Anna Blackmon

The Bear Lake Township Board held a special meeting to discuss several key issues. The discussion focused on current and future Special Assessment Districts (SADs). Short Term Rental (STR) issues were also addressed. An amendment to Ordinance 1-2019, which prohibits marijuana establishments within the Township, was discussed, and the attorney will draft an amendment to clarify the language of the ordinance.

The Bear Lake Township Board meeting included discussions and actions on various topics. The board approved expenses for the Assessor's office, authorized the expenditure for First Due software for the Fire Department, and accepted a petition to resurface Black Bear Road. Resolutions for Bear Lane, Cub Lake, and Bear Lake SAD were passed. The board discussed and approved an increase for the 2025/2026 snowplow contract with Black Creek. Amendments were made to the Eleanor Bay road end use agreement. The board also discussed KMHC and the new workers comp premium for 2025/2026. The resignation of Treasurer Shirley Havens was accepted, and Beth Redmond was appointed as the new Treasurer. Signage for the ORV Ordinance at road ends was reviewed.

The meeting included reports from the Assessor, Sheriff Department, Fire Department, BLTIA, Hospital, Kalkaska EMS. The Fire Department received a check from BLTFA for the truck fund and discussed transferring funds to a money market account and the upcoming fire/rescue millage election. The board reviewed progress on Dredge Road End, deciding not to pursue a DNR grant, and received an update on the Black Bear Rd petition. The board also discussed amending the Marihuana ordinance, approving an Interlocal Agreement for a Designated Assessor for Kalkaska County, establishing an Amazon Business Account, and purchasing signs with the ORV Ordinance printed on them. Quotes for printing/mailing property tax bills and newsletters were presented, and the board decided to go with Maple River Direct for 2025-2026.