Daniel J Ruzick

The board discussed and took action on various matters including rejecting a proposed addendum to the Van Buren District Library contract and requesting mediation. They adopted an ordinance to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program, authorized travel for the Clerk to attend a conference, and approved a memorandum of understanding with the Van Buren Conservation District for tire collection. Additionally, the board accepted bids for boom mowing by the Van Buren County Road Commission and repairs to the transfer station, and approved a maintenance proposal for the activity center generator. Finally, the board approved payment of township, fire department, and senior services bills.

The board discussed a marketing firm search and the Van Buren County District Library contract, authorizing the supervisor to send a formal letter regarding new contract options. A resolution was adopted for the Senior Services millage renewal to be placed on the August ballot, and a resolution was passed regarding the acceptance of roads in Rose Creek Condominium. The board approved bids for a mussel survey and an archaeological survey for the trail project, and scheduled a public hearing for grant opportunities. Additionally, the board approved an electrical contract for township building improvements, authorized signatures for 2026 road project estimates, and approved the payment of departmental and township bills.

The board conducted a public hearing regarding a DNR grant application for a trail project. Wightman and Associates presented details on the project, including the potential for $400,000 in funding and a proposed construction timeline spanning 2027 to 2028. Following the hearing, the board adopted a resolution to proceed with the grant application process to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

The board approved a bylaw amendment regarding Mattawan Fire District membership requirements and discussed road maintenance and intersection issues with the county road commissioner. New business included updates on a branch library agreement, a hazardous waste disposal policy for residents, and the appointment of two individuals to the Senior Service Advisory Board. The board also approved a two-year contract for assessing services, a proposal for fire extinguisher maintenance, a renewal of the early voting agreement, 2026 lawn maintenance pricing for cemeteries, and the purchase of key fobs for the transfer station. The meeting concluded with reports on building activity, library participation, and the approval of payment for outstanding bills.

Key discussions during the meeting included public comments regarding Van Buren County Commissioner updates, such as a hiring freeze and restructuring of part-time positions. The board set the 2021 meeting schedule for the Township Board, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board. Regarding the Best Way Disposal Lease agreement for the Transfer Station, which includes Almena and Porter Township, the board authorized the Supervisor to sign the agreement similar to the previous year, pending any future amendments. Additionally, the board awarded a bid to Aleksich Excavating for the clean up of the property located at 29697 64th Ave. Reports covered general fund balance, building activity permits issued in Antwerp and Almena, and updates from various fire departments and library branches. The board approved payment for bills totaling $111,712.40.