In Plymouth Township, a small community located half an hour west of Detroit, sparks are flying high as the primary race between incumbent township supervisor, Kurt Heise, and his opponent, Charles Curmi, turns ugly with claims and counterclaims. The two Republican candidates are busy presenting themselves as the true conservative while accusing the other of going against traditional party values.
Heise, the current township supervisor is facing accusations of being a “RINO” – which stands for Republican In Name Only. It is a term used to indicate someone who claims to be a Republican but shares more values with the opposing party, the Democrats. Heise is also under fire for allegedly changing the character of the township by encouraging types of development seen by some as inappropriate.
Local resident Howard Hamerink expressed shock over the hostile tonality of the ongoing campaigns. He pointed at the bitter exchanges between the candidates and remarked that elections weren’t conducted this way back in the day in this peaceful town with a 27,000 strong population.
The bitterness, however, is not just restricted to the township supervisor’s race. Other GOP incumbents, like Jen Buckley, Audrey Monaghan, and John Stewart are also at odds with challengers such as Greg Bill, Daniel Callahan, Mark Clinton, Sandy Groth and Paul Schultz. The contest between these candidates is intensifying as election day approaches, with all attempting to secure a spot in the Nov. 5 general election.
The heart of some disputes appears to be surrounding the future development plans for Plymouth Township, which include a prospective Meijer store and a proposed agreement relating to the former Northville Downs racetrack. Such projects are viewed as out of character for the area by some residents.
Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz expressed disappointment over the level of hostility between candidates, all of whom he has known for years. The campaign seems to have reached a new level of animosity with reports of anti-Heise articles being distributed through a so-called fake newspaper. Even the candidates running for the position of the township clerk are not spared from this hostile environment.
Amidst this series of accusations and counteraccusations, the future of Plymouth Township hangs in the balance. Both local residents and candidates alike are hoping for a swift resolution to the bitter fighting, allowing the town to refocus on addressing community concerns and fostering growth.
