Newton Twp. Building Inspector Renews License

John "Hughey" McNeil, Newton Township building inspector, has renewed his state license, putting to rest a claim made by Township Supervisor Bob Brotherton at a township meeting January 10 that Mr. McNeil needed to renew the license by January 29 to retain his position, or face removal from office.

Mr. McNeil told The St. Ignace News Friday, January 26, that he has renewed his license and is waiting for the state to complete the process, which he believes could take place as early as next week.

In November 2005, two of the board's members, Mr. Brotherton and Clerk Alice Zdebski, sought to remove Mr. McNeil from his position, alleging unsatisfactory work. The motion failed, 3-2, and Mr. McNeil was placed on 60 days probation, after which he was reinstated. Mr. McNeil has been Newton Township's building inspector for 17 years.

"It is his job to maintain his license," said Mr. Brotherton.

Mr. Brotherton said Mr. McNeil's license expired in September. Building inspectors must renew their license each year, he said.

Dick Oliver, the township's assessor, was named the interim building inspector in December. Mr. Oliver is also Portage Township's building inspector. Mr. McNeil will retain his position as Newton Township's building inspector once he receives his renewed license.