White Pigeon recall effort moves forward

A proceeding to determine whether a recall effort against three White Pigeon Township officials can move forward has been ruled in favor of the petitioners.

During a clarity/factual hearing Wednesday before the three-member St. Joseph County Election Commission, the language of recall petitions against township clerk Lacie Pletcher, and trustees Jean Tefft and Vince Schroen, was deemed factual.

As a result, those behind the recall attempt have until Aug. 4 to collect and submit signatures from at least 379 registered voters who reside in White Pigeon Township in order for the process to advance to the next step.

Petitioners Anita Casada and Gayle Van Singel indicated that Pletcher, Tefft and Schroen approved the township’s 2022-23 fiscal year budget without first making it available for public inspection prior to a June 6 public hearing.

Attorney Lance Thornton, representing the trio of township officials, told commission members his clients are OK to let the language of their petitions stand and allow the signature process take place.