kenyetta Dotson of Flint Township and  Candice Miller of Burton will take office in January.

Freeman called the last-minute motion to rescind the previous decision “by design” and told audience members on Monday: "At this point, it is not going to appear that the position was earned. It was given. I would think that if you are the best candidate, that would come out in the interview process.”

Trustee Wolcott said she took a poll of Mott faculty and determined that there was a "silent majority" who wanted Richardson-Snell to be the full-time pick by the board.

Trustee Reyes scoffed at this notion, claiming the entire episode "stinks" and said: "ffering this job to somebody who has not gone through the full vetting process that we have laid out is a mistake and a disservice to the community, the college and the candidate."

Trustee Freeman added: “This is bad business. The reputation has been soiled of this institution. Thank God the voters got you out, Andy. Thank God you lost. Because after this meeting, when they swear in new members, you cannot do this anymore.”

Daly, facing a recall which many political observers say could kill his chances to run for Mayor of Flint as rumored by many, took shots at Everman, too. He said: “You are on dangerous, slippery ground doing this. Particularly, you, chairman Everman, you bear, in my opinion, the bulk of the responsibility for this.”

Daly's wife (Wendy Braun Daly) sent shockwaves through the campus with a social media post promoted after the meeting by recall organizer Hayes.

Braun's post was as follows: " I want to thank Andy Everman, Wendy Wolcott, Jeff Swanson, and Sue Couch for destroying MCC by their choice of appointing Shaunda Richardson Snell and bypassing the search committee that Ridgway White was kind enough to offer to pay for. It looks like the fix was in, because why did she buy her new house (two) months ago, long before today. Also, why did Wendy Wolcott talk to 27 staff members before she voted today. Michael Freeman, John Daly and Art Reyes were ignored like they weren't there.  Our family has had a Foundation in my mother's name since 1988 for the nursing program, and I'm going to make sure that it's gone. I'm going to tell everyone I know that politics has taken over the college, and the students are no longer the first priority."

Mott Community College Education Association President Kim Owens expressed “significant concern” with the decision despite Trustee Wolcott claiming a "silent majority" supported the selection.

MLive quoted the faculty union leader Owens as saying, “Tonight’s decision to skirt the original process agreed upon at the October meeting of hiring a search committee to assist in a national search for a qualified President is a travesty, The objection to Shaunda Richardson-Snell had nothing to do with her personal beliefs and everything to do with what was a blatant disregard to the process. At no point was there input from the students, faculty, the staff and the community, the stakeholders most impacted by this decision. Instead, we now have a President who was chosen by a handful of bad actors who clearly have an agenda that does not have the best interest of Mott Community College at heart... Sadly, the ones who will pay the price for this myopic and self-serving appointment will be the students and the community MCC has served for just over 100 years. It is indeed amongst the darkest days in our long history.

PHOTO CAPTION: PIctured above this story is Shaunda Richardson-Snell who was given a three-year contract as the new President at Flint's Mott Commuinity College.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

 FLINT (CCN) — Social media posts by a 17-year-old shot to death by State Police last weekend in Flint dispute various allegations being made by his friends that he did not own a gun.

The Daily Gazette identified two Facebook pages of Rayvon Shahid that displayed guns as far back as March of 2021, including one that displayed the glock with an extended magazine described by State Police in a statement about the incident.

Family and friends have told The Daily Gazette that Shahid did not have a gun when confronted by State Police. Friends also said he did not own a gun yet numerous sources have come forward to say that is not true.

Police officers and school officials who asked to remain anonymous say Shahid had good parents but "hung out with a bad crowd."

Shahid was described as a "troubled" former student at Grand Blanc High School who has had previous run-ins with law enforcement. This could not be confirmed due to criminal cases for minors being sealed from public view, but reliable sources  described various incidents.

Shahid was shot when he fled State Police in Flint, according to a statement that said he was armed with a handgun and refused to drop the weapon. State Police reported that Shahid was walking on Essex and Passadena after dark at about 6:30 pm when refusing at least seven commands to drop his gun after he began running when confronted by two troopers. State Police said Shahid was shot with a pistol after an attempt to use a taser failed.

State Police said a glock pistol with a loaded extended magazine was recovered at the scene. 

Friends and relatives of Shahid were joined by more than 100 people at a Saturday (Nov. 9, 2024) protest staged by friends and relatives of a Flint teen shot last weekend by State Police. Never more than 50 were on hand at one time outside the State Police post on Corunna Road in Flint Township although about 100 more stopped by to spend short spans with them in the protest.

The group yelled "Black Lives Matter" and "No Justice; No Peace" while shouts of "F*** the Police" punctuated the entire 2 1/2 hours.

Community activist Arthur Woodson was at the protest and told The Daily Gazette that he demanded potential trouble makers leave the event. "We had people from Black Lives Matter and I told them to get out of here with that," he said. "We had Palestine people show up and we told them we didn't want that here. We were there to let people know the family demands to see the body cam video and any other videos from around the scene that they may have taken. The family wants answers and they deserve that even if the kid was robbing a store or something, which he wasn't because I've talked to witnesses."

Both troopers were placed on administrative leave  while the incident is investigated by the Michigan Attorney General's office.

Col. James F. Grady II, director of the State Police post on Corunna Road, released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, that said he is "committed to ensuring this investigation is thorough, swift, and impartial."

The State Police statement said as follows:  “A loss of life during any police encounter is tragic. As always, all incidents that involve a department member discharging their firearm are immediately investigated."

 A Freedom of Information Act request is being prepared to be filed later this week by The Daily Gazette with State Police officials in Lansing. 

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is a glock gun with an extended magazine that was posted on a Facebook page of shooting victim Rayvon Shahid.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

 FLINT (CCN) — The Flint City Council does not have a new President this morning.

Members were deadlocked on the same picks the last 337 times until four members walked out at 2:15 am after 346 rounds of voting on Monday night (Nov. 11, 2024). Restroom breaks kept a few votes from being 4-4 but members held firm behind their wishes.

Councilman Jonathan Jarrett of the 9th Ward had support from Councilwoman Tonya Burns of the 6th Ward, Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer of the 8th Ward and Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter of the 5th Ward. 

Current Council Vice President Candice Mushatt of the 7th Ward had support from Councilwoman Judy Priestly of the 4th Ward, Councilman Leon El-Alamin of the 1st Ward and current Council President Dr. Ladel Lewis.

Mushatt, Priestly, El-Alamin and Dr. Lewis left at 2:15 am to break quorum.

Councilwoman Burns said in asocial media post on Facebook: "346 rounds to pick a President of the Flint City Council and the council (persons) in the First Ward, Second Ward, 4th Ward and 7th Ward broke quorum……2:15am. According to the Flint City Charter, the City Council had a responsibility to pick a President along with other committee chairs. That was not done due to the breaking of a quorum."

Dr. Lewis was elected in nine rounds in 2023 voting after she served in an interim role for the last few months of 2022 after the late Eric Mays was voted out as President in mid-term.

The City Charter, revised by voters in 2017 for the first time in 43 years, is firm that the office of President is declared vacant on the second Monday every November at 12:01 am.

Flint City Clerk Davina Donahue had a duty under law to chair the meeting to elect a new President, but current council leadership didn't allow it.

Outgoing President Dr. Lewis also threatened to remove audience members which isn't legal since no council proceedings could take place until a new President was elected to take the gavel as chair from the city clerk.

The council is already in violation of the City Charter by not naming a replacement within 30 days for Quincy Murphy in the 3rd Ward after he passed away on Sept. 29. 

FLINT (CCN) — Crime Stoppers of Flint  Genesee County has posted a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of two men in a violent armed robbery on Flint's north side.

A homeowner in the 6300 block of Branch Road was shot when he confronted the intruders on Oct. 25 at about 2 pm after they broke into his home.

Video captured the break-in and is posted on social media. Click Here to See It

Photos of the suspects captured from the video are presented in the poster above this story.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1-800-422-JAIL (5245),  P3tips.com/488, or P3Tips mobile app. Photos and videos can be uploaded on the website and app. All methods are anonymous.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

MUNDY TOWNSHIP (CCN) — Township Manager Chad Young got a $5,000 raise Monday night (Nov. 11, 2024) from the Mundy Township Board of Trustees.

The item was placed on the agenda by outgoing Mundy Township Supervisor Tonya Ketzler.

Jennifer Arrand Stainton beat Ketzler in last week's election and three Trustees she endorsed who also won but they don't take office until later this month.

Stainton had campaign signs that proclaimed "No Mega Site" above her name and she used that theme to win despite running as a Republican in a usually heavy Democrat-voting township. Young has been a key player in moving a proposed advanced manufacturing plant forward, according to opponents of the proposed project.

Stainton had 5,081 votes to Ketzler's 4,512.

Incumbent Trustees  Kim Jimenez and Debra Ridley were also voted off the board. 

The outgoing board also discussed extending a contract for Township Attorney Jack Beltzer who came under fire by residents for alleged NDA (non-disclosure agreements) signed by township officials that would be clearly illegal under state law. (See Related Story Below)

Beltzer didn't get a contract extension.

The Mega Site will be the topic of conversation in a meeting on Tuesday (Nov 12, 2024) by the Mundy Township Planning Commission.

An agenda items reads: "Lurvey Construction, LLC on behalf of property owner Maple & Hill LLC submitting a Natural Resource Analysis in accordance with Zoning Ordinance 23-123-Z, Section 4.36 as required per Section 16.02C,4 zoning permit for land clearing on the site defined by Linden, Hill, Elms, and Maple Roads."

Don Ludwig, one of the administrators  on a Facebook Page for more than 2,100 opponents of the proposed project, posted to residents that he has sent a letter to Flint & Genesee Group CEO Tim Herman, Tyler Rossmaessler who is the Executive Director of Herman's Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance and realtor Win Cooper who represents them. Part of the letter said: "For applying for land clearing. I will be there Tuesday at the meeting for public comments for them not to approve any permits (until) the school, church and (all the) homes have been purchased in that two square miles of the Mega Site. I believe this is reckless, careless and dangerous. There's roughly between 800 and 1,000 family members that live inside zone roughly 200 homes and Elementary School with 450 students. Not a good idea." 

Trustee Gorton is on the Mundy Township Planning Commission along with Danelle Barker who is the Chair. Barker is a Republican who was unopposed in Tuesday's election and she will join the board as the new Township Treasurer. 

Other planning commission members include

Morey who lost on Tuesday's Trustee election, Suzanne LaMielle, Debi Collins, Kelly Kirkpatrick and Michael Simon.

Crain's Business Detroit has reported that the advanced manufacturing plant will be a semi-conductor plant to support the electric vehicle push by President Joe Biden. 

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has put more than $1 billion in taxpayer funds behind battery factory plants near Big Rapids and Lansing, and a $269 million portion of that tab has gone to the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance for  an advanced manufacturing plant of some kind in the 1,200 acre Mega Site bordered by Linden Road, Maple Road, Jennings Road and Elms Road.

U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has already declared a Republican congress  will immediately kill Biden's chips act to support the EV push to eliminate gas engines by the nd of the decade. Republicans now control the U.S. Senate and can retain control of the U.S. House with four more votes in races not yet finalized. The count currently stands at 214 to 204 with 17 races not yet called, according to the Associated Press.

Republicans flipped the State Senate and State House of Representatives after losing control in 2022 for the fist time in more than 40 years, and that could spell trouble for an advanced manufacturing plant in Mundy Township, according to a story on Sunday (Nov. 10, 2022) by the Detroit News.

The Detroit News said "state tax dollars needed to secure the project could be a prime focus of the Legislature’s lame duck session in the coming weeks" with the "expected pitch to fund those projects ... likely meet opposition from House Speaker-elect Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, who told The Detroit News Friday that the project has not won his support so far."

The Detroit News said Hall’s opposition to the plan is "problematic since the House Democratic leadership will likely need a few Republican votes on any tax incentive proposal since Democrats lack support for corporate subsidies from some members of their caucus."

Hall told the state's largest newspaper: "I think there needs to be more consensus building from the MEDC (Michigan Economic Development Corporation). They should work with the community and build some consensus before rushing this through in lame duck.”

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

MUNDY TOWNSHIP (CCN) — Outgoing Mundy Township Supervisor Tonya Ketzler has placed at item on Monday's (Nov. 11, 20024) agenda of the Mundy Township Board of Trustees to discuss the contract of Township Manager Chad Young.

Newly-elected Township Supervisor Jennifer Arrand Stainton and three Trustees she endorsed who also won last week's election don't take office until later this month.

Stainton had campaign signs that proclaimed "No Mega Site" above her name and she used that theme to win despite running as a Republican in a usually heavy Democrat-voting township.

Ketzler served as Mundy Township Clerk before elected to her first term as Township Supervisor four years ago. She's well known in the township as the former long-time owner of Ketzler Florist. Her Hill Road location was one of three locations around Genesee County.

Stainton had 5,081 votes to Ketzler's 4,512.

Incumbent Trustees  Kim Jimenez and Debra Ridley were also voted off the board. Their fellow Democrat Mark Gorton survived in his re-election bid by 133 votes over Jimenez and 365 votes over Ridley. Gorton beat Democrat challenger Don Morey by 175 votes.

All three Trustee candidates endorsed by Stainton won big — led by Republican Leah Davis with 5,061 votes. She was a first-time candidate who went door-to-door with Stainton as well as appear at events with her and they hosted a fundraiser together. Both have been among the most outspoken critics of the Mega Site along with others who are among more than 2,100 opponents of the proposed project on a Facebook Page.

Republican Zack Sack did little campaigning and has not taken a public position on the proposed Mega Site, yet won big with 4,772 votes after Stainton urged voters to elect him. Trustee Kyle Ward, currently the only Republican on the Mundy Township board, was re-elected with 4,916 votes after becoming the lone board member to oppose the proposed project.

Many consider Young one has pushed the Mega Site project and one of the administrators of the Facebook Page with opponents of an advanced manufacturing plant (Don Ludwig) made a post to alert everyone of Monday's (Nov. 11, 2024) agenda at the township board meeting.

Matt Bazik asked the key question on the minds of many opponents of the proposed project, posting: "Are they going to try and give Chad (Young) another contract? That needs to be tabled until the new board members can look at everything. He needs to Be FIRED!"

Township Attorney Jack Beltzer is another who is obviously on the chopping block when Stainton is sworn in to take control in the township's top post. So, too, is Metro Police Authority Chief Matthew Bade.

Beltzer came under fire for alleged NDA (non-disclosure agreements) signed by township officials that would be clearly illegal under state law. The State Supreme Court weighed in on a similar situation in Clarkston when officials there tried to hide documents signed with a developer. A 37-page opinion made it clear that's absolutely prohibited under the state's Open Meeting Act of 1976. The Daily Gazette made Beltzer and board members aware of this in July at a public meeting, yet no action has been taken to rectify the illegal actions and no criminal charges have been filed against them.

 Chief Bade came under fire when Stainton led a picket protest outside a political fundraiser for Ketzler last summer, and he sent his officers to prevent them from parking anywhere near a restaurant in the Gateway Centre off Hill Road where Ketzler's event was being held.

The Daily Gazette reported that any police patrols on private roods are illegal under state law. Police are permitted by law only to respond to 911 calls or to investigate possible crimes on private property.

Stainton demanded an internal investigation and says her complaints were ignored by Chief Bade, the Genesee County Sheriff's Department and State Police.

In addition to Monday's agenda item to discuss Young's contract, The Daily Gazette has learned that Lurvey Construction LLC is applying for a natural resource analysis on Tuesday (Nov. 12, 2024) before the Mundy Township Planning Commission.

The agenda items reads: "Lurvey Construction, LLC on behalf of property owner Maple & Hill LLC submitting a Natural Resource Analysis in accordance with Zoning Ordinance 23-123-Z, Section 4.36 as required per Section 16.02C,4 zoning permit for land clearing on the site defined by Linden, Hill, Elms, and Maple Roads."

Ludwig revealed on the Facebook Page for opponents of the proposed project that he has sent a letter to Flint & Genesee Group CEO Tim Herman, Tyler Rossmaessler who is the Executive Director of Herman's Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance and realtor Win Cooper who represents them. Part of the letter said: "For applying for land clearing. I will be there Tuesday at the meeting for public comments for them not to approve any permits (until) the school, church and (all the) homes have been purchased in that two square miles of the Mega Site. I believe this is reckless, careless and dangerous. There's roughly between 800 and 1,000 family members that live inside zone roughly 200 homes and Elementary School with 450 students. Not a good idea." 

Trustee Gorton is on the Mundy Township Planning Commission along with Danelle Barker who is the Chair. Barker is a Republican who was unopposed in Tuesday's election and she will join the board as the new Township Treasurer. 

Other planning commission members include

Morey who lost on Tuesday's Trustee election, Suzanne LaMielle, Debi Collins, Kelly Kirkpatrick and Michael Simon.

Crain's Business Detroit has reported that the advanced manufacturing plant will be a semi-conductor plant to support the electric vehicle push by President Joe Biden. 

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has put more than $1 billion in taxpayer funds behind battery factory plants near Big Rapids and Lansing, and a $269 million portion of that tab has gone to the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance for  an advanced manufacturing plant of some kind in the 1,200 acre Mega Site bordered by Linden Road, Maple Road, Jennings Road and Elms Road.

U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has already declared a Republican congress  will immediately kill Biden's chips act to support the EV push to eliminate gas engines by the nd of the decade. Republicans now control the U.S. Senate and can retain control of the U.S. House with four more votes in races not yet finalized. The count currently stands at 214 to 204 with 17 races not yet called, according to the Associated Press.

Republicans flipped the State Senate and State House of Representatives after losing control in 2022 for the fist time in more than 40 years, and that could spell trouble for an advanced manufacturing plant in Mundy Township, according to a story on Sunday (Nov. 10, 2022) by the Detroit News.

The Detroit News said "state tax dollars needed to secure the project could be a prime focus of the Legislature’s lame duck session in the coming weeks" with the "expected pitch to fund those projects ... likely meet opposition from House Speaker-elect Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, who told The Detroit News Friday that the project has not won his support so far."

The Detroit News said Hall’s opposition to the plan is "problematic since the House Democratic leadership will likely need a few Republican votes on any tax incentive proposal since Democrats lack support for corporate subsidies from some members of their caucus."

Hall told the state's largest newspaper: "I think there needs to be more consensus building from the MEDC (Michigan Economic Development Corporation). They should work with the community and build some consensus before rushing this through in lame duck.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Mundy Township Manager Chad Young.

 BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Flint Police Chief Terrance Greene has pledged a new safety plan to protect Flint City Council members, but the Flint City Council failed to get a quorum again Wednesday night (Oct. 30, 2024) when left in violation of the city charter.

The city charter required that they name a replacement within 30 days for Quincy Murphy as 3rd Ward councilman after he passed away last month.

Special meetings were called on Tuesday (Oct. 29, 2024) and Wednesday (Oct. 30, 2024) after four no shows prevented a quorum at Monday's (Oct. 28, 2024) regularly scheduled meeting. The first attempt to interview four candidates for an appointment was halted by police when a group of Murphy's family members stormed the front of the council chambers during an Oct. 14 city council meeting toward a woman who had filed a recall against Murphy. Her daughter then pulled out a gun to scatter the angry mob.

Three council members — Dennis Pfeiffer, Tonya Burns and Jerri Winfrey-Carter — issued Oct. 14 statements saying they won't return for meetings until a safety plan is created by Flint police to protect them in the future. (See Related Stories in Today's Metro Section)

The three have been strong critics of Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley who is in danger of losing his support from council where President Dr. Ladel Lewis, Vice President Candace Mushatt, Councilman Leon El-Alamin and Councilwoman Judy Priestly have been behind him. Murphy provided the fifth vote for Mayor Neeley's agenda.

 El-Alamin is also up for election on Tuesday (Nov. 5, 2024) against Carol McIntosh and  Rosemary Morrow.  El-Alamin and McIntosh are on the ballot after they were the top vote getters in the August primary but Morrow is trying to win as a write-in candidate.

Michael Clack, who serves on the Flint Board of Education and is running for State Rep. against Mayor Neeley's wife, Cynthia, expressed concerns about the sudden police plan. He said, "Mighty funny how all of these changes can be made in such a short time. How is all of this being funded?  Are the officers coming off the streets? How funny they can come up with all of these changes for all these adults that don’t know how to act their age but we have heard nothing about how they are going to help these kids from killing each other. Politricks at its finest. Just so power can be kept."

Councilman Jonathan Jarrett of the 1st Ward appeared briefly at Wednesday's meeting which was held at the Genesee County Building auditorium instead of at Flint City Hall. He left before any interviews of candidates could take place. His exit broke a quorum and left the council unable to take action before a midnight deadline to fill the vacant 3rd Ward seat.

Councilwoman Winfrey-Carter and Councilwoman Burns have each now issued new statements similar to their Oct. 14 press releases.

Burns, who represents the 6th Ward, has called the Oct. 14 incident an "insurrection" on city government officials and wants police to make arrests.

Her latest statement is as follows: "To the residents of the City of Flint…… On October 14, 2024 a conspiracy to incite a riot was committed at a Flint City Council regularly scheduled meeting. Please see the seven public safety changes that was sent to Council-members at 8:42pm October 28, 2024. This was put together after calls were made and it was revealed that in fact these no other public safety measures had been given to council members. The meeting today was not at City Hall. The meeting was held at an alternative site. The seven key changes would not apply for the buildings are not the same location that the public safety new measures indicate in the plan. Key issues of concern; there was no secured parking as we do have at City Hall with card access and cameras. Also item #7 on the improve safety measures has not been implemented for police Chief Green stated he had not given my complaint with the other council members assigned to a detective to investigate for his systems were still having issues from the August 14 cyber attack. In addition, #3 stated, Council members were given rides-escorted but there were no escorted rides offered for council members to be escorted to, and from meetings. What  remains currently that there is no investigation, no warrants for any arrest, and no detective has been assigned the case. I have requested in writing to have the complaint and all camera-video footage sent to the Michigan State Police to have it investigated, for it is clearly a conflict of interest."

Flint's 5th Ward Councilwoman Winfrey-Carter's statement said: "In light of Chief Green’s recent statement regarding enhanced safety measures for City Council meetings, I want to address my continued concerns. While safety protocols are essential and appreciated, they do not address the core issue underlying the chaos that erupted in the council chamber on October 14, 2024. That incident was more than a security failure; it was a calculated disruption that placed council members, city staff, and residents at risk. Until the root cause of this insurrection is confronted and justice is served on those responsible, no safety plan alone will restore the integrity and safety of our council proceedings  Justice needs to be served, and the Disorderly Conduct Ordinance must be enforced to hold individuals accountable for inciting the October 14th riot. Until we address this core issue, we are only treating symptoms rather than the cause of the disorder. I will continue to press for real accountability and meaningful action to address the serious threats posed on that day.  Additionally, I did not attend the special council meeting scheduled for this evening, October 29, 2024, at 5 p.m. I am deeply disappointed that the City Clerk failed to consider the availability of all council members before canceling our regular council meeting on October 28 and hastily arranging to have a special meeting. Our regular council meetings are scheduled for the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month, and like many of my colleagues, I plan my calendar accordingly.  As a council member, I also have a full-time job, I have professional obligations outside of my role on the city council, and my time must be respected. This evening, I had to meet with a client for work, a commitment I will not compromise due to the lack of consideration in scheduling. It is imperative that the City Clerk and Council Leadership treat the Flint City Council as a full body, rather than a selective gathering of a few members. I urge the Clerk to act responsibly and respectfully by checking with each member to determine availability before scheduling changes that disrupt our regular meeting structure. This is not only a matter of professionalism but also one of respect for the time and commitments of all council members.  Moving forward, I expect not only that our council proceedings prioritize both accountability for past disruptions and considerate scheduling but also that justice be served to address the events of October 14, ensuring a safe and functional council for the people of Flint."

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Raynetta Speed, a woman long involved in Flint's political scene, passed away Thursday (Oct. 31, 2024).

Speed, 73, served six consecutive two-year terms on the Genesee Board of County Commissioners.

 before taking a job in 2009 as the Community Outreach Coordinator at the Genesee County Land Bank.

The Flint native was a Delphi retiree.

A brief obituary by Flint's Moon Funeral Home said she passed away at Henry Ford Providence-Novi and funeral arrangements are pending.

Speed represented parts of Mt. Morris Township and the City of Flint before boundaries were redrawn for the 2nd District seat on the county board.

She was a past chairwoman of the New McCree Theatre Board of Directors and also a past chairwoman of the Flint Healthy Start Consortium.

Speed was chosen from a field of more than 100 applicants for the position she took with the Genesee County Land Bank.

She also served as a member of the Genesee County Land's Board of Directors for several years until taking the full-time job with the non-profit organization.

Speed was a strong supporter of several winning candidates in past Flint mayoral races. She was involved in the campaigns of Woodrow Stanley, Dayne Walling and Dr. Karen Weaver.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is former Genesee County Commissioner Raynetta Speed.

LAPEER (CCN) — A chilling 911 call was played in open court Friday (Oct. 25, 2024) during the preliminary exam against a man accused of killing his girlfriend on Aug. 9 in Columbiaville, according to a story posted on MLive.

Court records show that Lapeer District Court Judge Laura Cheger Barnard ruled there was sufficient evidence presented against Michael Schocke to bind him over to Lapeer County Circuit Court to stand trial for murder.

He's accused of shooting and killing his girlfriend, Jennifer Pilotto.

Troopers from the Michigan State Police post in Lapeer and deputies from the Lapeer County Sheriff's Department responded to the shooting when Schocke, 40, was immediately arrested. Authorities had initially said two 911 calls had captured his conversation with Pilotto before the shooting, including when he allegedly pulled the trigger.

Lapeer County Assistant Prosecutors Robert Wells and Danielle Cusson played audio of both 911 calls for Judge Barnard, according to the MLive report.

The Macomb County Daily said at the time that Schocke could be heard on one of the 911 calls telling Pilotto "game over" before shooting her.

Schocke is a former Macomb County resident who lived in Romeo. 

Pilotto was 38 and lived in the home where she was shot in the head and died.

FLINT (CCN) — A local podcast host is trying to raise enough money to hire an artist to create a mural to pay tribute to former Flint City Councilman Eric Mays.

"He was a legend," said Terrance Snow who hosts the Snow Show and Flint After Dark podcasts.

Councilman Mays passed away in February. He was the longest-serving member of the Flint City Council and was the top vote getter in the 1st Ward where he represented the city's most poor neighborhoods. 

Snow's plan is to do the mural on the side of a building at 6715 N. Saginaw Street.

"We need donations to make it happen before the weather gets too cold," Snow said.

People can contribute via CashApp at $FlintLIves.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Another recall attempt has been filed against Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley in hopes of removing him from office.

Seven sets of proposed language were filed by   Eddie Matten, according to Domonque Clemons who is Genesee County Clerk / Register.

The Genesee County Election Commission will meet to review the language submitted by Matten who has no previous involvement in Flint's politics.

Clemons said, "An Election Commission meeting to review and either approve or deny this language is yet to be scheduled. Notice will be sent out when the meeting is scheduled." 

State law requires that a hearing must be at least 10 days and mot more than 20 days from the date the recall petition is filed.

It's the second recall attempt against Mayor Neeley within a month. The last effort failed when the Genesee County Election Commission rejected language submitted by  Renita Robinson because she lives in Flint Township instead of residing in the City of Flint. Only residents of a municipality can target their elected officials for recall.

Robinson has also never been involved in local politics.

It's the same, too, for Lisa Pasjberg who filed recall language last week against Flint's 8th Ward City Councilman Don Pfeiffer.  One of Mayor Neeley's staff members (Emily Doehr) posted negative comments about Pfeiffer on social media and the Mayor blasted the councilman on his radio show known as "Community Update" that airs every Saturday on WFLT 1420 AM. Mayor Neeley blasted Pefiffer for not supporting his plan to use federal funds to cut trees in neighborhoods, saying it was a "racist" move by the white councilman. The Mayor is black.

Councilman Pfeiffer made public comments that he refused to support the tree cutting plan proposed by the Mayor because he wanted to "see details on how the money would be spent" if the council approved trying to secure the federal grant.

An elected official in Dalton, Illinois was recently arrested by the FBI with allegations of stealing from a similar tree cutting grant.

The recall language filed against Pfeiffer will be considered at a hearing by the Genesee County Election Commission two days after election day. The language reads: "Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer was censured by the city council for calling another member a 'fake ass Republican'  another a 'big piece of shit' and told other colleagues to shut up."

The election commission that will ultimately rule on the language consists of the county's Clerk Treasurer and Chief Probate judge. Sam Muma is unopposed on Tuesday (Nov. 5, 2024) and will replace Deb Chery as Treasure for the hearing Judge Jenny Barkey is currently off the bench because of cancer treatments and no return date has been announced for her. Prosecutor David Leyton has subbbed for her in the past.

State law says language must be clear with proper grammar. The language submitted by Pasjberg against Councilman Pfeiffer does not include complete sentences and two English professors who asked not to be identified declared it as a "run on sentence" and "completely illiterate."

No English professors could be reached before press time about language submitted by Matten against Mayor Neeley.

The first petition submitted this week by Matten reads: "Under Mayor Sheldon Andre Neeley, in a Scripts news article dated April 25, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency, warned it was not safe for any resident to drink water in Flint without special filters."

The second petition submitted by Matten reads:     "Sheldon, Andre Neeley announced the City of Flint would enter into a contract with Stat-EMS, stating the partnership would bring Flint residents faster  service, and higher quality service."

The third petition submitted by Matten reads: "Flint Mayor Sheldon Andre Neeley was denied qualified immunity in wrongful termination lawsuit filed by former fire chief Raymond Barton."

The fourth petition submitted by Matten reads: "Sheldon Andre Neeley received a check from Ashley Capitol political committee in the amount of two thousand one hundred dollars."

The fifth petition submitted by Matten reads: "In a memorandum from City of Flint office of the mayor. The City of Flint will pay Flint City Golf LLC, a monthly management fee of $6,000 a month for a not to exceed total of $72,000 upon receipt of the monthly receipt and invoice."

The sixth petition submitted by Matten reads: "Sheldon Andre Neeley stated in a Scripps news article on May 16, 2023 that deadlines were set and deadlines were missed. I admit to that."

The seventh petition submitted by Matten reads: "In a memorandum from the office of the mayor signed by Sheldon Andre Neeley, the partners agreed to pay Flint City Golf LLC, shall manage and operate the courses on behalf of the City of Flint during 2024."

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Flint City Councilwoman Tonya Burns added some tension to a press conference for two colleagues by crashing it Thursday afternoon (Oct. 24, 2024) at Flint City Hall.

The press conference was called by 4th Ward Councilwoman Judy Priestly and 2nd Ward Councilwoman Dr. Ladel Lewis to complain about Burns and three other city council members who did not show up for Wednesday's scheduled meeting. They repeatedly called Councilwoman Burns "rude" for interrupting their Thursday press conference. "It's an example of what we face trying to get the city's business done,," Dr. Lewis said. Priestely added: "It's just downright rude."

Dr. Lewis noted at the press conference that the city charter "requires" action be taken to replace Murphy within 30 days.

She said other city business can't be done "to move the city forward" and stressed several times that lack of action impacts residents as well as employees of the city. "On the agenda was an item for funding a city payment center on the north side," Dr. Lewis said. "Without those funds, we have employees who have their lives impacted because we're talking about their livelihood."

Dr. Lewis is the city council president who said city business can't get done if Burns and the other members don't come to meetings.

They did not attend Wednesday because of safety concerns, according to Councilwoman Burns.

"I do not feel safe and I want to see a safety plan before I go to another meeting," she said to media members who covered Thursday's event.

The Daily Gazette was notified via e-mail less than an hour before the press conference began.

Mid-Michigan Now live streamed the press conference on Facebook and YouTube.

Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer of the 8th Ward, Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter of the 5th Ward and Councilman Jonathan Jarrett of the 9th Ward joined Councilwoman Burns in missing Wednesday's meeting where interviews were to be conducted to select a new 3rd Ward council member to replace Quincy Murphy who passed away on Sept. 26. Jarrett informed City Clerk Davina Donahue that he was unable to attend Wednesday while statements have been released by Councilman Pfeiffer and Councilwoman Winfrey-Carter citing safety concerns after Monday's (Oct. 14, 2024) meeting was halted by police after family members of Murphy rushed the front of the room about an hour into the meeting and a gun was pulled by the relative of one woman they had approached — Beverly Biggs-Leavy who had filed a recall against Councilman Murphy and collected sufficient signatures to force an election next month.

Burns, Pfeiffer and Winfrey-Carter have each filed police reports with the Flint Police Department about the incident. Burns has called the Oct. 14 uprising an "insurrection" on city government.

Councilwoman Winfrey-Carter's statement echoed similar sentiments, beginning as follows: " As a dedicated member of the Flint City Council for nearly eight years, I have always upheld my commitment to serving the residents of Flint. However, I made the difficult decision not to attend the Special Council Meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, due to serious concerns about my personal safety. This decision stems directly from the events that transpired in the Flint City Council Chamber on Monday, October 14, 2024.  In my years on the City Council, I have never felt threatened or feared for my life while fulfilling my responsibilities. However, the events of October 14th were unprecedented and deeply disturbing. During that meeting, threats were made not only to residents in the audience but also to members of the council. I believe this dangerous situation was deliberately instigated by the council leadership. Based on a video and the numerous incidents that occurred that night, it is clear to me that the Murphy family came to that meeting with the intent of attacking certain members of the council and a specific individual seeking the vacant 3rd Ward seat. I see this as a calculated conspiracy to incite a riot and disrupt the democratic process."

Winfrey-Carter pointed a finger at city council leadership, saying, "On October 14, 2024, the Vice President of the City Council, Candice Mushatt, and the President, Ladel Lewis, were in dereliction of duty for their failure to enforce the Disorderly Persons City Code, Section 31-10. Their failure to uphold this ordinance allowed disorderly conduct to escalate into threats and chaos, putting everyone in the council chamber at risk.  It has been publicly documented in a video that Council President Ladel Lewis invited the grieving Murphy family to attend the council meeting on October 14th, where the council was scheduled to appoint a new representative for the 3rd Ward. Instead of ensuring a peaceful and orderly process, the situation spiraled into chaos. Shockingly, even after the violent events of October 14th, Council President Lewis issued a press statement inviting the Murphy family to attend yet another council meeting, further escalating the tension."

Winfrey-Carter added that the incident has left her "deeply shaken" and added: " After witnessing the verbal threats and the failure of council leadership to maintain order, I genuinely feared for my life. On Thursday, October 17, 2024, I filed a police report regarding the incident. Additionally, on Monday, October 21, 2024, I contacted Chief Green to express my concerns and inquire about the safety plan for future council meetings." She said she has yet to receive a response from Flint Police Chief Terrence Greene. Burns said the same thing.

Chief Greene has not responded to our request for a comment and press releases to The Daily Gazette, The Morning Gazette Radio Show and Metro Flint News/Talk Radio were halted by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley in February 2020. The move followed statewide and national attention after our story revealed allegations by former City Councilman Eric Mays that he was hospitalized after being assaulted and beaten up at a bar by the mayor's then Chief of Staff  — DuVarl Murdock. State Police asked Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton to issue a warrant to arrest Murdock but he declined to act.

Councilman Pfeiffer has said he has received death threats without getting any help from Chief Greene.  

Pfeiffer released the following statement on Thursday: " I feel compelled to address a situation that has deeply affected the integrity of our local council and, by extension, our community's trust in its leadership. Over the past weeks, it has become evident that certain members of our council have engaged in what can only be described as an insurrection against the very principles of democratic governance and fair play.  These colleagues have resorted to bully tactics, intimidation, and coercive measures to push agendas that serve narrow interests rather than the public good. This behavior not only undermines the spirit of collaborative governance but also sets a dangerous precedent for how disputes are settled within our council."

He cited three requirements that must happen before he goes to any more meetings and said: "

 We cannot target speech we don't like and allow speech only when it suit our agenda. Residents are warned and removed at every meeting for minor infractions yet other residents can have free reign if they break rules that follow the approved agenda. I stand firm in my commitment to serve our community with honesty and dedication. I urge my fellow council members to reflect on their actions, for it is only through true democratic engagement that we can hope to address the needs and aspirations of those we represent.  I look forward to returning to a council that values justice, fairness, and the rule of law, where every voice is heard, and every decision is made with the well-being of our community at heart.  Thank you for your understanding and support during these challenging times. I remain reachable via email and social media for any urgent community matters and will continue to advocate for our community's interests from outside the council chambers until conditions change."

The requirements for his return were listed as follows: "As a matter of principle and personal safety, I feel the following (must) occur:  1. *A full police investigation* has been conducted into the wrongdoing and the misuse of power within the council. It is crucial that law enforcement scrutinizes these actions to ensure accountability and to restore public trust. There cannot be a staged riot organized by other council members with no repercussions.   2. *There is a full stop on all forms of harassment and targeting* against opponents within and outside the council. Democracy thrives on debate and diversity of opinion, not on suppression and fear.  3. *Measures are put in place* to prevent such abuses of power in the future, ensuring that our local government operates with transparency, integrity, and respect for all members and the constituents we serve."

Councilwoman Winfrey-Carter concluded her statement by noting that no law exists to require the City Clerk be notified that they won't be in attendance at a meeting.

She said: "Furthermore, I would like to clarify that when a council member chooses not to attend a meeting, there is no rule requiring us to inform the clerk. It is simply a courtesy to notify the clerk of our plans not to attend. We do not have excused or unexcused absences, and my decision not to attend the Special Council Meeting on October 23, 2024, was made with my safety in mind.

I want to make my position unequivocally clear: until a comprehensive safety plan is in place to protect council members, residents, and city staff in the council chambers, and until justice is served to those responsible for the chaos on October 14th, I will not be attending council meetings. My decision is rooted in the need for accountability, safety, and the preservation of a transparent, orderly governing process."

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Flint City Councilwoman Tonya Burns.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) —Four "no shows" stopped city business Wednesday night at Flint City Hall.

A scheduled meeting had to be canceled when a quorum of five members could not be achieved. Only Councilwoman Judy Priestly, Councilman Leon El-Amen, Council Vice President Candance Mushatt and Council President Dr. Ladel Lewis were present.

No action can be taken by a municipal board

without a quorum present. In fact, meetings must be adjourned if they begin with a quorum and that quorum is lost later in the meeting.

Yet, Council President Dr. Lewis and the others acted in violation of the city charter and state law when voting 4-0 to direct City Clerk Davina Donahue to call the absent members and "compel them to come to the meeting." Mushatt made the motion that was supported by El-Amin.

The city charter prohibits two or more council members from gathering to talk about city business without properly posting a notice to the public and state law holds that three members of a body are prohibited from gathering together. Yet video by 810NewsMediaGroup also clearly shows all four illegally going into a private room behind their council seats when a 15-minute recess was called while Donahue called the missing council members as directed to do by their motion. It takes five votes to pass any motion and one can't be put on the floor without a quorum.

Donahue reported to the chair that she got no answer from any of the absent members and left messages, and Dr. Lewis called another 15-minute recess to see if they would respond to the calls.

 Prior to that, she also handed out "first warnings" for two audience members who she threatened to throw out of the council chambers for what she described as disruptive behavior in violation of council rules. Both were media members who simply yelled how a motion could not take place without a quorum  — A.C. Dumas who does a Saturday radio show on WFLT 1420 AM and Wyntis Hall who hosts the "Bump" podcast on the 810NewsMediaGroup forum every weekday morning. 

Council President Dr. Lewis later handed out "first warnings" to six others and had three police officers escort out a woman holding a sign that read "Poppy Cock."

Prominent businessman Wilbur "Pappa" Jarrett, uncle of 9th Ward Councilman Jonathan Jarrett, voluntarily left after approached by a police officer when given a "first warning" by Lewis. He shouted on his way out, "How can you put people out of a meeting when you don't have a quorum to have a meeting?"

His nephew called City Clerk Donahue earlier in the day to say he would be unable to attend, according to what Donahue told Dr. Lewis. The other three were not there because they say they fear for their safety after the uprising at the last meeting included a gun being pulled.

At the Oct. 14 meeting, interviews were first scheduled to replace 3rd War Councilman Quincy Murphy who passed away on Sept. 26. The Oct. 14 proceedings were halted by police after family members of Murphy rushed the front of the room about an hour into the meeting and a gun was pulled by the relative of one woman they had approached — Beverly Biggs-Leavy who had filed a recall against Councilman Murphy and collected sufficient signatures to force an election next month.

Biggs-Leavy, Dumas, Rich Jones and Kerry Nelson are on the ballot but County Clerk Dominique Clemons has said votes won't be counted because Murphy passed away before the election. They are also the four being considered for the appointment.

Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer of the 8th Ward, Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter of the 5th Ward and Councilwoman Tonya Burns of the 6th Ward say they won't be coming to any meetings until Flint police come up with a new plan to assure their safety at future meetings.

Six officers from the Flint Police Department were at Wednesday's meeting, along with Flint Police Chief Terrance Greene.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Flint City Council President Dr. Ladel Lewis.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Flint's 8th Ward Councilman, Dennis Pfeiffer, faced attacks by the city's mayor and city council president last week. Today, he faces a recall effort to remove him from office by one of his Ward's residents.

The news was first reported about 3 hours ago (on Oct. 22, 2024) by 810NewsMediaGroup in a bulletin posted on social media via Facebook.

Genesee County Clerk/Register of Deeds Domonique Clemons confirmed it was true, saying, "Word travels fast. We just got it in the office this afternoon."

Clemons said Lisa Pasjberg filed the recall language. 

"The election commission meeting to approve or deny the language has not been scheduled," Clemons added.

State law requires that a hearing must be at least 10 days and mot more than 20 days from the date the recall petition is filed.

Councilman Pfeiffer has not yet responded to our request for a comment.

He faced criticism on a Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024 radio broadcast on WFNT 1420 AM by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley on his weekly show known as "Community Update." The mayor blasted Pefiffer for not supporting his plan to use federal funds to cut trees in neighborhoods, saying it was a "racist" move by the white councilman. The mayor is black. Pfeiffer never said he won't support the idea but said he wanted to see details on how money would be spent on the project.

The language against Pfeiffer reads: "Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer was censured by the city council for calling another member a 'fake ass Republican'  another a 'big piece of shit' and told other colleagues to shut up."

State law says language must be clear with proper grammar. The language submitted by Pasjberg does not include complete sentences and two English professors who asked not to be identified declared it as a "run on sentence" and "completely illiterate."

The election commission that will ultimately rule on the language consists of the county's Clerk Treasurer and Chief Probate judge. Sam Muma is unopposed on Nov. 5 and would replace Deb Chery as Treasurer if the hearing is held after the election. Judge Jenny Barkey is currently off the bench because of cancer treatments and no return date has been announced for her.

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Flint's 8thWard City Councilman Dennis Pfeiffer.

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Court records show that charges have been dismissed for a second time against a 26-year-old Flint man after his 2-year-old child shot and killed himself last spring.

Genesee County 67th District Court Judge Vikki Bayeh Haley dismissed charges on Tuesday (Oct. 22, 2024) at a preliminary hearing for Omar Guy. Police said his son, Cortez Guy, used a Glock pistol at about 2:45 a.m. in May at a house on E. Philadelphia Avenue in Flint to shoot himself in the head. The child subsequently died at Hurley Regional Medical Center.

WJRT ABC TV 12 reported that an official at Genesee County Prosecutor David Leyton's office plans to obtain transcripts of Tuesday's hearing to review the judge's "reasoning for dropping the charges." She is the same judge who dismissed the same charges against Guy in August when an investigator from the Michigan State Police was unable to appear in court due to a family matter. Judge Bayeh Haley refused a request then by the prosecutor's office to delay the case.

 Terrell A. Ratliff of Lento Law Group represented Guy and said after Prosecutor's press conference last spring announcing charges: “Our client, Omar Guy, is heartbroken by the tragic death of his son, as is the entire Guy family. Cortez was the light of his father’s life. Mr. Guy eagerly awaits his day in court to explain the circumstances regarding this tragic accident. Until then, he asks the people of Flint to keep Cortez and the Guy family in their prayers.”

The charges against Guy included eight felony counts. He faced charges for violation of the safe gun storage law with a minor present causing death,  involuntary manslaughter, lying to a police officer, possession of a firearm while intoxicated, felon in possession of a firearm and three counts of committing a felony with a firearm. 

Prosecutor Leyton alleged that the gun belonged to a cousin of Guy who was at the home earlier on the night of what he called a "tragic death" and that it's believed by police that Guy and his two cousins were smoking marijuana.  One of the cousins was a 31-year-old Flint man (Keith Biggs) that the pistol was registered to and the other cousin was that man’s brother (Khalil Ali-Lamar Biggs) who is a 25-year-old Flint Township man who does have a CPL. 

They were arraigned three days after Prosecutor Leyton had charged Guy. The Briggs brothers were charged with  violating Michigan’s safe storage law for firearms causing the death of a minor child, involuntary manslaughter, two counts of felony firearm and possession of a firearm while under the influence. 

Charges against the Biggs brothers were also dismissed by Judge Bayeh Haley in August when the State Police investigator didn't show up for their preliminary hearing.

Prosector Leyton's office refiled identical charges against Guy a few days after the dismissal but court records indicate that charges never refiled against the Biggs brothers.

The Guy case marked the second time Prosecutor Leyton has used a new state law for safe gun storage since it was signed into law by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to take effect on Feb. 13. Prosecutor Leyton drew statewide attention each time. He charged a 44-year-old Flint man (Michael Tolbert) under the new law after a 2-year-old child (Skye McBride) accidently shot herself in the head on the day after the law took effect. 

Prosector Leyton said at a press conference announcing charges against Tolbert that doctors told police the bullet entered the child's right eye and exited through the rear of her skull. "The doctors have said she will lose her right eye, at best, and she remains in critical condition this afternoon," Prosecutor Leyton said at the press conference. He said a search warrant was executed at the home in Flint where blood was found on the living room floor and couch with blood appearing to come from the front bedroom. He added that there, investigators saw "blood and brain matter on the floor with blood next to a small, toddler-sized folding chair." He said police discovered two firearms, a revolver and a semiautomatic pistol on the bed unsecured and loaded with live ammunition. He said the pistol had a live round in the chamber and multiple live rounds in the magazine while the revolver had one fired casing and additional live ammunition inside of it. "There were no gun locks or safes inside of this front bedroom," Prosecutor Leyton added. "Upon examining the ceiling of the front bedroom, investigators observed a single bullet hole in the drywall ceiling."

State Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet, who is now running for the seat in Congress vacated by Flint Township's Dan Kildee, introduced the legislation and held a press conference about Prosecutor Leyton then using the new law after the death of McBride.

The Detroit Free Press reported that she said: "When I introduced this legislation, it was my hope that it would never be used. ... Right now in the United States, we average one unintentional shooting of a child every day. Now that we have this in place, it was our goal to be able to give prosecutors tools, because with these rights comes an extraordinary responsibility. And when you don't honor that responsibility, there need to be criminal penalties. I did not ever dream that within days of the law going into effect we would need it. But here we are."

BY MIKE KILLBREATH

CCN Executive Editor

FLINT (CCN) — Monday's (Oct. 14, 2024) Flint City Council meeting was canceled by Flint police after an incident with amily members of former Councilman Quincy Murphy who recently passed away. Reports from witnesses say a gun was pulled to end arguing with a woman who obtained signatures on recall petitions to remove the first-term councilman from office.

Multiple videos reviewed by The Daily Gazette show that the group who disrupted the meeting, estimated to be between nine or 10 individuals, stormed from the back of the meeting about an hour after it began. Multiple witnesses told The Daily Gazette that every member of the group was a family member of Quincy Murphy and a few said some may have been close friends.

Several could be heard on video shouting various comments about their relative.

Another video surfaced later in the evening with family members discussing how they had targeted Beverly Biggs-Leavy and City Councilwoman Tonya Burns in a stunt that they claimed City Council President Dr. Ladel Lewis was aware of because she had encouraged them to do it.

Dr. Lewis could not be reached for comment by The Daily Gazette because she has unfriended us on Facebook and does not respond to our phone messages or texts. She did, however, release a statement to WJRT ABC TV 12 News. She reported that the incident was "triggered" by something said by a family member with an individual who was seeking an appointment to Quincy Murphy's vacant seat, saying, "That caused a back-and-forth. And so from there, that family member came around and things continued and another family member of the candidate came around and pulled out a firearm."

She also told ABC TV 12 that she does not feel safe at city council meetings, saying, "Seeing that people have guns and are willing to pull them out, absolutely not. I don't feel safe. I speak for myself. I do not feel safe coming to do my job to serve the residents."

Dr. Lewis, a first-term council member who represents the 2nd Ward, has been given police rides to and from past city council meeting because of what she called "death threats" although no police investigation has ever been publicly mentioned to confirm that she has faced any threats.

A dispute with a fellow council member made national news earlier this year when Dr. Lewis held a press conference with a pastor to allege racist behavior by a colleague. Dennis Pfeiffer, a first-term Councilman for the 8th Ward, had joined 6th Ward Councilwoman Tonya Burns and the late 1st Ward Councilman Eric Mays in quizzing Dr. Lewis and Quincy Murphy about gifts they received from Ashley Capital prior to voting on million dollar deals for the company to build something on the old Buick City site in north Flint. While grilling Quincy Murphy who admitted getting an $11,000 lawn mower and $4,5000 in cash from Ashley Capital prior to the vote, Councilman Pfeiffer claims he mistakenly said "the monkey in the room" instead of saying the "elephant in the room" as he insisted was intended.

Financial filings with the state revealed the lawn mower being donated to a non-profit that steered it to Quincy Murphy as well as a $1,500 donation to a non-profit started by Dr. Lewis for a park.

Prior to the group storming to the front of the city council chambers, Dr. Lewis directed a comment to Councilman Pfeiffer about the monkey comment months ago.

Multiple videos reviewed by The Daily Gazette show that Dr. Lewis then sat and watched without calling anyone to order as the group disrupted the meeting by rushing to the front of the chambers, yelling obscenities and approaching Biggs-Leavy.

 "Any other time someone such as me says something she doesn't like, she's ready to throw people out of the meeting," noted community activist Arthur Woodson in a Facebook Live video he posted a day later about Dr. Lewis.

Mayor Sheldon Neeley was quoted by ABC TV 12 with a comment presented on the screen that the incident was because of medal detectors at Flint City Hall being taken down after a community activist filed a lawsuit claiming the city can't legally install medal detectors which can only be done at school buildings, courts and airports.

Woodson reacted by saying, "Yeah, he wants to blame me for every problem." He also alleged that he feels it was "all a setup deal" and two council members (Pfeiffer and Burns) made the same allegations in an interview the next morning on The Bump, a weekday podcast hosted by Wyntis Hall on 810NewsMediaGroup.

Woodson was also angry that ABC TV 12 only quoted the mayor and city council's President without asking anyone else what happened.

The rest of Mayor Neeley's statement was as follows: "The safety of residents is our number one priority, and we are very alarmed by the incident that took place tonight. I want to thank the Flint Police Department and all assisting agencies for their quick response to de-escalate the situation. We have witnessed incendiary political rhetoric across our nation and close to home, and we have done everything in our power to make Flint City Hall safer. We have security guards in place during operating hours and implemented new security measures throughout the building. Citizens and stakeholders should be able to engage in the work of government without fearing for their safety, and we will continue to work with the Flint Police Department to ensure that public meetings are safe."

No statement was issued before Monday's late night TV newscasts by officials at the Flint Police Department who arrested nobody at the scene. Only one officer was at the city council meeting instead of two as normally is the case, according to multiple sources.

After the late news reports, the police department issued the following statement: "This evening at 6:37 PM, the City of Flint Police Department received a 911 call regarding a disturbance at a regularly scheduled city council meeting. Reports indicated that several attendees were engaged in a verbal confrontation that escalated to a potential physical altercation.  Before officers arrived at the City Council chamber, additional reports surfaced indicating that one individual was armed with a firearm. Upon their arrival, officers encountered a female subject in possession of a firearm, which was confirmed to be legally possessed. Responding officers acted swiftly to re-establish order in the chamber. Following their intervention, the city council meeting was adjourned.  At this time, no arrests have been made, and the situation is being monitored by the City of Flint Police Department.  The safety and security of our community remain a top priority. The City of Flint Police Department continues to urge all residents to report any suspicious activities or disturbances promptly." 

Biggs-Leavy, who was one of four candidates to be interviewed Monday night for an appointment to replace Quincy Murphy as the city's 3rd Ward representative, issued a statement about the uprising that criticized the council's President and Vice President. 

She said as follows: "The events at the Flint City Council meeting were regrettable and could have been avoided if the council President and Vice President had taken action. I was looking forward to an interview for a potential appointment to the council but unfortunately, this was overshadowed by a disruptive group of about 20 individuals who attempted to intimidate me from seeking the 3rd Ward council seat. These individuals acted aggressively from the start of the council meeting, without any warning from council. My family and I were being threatened by the aggressors while council watched without calling order. They tried to physically harm me and my family. We rightfully defended ourselves from the threats and attacks. Thankfully, my family was there to protect me as there was no proper police presence (there). Unfortunately, Flint City Council President Ladel Lewis did not take any action to prevent the turmoil which I believe was exacerbated by her ties to the offending family. Despite this, I remain determined to support the residents of Flint and the 3rd war by running for the 3rd Ward council seat. I am grateful for the support of everyone."

A.C. Dumas, Rich Jones and Kerry Nelson are also seeking to replace Quincy Murphy. They were in the audience awaiting interviews, too.

All four candidates are also on the ballot in two weeks but Genesee County Clerk Domonique Clemons and state officials have declared that vote totals won't count because the individual being recalled died before the election. Biggs-Leavy, who led the petition drive to get the recall on the ballot, has filed a lawsuit to challenge the decision not to count the Nov. 5 ballot results.

 Councilwoman Burns said she called 911 as soon as she saw Quincy Murphy's family members charging toward the council at the front of the room. She called it an "insurrection" on Flint's elected officials.

Her statement on social media was as follows: "Flint had its own insurrection as elected officials were targeted for violence while having a scheduled council meeting. The lawlessness that occurred in Flint City Council Chambers on October 14, 2024 is reprehensible and with a total disregard to the law. Hearing these individuals state and I quote 'I was was going for Tonya' …..and Ladel (Flint City Council President) was happy as he__……… It is very clear that a conspiracy to incite a riot was their clear plan. Residents, city department heads, and all others were scurrying to remove themselves from council chambers as the Vice President and President (Ladel) of the Flint City Council refused to enforce the disorderly conduct ordinance to bring order to the council chambers and allowed peoples lives to be put in jeopardy causing a very dangerous threatening situation. It is against the law to threaten ANY ELECTED OFFICIAL as the law speaks specifically to that as well as the consequences."

Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter, who represents the 5th Ward and shares the distinction as the council's longest-serving member with Councilwoman Burns, called on her colleagues to "do better" and blamed Monday's incident on Council President Dr. Lewis and Council Vice President Candace Mushatt of the 7th Ward.

WInfrey-Carter's statement said: "In my opinion, the unfortunate situation that unfolded at last night's council meeting was instigated by our council President and Vice President. Their actions and behavior incited a riot, disrupting what should been a productive and peaceful meeting. It is disheartening to witness leadership engage in conduct that inflames tensions rather than promoting respectful dialogue and unity among council members and the public. As elected officials, we are entrusted to serve and represent the people of Flint responsibly with professionalism and accountability. Last night's events fell far short of these expectations and we must do better for the community we are sworn to serve. I urge my colleagues on the council, especially our leadership, to reflect on the gravity of their actions and work toward restoring order and mutual respect in our proceedings moving forward." 

County Commissioner Delrico Lloyd, a former Flint City Councilman in the 1st Ward, issued a lengthy statement that blasted the city's top elected leaders. It's included in the story at right if you are reading on a PC or laptop, or scroll down if you are reading on your mobile device.

Councilwoman Judy Priestly of the 4th Ward said on social media: "Council members animosity toward each other spreads into the public. I implore my fellow council members to be respectful of each other and their constituents.  Each of us were elected and we try to serve our residents in the way that we feel is best for them and the city as a whole. I'm also asking members of the public to please be respectful during public speaking, not only to council members but also to the other residents on the City."

Eva Worthing, Flint's former 9th ward council member until resigning instead of fighting a recall election earlier this year, also took to social media to blast Councilwoman Burns. She said: "The irony of Tonya 'Karen' Burns calling the police. How dare she weaponize the police on innocent people who just wanted to attend a city council meeting?? Why is she afraid?? She loves it when people come to meetings to cause trouble. Oh wait. That's only the people she's friends with who antagonize her political enemies."

 Councilman Pfeiffer was the first to issue a statement, taking to Facebook to say as follows: 

“As a member of the Flint City Council, I find it deeply troubling to witness the events that unfolded at tonight's meeting. While not entirely unexpected, the behavior displayed was indeed appalling. The divisive tactics employed by the mayor and the council president, who have consistently leveraged racial rhetoric and misleading narratives, have led us to this point. Such strategies are not only misguided but are dangerously fracturing our community."

He added: "Tonight's meeting was marred by a clear intent from some audience members to disrupt and incite chaos, even threatening violence against fellow attendees. This is unacceptable in any civil society. More concerning is the apparent tolerance of such disruptive behavior by the council president, which suggests an agenda that prioritizes personal gain over community harmony and safety. Regrettably, the council president's failure to maintain order could be perceived as an endorsement of this chaos, fitting neatly into an agenda that appears to prioritize division over unity. We must reflect on these events and consider the kind of leadership we wish to see in our city. Leadership that unites rather than divides, that fosters peace rather than incites violence. I want to thank the Flint Police, Genesee County Sheriff, and the Michigan State Police that responded quickly and ensured the safety of all residents and staff during this event.”

Councilwoman Burns, who is black, also defended her white colleague Pfeiffer, saying,  "The Flint City Council has faced many challenges this year, especially with the untimely death of two of our colleagues. The fact that Mayor Neeley is now gaslighting this community by using racial tactics targeting the ith ward council member is unprofessional, unwarranted and shameful. This type of rhetoric is not something this community needs as Mayor Neeley continues to keep the City Council separate and divided as well as all sides of town by race baiting. Mayor Neeley should use his time and words developing a 'Gang Task Force' and deal with the significant amount of children who have been shot, killed while sleeping within the safety of their homes."

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Beverly Biggs-Leavy. Her daughter pulled out a gun  when family members of a former city councilman who passed away stormed toward her at a Flint City Council meeting. Police officers shut down the meeting but nobody has yet been arrested.

FLINT (CCN) — An official statement was issued by Genesee County Commissioner Delrico Lloyd after the incident with a gun being pulled out during Monday night's (Oct. 14, 2024) Flint City Council meeting. Commissioner Lloyd is a former 1st Ward Flint City Councilman who now works for the UAW International office in Detroit as well as also serving as a pastor.

His statement was as follows:

 "As I celebrate the positive contributing advocates and officials in and throughout our community, I too admonish to the strongest extent those who levy personal attacks, incite violence and hatred regardless of the perceived righteousness of their cause. Violence has no place in leadership and certainly no place in our community.

" The stoked and provoked verbal, physical and gun violence (included the brandishing of weapons) which ensued at the Flint City Council Meeting held on October 14, 2024 is just as unacceptable as the violence incited on January 6, 2021 at our nations capital. 

"The lack of an immediate response by those charged with keeping order too served as a certain and transparent indication that the culture of political incivility in the City of Flint has gone too far.  As a community we are much better than the continuous disagreement and negative discourse which has hijaked the peace and choked out the solitude of our communities culture. Our residents deserve better and we must give them better.

"Together as leaders we must both return to the foundations of the original commitments we made when running to become our residents'  representatives. Together we must recommit ourselves to truly being the positive and productive leaders our residents have entrusted us to be.     Today as I pray for the healing and progression of our community, I too ask our local leaders (responsible) to turn down the dangerous and divisive rhetoric which only agitates legitimate community discontent and further sabotages the future of our City. Instead we must demonstrate our love and stewardship through turning up our commitment to decency, maturity and professionalism. After all this is what our residents truly desire and deserve.   

"Today as I commit even the more to doing my part, I too implore our Mayor and City Council President to lead the local Executive and Legislative Branches of our local government as chief examples of the same resolve. It is my personal believe as one who previously served during one of the most peaceful times in our communities history that the progression of our community will continue to rise and fall solely on the consistency, quality and decorum of what transpires from those seats. 

"After all it is in fact through the influence and responsibility of those particularly seats that the pace is set for how the business of the City of Flint will be carried out.   As a ray of hope, I do not believe I am alone. I truly believe there are others currently elected who desire to partner in productive resolve with anyone who is truly interested in modeling mature leadership, discipline and the type of professional diplomacy that will cultivate an environment whereby our city can truly move forward.

"  I truly believe with God’s help that if we all self reflect, recommit and turn from any ways which wreak of selfless pride, personal agenda and or malice, that TOGETHER we can truly triumph in our pursuit to build a STRONGER FLINT."

 Anticipating a Brighter Future,

Delrico J. Loyd 

PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured above this story is Commissioner Delrico Lloyd.

FLINT (CCN) — Flint Police Department officials reacted to reports by Metro Flint News/Talk Radio's CCN News Wake-up Hour and The Morning Gazette Radio Show about a missing 14-year-old child in Flint by posting a bulletin on its Facebook page.

The radio reports followed dozens of social media posts about the missing child who has not been seen in two weeks.

The CCN News Wake-up Hour first carried the story at 6:30 am today (Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024) and the newscast replayed at 9:30 am.

The City of Flint Police Department's post confirmed the missing child just before noon on Thursday (Oct. 10, 2024) by saying: 

***MISSING JUVENILE***

Aaliyah Arielle Giles aka "Liyah" - 14 years old

Aaliyah was last seen on September 27, 2024, in the 400 Block of East Ridgeway Ave. in Flint, Michigan. She was believed to be last wearing black Crocs, or possibly gray and white Jordan sneakers, black sweatpants, or possibly blue jeans. Please contact Officer Frye at 810-237-6825 or call 911 if you have any information or know of her whereabouts and reference FPD Complaint Number 24-900861.

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