Howell school board recall petition language approved

Language on a petition to recall three Howell school board members was approved yesterday.

That means Jeannine Pratt, Debi Drick and Ed Literski will face recall petitions circulating in the community, reports the Ann Arbor News. Genoa Township resident and school district resident Deborah McCormick and her supporters have until July 31 to collect 5,000 signatures of qualified district voters if they want the measure on the November ballot. Otherwise, state law gives them 180 days– or until January 9, 2010. The county clerk could schedule a special election or place the recall on the May ballot.

McCormick wants to recall the three board members for their support in ousting former superintendent Ted Gardella in a special board meeting on June 26. The move cost the district $180,000 in severance payouts.

McCormicks petitions say the board members “did not act in the best interest of the community,” and “violated the public trust.” Both charges rise out of the firing of Gardella. McCormick argues the board scheduled the meeting on a Friday at noon when most residents could not attend.