Stathakis: Candidates Should Change Message from 'Save Shelby' to 'Sue Shelby'

Two candidates running for political office in Shelby Township are currently embattled in lawsuits with the township.

Shelby Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis told Patch.com that he believes the filings are nothing more than political tactics.

Last week, Nick Nightingale, who is currently running for the Shelby Township Board of Trustees in the November elections, against the township and the five individual board members who voted in favor of canceling the Nightingale Service’s Towing contract with the township in 2011.

The alleges the board of trustees deliberately retaliated against the family business because the owners, Nick and his father John Nightingale, actively participated in recall efforts against Stathakis and Treasurer Paul Viar. The because of a lack of signatures.

The Nightingale towing contract was cancelled in December 2011 after allegations of contract violations and overcharges surfaced during a report commissioned by the township.

Nick Nightingale declined to comment on the pending lawsuit.

Former Shelby Township Police Chief Bob Leman, who is now running for supervisor, has also filed a lawsuit against the township. because he launched two separate investigations against Stathakis and Viar into alleged wrongdoings.

 “As we are immersed in the campaign season, it’s clear that Bob Leman and Nick Nightngale should change their message from “Save Shelby” to “Sue Shelby,” said Stathakis.  However, we will continue to aggressively protect and defend the taxpayers from these frivolous lawsuits.”

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