Grand Traverse County Commission Chair Christine Maxbauer is scheduled for arraignment in 86th District Court July 21 after she was arrested Thursday for suspected drunk driving in downtown Traverse City.

Traverse City Police Department Chief Jeff O'Brien told The Ticker Maxbauer was driving west on West Front Street near Slabtown Burgers just after 3pm and struck a parked vehicle. When a TCPD officer came to process the accident, he suspected Maxbauer of operating while intoxicated and conducted a breathalyzer test. Maxbauer had a .16 BAC, according to O'Brien. She appeared confused about her whereabouts and initially denied drinking. After learning Maxbauer was also possibly under the influence of prescription medication, the officer took her to Munson Medical Center for a blood test.

Following the hospital visit, Maxbauer was taken to Grand Traverse County Jail, where she stayed overnight. After a bond hearing Friday afternoon, Maxbauer was released on a $2,500 personal recognizance bond. She is required to take breathalyzer tests twice a day as part of her bond terms.

Because Grand Traverse County Prosecuting Attorney Bob Cooney serves as counsel for county commissioners, an outside special prosecuting attorney will be sought to determine what charges could be formally filed against Maxbauer. 

Operating while intoxicated is a misdemeanor offense in Michigan.