Bart Crane

The Board held discussions on several key items including public remarks regarding mandatory sewer connections, the Pedestrian/Bicycle Pathway Master Plan, and the 2012 Order to Maintain Sidewalk. Board members received departmental reports and took actions on various appointments to township boards and commissions, including the Environmental Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals. Financial actions included approval of assessing stipulations, manager's bills, and budget amendments. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to resolving storm water drainage issues involving the Red Cedar Glen Land Preserve and the Ember Oaks development. The Board also discussed the Board Policy Manual and joined the Lansing Arts Council.

The meeting featured presentations on the Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness program and the 2020-2021 Deer Management Program. The Township Manager reported on recruitment efforts, building permit submissions, the upcoming Special Election, and updates on food pantries. Board members provided reports on OWI legislation, environmental grant recommendations, and polling location accessibility. Action items included the approval of a zoning amendment for motor vehicle sales, a resolution celebrating Earth Day and Arbor Day, 1st Quarter budget amendments, and a resolution of appreciation for the Deer Management Program participants. Additionally, the Board endorsed the Citizen's Climate Commitment.

The board received an update on the Meridian Senior Center's activities and programs, and a report from the Capital Area Transportation Authority regarding its award and service operations. The board approved various financial items, including the payment of bills, an assessing stipulation, a resolution for a business name change on a liquor license, and a budget amendment for a new emergency siren. Additionally, the board passed a resolution declaring Constitution Week and adopted an ordinance amendment regarding expiration dates for Special Use Permits and Site Plan Reviews. Discussions were held concerning the 2008 recommended budget, several rezoning requests, and an amendment to the zoning ordinance for compliance with state legislation, with plans to revisit these items at a subsequent meeting.

The board discussed several items including the Pike Crossing Preserve proposed pathway and issues related to neighborhood encroachment on preserved land. Specific actions were taken regarding the denial of structure construction along a property line, the authorization to negotiate for parcel acquisition in closed session, and the approval of Phase III of the MSU to Lake Lansing Trail construction across the preserve. Additionally, reports were provided on spring invasive management, stewardship activities, green grant applications, and upcoming environmental workshop and volunteer stewardship events.

The board discussed the Pike Crossing Preserve, focusing on the proposed pathway, potential habitat fragmentation, the need for preservation guidelines, and neighborhood encroachment issues such as dumping and vegetation destruction. Action was taken to deny the construction of a fence and structures at a specific property adjacent to the preserve. Following a closed session regarding parcel acquisition, the board authorized staff to negotiate with the property owner. Additionally, the board approved the construction of Phase III of the MSU to Lake Lansing Trail across the preserve. Reports were provided on spring invasive plant management, Green Grant application reviews, and upcoming township election schedules.