Recall Language for Supervisor Ric Davis Not Approved
On Wednesday, September 9, the Oakland County Election Commission held a public hearing to review proposed recall language filed against Springfield Township Supervisor Ric Davis. The Commission determined that the proposed language met the factual requirement, but ultimately voted not to approve the petition because members did not believe the wording was sufficiently clear.
Under Michigan law, the Election Commission’s role at this stage is limited. The Commission does not determine whether the reasons for a recall are justified or whether an elected official should be removed from office. They do not review evidence or investigate the claim. Its responsibility is to determine whether the reason stated in the petition is factual and sufficiently clear for the elected official and voters to identify the conduct forming the basis of the recall. If either requirement is not met, the petition must be rejected.
The three members of the Oakland County Election Commission present were:
- Jennifer Callaghan, Chief Probate Judge and Chair of the Election Commission
- Lisa Brown, Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds
- Robert Wittenberg, Oakland County Treasurer
Oakland County identifies these three officials as the members of the Board of County Election Commissioners. Also seated with the Commission were Joseph Rozell, Director of Elections; Heather Kadulski, Elections Supervisor; and a representative from Oakland County Corporation Counsel.
Nearly a dozen Springfield Township residents attended the hearing in support of the recall petition.
Two individuals spoke in opposition:
– Jeffrey T. Neilson, an attorney who appeared on behalf of Supervisor Davis
– Oakland County Commissioner Bob Hoffman
What Happens Next?
The Commission’s decision does not prevent new recall language from being submitted.
Michigan election guidance allows recall sponsors to revise the language and file a new proposed petition. A new filing would trigger another factuality and clarity hearing before the Oakland County Election Commission.
The sponsors may also appeal the Commission’s September 9 determination to Oakland County Circuit Court. An appeal must be filed within 10 calendar days of the Commission’s decision. I spoke with the filing residents who stated they do not wish to appeal, but rather they will refile a new, clearer petition.
For more information, residents can follow the process 2 ways:
1. Oko Environmental Recall Page
2. ByeByeRic.com
Oko Environmental will continue updating the Springfield Township Supervisor Ric Davis Recall: Timeline & Public Documents page as additional public records, filings and decisions become available.
This work is supported entirely by residents. To support this work, you can:
-> Tell your neighbors about Oko Environmental
-> Come to Township Meetings
-> Make a contribution for the time & resource intensive work being done
