*Crimes down/Accidents increase: Crimes including complaints, tickets, arrests, and drunk driving arrests decreased in the fourth quarter of 2003. Auto accidents increased from 80 in the third quarter of 2003 to 111 in the fourth quarter, according to a report from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Brandon Substation.
Oakland County Sheriff Brandon Substation and Sgt. Tim McIsaac said the low crime rate could be related to the cold.
‘We’re doing a fantastic job keeping the numbers down,? McIsaac said ‘It’s been a cold winter and that could relate to why the numbers are down.?
*Recreational participation growing: Brandon Recreation Director Fred Waybrant announced that registration for spring sports has already started and programs are growing in team numbers.
‘Hopefully the board will build me a park because we really need it since our registration keeps growing and there is no room for the growth.?
Waybrant said that between increasing recreational programs and the tournaments Brandon Recreation hosts, activities not only bring money into the recreation department but also community businesses.
Waybrant said the recent successful wrestling tournament was the result of a strong parent group on the committee. Waybrant credits the school district food service staff for keeping the participants fed during the weekend tournament.
‘We are very fortunate to have such a good partnership with the school,? said Waybrant.
After a five year waiting list to host the wrestling tournament, Waybrant says the Brandon Bandits are looking forward hosting the same tournament next year.
*Board renews dues for traffic study group: The board moved to renew the $1,000 membership with the Traffic Improvement Association, a private organization which provides assistance in resolving traffic safety issues within the community, for the Oakland County Road Commission, and the Michigan Department of Transportation by collecting and organizing mobility data for each community who is a member of the organization.
Frank Cardimen, President of the 37- year-old organization says he looks forward to assisting Brandon Township with location traffic studies at the intersections of Seymour Lake and Sashabaw, Oakwood and M-15, Allen Road and M-15, and Seymour Lake Road between Perry Lake and Sashabaw.