Ruhl resigns from Blissfield Township Board

By Melissa Burnor

The Blissfield Township Board is one short after trustee Kris Ruhl submitted his letter of resignation Monday, March 23. Ruhl, who was elected to his first term in 2012, sent the letter to township Supervisor Al Navarro Monday. Ruhl cited several personal and professional changes in his life as the drive behind the decision.

Ruhl said he was thankful and proud of the efforts of the board during his tenure.

“While on the board, I feel that great (strides) forward were made and I am very thankful and honored for the opportunity to serve the Blissfield community,” the letter said.

Ruhl also addressed an issue that had been brought up in at least one township meeting about his residency in the township. Ruhl’s home in the village of Blissfield is for sale and records in Lucas County, Ohio, show he had purchased a home in Holland, Ohio, in 2014. Further, according to Lucas County Probate Court records, on his Lucas County, Ohio, marriage license application dated Oct. 1, 2014, Ruhl had listed that Holland, Ohio, address as his residence.

“Reportedly, there have been some questions as to my current address etc.,” he said. “I will say that as of today, Monday, March 23rd, 2015, I am a resident, homeowner and taxpayer within the Village of Blissfield.

If the township appoints a replacement within 30 days of the resignation, that person will serve until the end of the vacant term that will be up for election in the November 2016.

The next township meeting is Thursday. According to Michigan statute, as soon as an elected official moves from the governmental unit served, the seat becomes vacant.