Fake guns (airsoft guns included) may become illegal in Detriot

Waving imitation weapons may soon be illegal in the city.

The City Council is considering adopting an ordinance that would outlaw using a fake firearm to "frighten, threaten, harass, panic or annoy."

If approved at its Feb. 5 meeting, the misdemeanor could land a person a $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail.

The new ordinance -- which also would allow police to confiscate the faux guns, which include airsoft guns, BB guns, starter's pistols, hobby guns and stage props -- was inspired by an incident at the Southland Mall during the holiday shopping season.

"Several kids were out in one of the lobbies shooting each other with airsoft guns," the chief said. "It caused a real stir because people thought it was a real shooting."

WESTLAND: Council supports giving local vendors advantage

The City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously in favor of an ordinance that would grant a preference to local businesses bidding on city contracts.

Modeled after a City of Lansing measure, the proposed Local Preference Ordinance would allow a competitive advantage to local vendors by awarding an equalization percentage to Westland-based companies.

The council is to vote to officially adopt the ordinance at its Feb. 4 meeting.

Quo Vadis to come down; fitness center may go up

The Quo Vadis, a once-plush movie theater shuttered since 2002, could be demolished as early as spring by developers who hope to build a $5-million fitness center on the prime real estate site.

Lake Bellaire Properties LLC has proposed a site plan to tear down the Quo Vadis and build a nearly 42,000-square-foot fitness center across Wayne Road from Westland Shopping Center.

Lake Bellaire's plans are to be discussed during a Westland Planning Commission meeting scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Feb. 5 at City Hall.