Ken Kahila

The work session focused on board operations, including opening remarks, introductions, and a review of board roles and responsibilities. The board discussed best practices and established expectations for the roles of Township Manager, Township Supervisor, Township Trustees, and Township Clerk/Treasurer.

The agenda for this meeting includes a public hearing regarding the Van Etten Special Assessment District. Financial matters include the payment of various bills and multiple funding allocations for projects, including the 2024 CWSRF. Key resolutions involve opposing specific House Bills, confirming the Van Etten Lake Special Assessment, and authorizing a contract with MDOT. New business topics cover 2026 dust control bids, operational plans for Old Orchard and Footesite Parks, an appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals, the role of Assistant Township Manager, equipment purchases for Old Orchard Park, and the acceptance of a proposal for DWSRF and CWSRF project plan development.

The Board discussed and took action on several key municipal items. Significant decisions included the adoption of zoning ordinance amendments concerning special land use moratoriums and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), with a directive to the Planning Commission to further develop energy overlay districts. Additionally, the Board approved the signing of the MTA Principles of Governance and a letter of support for the Huron Pines Consumers Energy Planet Award. Other business included appointing two members to the Zoning Board of Appeals, authorizing multiple contract payments related to the 2024 CWSRF projects, and the hiring of an assistant to the Parks and Recreation Director.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda, which was subsequently amended to include the 2018 Iron Belle Trail Grant Application. The Board entered and exited a closed session for privileged attorney-client communication involving Mr. Stalker, Mr. Eppert, and members of AKT Peerless. Key actions included approving the Consent Agenda covering minutes, finance matters totaling $135,624.46, and reports; a note was made regarding a correction to the November 27, 2017 minutes. Significant discussions and approvals involved executing a letter of objection for tax foreclosed property transfers, executing a shared service contract addenda with AuSable Township, and approving an SRF Program reimbursement draw request for closeout. The Board authorized soliciting quotations for tree removal and trimming, approved joining the Michigan Association of Planners while postponing the Michigan Municipal League membership, and awarded bids for a Dump Box installation to Knapheide. The watercraft concession license for Sunny Bunns at Old Orchard Park was renewed for three years, pending Consumer's Power approval, and the Board approved a Real Estate Purchase Opportunity. A work session was scheduled, and a letter of support for the Sunrise Coast Trail Project was approved. Resolution No. 2017-30 concerning Fiscal Year Budget Amendments No. 2 was adopted. Several appointments and reappointments were confirmed for the Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Furthermore, the Board established a storm sewer system ordinance usage for processed water, approved conditions for the Air Force's use of one of two properties, and authorized a storm sewer analysis not exceeding $20,000 related to the Air Force treatment facility outflow. The distribution of the master plan was approved, and amendments to Zoning Ordinance 165 for special land use were adopted. Finally, the 2018 Iron Belle Trail Grant Application with a 10% match was approved, and public comments regarding property finances and water contamination were heard.

The session included a general discussion regarding the July 10, 2017 Board Meeting Packet, specifically concerning the Iosco Exploration Trail county agreement and the Charter Communications local franchise agreement. Questions were raised concerning the cost increase for the Old Orchard Park boat launch project. Follow-up actions were determined, including investigating whether the Department of Treasury corrective action plan included the applicable audit summary letter, exploring the ramifications of soliciting another engineering proposal, and inquiring about the response times of Iosco County ambulance services.