John Hibbard

The committee reviewed preliminary sketches submitted by Martin Balla and Mariah Hanes on behalf of Prebuilt Sheds LLC for a proposed new construction building intended for year-round shed construction. The review followed the process outlined in the Lake Township Ordinance Book, Section 414. The proposed plan was found to be in compliance with all current ordinances with the exception of the required buffer area between parcels, which the owners possess for both properties. The committee chair also provided a note to the Township Board emphasizing the Planning Commission's advisory role in guiding land use and encouraging its utilization to mitigate potential legal risks and enhance transparency.

Key discussions during the Special Board Meeting centered on significant new business items related to infrastructure and park development. Regarding drainage, a resolution for drains on Mary's Street and West Shore Drive was introduced. Concerns were raised about signing an open-ended contract without known costs or collection methods; the process involves a determination board, public input, and potential construction starting around 2027. Another topic addressed resident concerns about flooding near West Side of 27, with the Supervisor tasked to contact RCRC. Extensive discussion occurred regarding the Parks and Recreation budget, specifically addressing the proposed toilet building cost ($280K vs. estimated $157.3K based on square footage), and amendments to the parking lot bid (favoring HMA over aggregate/concrete ADA with a potential $25,000 budget increase). Cost-saving measures were approved, including removing tree relocation expenses for $6,500 and eliminating the gravel maintenance strip around the pickleball court. Site amenities considerations involved potentially ordering benches, bike racks, and waste receptacles directly to control costs, and bidding concrete pads both ways (asphalt vs. concrete). Landscaping was eliminated, and pathway HMA thickness was modified for bidding. Bidding procedures were established, directing bids to the Treasurer's PO Box. Finally, the mowing scope for the entrance/exit of the park was added to the township's bid, and preliminary discussion occurred regarding the possibility of a new Town Hall.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various topics such as approving an ordinance related to Consumers Energy Electric Franchise, appointing a probationary firefighter, and approving funds for floor maintenance at the fire department. Reports were given and filed from the Treasurer, HLSA/HLBA, Fire Chief, and Ordinance Enforcement Officer. Additionally, the board discussed closing the Lake Township Dog Park for the winter and accepted a resolution for a TAP Grant. A budget amendment was approved to move funds to the Liquor fund.

The Lake Township Board meeting addressed several key areas, including financial and fire department reports, and discussions from the Planning Commission and ZBA. The board approved the appointment of two certified firefighters with a six-month probationary period and authorized the Fire Department to erect a vinyl fence, not exceeding $2,000.00. They also agreed to turn over a dangerous building to the building agency. Furthermore, the board accepted the Lake Township Garbage Assessment Resolution 2025-15, setting the garbage removal levy at $125.00 per parcel beginning with the December 2025 tax billing. Additional discussions covered park project approvals, leaf pickups, snow bids, and ordinance changes related to roadside setbacks and accessory structures.

The board meeting addressed budget amendments, specifically moving funds to cover attorney bills. Snow removal bids were reviewed, and a bid from Platinum Excavation LLC was accepted. Discussions were held regarding Ordinance 55D. The board also discussed financial reports, HLSA/HLBA matters, fire chief's report, ordinance enforcement officer's report, planning commission report, ZBA report, assessor report, Houghton Lake Improvement Board report, Houghton Lake Ambulance Authority, and Parks & Recreation. The township was awarded a DNR Trust fund grant, and resolution 2025-16 was accepted to appropriate funds for the project. An appointment was made to fill a Parks and Rec term. Further discussion included meeting minutes, policies, cameras, Chief Information Officer (CIO), digital storage, elections, millage renewal for fire department equipment and roads, and training for board and all deputies pay.