Kalamazoo Township Trustee Clara Robinson Named as Potential Treasurer Following Former Treasurer's Resignation
*KALAMAZOO TOWNSHIP, Mich.* — After months of censures and an investigation of Kalamazoo Township's treasurer, the board is now looking for a new person to fill that role. Monday night, they named a possible replacement: current trustee Clara Robinson.
She is the former deputy treasurer for Comstock Township and worked in their financial department for several years.
Former Treasurer Speaks Out During Board Meeting
The board meeting began with now-former treasurer Sherine Miller, who spoke during the public comment section. Miller was first elected in 2016, but resigned last week following numerous accusations of financial mismanagement.
Speaking directly to the board, she responded point-by-point through allegations against her, saying she wasn't made aware of the board's unhappiness with her work.
"Funny thing is, superintendent and I had email conversations that afternoon, and nothing was ever mentioned about putting the township in financial crisis," Miller said, regarding a February bank account transfer of $4 million.
Following her remarks, another commenter read her resignation letter to the board. The conversation later turned to discussion of the treasurer vacancy, with members calling Robinson a rational and kind township employee.
Robinson Would Regain Full Treasurer Authority
Right now, she serves a dual role as trustee and in office administration, and would have to resign as trustee to become treasurer. Previously, Miller's censures meant she was only allowed to do as treasurer what was mandated by the state. Robinson would regain the full scope of treasurer duties.
"During the end of our previous treasurer's tenure, this board took several actions to curb those non-statutory duties and really whittle things down just to the statutory piece, to protect the township," Township Supervisor David Combs said.
If Robinson is not appointed in 45 days, a special election would be required, which the township wants to avoid.
"It takes, you know, between 25 and $30,000 to run an election," Combs added. "Not to mention the work involved in the space that has to be done."
Miller Cites 'Illegal Government Overreach'
Kalamazoo Township trustee Clara Robinson is being eyed by the township board to take over as interim treasurer until the election in November. Former Kalamazoo Township Treasurer Sherine Miller told the township board last night that she resigned because of their "illegal government overreach."
Miller says she has lost all faith and trust in the current board, administration, and the legal guidance they have been provided.
Context: Months of Controversy
After months of censures and an investigation of Kalamazoo Township's treasurer, the board is now looking for a new person to fill that role. The controversy has centered around allegations of financial mismanagement during Miller's tenure.
During her public comments, Miller stated she was surprised by the board's actions and claimed she was not aware that her work had become a source of concern.
"Funny thing is, superintendent and I had email conversations that afternoon, and nothing was ever mentioned about putting the township in financial crisis," Miller said, regarding a February bank account transfer of $4 million.
What's Next
Robinson is a former Comstock Township treasurer and has a financial background. She is currently serving as a trustee and in office administration roles. If appointed, she would have to resign her trustee position to take on the treasurer role.
The board hopes to avoid a special election, which would cost between 25 and 30,000 dollars and require significant administrative work.