By AARON MUELLER
Niles Daily Star

Niles Township trustee Michael Bailey, who pleaded guilty to indecent exposure in April, has decided he will not resign from his position on the board of trustees.

Last month, Township Supervisor Jim Kidwell asked Bailey to resign from the board. But the request was not binding. The only way Bailey can be removed from his position is a citizens’ recall – something some township residents have talked about during citizens’ comments at past meetings.

“I feel like I have been bullied by some members of the board and their friends,” Bailey said in reference to some of the community members who have called for his resignation during public comment.

He also said the misdemeanor does not affect his ability to do his job.

“I love serving the township people,” he said.

Bailey, who was absent from the previous two board meetings, said he will continue to shake off the criticisms and plans to finish out his term, which expires in 2012.

“It’s for the same reason I never stopped playing baseball after a losing season,” he said. “I’m not a quitter. I was voted onto this board to do a job and I will do my job.”

Bailey is not worried about the possibility of his recall and said it is the right of the citizens to pursue it if they choose.

Bailey was voted off of the parks committee by the board in April.

Also in April, Berrien County Judge Scott Schofield put Bailey on probation, ordered him to complete 50 hours of community service and pay fees and costs of $1,200.