During routine discussion on the second reading of a proposed PUD development on the southeast corner of Sashabaw and Waldon roads, Independence Township trustees came across a touchy subject called ‘conflict of interest.?
The issue arouse while trustees reviewed the final details of developer Fred Ritter’s proposal for climate controlled, self-storage units in the Sashabaw Corridor.
Treasurer Jim Wenger brought the possible issue forward. He explained that during this proposal the petitioner, Mr. Ritter, was represented by the law firm Carlstrom Cooney ? the same firm representing the township in the matter.
‘My concern is that I don’t want to have a conflict of interest in this matter,? said Wenger.
Supervisor Dave Wagner said during discussion that he spoke with the treasurer and the clerk on the matter previously and a verbal waiver was received on the matter.
During discussion on the matter, Ritter explained that he has worked with Carlstrom Cooney since the 1980s; however, upon learning of the potential conflict, hired another firm to review his development documents.
‘My understanding is it was not a conflict,? said Ritter. ‘When I learned it was possibly so, we had another attorney review it.?
Several trustees assured Ritter they were not questioning his project; however, several stated that written waivers should be formally approved by the board in these matters.
‘I do not believe this situation is appropriate,? said Trustee Dan Kelly. ‘I don’t think anything has occurred in particular to this case, but there should be waivers.?
Clerk Shelagh VanderVeen said she only became aware of the possible conflict about a month ago when Ritter told her about the situation.
A motion by Trustee Dan Travis requiring a waiver before the board whenever the township attorneys are involved in both sides of a legal action passed unanimously.
The second reading on Ritters self-storage, PUD development also passed unanimously.
In other township business:
? The first reading to amend the township zoning ordinances with a keyholing provision was removed from the agenda for the evening.
? Several township vehicles were sold through a bid process. Selling prices ranged from $25 for a 1993 Pontiac Sunbird to $1601.99 for a 1996 Grand Prix.
? The board approved financing for two new fire trucks through LaSalle Bank at an interest rate of 4.06 percent. Trustees voted to place $225,000 as a down payment on the purchase of the trucks and finance the remaining $710,000.
For more background information on the two new trucks being purchased by the township for almost $1 million, please go online to www.clarkstonnews.com and type ‘Township gets new trucks? into the search engine.