From Presidential Elections to Public Safety Millage Request, Royal Oak's Year in Politics

Whoever said "it's all politics" must have been talking about 2012. Here are stories that were getting people's attention this year:

Election 2012

Nov. 7: 

When the final results were in, 67 percent of voters said 'yes' to the public safety millage.

Nov. 7: Barack Obama Re-Elected President

President Barack Obama and Vice-President Joe Biden were re-elected.

Nov. 7: Reactions as Voters Say No to Michigan Ballot Proposals

Unions were disappointed. Canadians were thrilled. All in all, reactions were varied as Michigan voters shot down all six statewide ballot proposals.

Elected officials

Nov. 12: L. Brooks Patterson Looks Ahead: 'The County is Changing'

The Oakland County executive proved he's a stand-up guy during an Election Night appearance in Royal Oak.

Oct. 8: Bill Clinton Comes to Royal Oak 

Royal Oak couple entertains the 42nd President of the United States in their Royal Oak home.

Aug. 22: Charges To Come Against Driver Who Crashed into Brooks Patterson

A Royal Oak man failed to yield on a flashing yellow, causing the accident, police say.

Aug. 18: Stabenow in Royal Oak for Dream Cruise

U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow visits the Royal Oak home of Michael Chetcuti and Kyle Evans.

Sept. 19: Royal Oak Businessman Stars in Stabenow Ad

A political ad launched Monday for U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow has a familiar face.

From City Hall

Dec. 20: City Commissioner Cleared of Ethics Charge but New Questions Raised in Email

A six-page legal opinion clears Jim Rasor of inappropriate actions. But more questions surface in an email to commissioners.

Dec. 12: Planning Commission OKs Basic Plan for Hotel Complex

Commissioners approve a basic plan and concept for the development of an 8-story hotel, an 8-story apartment building, a pair of office buildings and a 4-level off-street parking deck subject to a list of recommendations on landscaping, screening and site access, both vehicular and pedestrian. 

Nov. 25: Residents Plead With Royal Oak Leaders: Protect Human Rights

Commissioners vote unanimously to have City Attorney Dave Gillam draft a broad ordinance that will protect against discrimination in employment, housing or public accommodation on the basis of height, weight, marital status, source of income, family responsibility, education association, sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status.

July 3: Fresard Clock Safe for Now

Commissioners voted to support Troy-based Suburban Collection’s efforts to reestablish sign permits for the Jim Fresard Clock Tower. The car dealership business is interested in purchasing and operating the 44-foot tall clock tower for advertising.

March 21: 

From city officials to residents gather at the Royal Oak Public Library to learn about the proposed Detroit Medical Center outpatient facility and share their opinions about the development.

Battles in Lansing

Dec. 18: Snyder Vetoes Bill That Would Have Allowed Guns in Schools

The bill would have allowed concealed weapons in gun-free zones such as schools and sports arenas.

Dec. 12: 

The bills were signed into law by Gov. Rick Snyder in mid-December.

Sept. 11: 

Is Arts Beats & Eats a good thing for Royal Oak? Residents had their say during a more than two-hour public comment session at the City Commission meeting.

Aug. 9: Charges to Be Filed Against 4 of Thaddeus McCotter's Former Staffers in Election Fraud Case

The charges were announced in August by Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette.

June 15: Poll: Should Lawmaker be Barred from Speaking after 'Vagina' Remark?

Rep. Lisa Brown of West Bloomfield referenced her Jewish faith and anatomy while arguing against legislation restricting abortion in June.