Clinton Township's longest-serving official is hanging up his hat after a storied career. Supervisor Bob Cannon, who's spent four decades on the Clinton Township Board of Trustees, announced he's retiring and not seeking reelection. The 75-year-old, whose tenure spans back to 1984, expressed a mix of emotions about his departure, stating, "I love my community and I love my family, and they all want me at the same time, so my family has won out this time," in a release by The Detroit News.
While Cannon's career highlights various achievements, like the launch of the Mall at Partridge Creek and hiring the township's first police chief, Dina Caringi, his early days on the board were less glamorous. Few knew then about the severity of untreated sewage discharges into the Clinton River, a problem that later led to a state-mandated end during heavy rains, "We were doing it into the river, which was wrong, but not as wrong as basements," he said, according to The Detroit News.
On the environmental front, the township addressed significant issues under Cannon's watch, including a $33 million project to prevent sewage from pouring into local waters during storms, Macomb Daily reports. Cannon faced another environmental disaster just weeks before his announcement not to run for reelection when an explosion at a vape supply shop resulted in extensive damage and a fatality. Cannon became the point person during the crisis, assuring public attention and immediate response.
With accolades including induction into the Macomb County Hall of Fame and a regional leadership role in SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments), Cannon made strides in improving transportation and fostering a welcoming community for all. Cannon's commitment to veterans is another cornerstone of his legacy, highlighted by his efforts to erect a Gold Star Monument for fallen servicemembers in the township, "I grew up in a Gold Star family," he shared in a heartfelt nod to his history with C & G News.
As for the future of Clinton Township's leadership, the race for Cannon's successor is slated to be competitive with the field wide open for the first time in decades. Candidates have until April 23 to throw their hats in the ring, setting the stage for a new era in township governance.
