West Bloomfield Township Supervisor Steve Kaplan Caught in Controversy
West Bloomfield, Michigan – In a surprising turn of events, West Bloomfield Township Supervisor Steve Kaplan was recently elected to a third term with an impressive 97% of votes cast. Just days after being sworn in, he announced that he would soon be leaving his post to take up a new role as an assistant prosecutor in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. This sudden announcement has raised eyebrows among residents and critics alike, leading to significant discussions about Kaplan’s intentions while campaigning.
What Happened?
Kaplan’s announcement came as a shock to many, especially since he had just received overwhelming support from voters. After confirming his new position with Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy’s office, Kaplan seemed reluctant to discuss the circumstances surrounding his departure. During an interview, he expressed regret over the information being revealed through the township’s local cable broadcasts, which also serves nearby communities like Keego Harbor and Sylvan Lake.
His executive assistant, Kris Darcy, offered assurances that they were “in a strong position,” leaving many to wonder exactly what that meant for the township moving forward.
Community Reactions
The township board is set to meet on December 2 at 6 p.m., where members are expected to receive Kaplan’s resignation formally. This will initiate a 45-day period in which the board must appoint a successor who would serve until the mid-term election in 2026. The gravity of Kaplan’s decision has sparked various reactions within the community.
Denise Hammond, a retired township treasurer, voiced her shock, questioning why Kaplan chose to run for office if he had made other plans. “If you know you’re going to do this, why do you get sworn in? You were lying to the public,” she stated plainly, reflecting the frustration some feel regarding his decision.
Conversely, some of Kaplan’s colleagues expressed respect and understanding for his return to a field where he previously excelled. Robert Brooks, a member of the township’s Parks and Recreation Commission, noted that Kaplan had a “real passion” for his work in the prosecutor’s office in the past, indicating that many see this move as a return to his roots.
A Future in Criminal Justice
According to a statement from the Wayne County Prosecutor’s communications director, Kaplan is set to join the warrant and screening unit, responsible for reviewing warrants. His reputation as a skilled assistant prosecuting attorney, particularly during his time in Macomb County, has given him a solid foundation in this field. While his new role remains a point of excitement for some, many town officials remain uncertain about what this means for West Bloomfield.
The Bigger Picture
Kaplan’s departure from the position that resembles a city mayor’s in overseeing township operations raises questions about the political landscape in West Bloomfield. His resignation will mark yet another change in area township leadership this fall. Recent elections saw new faces in Bloomfield Township and Independence Township, indicating a shift in government dynamics in the region.
As Kaplan prepares for his new journey, community members, colleagues, and political opponents will be keeping a close eye on the next moves of the West Bloomfield Township board as they determine who will fill the supervisor seat left vacant by Kaplan’s exit.
For now, we can only wait to see how everything unfolds in this evolving story. Whatever happens, it’s clear that change is afoot in West Bloomfield, and residents will be curious to see what comes next.
