LEONI TOWNSHIP, Mich. — In what some are calling a sneaky and rushed special meeting in Leoni Township, led to the firing of the township's attorney and a board member's resignation.
The meeting was called to discuss several things, including the removal of the Township Attorney, Eric White. But many were upset at how the meeting was scheduled, it was posted late Friday, and on a holiday weekend.
"I'd just like to say one thing. In my opinion, this meeting is null and void because of the scrupolous way it was done," one resident said during public comment.
Residents say they weren't necessarily surprised about the tensions at today's meeting because of the issues that have been going on.
"We still do not have a board that is able to function together. So its disheartening that a lot of the effort that people went into recalling a couple officials, really hasn't gotten us to where we need to be," Neeta Delaney said.
They voted 5-1 to remove White, citing his involvment in medical marijuana application fee pay-structure and a past bankruptcy for the reason. In addition. Trustee Corey Kennedy submitted his letter of resignation. Kennedy will be sworn in as the township's county commissioner come January. Residents say they hope new faces will bring positive changes.
"I truly hope that they start doing what is in the best interests of the residents of this township. Because we the residents, deserve nothing less," Kimberly Dean said.
The township supervisor, Howard abstained from the vote for White's removal, saying the vote wasn't legal. He told me after the meeting he just hopes the board can get along in the new year.
"I'm hoping to but its going to be very tough. Just look at the attitude of the meeting tonight. Basically our township is divided. We've got to amend and hopefully we can do that this year," Linnabary said.
The next meeting will be Jan. 8th at 6:00 p.m. It is unclear who will replace Kennedy, who's resignation takes effect January 14th.
