Burt Township

The Planning Commission discussed various township reports, including fire service extensions, budget approvals, trail development, and cell tower lease inquiries. The Zoning Administrator provided updates on zoning board appeals and ongoing land use reviews. The Planning Consultant reported on state-level legislative changes regarding housing and zoning, as well as emerging topics like AI data centers. Old business included progress on high-speed internet infrastructure and review of the Master Plan. The commission also conducted the 2026 election of officers, established the upcoming meeting schedule, and approved the 2025 annual report.

The board addressed procedural matters by approving the agenda, which included the addition of a Van Wormer property survey requirement and the elimination of a topic concerning PA Miller. Key business involved reviewing and accepting the Van Wormer property survey necessary for final approval of an accessory building, contingent upon the property owner obtaining a zoning permit from the Zoning Administrator. Additionally, the board established and approved the meeting schedule for the year 2026.

Key discussions during the regular meeting included the approval of the agenda with an addition regarding a zoning violation. The board approved bills, including the Cheboygan County Road Commission chip and seal bill. Updates were provided on the EGLE environmental sampling at the Corner of Crump/Mullett Burt Rd, noting stable groundwater and planned contractor selection for cleanup. The cemetery update confirmed significant cleanup following an ice storm, insurance claim payments for tree damage and fencing, and planned follow-up work by Vieau's Tree Service. The board moved the November meeting date to November 7, 2025. Regarding a zoning violation, a draft enforcement letter was approved to be served by a sheriff's deputy. Updates from the Burt Lake Trail Committee indicated completion of Phase I paving on the west side, with ongoing fundraising efforts for the remaining portion. The Planning Commission completed its final review of the Master Plan. The Zoning Board of Appeals scheduled its next meeting. The Zoning Administrator reported fluctuating permit volumes and actions taken regarding unpermitted campers. The Supervisor reported on MTA travel and the arrival of a new Executive Director for the MTA.

The regular meeting agenda included approval of the agenda with an addition for a Property Split. Key discussions involved reviewing the Treasurer's Report as of October 31, 2023, and approving the township's participation in a Michigan Class program. Unfinished business addressed the selection of a flag design for the Burt Township Flag, with intent to obtain a formal quote for the December meeting. Additionally, the board resolved to submit a comprehensive Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to EGLE regarding the property at the corner of Crump Rd/Mullett-Burt Rd. New business included revising the fee structure for zoning permits, setting a minimum of $75 or $.10 per square foot, and discussing the potential transfer of DNR property near Burt Lake and its implications for local zoning compliance. The board also approved an additional payment to the Mullett Fire Department based on 2023 taxable values, confirmed dates for the Big Dump Day event in June 2024, and approved a property split request for James "Randy" Parker. Reports covered ongoing trail maintenance, pending grant applications, future Planning Commission topics including the Master Plan review, and the retirement of a Transfer Station employee.

The committee discussed financing alternatives for paving 1.5 miles of Phase I of the trail, concluding a one-year completion plan is financially superior over a ten-year period. Discussions included obtaining an estimate from Mike Spierling and considering options to increase funding from Parks and Rec or the yearly Trail Maintenance Fund to cover the estimated $47K maximum cost. The possibility of applying for a DALMAC grant was reviewed, but ultimately deemed not worth the effort due to extensive required documentation updates, given past successful applications in 2018 and 2021. An update on the Corner Store Trailhead noted an expectation that EGLE will provide and spread gravel this spring. For the Hardwood to Indian Road Trail segment, identifying the right of way is necessary before paving, which may involve a topographic survey from Huron Engineering. The 2026 budget discussion considered paving only a half-mile of Phase I initially, before completing the full 1.5 miles. Financial balances for the Trail Maintenance Fund and various donation accounts as of December 31, 2025, were presented. The committee also noted an established account at TOMTC for contributions in memory of Harold Koviak.