A key witness in the recall campaign against Elmwood Township Supervisor Deri Smith has stepped back from the allegation that Smith threatened a female member of the Planning Commission. A mailing earlier this month from a group supporting the recall claimed that Elmwood township Planner Bill Swanson witnessed threats by Smith against an unnamed planning commissioner. But interviewed by the Post, Swanson characterized the allegation as “an exaggeration.” The mailing was sent by ECHO (Elmwood Citizens for Honest Government).

According to Smith, the conversation had to do with the costs of unauthorized contacts between the planning commissioner and the township attorney. A policy regulating such contacts was later put in place by the board.

Other charges associated with the recall campaign have also been called into question. In another mailing by the same group, allegations were made concerning Smith’s performance. As long ago as May 2005, however, Suttons Bay Village Manager Chuck Stewart told members of the group in writing that the allegations were unfounded. Nevertheless, the charges continue to be circulated by the recall group.