Judge Rules on Financial Review Teams

Ingham County Circuit Court Judge William Collette ruled last week that the financial review teams operating under Public Act 4 of 2011 (the “Emergency Manager Act”) and looking into the finances of Highland Park Schools and the City of Detroit were doing so in violation of the Open Meetings Act. This week, Judge Collette ruled that, because of the violation of the Open Meetings Act, the work done by both review teams is invalidated.

While the State discusses potential appeal with attorneys, the Detroit review team is continuing their work in compliance with the Open Meetings Act, according to the Department of Treasury. The situation in Highland Park; however, is more complicated as an emergency manager has already been named.

Plaintiffs in the case claim that Judge Collette’s ruling invalidates the appointment of emergency manager Jack Martin as this was recommended by the review team, which was operating in violation of the law. The State, however, disagrees and foresees Mr. Martin continuing to operate in his capacity as emergency manager.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, February 17, 2012 9:56 AM
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