Red Hot Politics Heat Up In Plymouth Township Ahead of Primary Elections
In the quiet township of Plymouth located in western Wayne County area, things have been anything but calm in the lead up to the primary elections. Plymouth, a place known for its tranquil living, friendly neighborhoods and easygoing lifestyle, now finds itself in the throes of a tough Political battle. It’s all between current township supervisor Kurt Heise and his opponent Charles Curmi, a board trustee. A race that is becoming something of a spectacle with both sides exchanging jabs on a regular basis.
From social media to direct mailers and text messages, this battle has seen it all. Interestingly, these guys are both Republicans, and accusations are flying on who is more conservative. Heise, who has been the township supervisor since 2016, has been labeled as a “RINO” (Republican In Name Only) by an unknown website. His critics also fault him for facilitating unwanted developments in the area.
What’s caused this division and mounting tension within Plymouth’s GOP? That’s the big question. A growing discontent about plans for a future Meijer store and a proposed deal concerning the former Northville Downs racetrack has been bothering folks. Other issues include governance style, transparency, and taxation. But, is this rage justified? Or is it just politics?
Typically, Plymouth has always been relatively calm come election season. At least, that’s what some long-term residents believe. “We’ve not had elections like this in the past”, says Howard Hamerink, a local who’s pretty familiar with Plymouth’s politics.
Even so, these are not ordinary times. Almost all serving Republican board members have opponents in the primary. That includes Jen Buckley, Audrey Monaghan, and John Stewart. Greg Bill, Daniel Callahan, Mark Clinton, Sandy Groth, and Paul Schultz are all challenging the incumbents. The top four in the Tuesday GOP primaries will faceoff against Bob Miller, Angela Nolan, and Michael Westra, all Democrats, in the November 5 general elections.
For other top township roles, Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz is being challenged by Janai Stepp, while Clerk Jerry Vorva faces opposition from Andrew Miller. Miller, if successful, will compete against the only Democrat in the race, Nancy Conzelman.
From a local perspective, this election has become one for the history books. The level of vitriol and viciousness in the campaign is something people are just not used to. The area’s Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz, who’s been serving the township for over 20 years, finds it all disappointing. According to him, the race has become about attacking personalities rather than addressing issues.
And at the end of the day, it’s not really about who throws the heaviest punches. It’s about who has the best ideas to make Plymouth a better township for its residents and future generations. It’s about who is willing to listen and work with the community. Ultimately, it’s the voters who will have the last say.
