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This Holiday Season - Designate a Sober Driver
The Novi Police Department urges everyone to designate a sober driver

For more information, contact: David Molloy Chief of Police (248) 347-0504
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 14, 2005

The holiday season between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest on Michigan roadways and potentially one of the most dangerous because of inclement weather, heavier traffic and the increased chances of impaired driving due to holiday gatherings.

That’s why the Novi Police Department is joining with more than 550 other law enforcement agencies across the state in a drunk driving crackdown between December 19, 2005 and January 1, 2006. Law enforcement officers want to remind everyone this holiday season to always designate a sober driver before each holiday party or event involving alcohol.

"The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive celebrations, but it is unfortunately also a time when we see a tragic jump in the number of alcohol-related highway fatalities", said Novi Police Chief David Molloy. "That’s why we are reminding everyone early this holiday season to designate a sober driver."

Motorists are reminded that Michigan’s threshold for drunk driving is .08 blood alcohol content and the costs associated with a drunk driving arrest are substantial. In addition to court costs and fines, convicted drunk drivers are also subject to an additional $2,000 assessment included in the driver responsibility program.

In Michigan, 37 percent of traffic fatalities involve alcohol and/or drugs. Although alcohol-related fatalities have been decreasing annually, there were still 418 traffic deaths in 2004 where alcohol and / or drugs were involved.

Every 30 minutes, nearly 50 times a day, someone in America dies in an alcohol-related crash. Hundreds of thousands more are injured each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about three in every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives. "Designating a sober driver before the party begins is just one of several, simple steps to remember to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving," Chief Molloy said, while offering these other simple reminders for a safer holiday season:

If you are hosting a party this holiday season, remind your guests to plan ahead, always offer alcohol-free beverages during the event, and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

Since 1981, December has been proclaimed as "National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month" to help underscore the public’s commitment to preventing impaired driving and promoting the use of designated drivers and sober ride programs. The month of December and the New Year’s Eve holiday are also often highlighted by significant increases in state and local law enforcement efforts to combat impaired driving such as the use of sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols.

"Driving impaired or riding with someone who is impaired is simply not worth the risk," Chief Molloy said. "The consequences are serious and real. Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be significant."

GFOA Announces City of Novi is Recipient of their Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

Government Finance Officers Association Press Release

For more information, contact: David E. Molloy, Chief of Police, (248) 347-0504
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Novi, Michigan, – On October 31, 2005, Halloween will come to life once again for the "trick-or-treaters" of Novi. In all of the excitement, the night of Halloween can cause children and adults to forget some rules about safety. Police Chief David Molloy reminds residents that there really is no "trick" to making Halloween a real "treat" for the entire family. The major dangers are not from witches or spirits but rather from falls and pedestrian/car crashes.

In Novi, recommended trick or treat hours are between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

"The men and women of the Novi Police Department always strive to partner with our residents to provide the children of Novi with the safest possible environment to celebrate the time honored tradition of trick-or-treating" said Chief Molloy. "If the following safety rules are adhered to, it will allow officers patrolling our neighborhoods to resolve problems before they arise."

Halloween Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips:

Children should:

When walking in neighborhoods Children should:

Parents and adults should:

Parents and adults should ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters:

And a few tips about pumpkins:

Chief Molloy points out that Halloween poses special risks to young pedestrians. Children engaged in "trick or treat" activities frequently cross streets at mid-block rather than at corners or crosswalks, putting them at risk for pedestrian injury. Also, many parents overestimate children's street-crossing skills. Children are likely to choose the shortest rather than the safest route across streets, often darting out between parked cars. In addition, young children do not evaluate potential traffic threats effectively, cannot anticipate driver behavior, and process sensory information more slowly than adults.

So, before you allow your goblins and ghosts to go trick or treating this year, please help explain the basic Halloween safety rules.

David E. Molloy promoted to Novi Police Chief
Formal Promotion Ceremony scheduled for 12:45pm today

CONTACT: Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Novi, Michigan, September 30, 2005 – On September 28, 2005, David E. Molloy, was promoted to Novi Police Chief. Chief Molloy previously served as the Deputy Police Chief and, most recently, as Acting Police Chief following the passing of Chief Douglas Shaeffer in August, 2005. Chief Molloy is only the third police chief to serve the Novi community.

"I was pleased to appoint Acting Police Chief David Molloy to the position of Police Chief," said City Manager Rick Helwig. "We are very fortunate to have someone of his leadership and management capabilities within our leadership ranks who will stay with Novi for many years to come. He will continue to garner the respect of the City organization and lead the Police Department in an outstanding fashion. Like Chief Shaeffer, he will be unflappable in time of emergency."

A 16-year veteran of the Novi Police Department, Chief Molloy joined the department upon graduating from Saginaw Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. He is a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University School of Police Staff and Command and the Center for Excellence in Police Management Studies. In 2003, he received his Master in Liberal Studies Degree in Interdisciplinary Technology from Eastern Michigan University.

Chief Molloy has distinguished himself as a leader since joining the Novi Police Department in 1989. In 1995, he was promoted to rank of Detective and, in 1997 to the rank of Sergeant. He achieved the rank of Lieutenant in 2003 and was promoted to Deputy Chief in February, 2005.

Chief Molloy is a member of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He also serves as the Executive Board President of the Fraternal Order of Police of Southwest Oakland County.

Chief Molloy serves on the Novi Youth Assistance General Advisory Board and has been honored previously as the Novi Police Officer of the Year.

A Formal Promotion Ceremony is scheduled for this afternoon at approximately 12:45pm, following the annual Police Recognition Awards Program, in the Police Department Training Center, located at 45125 W. Ten Mile Road.

Two Charged in Robbery of Golden Oaks Party Store
Chief credits observant citizen, detectives with quick arrest

The Novi Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection with the armed robbery and felonious assault at Golden Oaks Party Store on September 9, 2005.

Detectives from the Novi Police Department arrested suspect Christopher Oneal, 20, of Westland on September 10, 2005 at his residence.  Suspect Foye Ware, 44, of Detroit was arrested on September 12, 2005 at his place of employment in Detroit.

Oneal was arraigned on September 11, 2005 in Pontiac where his bond was set at $100,000. Ware was arraigned at the 52-1 District Court in Novi on September 12, 2005 and his bond was set at $25,000.  Both subjects were charged with one count of armed robbery that is punishable by any number of years up to life in prison.

On September 9, 2005 at 10:05 a.m., the owner of the Golden Oaks Party Store located at 24185 Haggerty Road, just south of Ten Mile Road, was robbed and assaulted as she was opening the store for business.

As the store owner was approaching the business to unlock the front door, two black males came out from behind the business and grabbed a hold of the owner.

At that time, one of the suspects struck the owner on the head with a semi-automatic handgun. The two suspects grabbed the owner's purse which contained an undetermined amount of money and fled the area on foot. It is believed the suspects ran to a vehicle that was parked in the area.

The owner was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for lacerations to the head area and released.

Detectives were able to identify the two suspects by following up on a suspicious person complaint filed on August 26, 2005. The complainant reported that two subjects appeared to be "casing" the party store and reported their license number and vehicle description to police.
The vehicle that was seen on the 26th of August turned out to be the vehicle that was driven by the suspects on September 9, 2005.

Acting Novi Police Chief David Molloy explains, "This case is a perfect example of the importance of citizens of our community reporting suspicious incidents to the police as soon as possible. Community involvement and participation can be a valuable tool in not only solving crime, but also in preventing crimes from occurring.

Molloy also states, "The detectives working on this case did an outstanding job of following up on all leads in a very quick and effective fashion. Within 24 hours of this incident being reported, we had our first suspect in custody and we were learning significant details about how this crime was planned and carried out."

ONeal is due back in court for a preliminary examination on October 13, 2005 in front of Judge Powers. Ware is due back in court for a preliminary examination conference on September 21, 2005. 

Both men remain incarcerated at the Oakland County Jail.

Two charged in larceny of 20,000 gallons of fuel

Novi Police Department officers arrest two Oakland County residents for stealing and selling fuel to southeastern Michigan gas stations for personal profit

CONTACT: David Molloy, Acting Police Chief , 248-348-7100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NOVI, Michigan, September 15, 2005 – The Novi Police Department announced today the arrest of two Oakland County men for stealing more than 20,000 gallons of gasoline from Delta Fuels, 40600 Grand River, a Novi fuel distribution company. The arrests are expected to be the first in an ongoing joint investigation with the Novi Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) that may involve hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen gasoline from metropolitan Detroit fuel companies.

On Wednesday, September 14, 2005, Novi Police Department officers arrested William Shannon Cox, 39, at his Waterford home and Michael Omar Malone, 34, of Clarkston who turned himself in to police in Novi (photos attached). Both were arraigned Wednesday afternoon by Judge Dennis Powers in Novi’s 52-1 District Court on one count each of False Pretenses $20,000 or more and Conspiracy to Commit False Pretenses $20,000 or more, both of which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. In addition, both may be fined $15,000 or three times the value of the property involved, whichever is greater. Judge Powers set both defendants’ bond at $250,000 cash/surety and they will be back at the 52-1 District Court before Judge Robert Bondy on September 21 at 9:15am for a preliminary examination conference.

The charges arose out of an investigation that began with the Novi Police Department in October, 2003. As the investigation progressed, Novi detectives entered into a joint investigation with the FBI. The case was referred to the Attorney General’s Criminal Division for prosecution in August, 2005, with additional suspects being pursued.

"In light of recent homeland security initiatives, the Novi Police Department promptly began a long-term, sustained investigation," said Acting Police Chief David Molloy. "It became apparent early in the investigation that the operation involved numerous individuals who were selling the fuel for personal profit throughout southeastern Michigan. The investigation continues, with our detectives pursing leads on several additional suspects."

Allegedly, William Cox, a truck driver, obtained the personal identification number (PIN) of another commercial fuel driver employed by SJC Transport of Commerce Township. Cox allegedly used this PIN to steal more than 20,000 gallons of fuel from Delta Fuels and conspired with Malone to sell the stolen fuel to gas stations throughout metropolitan Detroit.

For more information, contact Chief of Police David Molloy at 248-348-7100.

Novi Police Department investigates two suspicious incidents involving males approaching juveniles

Contact: David Molloy, Acting Police Chief, 248-348-7100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NOVI, Mich., September 12, 2005 – The Novi Police Department is investigating two incidents involving juveniles being approached by suspicious males.

On September 9 at approximately 5:00pm, a 10-year old girl was walking in the West Gate VI apartment complex (Pontiac Trail and West Park Drive) when she was approached by a white male in his late 40’s with straight white hair. The male was driving a dark green or black mini van with tinted rear windows. The male asked the girl to get in the van and show him where a neighboring apartment complex was located. The male told the girl he would have to close the van door after she got inside to keep the bugs out and that he had some ice cream in the back of the van. The male opened the van door and the girl observed what she believed to be a bed in the back of the van. The girl walked away and the van drove off. The male never exited the van and no physical attempt was made to abduct the girl.

While investigating the above incident and conducting follow-up interviews in the immediate area following the above incident, a second juvenile reported a similar incident.

On September 7 at approximately 5:00pm, an 11-year old boy was walking in the West Gate VI apartment complex when he was approached by a white male in his late 40’s with straight white hair. The male was driving a dark green or black mini van with tinted rear windows. The male asked the boy for directions to a neighboring apartment complex and then offered the boy some ice cream. The boy walked away and the male yelled for the boy to "come back." The van then drove off. The male never exited the van and made no physical attempt to abduct the boy.

The Novi Police Department has contacted all area schools and law enforcement agencies.

The Novi Police Department requests anyone with additional information contact Detective Sergeant Matt Conquest at 248-347-0530.

Novi Police Search for Robbery Suspects

For more information, contact: Detective Todd Anger, 248-348-7100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NOVI, Mich., September 09, 2005 – This morning at 10:05am, the owner of the Golden Oaks Party Store located at 24185 Haggerty Rd. was robbed and assaulted as she was opening the store for business. As the store owner was approaching the business to unlock the front door two black males came out from behind the business and grabbed a hold of the owner. At that time one of the suspects struck the owner on the head with a semi automatic handgun. The two suspects grabbed the owner’s purse which contained an undetermined amount of money and fled the area on foot. It is believed the suspects ran to a vehicle that was parked in the area.

The owner was transported to a local hospital where she is being treated for lacerations to the head area. The injuries are not life threatening.

Suspect #1 is described as a light-complected black male wearing a white t-shirt and denim jeans. The approximate age of the suspect is 16 to 20 years old. The suspect’s approximate height is 5’07" – 5’10" and has a thin to medium build. The suspect was furthered described as clean shaven with short hair.

Suspect #2 is described as a light-complected black male wearing a grey t-shirt. The approximate age of the suspect is also 16 – 20 years old. The suspect’s approximate height is also 5’07" to 5’10" and has a thin build. The suspect was furthered described as having short hair.

If anyone has information on this incident they are urged to contact Detective Todd Anger of the Novi Police Department at (248) 348-7100.

Attorney General Mike Cox Reminds Consumers to Make Informed Donations to Hurricane Katrina Charities
For Immediate Release: September 2, 2005

Attorney General Mike Cox Press Release

Novi mourns passing of Police Chief Douglas F. Shaeffer

CONTACT: Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Novi, Michigan, August 16, 2005 – It is with great sadness that the City of Novi announces the passing of Police Chief Douglas F. Shaeffer, 60, on Monday, August 15 at his Novi residence. He died of natural causes. Chief Shaeffer was only the second police chief to serve the Novi community, having been with the department for 14 years.

Shaeffer began his law enforcement career with the Oklahoma City Police Department in 1969, after serving in the United States Air Force. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Oklahoma City University and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma. He was a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

During his tenure with the Oklahoma City Police Department he rose to the rank of Captain of the Administration Bureau, before departing in 1991.

He joined the Novi Police Department in July, 1991 as the Deputy Police Chief and was appointed to Chief of Police in November, 1991.

As the Novi Police Chief, Shaeffer was a visionary who brought community oriented policing to Novi. He emphasized forming proactive partnerships with organizations throughout the community to reduce crime and public fear.

Shaeffer greatly advanced the technology initiative of the Novi Police Department by instituting laptop field report writing and oversaw the renovation of the Police Department and addition of the Training Center. He was instrumental in forming the South Oakland Narcotics Intelligence Consortium (SONIC) and furthered the ability of the Department to conduct essential drug investigations. Most recently, Shaeffer participated in one of the largest international drug investigations ever conducted in the Metro Detroit area, seizing more than $15 million in narcotics trafficking proceeds.

"I have known Chief Shaeffer for more than 10 years and have always known him to be a consummate chief and a professional," said Lou Csordas, City of Novi Mayor. "He was a true statesman and exceptional leader who developed what I believe is the top police department in the country."

"Chief Shaeffer prided himself in building the capacity of the Novi Police Department to serve a fast growing community," said Rick Helwig, City Manager. "He encouraged everyone in the Department to achieve as much education as possible. He lived and breathed public service."

Shaeffer was a graduate of the 177th session FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He was a member of the International Association of Chiefs’ of Police (IACP) and a member of the Michigan Association of Chiefs’ of Police (MACP). He was also the chairperson of the Community Oriented Policing and Crime Prevention Committee for the MACP.

He founded the Novi Community that Cares Coalition and was a past president of the Oakland County Chiefs of Police. He also served for more than 10 years on the Novi Chamber of Commerce Board. He was a member of the Novi Rotary and was recently awarded the Paul Harris Fellow Award from Rotary International. He served on the President’s Advisory Committee for Walsh College and the Foundation Board of Directors for Schoolcraft College.

Shaeffer was honored in 2003 with the Order of Charity Award from Providence Hospital for outstanding contributions to the community and was recently appointed to the National Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Committee (NDDC) of the International Association of Chiefs’ of Police and the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration.

Shaeffer established the Cancer Charity Classic, a golf tournament that generated nearly $100,000 for local cancer research.

Shaeffer is survived by his wife, Loretta, sons Mark (Deana) and Matthew (Beth), seven grandchildren, parents William and Louise Shaeffer, and sister Alice (Tom) Katona.

Visitation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, August 17 and 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, August 18 at the O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Avenue. Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 19 at Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. Thirteen Mile Road.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Providence Health Foundation in memory of Doug Shaeffer, 22255 W. Nine Mile Road, Suite 228, Southfield, MI 48075.

You Drink & Drive. You Lose.

CITY OF NOVI - POLICE DEPARTMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Sergeant Terry L. Whitfield

August 3, 2005

NOVI, Michigan – Even though the hot days of summer are waning, the Novi Police Department is warning residents not to let a drunk driving arrest put a chill on their end of summer fun.

From August 19 through September 5, Novi Officers are joining with nearly 500 Michigan Law Enforcement Agencies during a statewide You Drink & Drive. You Lose, drunk driving crackdown. This crackdown includes the Labor Day holiday weekend, which typically marks the end of summer.

In Michigan, a motorist can be arrested for drunk driving with .08 blood alcohol content or higher. A drunk driving conviction carries with it an assortment of penalties, including court costs and fines, increased car insurance rates, legal fees and $2,000 in driver responsibility fees program.

"High police visibility can save some lives, because we know that people tend to take more effort to avoid a ticket or arrest than to protect their own lives", said Novi Police Sergeant Terry Whitfield. "We have all heard statistics about drunk driving, but here is a sobering statistic that everyone should listen to; 50 times a day, someone in America dies in an alcohol related crash".

Last Labor Day weekend, 11 people died in crashes on Michigan’s roadways. Four of those fatalities involved alcohol. In Novi during this same holiday weekend last year, 6 people were arrested for drunk driving, and fortunately none of the arrests involved any fatalities on Novi roadways.

In Michigan, 36 percent of traffic fatalities involve alcohol and/or drugs. In 2004, alcohol and /or drugs played a role in 418 deaths.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For additional information:
Douglas F. Shaeffer
Chief of Police
Novi Police Department
248-347-0504

"Illegal drugs continue to be one of the major detriments to our society. The tolls associated with substance abuse are horrendous and are clearly measurable in terms of the negative impact it has on people. Exceptionally high crime rates, lost productivity, deaths, violence, and huge medical costs are all directly related to substance abuse. Today, more people are undergoing treatment for abuse of marijuana than for any other reason.

The men and women of the Novi Police Department are very proud to play a role in attacking and bring down such a significant illegal drug operation and advancing the investigation that made it possible."

Novi Police Arrest Armed Robbery Suspect

July 8, 2005

On Thursday, July 7, 2004, Officers of the Novi Police Department, Oakland County Sheriff Office and the South Oakland Narcotics Intelligence Consortium (SONIC) arrested a 21-year-old Howell resident in connection with the July 3, 2005 armed robbery of the Speedway Gas Station, located at Ten Mile and Novi Roads.

The suspect was also charged with the armed robbery of a Speedway Gas Station in Commerce Township on July 7, 2005.

On July 8, 2005, the suspect was arraigned in front of Magistrate Richardson of the 52-1 District Court in Novi and is currently lodged in the Oakland County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

Novi Police Search for Jewelry Store Theft Suspect

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact: Detective Kevin Gilmore, 248-347-0551

NOVI, Mich., June 15, 2005 – This morning at 10:59 a.m., the Novi Police Department responded to the report of a theft at Bailey Banks & Biddle, a jewelry store located at Twelve Oaks Mall.

A customer entered the jewelry store and asked to look at a diamond ring in a display case. When the store employee handed the customer the ring, the subject took the ring and ran out of the store and the mall. An immediate search did not locate the subject or the diamond ring. The one to two-carat diamond ring in a platinum setting is valued at more than $18,000.

The subject is described as a lone Black male in his 20’s. He is approximately 6’3" tall, weighs approximately 150-170 pounds, and has short hair, a goatee and an unkempt beard. He was wearing a striped or checkered polo-style shirt, denim shorts and white shoes. No escape vehicle has been identified.

Novi Police Detectives are continuing their investigation. If anyone has information regarding this incident, please contact Detective Kevin Gilmore, Novi Police Department, at (248) 347-0551.

Police Chief Speaks Out on Hosting Parties for Underage Drinking

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact: Douglas F. Shaeffer, 248-347-0504

City of Novi, Mich., June 8, 2005 – On Sunday May 1, 2005, at approximately 3 am, the Novi Police Department arrested a Novi homeowner at his residence located in the Greenwood Oaks Subdivision in Novi for hosting an open house party and for parental responsibility – allowing underage youth to consume alcohol. Thirteen (13) minors were also arrested at this location for minor in possession of alcohol by consumption (MIP). These persons were all between 16 and 20 years of age and were all under the influence of alcohol. Their blood alcohol content (BAC) ranged from .029% to .11%. A BAC of .08% is the legal limit for driving by adults. No level of alcohol is permissible by those under the age of 21.

Circumstances

During the early morning hours of May 1, 2005, Novi Police officers responded to this area after receiving a complaint of young persons in the yard drinking alcoholic beverages. Arriving officers made observations that led them to believe that there was a large party going on at this location where alcohol was being served and that several of the persons in attendance were under 21 years of age. Contact was made with the homeowner who stated he was allowing his daughter to have a party to celebrate her 18th birthday. He would not allow officers to enter his home for further investigation.

Officers prepared a search warrant for the residence and it was authorized by Judge Brian MacKenzie of the 52-1 District Court. This search warrant was presented to the homeowner, who then allowed officers to enter his home without conflict. Upon entering the home, Novi Police officers identified thirteen (13) individuals who had consumed and/or possessed alcohol and were under the legal drinking age of 21.

These minors were arrested and charged with minor in possession by consumption (MIP). The homeowner was also taken into custody and charged under local ordinance for violation of open house party and for parental responsibility – allowing underage youth to consume alcohol.

Eleven (11) of the arrested persons were between the ages of 17 and 20. The other two (2) persons arrested were 16 years of age and they were released to their parents pending further action in Juvenile Court.

"The party’s host created a situation that not only permitted, but actually encouraged youth by their mere attendance to commit an illegal act," commented Novi Police Chief Doug Shaeffer. "That act resulted in the criminal arrest of eleven (11) of the youths and the referral of two (2) 16 year olds to Juvenile Court. This homeowner took it upon himself to violate the standards set by law and by other parents when he allowed youth to consume alcohol at his house, some in excess of the legal limits allowed for adults."

Chief Shaeffer went on to emphasize that the Novi Police Department is committed to ensuring the health and safety of all young people throughout the community. With graduation season upon us, the Novi Police Department is committed to forming proactive partnerships with organizations throughout Novi who are devoted to preventing incidents like this and who are steadfast in preventing substance and alcohol abuse by the youth in our community. It is important that our parents and young people understand the ramifications and deadly results that can come from underage alcohol consumption. Parents throughout our community are personally outraged that a fellow parent violated the law and allowed underage youth to consume alcoholic beverages in their home. In this case the arrested parent has to answer criminal charges, but it is also important to remember the potential for civil liability at such events. The Novi Police Department strongly discourages this unlawful activity and will remain proactive in the illegal abuse of alcohol by our young people.

The Novi Police Department completely supports the Novi Communities that Care Coalition in their "Parents Who Host Lose the Most" campaign. This effort is also sponsored and supported by the Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities (ACHC) and the Oakland County Health Division.

On Monday, May 9, 2005, Mayor Lou Csordas, on behalf of the Novi City Council, signed the following proclamation that is on display in the Novi Civic Center:

PROCLAMATION

We hereby express our commitment to address underage drinking.

We will encourage and support the efforts of our local substance abuse prevention coalitions to educate parents in the community about the health and safety risks and legal responsibility of providing alcohol at teen parties.

Additional contacts:

Ms. Beth Belter
Executive Director
Novi Communities that Care Coalition
45125 W. Ten Mile Road
Novi, Michigan 48375
248-347-0572.

The Honorable Judge Brian MacKenzie
52nd District Court - 1st Division
48150 Grand River Avenue
Novi, Michigan 48374
248-305-6067

City of Novi seeking youth to serve on newly formed Youth Council and Boards and Commissions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628

Novi, Michigan, April 20, 2005 –The Novi City Council recently adopted two policy resolutions encouraging Novi youth to become civically active within the community either as a student representative on a Board or Commission or as a member of the City of Novi Youth Council.

To promote student youth participation and leadership in government, the City of Novi has established the placement of one student representative on certain City boards, commissions and committees, in an ex-officio role. These students will provide a valuable perspective on community issues, learn how local city government operates and makes decisions, and establish service and volunteer habits for the future. Students can be appointed to the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commission; Historical Commission; Beautification Commission; Library Board; and Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee.

The 13-member Youth Council is charged with the responsibility of making recommendations to the City of Novi concerning the needs of children, youth, and families of the city and the appropriate means by which public and private agencies in cooperation with volunteer efforts may address such needs. Members must be Novi residents at the high school level (entering freshmen or older). The Youth Council will:

Interested students will be appointed by the City Council based upon application completion, a written essay, and an interview.

Applications are available at the City Clerk’s Office located at 45175 W. Ten Mile Road, or by clicking on the link below.  Applications will be accepted at the City Clerk’s Office through June 8, 2005 at 4:00pm. On June 13, 2005, City Council will conduct interviews for all applicants before appointments are made to the Youth Council, Boards, and Commissions for 2005-2006 terms.
Youth Council Application

Read more on the Novi Youth Council here.

Meadowbrook Road Bridge Closed
Between Nine and Ten Mile Roads

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact: Sheryl Walsh
248-735-5628 office
248-343-8468 mobile

NOVI, Mich., April 5, 2005, – To ensure the safety of the motoring public, as of midnight this evening the City of Novi will close the Meadowbrook Road Bridge between Nine and Ten Mile Roads until a replacement bridge can be constructed this summer. No through traffic is allowed. The north/south detour routes are Taft and Haggerty Roads.

Damage to the bridge, built in 1976, developed throughout the winter. City of Novi Public Works personnel recently discovered holes in the bridge warranting further inspection by a State certified structural engineer. That engineering report received this afternoon concludes that the bridge structure is unsafe. Water penetrated through the deck into the bridge’s support structure and many freeze/thaw cycles this winter caused extensive damage to the structural components, concrete and steel.

For more information, please contact Community Relations Manager Sheryl Walsh at (248) 735-5628.

Work to Begin March 29 on Novi/10 Mile Intersection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Craig Bryson, Public Information Officer
(248) 645-2000, ext. 2302
RCOC

Beverly Hills, Mich. — Tomorrow, Tuesday, March 29, the contractor for the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) will resume work on the project to widen the intersection of 10 Mile and Novi roads in Novi. Motorists should expect increased congestion at the intersection due to the elimination of the temporary right-turn lanes for westbound 10 Mile and southbound Novi that were put in place for the winter.

The project involves widening all four approaches to the intersection to five lanes and widening Novi Road to five lanes 1,000 feet north and south of the intersection. At the intersection, each direction will include a center left-turn lane, a dedicated through lane and a through/right-turn lane.

The east and south sides of the intersection improvement were completed last year. The north and west sides are expected to be completed by mid-July.

The total project cost is approximately $6 million, with 80 percent funded through a Michigan Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF), Category C, grant. The TEDF is made up of state and federal funds. Category C grants are awarded to projects that help to relieve congestion caused by economic development. The remaining 20 percent of the project cost is being split evenly between RCOC and city of Novi.

The contractor for the project is Dan’s Excavating, of Shelby Twp.

This section of 10 Mile Road carries about 21,000 vehicles per day. This section of Novi carries about 27,000 vehicles per day.

City of Novi to host Small Business Administration Expo
Wednesday, March 16 from 10:00am - noon.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628

NOVI, Mich., February 18, 2005 –  All small business owners and those thinking about starting a small business are invited to attend a Small Business Administration Expo on Wednesday, March 16 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Novi Civic Center, located at 45175 W. Ten Mile Road.  According to the Small Business Administration, more than 95% of Michigan businesses fall into the “Small Business” category, with maximum size standards varying by industry. 

Hosted by the City of Novi, the complimentary event will feature representatives from a variety of organizations offering information on valuable resources, including loan guarantees, streamlined financing programs, and more.  Organizations represented will include:

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – The SBA offers guarantee loan programs, government contracting programs, counseling and training to assist small businesses.   The goal of the Michigan District Office is to create an environment within Michigan where small business can grow and prosper.  Last Fiscal Year, the Michigan District Office guaranteed 2,050 loans worth more than $469 million.  The loans ranged from $5,000 to $2,000,000.

SCORE Services – SCORE is a nationwide organization of active and retired business men and women who volunteer their services to assist small businesses and entrepreneurs. SCORE provides free business counseling and offers low-cost workshops on a variety of business topics

Small Business and Technology Development Center Services – The Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center network is a partnership program of Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University, the Small Business Administration and regional and local hosts.  The regional host that provides services for Oakland County is Eastern Michigan University.

Walsh Family Business Center – The Walsh Family Business Center serves as a catalyst for business growth in southeast Michigan and provides educational servicesand a unique set of business resources geared specifically for those who own and manage family businesses. Through a comprehensive learning community including educational forums and seminars, networking and web-based resources, Walsh College and the four business sponsors offer their extensive experience and proven track records in counseling and supporting a multitude of family business scenarios, from investment and estate planning, to business succession and tax issues.  The Walsh Family Business Center sponsors are Derderian Kann Seyferth and Salucci, Standard Federal Bank, Seymour Gill Financial and Raymond & Prokop.

Following the program, attendees will have the opportunity to visit one-on-one with representatives from all organizations, as well as network with other businesses in attendance. 

Novi Police Chief Appointed to National Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Committee

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Doug Shaeffer, Chief of Police, (248) 348-7100

Novi, Michigan, November 4, 2004 – The City of Novi is pleased to announce the appointment of Police Chief Doug Shaeffer to the national Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Committee (NDDC) of the International Association of Chiefs’ of Police and the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration.

This highly prestigious and influential committee is charged as the liaison with federal, state, and local agencies and is responsible for combating crime related to illegal drug production and distribution, and substance abuse. The committee studies and reports on drug related crime, methods of operations, its effects on society, and means for combating substances.

"It is an honor to be selected," commented Chief Shaeffer. "I take the responsibilities accompanying this appointment very seriously. There is no other factor that has caused such a huge and tragic impact on our society than illegal drug activities. In the last fifty years, escalating numbers of lives lost, trillion of dollars in lost productivity, mammoth increases in health care costs, and rampant increases in crime are all directly linked to illegal drugs."

Chief Shaeffer was nominated for the NDDC by the U.S. Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Agent in Charge John Gilbride of the Detroit Fielded Division and Administrator Karen P. Tandy.

New water main crossing of I-96 boosts water pressure and reliability in Novi

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact: Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628

NOVI, Mich., September 21, 2004 – A much-anticipated 24-inch water main crossing of I-96 from Twelve Mile Road at West Park Drive to Grand River Avenue has been activated today. It boosts water pressures to the west and southwest portions of Novi and implements a needed second crossing of I-96, discussed as early as 1997.

During peak summer water demand, existing residential developments in southwest Novi have experienced low water pressures. With the new water main crossing, the pressure will be maintained in a more standard range.

The Novi City Council awarded a $537,975 construction contract to The Rothenburger Company on January 21, 2004. The new water main passed the last Detroit Water and Sewerage District pressure tests on Thursday, September 16, which included cleanliness tests over the last week.

"The project was identified in the Water Master Plan and Distribution Study as a key to improving the water system for Novi residents and businesses. We are pleased to complete this critical project," City Manager Rick Helwig commented.

The new crossing provides improved reliability to all of Novi south of I-96. Prior to today, the existing crossing of I-96 along Novi Road was the only such crossing. Providing redundant water services affords additional flexibility to maintain service during unexpected emergencies.

Another project to be bid for construction this winter is a booster pump at West Park Drive and Twelve Mile Road to further improve the delivery of water now and for the City’s future growth.

The City of Novi – One year after the Blackout 2003

For more information, contact:
Sheryl Walsh, (248) 735-5628

NOVI, Mich., August 10, 2004 – One year ago on August 14, 2003, neighborhoods and community members rallied together with City staff in a most unprecedented crisis to ensure the health and safety of the community during a multi-state power blackout. 

Positive feedback received on three measures – protecting life and property, comparison to other communities, and appreciation by residents – affirmed that the City of Novi performed admirably during the crisis.  More than 25,000 bottles of water were distributed to Novi residents through three comfort stations established in partnership with the Novi Community Schools.  Flyers were distributed door-to-door, television updates broadcast regularly, and public services maintained.  Yet, the City of Novi did need to improve its operations from lessons learned during the 2003 Blackout. 

In the days that followed the blackout, City of Novi staff met to critique the operations and look at ways to improve emergency response during any situation.  Teams were assigned to look at Novi’s power supply, communications, and comfort stations. 

During the blackout, it was noted that the City facilities were dependent upon electricity and had limited back-up power capabilities.  Some facilities, such as the Novi Civic Center, had no back-up system in place.   In September 2003, with the approval of the Novi City Council, a study was initiated to determine what back-up power was needed and where. 

Following discussions of the report findings, in December 2003 the Novi City Council approved the design and installation of nearly $300,000 in emergency electrical generators.

As of today, the City of Novi has completed upgrades to its emergency electrical back-up resources, and diesel generators now ensure continued operations at the Novi Civic Center, public safety facilities, Public Works facilities, and Meadowbrook Commons Senior Center.

Another vital component of emergency preparedness and response is communications.  With the loss of electricity and a large portion of the telephone network during the blackout, communication efforts were more difficult.  In the last several months, City staff has worked with homeowner leaders to assist with neighborhood emergency communication plans.  During the blackout, flyers were distributed to homeowner leaders for dissemination door-to-door – an effort that proved effective in many neighborhoods, but could be improved upon in many others.  The City of Novi has suggested that neighborhoods designate a common spot or area (tree, clubhouse, entrance sign, etc.) where all neighborhood members know to check for important messages to be posted during an emergency. 

Additionally, the City of Novi has initiated an Emergency Hotline at (248) 735-5680.  The phone line will be used only during an emergency and will keep community members apprised of any pertinent information.  The number is being published on all community newsletters and the annual calendar, as well as Cable Channel 13 and the City’s website.

The Emergency Hotline will also be used as a method of communicating with volunteer members of the newly established Volunteer Comfort Station Committee.  The City of Novi has implemented the Committee to assist staff members at five designated Comfort Stations throughout the community. 

Shortly after the blackout, City staff contacted the Novi Community and Walled Lake Consolidated School systems to look at utilizing school facilities during an emergency.  The facilities are now pre-identified and known for their capabilities, location, and size, and can provide a place of shelter for community members during an emergency.  Comfort Stations have been designated at the Novi Civic Center, Novi Middle School, Village Oaks Elementary, Walled Lake Middle School and Meadowbrook Elementary.  Comfort Station Committee members would pass out bottled water, provide relief, and assist fellow community members in a time of need.  The stations would be opened at the discretion of the City of Novi as warranted by the nature of the emergency.

These measures enhance the City of Novi’s emergency preparedness efforts and further provide for the health and safety of community members.   The City of Novi continues to participate in mock disaster exercises with a variety of community partners and completes annual emergency preparedness exercises with City staff. 

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