AUGUST 17, 2009
The regular township meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. Board members present
were Lynn Huotari, Deb Maki, Margaret Lindeman, Jim Saur, and Bob Sibilsky.
MINUTES OF MEETING: The minutes of the July 9, 2009 meeting were read and approved with correction. Motion to approve: Lindeman/Saur, all voted aye.
TREASURER’S REPORT: The treasurer’s report was given by Treasurer Huotari and accepted as given. The fund balances are as follows: Citizen’s Bank CD $7,258.36, SNB General Fund $13,910.74, MBIA Fire Fund $37,606.57, MBIA General Fund $79,797.07, MBIA Tax Fund $43,654.21, SNB Tax Acc’t $64,436.95.
The CD with Citizen’s was extended for two years. Motion to approve the CD continuance: Saur/Lindeman, all voted aye.
CORRESPONDENCE: A letter from Wal-Mart was received indicating they were reducing our line of credit due to inactivity by the township.
WASTE MANAGEMENT/STUMP JUMPERS: Deb Maki met with Bill Besonen Superior Township in Ontonagon County to discuss performance of Stump Jumpers. They performed well but were paid for by the customer. Deb is going to meet with the contractor on Saturday, 8-22-2009 to discuss details of the service required by our township.
PENSION: A copy of the Sherman Twp. Plan from Adeline Schmitt, Clerk is being forwarded for our review. Our current documents don’t meet our auditor’s approval.
SUMMER CLEAN-UP: Clean-up went well. We filled three dumpsters. No unexpected expenses were incurred.
SNOW REMOVAL: It was recommended that the township solicit proposals for the 2009/2010 winter season: Clerk Sibilsky to prepare ad for the newspaper.
LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE/MTA BOARD MEETING: Deb Maki attended the MTA conference in Frankenmuth. Some of the items she shared were: 29 of 30 senators are up for election because of term limitations, 26 road commissions were tearing up their poor roads and returning them to gravel, our stimulus money for transportation will be $3.44 billion for 2010 but after the stimulus monies are exhausted in 2011 Michigan will be looking at a $2.45 billion shortfall in roads revenue.
STATE FORREST CAMPGROUNDS: The DNR is looking at possibly closing some campgrounds to help solve budget problems. Only recommendations at this time but it could impact our Emily Lake campgrounds.
SURVEY: Various aspects of the township residents survey were discussed some were Planning commission issues others were board issues. September 10, 2009 is date for the Survey results to be reviewed.
Supervisor Maki will hold an information session on Sept 12th. with regard to taxes, assessing, etc. This special session is for Elm River taxpayers.
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CLEARING LOT: Property north of our building needs partial clearing to facilitate snow removal, storage bldg site and relocation of the propane tank. Two contractors have been called but without interest in the project. Additional contractors are being solicited.
PLANNING COMMISSION UPDATE: The commission is reviewing the survey and will have more info at the September 10, 2009 meeting.
Elaine. Blackburn requested general ledger print out.
Jim Blackburn said township playground equipment needs further review.
Nancy and Rick Gemignani voiced concern over negative aspects of zoning and cautioned the board in its proceedings.
The testing of lake water is to be done per township request.
Doris Johnson requested Supervisor Maki check on Lake Gerald Rd.street light.
PAYMENT OF BILLS: Motion to pay bills $13,165.93: Lindeman/Sibilsky, all voted aye.
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Robert L. Sibilsky, Clerk Deb Maki, Supervisor