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CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING & BUDGET HEARING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI MARCH 7, 2012
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Debbie Whitman, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Ron Smith, Jackie Smith, John LaFave, Lori LaFave, Tom Serino, Paul Sopsitch, Ann Marie Deeter, Paul Liss, Vern Kassuba and Leo Francis.
Motion by Gorny, with support by Whitman, to open the budget hearing at 7:02 p.m. Roll call vote: Yes - Gorny, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Whitman. Questions on the budget will be addressed as asked.
Treasurer's Report given by Cole. For February, certificate of deposit balance was $65,894.35, General Fund balance was $215,240.31 for a total of $281134.66.
Three typographical errors were noted in the February minutes (paragraph 1 and 4). Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes (2 sets) as corrected, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Yes - Gorny, Noeske, Cole, Whitman, Loshaw.
Public Comments: No one offered comments at this time.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the Animal Control sign is now up. The recycling committee will be presenting ballot wording to the townships and village for recycling. Each municipality has the option to place this on the ballot. Ballot wording for millages for the Animal Control, EMS and Bus System has been approved by the commissioners. Phase 1 work at the Groen property will be starting. This will be funding by the Groen Trust. The VFW gained approval to install inscribed bricks at the War Memorial.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that the assessment roll is $81,337,000 this year and was $82,759,350 last year. The taxable this year is $64,489,398 this year and was $64,327,601 last year.
Supervisor: Noeske will contact Maureen Derenzy for further information on the Merit internet.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Kassuba reported that the cage fight event was well attended. Had little damage. They plan on booking another date (another no alcohol event). Maintenance has requested a professional vacuum. Cost to purchase the vacuum requested is $529.00. Kassuba has completed the credit application for ABC Warehouse. Motion by Whitman, With support by Loshaw, to purchase a new vacuum for maintenance for $529.00. Motion carried, 5-0. Due to the storm, hall parking lot was not plowed until Saturday afternoon on the weekend rental of 3/3/12. Discussion followed. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to refund $100.00 of the rent collected for the 3/3/12 weekend rental. Motion carried, 5-0.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that the transfer site was closed on 3/3/12 due to the storm.
Fire/Resue: Noeske provided two months of Treasurer Reports and the budget status report for review. Fire and EMS runs for December and January were reviewed. The 2012-13 proposed budget was presented for review.
Village: Whitman reported on the February and March meetings. Topics included shop students working on Gateway to Pigeon River - Sturgeon Valley Road sign, report from Jeff Ratcliffe on rejection of grant app by MEDC, passage of medical marijuana ordinance and Settlement night to be held on 3/26/12.
School: Whitman reported on the term extension of some board members due to the change in the school election date, accepted the donation of a 2005 van from the ESD, leased two 2013 Bluebird buses for three years, and accepted the bid from Math Investments for bus driver labor for the 2012-13 school year.
Planning Commission: Next planning meeting is 4/30/12. A letter requesting an extension for the review of the proposed amendment to Sec. 18.25 of Article 18 will be sent.
Roads: Noeske and Gorny met with the Road Commission on 2/21/12. Bay Mills has a list of roads they want to help improve. Pykeschool Road was discussed. The Road commission is still waiting to get in touch with Doug O'Rourke. They will look at the curve at the top of the first hill. Noeske did mention the intersection of Jewell and Old 27 to the Road Commission.
Ron Smith commented on the Trustee per diem in the proposed budget. It was explained that the per meeting rate is $178.00 with enough in the line item to cover the 12 monthly meeting and some specials should they occur. He also had a partial wage scale for townships in this county and noted that our Supervisor wage is low.
Paul Sopsitch asked for a comparison in line items from last year. Cole reviewed the increases in the line items. Loshaw felt that the increase to the Supervisor wage was ridiculous as everyone else was a 3% increase and that wage was increased 37%. STRICKEN FROM RECORD BY ORDER OF ASSEMBLY 4/4/2012 DW Noeske reported that the wage was increased to equalize.
Leo Francis questioned how mutual aid worked and was informed on how it worked.
Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to close the budget hearing at 7:48 p.m. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cole reported that AFLAC forms were available if anyone is interested. Three enrollees are needed for payroll deductions. If no one is interested, the forms will be returned. She also reported that her computer needs replacement as her hard drive is full. A Dell with a 500 gig harddrive and 8 gig memory has been found for $939.00 plus shipping. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to purchase Treasurer Cole a new computer for $939.00 plus shipping. Motion carried, 5-0.
NEW BUDGET MOTIONS
Resolution to Establish Township Supervisors Salary: Motion to adopt by Cole, seconded by Gorny. Roll call vote: Cole - yes, Loshaw - no, Gorny - yes, Whitman - yes, Noeske - yes.
Resolution to Establish Township Treasurer’s Salary: Motion to adopt by Noeske, seconded by Gorny. Roll call vote: Noeske - yes, Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Whitman - yes, Cole - yes.
Resolution to Establish Township Clerk’s Salary: Motion to adopt by Gorny, seconded by Noeske. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes.
General Appropriation Resolution: General Appropriation Resolution with
revenues of $402,720.00 (includes fund balance transfer of $188,862.00) and expenditures of $402,720, Motion to adopt by Cole, seconded by Gorny. Roll call vote: Loshaw - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes, Gorny - yes, Cole - yes.,
Fiscal Year 2012-13 Sheet: Motion to adopt by Gorny, seconded by Noeske. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Whitman - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole -yes, Noeske -yes.
2012-13 Budget: Motion by Noeske to approve line 101-101-702 @ $5,000.00 to be $178.00 per diem with the total of the category (101-101) including the above at $47,510.00, sec. Cole. Roll call vote: Cole - yes, Noeske -yes, Gorny - yes, Loshaw - no, Whitman -yes.
Motion by Gorny to approve line 101-171-702 @ $8,500.00, with the total of the category (101-171) including the above at $8,500.00, sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Noeske - yes, Cole - yes, Whitman - yes, Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes.
Motion by Whitman to approve line 101-191-702 @ $4000.00 and balance of category (101-191) including the above at $6,910.00, sec. Gorny. Roll call vote: Whitman - yes, Noeske - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Gorny - yes.
Motion by Cole to approve line 101-209-702 @ $17,316.00, and balance of category (101-209) including the above at $25,482.00, sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes, Cole - yes.
Motion by Noeske to approve line 101-215-702 @ $15,369.00 and balance of category (101-215) including the above at $19,413.00, Sec. Gorny. Roll call vote: Loshaw - yes, Gorny - yes, Whitman -yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes.,
Motion by Gorny to approve line 101-253-702 @ $15,369.00, and balance of category (101-253) including the above at $19,413.00. Sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes.
Motion by Whitman to approve line 101-265-702 @ $6,765.00, line 101-265-752 @ $1,662.00, and balance of category (101-265) including the above at $85,257.00. Sec. Gorny. Roll call vote: Noeske - yes, Cole - yes, Whitman - yes, Loshaw - yes, Gorny -yes.
Motion by Noeske to approve line 101-276-702 @ $8,784.00, line 101-276-752 @ $1,662.00 and balance of category (101-276) including the above at $22,981.00. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Gorny - yes, Whitman -yes.
Motion by Cole to approve line 101-375-702 @ $3,000.00 and the balance of the category (101-375) including the above at $33,230.00. Sec. Gorny Roll call vote: Gorny -yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes, Loshaw -yes.
Motion by Noeske to approve category 101-536 @ $6,200.00. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Noeske - yes, Cole - yes, Loshaw - yes, Whitman - yes.
Motion by Gorny to approve line 101-526-702 @ $4,000.00 and balance of category (101-526) including the above at $37,814.00, Sec. Cole. Roll call vote: Noeske - yes, Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Whitman - yes, Cole - yes.
Motion by Noeske to approve the General Expenses category @ $90,010.00 including Board of Review wages at $118.00 per full day and $59.25 per half day. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Whitman - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Loshaw - yes.
Meeting Date and Time: Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske to set the meeting dates as the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Dates will be Wednesday, April 4, 2021; Wednesday, May 2, 2012; Wednesday, June 6, 2012; Thursday, July 5, 2012; Wednesday, August 1, 2012; Wednesday, September 5, 2012; Wednesday, October 3, 2012; Wednesday, November 7, 2012; Wednesday, December 5, 2012, Wednesday, January 2, 2013; Wednesday, February 6, 2013; and Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Motion carried, 5-0.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI FEBRUARY 1, 2012
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole and Debbie Whitman. Trustee Tom Loshaw was absent. Others present were Paul Liss, Ron Smith, Tom Kellogg, Cathy Heintz, Shannon Merritt, Joy Brasseur, Vern Kassuba, John and Lori LaFave and Tom Serino.
Whitman reported that the minutes should note that the correction that was made at the January meeting to the minutes of the December meeting concerning the office hours of the Treasurer contained information that was not stated at the December meeting. Treasurer’s Report given by M. Cole. For the month of January, balance of certificates of deposit was $65,894.35, balance of general fund was $200,402.85 for a total of $266,297.20. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer’s/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: yes – Gorny, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
Public Comments: Tom Serino asked if this fund balance would be the largest carryover.
AFLAC: Cathy Heintz and Shannon Merritt offered ALFAC insurance to board members and township employees. An accident indemnity quote was provided but other insurances are available. A brief history of the company, as well as claim turn around was given. They asked that if three or more township members decide to do a policy, if payroll deduction could be started. Information provided will be reviewed and if a larger presentation is required, Cathy will be notified.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the Animal Shelter is up and running. Commissioners passed a call out policy for Animal Control. Yearly stats for the Bus System were reported. The Bus System, Commission on Aging and EMS are working on coordinating transportation for patients to get to critical appointments during adverse weather situations.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba is continuing work on the assessment roll. Land Division 041-035-200-005-03 was presented. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to recommend approval of land division 041-035-200-005-03. Motion carried, 3-0.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske reported that Chester Township’s emergency action plan was received. This is a plan that was recommended to be done during ICS 300-400 training. This will be discussed at the workshop later this month.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Kassuba reported that the hall has been rented on 2/25/12 for cage fights. A hold harmless clause has been obtained and will be added as an attachment to the contract. Details, as known, were given by Kassuba on the planned event.
Waste Transfer: PAC Sanitation proposal for Clean Up Day reviewed. Clean Up Day will be held on 5/5/2012. Proposal submitted for 25 yd compactors @ $780.00 each; metal dumpsters @ $100.00 each, 17” tires and smaller @ $2.75 each; 18” and larger tires @ $5.00 each and tractor tires @ $25.00 each. Freon removal will be checked. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to accept the proposal from PAC Sanitation to do Clean Up Day. Motion carried, 4-0.
Fire/Rescue: Prior to Cathy Heintz leaving the meeting, Noeske had asked if she was to be resigning or remaining on Fire Board. She informed the board that she had talked issues with Noeske and will continue on to see if any forward movement on these issues is made and would then decide if remaining or resigning. Noeske reported that Fire Board did not meet in January but will meet in February.
School: Whitman reported that the board approved the maternity leave for Chelsea Copenhaver, approved plans for a Senior Trip and will seek bids for the lease of new buses and privatization of busing.
Village: Council will not meet until next week.
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that budget request for $8,700.00 for 2012-13 has been submitted. Music in the Park will be held on 7/14/2012. Kassuba will have the sound system set up but will be unable to attend. Planning Commission officers will be Judy Jarecki – Chair; John LaFave – Vice-Chair and Tom Kellogg – Secretary. Update given on MEDC app, letter from thanks from Village on the 12/15/11 event, and update on Housing Committee activities. Scheduled meetings for 2012-13 are April 30, 2012; June 25, 2012; October 29, 2012 and January 28, 2013.
Roads: Noeske will be scheduling a meeting with the Road Commission.
Recess taken from 7:48 p.m. – 7:51 p.m.
Budget Workshop: A budget workshop will be held on 2/20/12 at 6:30 p.m.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI JANUARY 4, 2012
Meeting opened at 7:01 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Marilyn Cole, Debbie Whitman, Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw and Andy Noeske, Others present were Paul Liss, Ron Smith, Tom Serino, Vern Kassuba, and Joy Brasseur.
Treasurer's Report given by Cole. For the month of December, certificate of deposit balance was $65,517.17, General Fund balance was $175,573.24 for a total of $241,090.41. Cole wanted the following added to the December minutes: Treasurer hours are printed on tax bills and will be posted on the door - Tuesday 9 am - 1 pm. Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes with amendments, approve bills and acknowledge the Treasurer's Report. Roll call vote: Loshaw - yes, Gorny - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that three contract negotiations have been completed, board opposition to HB 5125 and 5126 and completed the county administrator's evaluation.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that Board of Review was held with a few corrections made, PRE audit report has been turned into the State and he is working on ratios.
Public Comment: Tom Serino asked the township to pay towards the website he maintains. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to pay
$150.00 for the township website that Tom keeps. Motion carried, 3-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no).
Supervisor's Report: Noeske reported that Board of Review members need to be appointed and recommended keeping the same members. Motion by Whitman, with support by Noeske, to reappoint Diana Webber, Herm Hawn and Les Howard to Board of Review. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Kassuba reported that the garbage bags have been exchanged and ice melt and cleaning supplies stocked. New spot remover did well on the carpets. Three lights will be installed on the south side of the building. Noeske reported that North Excavating has offered to extend their snow removal contract for two additional years at the same price. Discussion followed. This will be reconsidered when it comes time for snow removal contracts.
Waste Transfer: Nothing to report.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske provided minutes for the October meeting and the November and December Treasurer's Report. No meeting will be held in January. Fire and EMS runs for November and October were reviewed. Request received from Fire and Rescue Authority Board to replace the at large township member. Poor attendance at meeting was cited. Discussion followed. Noeske will ask for her resignation. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, that upon receiving Cathy Heintz's resignation from the Fire and Rescue Authority
Board, the township will immediately post to replace the member at large. Motion carried, 5-0.
Village: Whitman reported that comments had been received to hold the Christmas celebration earlier in December.
School: Whitman reported that the resignation of the English/Spanish teacher was accepted, grant award of $500 from Exxon/Blarney Castle received and bullying policy in place to meet State standards.
Planning Commission: Gorny reported that the Christmas tree lighting went well. The Fire Department was thanked for the assistance in providing a safe crossing of Old 27 for the children. Musicians were also thanked for job well done. Next meeting will be held on 1/30/12.
Roads: Nothing to report.
Quarterly Report: No action necessary.
Schedule Budget Workshop: Workshop to be held on 1/25/12 at 6:30 p.m.
With nothing further to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI DECEMBER 7, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:01 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole, Tom Loshaw and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Ron Smith, Vern Kassuba, Tom Serino, Joy Brasseur, Paul Liss and Bernie Matelski.
Treasurer’s Report given by Cole showing balance in certificate of deposit of $65,517.17, general fund of $161,404.26 for a total of $226,921.43. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to approve the minutes , bills, and acknowledge the Treasurer’s/Liquor Law Report. Roll call vote: yes – Gorny, Cole, Loshaw, Noeske, Whitman.
Public Comment: No comments were offered.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the Truth in Taxation hearing was held and the budget adopted by the County for 2012. Three contract negotiations are in process. Phil Curtis was recognized by resolution of the Commissioners. Three new buses were received by the Bus System, but upon delivery two were undriveable. The Bus System participated in the Shop with a Cop program.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that Board of Review will be held on December 13.
Supervisor’s Report: Nothing to report.
Cemetery: Nothing to report as cemetery is closed for the season.
Hall: Kassuba reported that supplies are in from KSS. Benchmark will be contacted to see if they will take back the case of oversized garbage bags. Light fixture for the north side of the building has been purchased and will be installed. Looking for paint match for bathroom and partition paint so touch up can be done. Noeske talked with Dale of OC Excavating. He is supposed to supply proof of comp coverage. The Fire Department is willing to plow until a contract can be done. Discussion followed on contacting OC's insurer to verify coverage and if no coverage, to go with the next lowest bidder for snow removal which was North Excavating. Recess taken from 7:17 p.m. - 7:23 p.m. During the recess, Noeske contacted Roger Spreeman of North Excavating who verified that his bid price was still good. Motion by Noeske, with support by Loshaw, that if OC Excavating is not complying with insurance requirements as of tomorrow, snow removal bid will be awarded to the next lowest bidder. Motion carried, 5-0.
Waste Transfer: No report given.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that a November meeting was not held. Check received from Consumers Energy for $1,400.00 (two runs) and a check for $2,200.00 was received from the work comp audit. An extra valve was sold to Elmira Township. The Fire Board will meet next Monday.
Village: Whitman reported that CDBG funds will not be available until fall of 2012, Jack Deming and Harley Ward were appointed to the Planning Commission, final draft of the marijuana ordinance sent to the attorney for review and Ed Posgate is meeting with Bay Mills on Tuesday.
School: Whitman reported that the 2011-12 budget was approved and the Deficit Elimination plan was presented, art teacher and health/PE/Special Education teacher hired, summer tax resolution adopted and reassessing cooperative sports with Wolverine.
Planning Commission: Tree lighting at Memorial Park on 12/15/11 at 6 p.m. Gorny invited everyone to attend. Gorny supplying cookies, Village Council will supply hot chocolate. Township will supply 10 dozen cookies and coffee.
Roads: Complaint received from Claudia Rowland on answering machine.
Whitman requested that, for the courtesy of the taxpayers, something be posted on when they can pay their taxes in person. Discussion followed. COLE ADDED THAT HER HOURS ARE PRINTED ON THE TAX BILLS AND WILL POST TUESDAY 9 AM – 1 PM ON THE DOOR.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 7:44 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI NOVEMBER 2, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole, Tom Loshaw and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Ron Smith, Vern Kassuba, Tom Serino, John LaFave, John Burt, Joy Brasseur and Paul Sopsitch.
Treasurer’s Report given by Cole showing balance in certificate of deposit of $65,517.17, general fund of $155,358.46 for a total of $220,875.63.
Gorny suggested that Marilyn Cole’s name be noted in the minutes as giving the Treasurer’s Report. Cole wanted the October minutes amended under the Hall category to say “if” misfiled when referring to the snow removal bids. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to approve the minutes with corrections, bills, and acknowledge the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote: yes – Gorny, Cole, Loshaw, Noeske, Whitman.
Public Comment: Paul Sopsitch asked if the township has had dealings with NEMCOG with discussion following. John LaFave reported that the Otsego County Housing Committee received $175,000.00 for emergency home repairs for the next fiscal year.
Report from County Commissioner: As Commissioner Liss was not present, County Administrator John Burt reported that the Animal Control building is anticipated to be finished by 12/23/11. He also reported on the plans for the Groen property in Johannesburg and that a sidewalk has been installed from the pavilion area to the main entrance.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that he has finished a tribunal case and is working on another.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske reported that the computer board that was installed at the water well may now be the problem. Lights at the Fire Hall have been changed to high efficiency lights.
Cemetery: Whitman reported that the fall clean up is being completed. A portion of the fence has been dented, possibly from elk.
Hall: Kassuba reported that he is checking with KSS as a new supplier of janitorial supplies. Maintenance has requested new mops and lids for the indoor garbage cans. Towel dispensers will be replaced with roll towels.
Waste Transfer: No report given.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske made available the minutes, Treasurer’s Report and budget status report. The Fire Board has opted to meet every other month unless a meeting becomes necessary on the off month. In light of this, there will not be a November meeting. EMS and fire runs for September were reviewed.
Village: Meeting to be held next week.
School: Whitman reported that the audit report for 2010-11 was given by auditor Tom Zick, resignations were accepted from two teachers, custodial service was outsourced with snow removal included in the winning bid. This will provide a substantial savings to the district. With the State’s assistance, water testing costs were reduced.
Planning Commission: Gorny reported that the Village Planning Commission has asked for assistance with the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and caroling. Festivities are planned for 12/16/11 with refreshments and caroling after the lighting. They have requested to use the hall for the refreshments and caroling. Kassuba reported that the hall is not available on 12/16/11 but is available on 12/17/11. He then suggested that it be held on 12/15/11, which is open mic night. The board did not have any problem with the hall being used for this purpose. Gorny also reported that the dumpster document had been sent back to County Planning for further review. Cole suggested that the township and Village of Vanderbilt could look into obtaining the DNR property located behind the hall on Cheboygan Street with discussion following.
Roads: No report was given.
Prescription Discount Cards: Further discussion was held on this proposal from last month. Motion by Gorny, with support by Loshaw, to sign the agreement with Jacqueline R. Kosloskey DBA Cause RX. Motion carried, 5-0.
County Township Officers Association Meeting: Whitman reported that Mike Thompson gave a presentation on winter preparedness, Patricia Osborn reported on the progress of the ten year assessment for the Soil Conservation District, $500 was contributed to the Quality of Life in Otsego County survey and Tom Deans reported that seal coating of local roads is $15,000.00 per mile.
Kassuba reported that he had received a call from Theresa Mathias for use of the hall for the high school prom on 5/12/2012. The board approved of use of the hall free of charge for this purpose with the stipulation that indoor painting is not allowed.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI 49795 OCTOBER 5, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole and Debbie Whitman. Trustee Tom Loshaw was absent. Others present were Paul Liss, Ron O'Rourke, Lori and John LaFave, Bernie Matelski, Roger Spreeman, Tom Serino, Joy Brasseur and Deputy Matt Muladore.
Treasurer's Report given BY M. COLE showing balance in certificates of deposit for the month of September of $65,219.30 and general fund of $164,296.98 for a total of $229,516.28. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes.
Public Comment: John Lafave, who sits on the Otsego County Housing Commission, reported that money is available for projects. He also spoke on the changes that will be coming to the program, which will concentrate funding to neighborhoods, opposed to individuals.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the building at 300 Livingston Boulevard has been demolished. The county web site is under construction and should be completed by Thanksgiving. The Animal Control building is on schedule. He also reported on court video conferencing and the completion of the Cross Street building remodeling. Dispatch negotiations have been completed. Low bid for the new salt storage building was $806,000.00. He also reported that if a municipality opts out, a county wide referendum cannot be held on recycling - he will keep the board informed on this.
Zoning/Assessing: Assessor Kassuba reported that he is working on combining some parcels and a tax tribunal case with Burnside Apartments.
Supervisor's Report: Noeske reported that he is working with Bridgeway on the well as the transducer that is 10 feet down in the well needs to be changed. Noeske and Marilyn Cole have completed ICS 300, with ICS 400 to start tomorrow.
Cemetery: Whitman reported all artificial flowers are to be removed from the cemetery by October 22. The board had no problem with Nelson Funeral Home transferring ownership of Plat C, Lot 198 B to Thaddeus Edwards if they choose to do so.
Hall: The first snow removal bid was opened, that of North Excavating and asphalt for $2,500.00 with free sanding. Cole questioned when bid was received and was advised that it was received that day as the Supervisor and Clerk had solicited bids that day as no bids were in the agenda file that day. Two bids, that of Alpine Landscape and O'Rourke Snowplowing were found in the paid bill file after additional bids were already solicited. The deputy treasurer informed the board that IF THEY WERE MISFILED, she had misfiled them. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, that due to the confusion, we will open all bids submitted for the meeting. Motion carried, 3-1 (Cole voted no). Additional bids opened as follows: Village Market (Dave Embree) - $2,500.00, Alpine Landscape - $4,250.00, O'Rourke Snowplowing - $2,550.00 and OC Excavating - $2,450.00 (includes sanding, salting and entry clearing). Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to accept the lowest bid, that of OC Excavating at $2,450.00 with proof of workers comp coverage. Motion carried, 3-1 (Cole voted no). Kassuba reported that Northern Management has booked numerous days through April. He will be grouping these together under one hall rental agreement and Lynn will hold the key throughout this time. A new lawnmower has been purchased and a Sears charge card obtained. When price checking on the outdoor lights he found that they were more expensive at the second store. He was advised by the county that a licensed contractor was not needed to change the fixtures. Maintenance is willing to work with him on changing these. He also spoke with the lighting specialist at Advance for recommendations. He will also going to try to eliminate using rock salt and go with ice melt for the winter.
Waste Transfer: Noeske took 104 tires in today from the site. Porta-john to be removed at the same time as the cemtery's.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that he has not yet gotten the variance from the Village for the 6 foot fence. He read the Treasurer's report and had minutes available from the previous meeting for review. In August, there was 1 EMS run in the village, 2 in the township and three with no license available. There was one fire run in August. Noeske is now a member of the department, and has passed the National Registry test as an emergency medical responder.
Village: Whitman reported that the Village gave the Fire Board $700.00, adopted Ordinance 4 of 2011 and 5 of 2011, had the Clerk and Treasurer trade positions, swore in new members and made appointments to code enforcement, zoning administrator, street administrator, parks and rec, pro-tem, Fire Board, planning liason, school liason, and planning commission.
School: Whitman reported on donations received, approval of transportation agreement with Otsego County Bus System, acceptance of milk bid, seeking bids for custodial work and ratification of the teacher and support staff contracts.
Planning Commission: Next meeting to be held on 10/31/11.
Roads: Noeske reported that the Road Commission is filling the cracks on Old 27. Tom Dean did contact Doug O'Rourke and they are planning on meeting the next time he is in town.
Prescription Drug Card: Whitman explained the discount drug card program and distributed the information she received from Bill Kosloskey from CauseRx. This information will be reviewed and placed on next month's agenda.
Quarterly Report: No action necessary.
Cole reported that she had found tax payments on her desk after September 14th. Kassuba informed her that he had found them slid under the door and had placed them on her desk.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
CorwithTownship Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI SEPTEMBER 7, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Andy Noeske, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Fred Gorny and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Vern Kassuba, Tom Serino, Ron Smith, Tom Kellogg, Jan Kellogg and Joy Brasseur.
Treasurer’s Report given showing balance in certificates of deposit of $65,219.30 and general fund of $149,015.40 for a total of $214,234.70. Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Jeff Ratcliffe: Jeff informed the board that the MEDC would be opening up another rounds of grants for the streetscape – Trail Head restroom project that was not funded in the last round. The Village will have a DDA in place next week which was an area that was lacking in the last round. Pre-applications will be accepted by the MEDC until 10/21/11 and Jeff asked if the township would be willing to participate again with an increase in the funds pledged to $30,000.00. Tom Kellogg reported that he had spoken with the DNRE and they are looking at putting another letter of commitment together. Jeff reviewed the project submitted last year and will be asking the Village to contribute $200,000.00 toward the project. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny to pledge $30,000.00 toward the Village of Vanderbilt CDBG streetscape grant. Motion carried, 5-0.
Public Comment: Jan Kellogg asked if it was known if any emergency services would be interested in tower space as Gaslight Media is looking at broadband internet service to Song of the Morning.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss was not present.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba anticipates a land division to be forthcoming as he has helped the applicants with the application. The L4029 will be forthcoming for signatures.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske asked opinion of putting up guard rail between the fire department and Village Market. Discussion followed with the suggestion that a higher fence would be a better option. Village zoning will be checked.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Kassuba reported that Maintenance has asked for different products to clean with as well as air fresheners (try to accommodate those with allergies). Kassuba will be upgrading the pushmower as they are cheaper now. He asked the board for thoughts on upgrading the paper towel dispensers to something more economical which met with approval. Outside lighting discussed. The orange sodium lights are not staying on all the time and do not provide adequate lighting. He priced similar replacement fixtures at $850.00 for four and deflecting fixtures at $984.00 for four. He will check further and will contact an electrician for recommendations on fixtures.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that the tire trailer can only hold 3 or 4 more tires. Thursday hours are now done.
Fire Rescue: Noeske reported that he did not attend the last meeting as he was in MFR class and will be taking the National Registry test tomorrow. Fire Board will be meeting on 9/13/11 instead of 9/12/11.
Village: Whitman reported that the Village meeting will be held on 9/12/11. The Village election will be held on 9/13/11.
School: Whitman reported that the district has looked at outsourcing food service but found it was not economical but will have changes to the existing program. Custodial services were also looked into and outsourcing of this service will be on the 9/14/11 agenda. The deficit elimination plan is now a four year plan instead of a two year plan due to loss of revenue due to student count.
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that the MEDC grant was discussed at their last meeting. Music in the Park will now be held annually on the second Saturday of July. They also discussed County Planning activities, community activities and the planned overpass work. Recycling hasn’t been presented to the Planning Commission yet. Jim Conway’s trail news email was reviewed.
Roads: No confirmation on any progress on Pykeschool Road at this time.
Whitman asked that all vault key holders double check locking of the vault.
Snow Removal Bids: Bids to be in for the October meeting. Notice of bid will run for two weeks in both the Herald Times and Our Home Town. Proof of insurance to be supplied with bid.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI AUGUST 3, 2011
Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance followed the call to order. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske, Tom Loshaw and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Ron Smith, Paul Liss, Joy Brasseur, George Plummer, Vern Kassuba and Tom Serino.
Treasurer’s Report given showing balances for the month of July as $65,219.20 in certificates of deposit, $153,786.50 in General Fund for a total of $219,005.80. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Gorny – yes, Noeske – yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Whitman – yes.
Tom Serino – Area Guide: Tom asked the township for the annual ad support of $150.00. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to approve $150.00 for the Area Guide. Motion carried, 4-1 (Loshaw voted no).
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that approximately a $1,200.00 profit was realized from the airshow, animal shelter is 4 -5 weeks ahead of schedule – January 1 opening anticipated. He also reported on the proposal from the recycling committee of $20-25 charge per household to fund the program, but it would be up to each community in the county to charge their residents/taxpayers this amount. They propose 5 drop sites in the county, which will be unmanned and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Discussion followed. Concensus of board is that the township supports recycling but not the program being presented. Commissioner Liss reported that he spoke with Roberta Tholl, OCRC commissioner on Pykeschool Road.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that the Board of Review was held in July. He is finishing his recertification classes. Some PRE’s are being denied and he is working with residents on this.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske spoke with Roberta Tholl also on Pykeschool Road. She confirmed what the Road Commission has said of needing more property to upgrade the north section. He also reported that they are considering closing that road in the winter.
Cemetery: Whitman reported that the gravel has been brought in for the road washout problems.
Hall: Noeske reported that he no longer has time to do the Hall Administrator job but would cover until someone takes over. Vern Kassuba offered to take over the position on a trial basis. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, that Vern Kassuba fill the Hall Administrator position. Motion carried, 5-0.
Waste Transfer: Painting is complete. Hours open ad will be discontinued. Chet had suggested changing the week day hours to Wednesday.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported there were 12 EMS runs and 7 fire runs during June. MFR class starts tomorrow night and continues for three nights per week during the month of August. He has not met with Lee’s Alpine Fence yet.
Village: Whitman reported that a DDA hearing was held and the purpose for forming a DDA, nepotism policy, marijuana policy extension, September 13 village election, and zoning permits for accommodating health issues (ie. Wheel chair ramps, etc).
School: Whitman reported that Gayle Embree is now president of the school board, Jim Ormsbee vice-president, June Heintz secretary and Kevin Badgley treasurer. The board also extending the technology director’s contract for 1 year, has state looking at cutting the water testing charges and VAS recipient of federal grant for staff development. VAS will also be advertising on TV 9 & 10 and WKLT and it’s sister stations.
Planning Commission: Gorny reported on Music in the Park. It was suggested that an annual date be set. It will be the weekend after the July 4th weekend. Next meeting to be held on 8/29/11.
Roads: Pykeschool Road was further discussed.
Website: Cole reported that her email address is missing on the website. Whitman reported that the changes were made but are no longer there and is not able to access that page of the site. She will follow up on it.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI JULY 6, 2011
Meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Marilyn Cole, Debbie Whitman, Andy Noeske and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Paul Liss, Tom Serino, Ron Smith, Jackie Smith and Vern Kassuba.
Treasurers Report given with balances for the month of June of $64,923.24 in certificates of deposit and $147,141.41 in general fund for a total of $212,064.75. Motion by Gorny, with support by Loshaw, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: yes – Gorny, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
Gary Wagner – Liquor license local approval: Mr. Wagner was not present.
Public Comment: No one addressed the Board.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the Air Show was a success. The Animal Control building is on schedule. A resolution was passed allowing the Road Commission to bond for a salt storage building and storage tank. Barrels found on the Central Dispatch property have been disposed of. A resolution honoring Ron Chavey on his retirement from the Salvation Army was adopted.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that he may have a land division for next month’s meeting. Form 4626 has been turned in. Board of Review will be held on 7/19/11 at 5:30 p.m. An extension has been requested for the Michigan Fire Protection form.
Supervisor: Noeske reported that Bridgeway had to come to the well site, as the transducer is not working properly. Wire is being replaced first. If this doesn’t cure the problem, the well will have to be pulled.
Cemetery: Whitman reported that there are some washout areas on the hill and will try gravel in this area.
Hall: Red Cross has requested to use the hall for a blood drive, co-sponsored by H & H Tube and Vanderbilt School, on 8/2/11. Motion by Whitman, with support by Noeske, to allow the Red Cross use of the hall on August 2, 2011 at no charge. Motion carried, 5-0.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that Thursdays have been slow. An ad with the transfer sites hours will be placed in the paper.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that the Fire Board is working on an amendment to the fire charges ordinance. Fire hall has some maintenance issues such as lights not working in north bay and rotten siding. Noeske is getting prices for repairs. Runs for April and May were reported on. Fence quote for repair of fence at the fire hall was reviewed. Noeske would like to meet with Lee first as he feels some materials might be able to be reused.
Village: Whitman reported that a public hearing on forming a DDA will be held at 6:30 p.m. on July 12, 2011 at the Village Hall. Park use was approved for the Pigeon River Baptist Church vacation bible school. A back to school bash to also being planned by the Baptist Church. Resignations were accepted from Karen Matelski and Bernie Matelski. Budget was amended. Authorization was given for the Otsego County Treasurer to collect the delinquent taxes.
School: Whitman reported that the 2010-11 budget was amended and the 2011-12 budget was approved. Gayle Embree was appointed Vice-President and Kevin Badgley was appointed Treasurer. Michelle Kihn will be filling the recreated principal position. Old band instruments were sold. Amanda Spreeman was hired as the 9th grade class sponsor. Dover Township tax collection charge was approved.
Roads: Noeske reported that the Road Commission feels that nothing can be done with Pykeschool Road with the narrow right of way that this there. They will attempt to contact Doug O’Rourke again. Discussion followed. Cross road signs have been requested.
Planning Commission: Music in the Park will be held on Saturday.
Historical Society: Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to approve $100.00 for the Otsego County Historical Society as requested. Motion carried, 5-0.
Merit Network: Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to authorize the supervisor to sign the application on the Metro Act permit for Merit Network. Motion carried, 5-0.
Quarterly Report: No action necessary.
Liquor License approval; Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to adopt the resolution transferring the license from Wolf Den Inc. to Bayview Loan Servicing. Roll call vote: Whitman – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – no, Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to adopt the resolution transferring the license from Bayview Loan Servicing to G & M Enterprises II Inc. Roll call vote: Cole – yes, Gorny – yes, Whitman – yes, Noeske – no, Loshaw – yes.
Commissioner Liss offered to discuss the Pykeschool Road issue with Road Commission Roberta Tholl. The offer was acceptable to the Board.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI JUNE 1, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Marilyn Cole, Tom Loshaw, Fred Gorny, Debbie Whitman and Andy Noeske. Others present were Paul Liss, Ron Smith, George Plummer, Vern Kassuba, Jim Fischer, Billye Thatcher, Ray Thatcher, and Tom Serino.
Treasurer’s Report given. For the month of May, balance in certificates of deposit was $64,923.34 and in General Fund $162,094.56 for a total of $227,017.90. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote: Gorny – yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Billye Thatcher – Fall Festival: Mrs. Thatcher reported that a group has begun making plans for a one day tractor show with a parade and pumpkin festival, planned for 10/1/11. Plans include music in the park, vendors, children’s area with crafts, contests, carving demonstration, farmers market, marshal arts demonstration, caricature artist, petting zoo, awards and a dinner dance. The group would like the use of the hall. They are hoping to secure a one time sponsorship to cover the costs of the festival. Board members had no objection to using the hall at no charge but asked that the hall be monitored throughout the day.
Public Comments: No one addressed the Board.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on demolition progress on Building 100 and 300 and remodeling at Cross Street building. Old Bus System building has been removed. Animal Control groundbreaking is 6/7/11 at 11 a.m. Barrels on old DNR property contained grease – nothing detrimental in the soil. The Administrative office has taken over the issuing of passports. With the passage of Senate Bill 7, governments are only responsible for 80% of an employees health care cost.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that industrial, real and personal reports have been sent to the state. Name and address update has been given to the Treasurer. Two tribunal cases will be forthcoming.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske reported that he received a call from the DNR with another offer to lease the Pigeon Bridge and Round Lake campgrounds. Closure of these campgrounds has been tabled until after the NRC meeting on 6/9/11. Consensus of the board members was not to lease. Noeske was contacted by Mark Walsh who owns property adjacent to the hydrant area. He would like the fence replaced. Discussion followed. Whitman will contact Lee’s Alpine Fence.
Cemetery: Request received to buy back the south ½ of Plat D, Lot 397 owned by Arlene Schneider. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to buy back the south ½ of Lot 397, Plat D for $150.00. Motion carried, 5-0.
Hall: Noeske reported that there are many rentals.
Waste-Transfer: Clean Up Day reported on. Thursday hour sign is up and the main sign needs to be repainted. Trim on transfer site shed needs to be repainted. Jim Hunawill is willing to do the work. Noeske will pick up paint for the shed and for the signs.
Fire/Rescue: No May meeting due to lack of quorum.
Village: Village meeting not held until next week.
School: Whitman reported that the Board accepted resignation from members Amy Cunningham and Gayle Embree, opened bids for custodial, food service and transportation services, granted tenure to Adam Respecki, approved the Superintendent and Business Manager contracts, approved tax collection contract with Corwith. Chandler Township agreed to collect at no charge. Next board meeting to be held on Thursday, June 2.
Planning Commission: Gorny reported that Music in the Park will be from 5 pm – 9 pm on July 9. If it rains, it will be held in the school gym. Next planning meeting will be held on 6/27/11.
Roads: Nothing to report.
Brief discussion on township website and what it could contain. Kassuba also reported that the May open mic night was the largest they have had with 23 people performing and 40 audience members.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MAY 4, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Trustee Tom Loshaw was absent. Others present were Paul Liss, Tom Kellogg, George Plummer, Joy Brasseur, Jim Fischer and Tom Serino (arrived at 7:25 p.m.).
Treasurer’s Report given. For the month of April, balances were as follows: certificates of deposit - $64,923.34, General Fund - $160, 396.04 for a total of $225,319.38. Motion by Gorny, with support by Whitman, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer’s Report and Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Gorny – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Tom Serino – Vanderbilt Website: Email on this request reviewed. As Tom Serino was not present, this item was tabled.
Public Comments: No one addressed the Board.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on reapportionment, bids for the Animal Shelter, removal of buildings at Alpine Center, Cross Street building improvements, analyzing of barrels on old DNR property and report from Marie Frick on jail programs.
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba was not present.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske reported on testifying before the Senate on the proposed closure of the Pigeon Bridge and Round Lake Campground. At present, the DNR is attempting to lease the campgrounds before the bill passes. If the campgrounds are conveyed to the township upon passage of the bill, surveys would have to be done at an estimated cost of $800 - $1000 each. County Administrator John Burt had contacted Brian Mills if any restrictions would be tied to this property and was informed that there were not any restrictions. Commissioner Liss reported that Otsego County Parks and Recreation is willing to take over the campgrounds also.
Cemetery: Bid from Lee’s Alpine Fence reviewed to repair fence and also to replace top rain on 1700’ of the west side fence. At 7:25 p.m., Tom Serino arrived. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to accept Lee’s Alpine Fence bid for $525.64 to repair 50’ of fence and the second option of replacing 1700’ of top rail with 1 5/8” top rail at $2,462.00. Motion carried, 4-0.
Hall: North door near stage is not closing correctly. Noeske reported only one weekend in May is open.
Waste Transfer: Summer hours will run from the Thursday after Memorial Day until the Thursday before Labor Day. Noeske is still working on the sign for the site hours. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to keep the porta-john at the Waste Transfer site for the summer. Motion carried, 4-0.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported on runs from March. The Fire Board had requested that the Township look at the fence bordering the Village Market property which needs repairing. Village Market is willing to contribute to the cost of repairs.
Village: Whitman reported Village Dump Day is 6/11/11, VAYSP field use and concession stand use was approved, medical marijuana ordinance being worked on by Planning Commission, General Fund cash flow issues and the Equalization Department renumbering of houses in the village.
School: Discussion on letter from Vanderbilt Area School requesting charge waiver for collection of the summer taxes. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny that the township do the summer tax collection for Vanderbilt Area School for 2011 at no charge. Motion failed, 2-2 (Noeske and Cole voted no). Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to collect like in the past at $1.25 per active parcel. Motion carried, 3-1 (Whitman voted no).
Planning Commission: Music in the Park will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. on July 9, 2011. Either the hall or the school is being considered for a rain out location. Plans will be finalized at the May Planning meeting. Tom Kellogg further reported that no futher development has been made on Memorial Day activities. The ordinance sent by County Planning for review and comment was not the most recent version. Officers on the Planning Commission will remain the same as last year. Kellogg also reported on the recreation asset planning website.
Roads: Nothing to report.
Consumers Energy Letter on Streetlighting: The Township will wait and let Consumers replace the street lights when needed.
Copier Proposal: Copier proposal from Dunn’s Business Solution reviewed. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to purchase the refurbished copier (Option 5) to replace our current copier with total expenditure (including installation) of up to $2,000.00. Motion carried, 4-0.
Quarterly Report: Final 4th quarter 2010-11 report reviewed with no action necessary.
Vanderbilt Website: Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to put the Vanderbilt Website back on the agenda. Motion carried, 4-0. Tom Serino clarified that the Vanderbilt Website is both Vanderbilt and Corwith Township. Serino asked if the township would like to have anything added to it. The cost would be $150.00 per year. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to have the Corwith Township website thru Tom Serino for $150.00 per year. Motion failed, 2-2 (Gorny and Whitman voted no).
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 6, 2011
Meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Marilyn Cole, Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Debbie Whitman and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Vern Kassuba, Paul Liss, Ron Smith, Jackie Smith, Jim Fischer, Tom Serino, Tom Kellogg and John Sweeney.
Treasurer’s Report given. Certificate of Deposit balance is $64,628.13, General Fund balance is $159,675.80 for a total of $224,303.93. Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Yes – Loshaw, Gorny, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that census figures revealed his district is below the minimum population due to a population loss in Dover Township and the Village of Vanderbilt and reapportionment will be forthcoming.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that he is finishing up with Board of Review. Principal residence exemptions also need to be completed.
Supervisor’s Report: Whitman read proclamation request from Catholic Human Services. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske to adopt proclamation May 2011 Is Social Host Liability Awareness Month. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cemetery: Whitman reported work will start in the cemetery next week with first burial scheduled for April 30.
Hall: Noeske reported that he would like to do some upgrades to the outside of the building and will be contacting contractors. There is only one hall rental opening for the month of April.
Waste Transfer: Noeske reviewed contract from PAC Sanitation for Clean Up Day. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to authorize Supervisor Noeske to sign the contract with PAC Sanitation for Clean Up Day. Motion carried, 5-0. Noeske will check with Nathan Embree on making two signs indicating summer hours for Waste Transfer of Thursday 3 pm – 6 pm Memorial Day – Labor Day. Work camp participants will not be needed this year.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that the Fire Charges Ordinance was adopted by the Fire Board and reported on runs for the department last month. Noeske read Corwith Township Ordinance 1-2011 Repeal of Fire Charges Ordinance. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to adopt Ordinance 2-2011 Repeal of Fire Charges Ordinance. Roll call vote: Whitman – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes.
Village: Whitman reported on the budgets adopted by the Village Council, update from Jeff Parker and repeal of the Village Fire Charges Ordinance.
School: Whitman reported on the America & Me award winner, no action to be taken on moving school election to November, change in disciplinarian at VAS, granting of maternity leave to D. Ruppe and approval of Mackinaw Island trip.
Summer Tax Collection: (tabled at March meeting) No request was received from the school. Deadline for request is 4/15/11 and agreement 4/30/11.
Planning: Next meeting to be held on 4/25/11.
Roads: Nothing to report.
DNR Closure of some rustic campgrounds: Noeske reported on planned closure of Pigeon Bridge and Round Lake campgrounds and pending introduction of legislation to allow townships (and if they decline, counties) to take over operation and ownership of these campgrounds. More research will be done on this issue.
Quarterly Report: Fourth quarter review with no action required. This report will be revised as any more year end bills are received.
County Township Meeting: Gorny reported on the meeting. Items discussed were recycling, prescription drug abuse, bills affecting personal property units and free electronic recycling to be held on 5/7/11 at the Gaylord DPW. The next association meeting will be held on 5/17/11 at Otsego Lake Township.
IRS Levy: Three way conversation between the Township, IRS and attorney (if power of attorney is received from the levied individual) to take place to sort out conflicting information received by different officers.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP BUDGET HEARING & REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MARCH 2, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole, Tom Loshaw, Fred Gorny and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Erma O’Rourke, Andy Blazic, Cathy Heintz, Paul Liss, Neil Berry, Janet Berry, Tom Serino, Joy Brasseur, Rhonda Berdan, Tom Kellogg, David Embree, Ron Smith, Jackie Smith, Gayle Embree, Paul Sopsich, Leo Francis, John Bifoss, Hugh Noeske, Elizabeth Haus, Vern Kassuba, Jack Deming, George Plummer and Bernie Matelski.
Supervisor Noeske opened the 2011-12 budget hearing at 7:00 p.m. Cathy Heintz, Ron Smith, Erma O’Rourke addressed wages and proposed 2% increase. Rhonda Berdan asked if hall cleaning could be outsourced to their business. Joy Brasseur, Deputy Treasurer commented that she did not want an increase. George Plummer addressed the low Supervisor wage as did Leo Francis who also suggested putting assessing out to bid. Deputy wages and assessor capitol outlay were explained. The public budget hearing was closed at 7:17 p.m.
Treasurers Report given. For the month of February, certificate of deposit balance was $64,628.13, General Fund balance was $166,284.09 for a combined total of $230,912.22. Correction to February 2, 2011 minutes of vote count on motion concerning contents of minutes requested. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes (2 sets) with correction, pay bills and acknowledge Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote: yes – Gorny, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
Public Comment: Leo Francis questioned the proposed expense of $20,000.00 to the trail town restroom. He was advised by Tom Kellogg that the MEDC did not approve this grant. Jack Deming suggested that people residing outside the township or non-property owners be charged more to use the waste transfer site.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on the jail overcrowding issue being resolved, animal shelter building and 2010 statistics for the Building Department.
Zoning/Assessing: Motion by Cole, with support by Whitman, to recommend approval of Land Division 042-018-200-030-00. Motion carried, 5-0. Roll has been finished with a reduction of $5,000.000.00 in assessed value and $2.7 million in taxable. CPI is 1.7%. Noeske will look into the Corwith/McMullen swap issue.
Supervisor’s Report: Motion by Noeske, with support by Loshaw, to support SANE for $500.00. Motion carried, 5-0. Hall maintenance job description reviewed. Winter closure deleted, pay schedule will note that it is set in the township budget each year. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to a make these changes to the township hall maintenance duties job description. Motion carried, 5-0. Sexton job description reviewed. Pay day changed from Tuesday to Wednesday. Sentence concerning 10 full burials and pay for extra burials and cremations deleted. Township officers information updated. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to correct Section duties job description changing pay day from Tuesday to Wednesday, rate of pay set in budget each year, deleting sentences concerning 10 full burials and additional pay for burials and cremations and corrections last paragraph with officer information. Motion carried, 5-0. Landfill job description reviewed. Annual clean up day hours amended and Thursday seasonal hours added. Recycling information deleted. Officer contact information updated. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to change the Landfill job description with corrections as noted. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Nothing to report.
Waste Transfer: Noeske reported that it was impossible to get a May date for clean up day from any company but PAC Sanitation who reserved the first Saturday in May (5/7/11) for us at the same prices as last year. Discussion on taking tires on clean up day. It was stressed this option is open all year long for tire disposal. One standard size pickup load will be taken on clean up day and no tires will be accepted from commercial business. This information to be underlines on the flyer for clean up day.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported on the progress of the fire charges ordinance, runs during the month of January and presented the proposed budget for 2011-12.
Village: Whitman reported on the denial of the streetscape grant, able to pay for well without loan, and ordinance and resolution passed concerning 120 moratorium on the medical marijuana store.
School: Whitman reported on the OPIE award winners for VAS, pupil count at 142, and projected 6% increase in retirement. She proposed waiving the summer tax collection fee for the school. Discussion followed with Noeske tabling the issue until next month.
Planning: Tom Kellogg reported on the restroom grant denial. Next meeting to be held on 4/25/11.
Roads: Noeske met with the Road Commission. The five year local road improvement plan and primary road improvement plan was presented. The Road Commission is looking at improving Pykeschool within the right of way. Bids are being sought to put the apron back on Dunham and Lewis roads.
Prior to the budget motions, the Fiscal sheet was amended, deleting “over 10 burials” and sentences concerning Saturday and Sunday surcharge. The proposed 2% increase in wages was eliminated.
NEW BUDGET MOTIONS
Resolution to Establish Township Supervisors Salary: Motion to adopt by Cole, seconded by Whitman. Roll call vote: Yes: Cole, Loshaw, Gorny, Whitman, Noeske.
Resolution to Establish Township Treasurer’s Salary: Motion to adopt by Gorny, seconded by Noeske. Roll call vote: Yes: Noeske, Gorny, Loshaw, Whitman, Cole.
Resolution to Establish Township Clerk’s Salary: Motion to adopt by Cole, seconded by Gorny. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
General Appropriation Resolution: General Appropriation Resolution with
revenues of $376,570.00 (includes fund balance transfer of $173,973.00) and expenditures of $376,570.00, Motion to adopt by Noeske, seconded by Cole. Roll call vote: Yes: Loshaw, Noeske, Whitman, Gorny, Cole.
Fiscal Year 2011-12 Sheet: Motion to adopt by Whitman, seconded by Noeske. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Whitman, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske.
2011-12 Budget: Township Board - Motion by Cole to approve line 101-101-702 @ $5,000.00 to be $173.00 per diem with the total of the category (101-101) including the above at $47,510.00, sec. Loshaw. Roll call vote: Yes: Cole, Noeske, Gorny, Loshaw, Whitman.
Supervisor: Motion by Loshaw to approve line 101-171-702 @ $5,433.00, with the total of the category (101-171) including the above at $5,433.00, sec. Gorny. Roll call vote: Yes: Noeske, Cole, Whitman, Gorny, Loshaw.
Election: Motion by Loshaw to approve line 101-191-702 @ $4000.00 and balance of category (101-191) including the above at $6,910.00, sec. Cole. Roll call vote: Yes: Whitman, Noeske, Loshaw, Cole, Gorny.
Assessor: Motion by Cole, to approve line 101-209-702 @ $16,812.00, and balance of category (101-209) including the above at $24,978.00, sec. Gorny. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Loshaw, Noeske, Whitman, Cole.
Clerk: Motion by Loshaw, to approve line 101-215-702 @ $14,922.00 and balance of category (101-215) including the above at $18,966.00, Sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Yes: Loshaw, Gorny, Whitman, Cole, Noeske.
Treasurer: Motion by Noeske, to approve line 101-253-702 @ $14,922.00, and balance of category (101-253) including the above at $18,966.00. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Whitman.
Township Property: Motion by Noeske to approve line 101-265-702 @ $5,760.00, line 101-265-752 @ $1,614.00, and balance of category (101-265) including the above at $62,905.00. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Yes: Noeske, Cole, Whitman, Loshaw, Gorny .
Cemetery: Motion by Gorny, to approve line 101-276-702 @ $8,784.00, line 101-276-752 @ $1,614.00 and balance of category (101-276) including the above at $22,933.00. Sec. Loshaw. Roll call vote: Yes: Loshaw, Cole, Noeske, Gorny, Whitman.
Debt Retirement: Motion by Whitman, to approve category 101-370 @ $5,915.00. Sec. Cole. Roll call vote: Yes: Cole, Loshaw, Whitman, Noeske, Gorny.
Planning Commission: Motion by Cole, to approve line 101-375-702 @ $3,000.00 and the balance of the category (101-375) including the above at $28,230.00. Sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Cole, Noeske, Whitman, Loshaw.
Water Well: Motion by Loshaw, to approve category 101-536 @ $6,200.00. Sec. Whitman. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Noeske, Cole, Loshaw, Whitman.
Waste Transfer: Motion by Gorny, to approve line 101-526-702 @ $4,000.00 and balance of category (101-526) including the above at $37,714.00, Sec. Noeske. Roll call vote: Yes: Noeske, Gorny, Loshaw, Whitman, Cole.
General Expense: Motion by Whitman, to approve the General Expenses category @ $89,910.00 including Board of Review wages at $115.00 per full day and $57.50 per half day. Sec. Cole. Roll call vote: Yes: Gorny, Whitman, Cole, Noeske, Loshaw.
Meeting Date and Time: Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to set the meeting dates as the first Wednesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. Dates will be Wednesday, April 6, 2011; Wednesday, May 4, 2011; Wednesday, June 1, 2011; Wednesday, July 6, 2011; Wednesday, August 3, 2011; Wednesday, September 7, 2011; Wednesday, October 5, 2011; Wednesday, November 2, 2011; Wednesday, December 7, 2011, Wednesday, January 4, 2012; Wednesday, February 1, 2012; and Wednesday, March 7, 2012. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cole reported that tax collection has balanced out. Lighting in parking lot was addressed.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:59 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI JANUARY 5, 2011
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole, Debbie Whitman and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Bernie Matelski, Vern Kassuba, Paul Liss, Jim Fisher, Jackie Smith, Ron Smith, Tom Serino, Tom Kellogg and Joy Brasseur.
Treasurer's Report given. Balance of certificates of deposit is $64,235.11 and checking is $110,875.75 for a total of $175,110.86. Motion by Gorny, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Gorny - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Noeske - yes, Whitman - yes.
Public Comments: Tom Serino requested that the township reconsider renewing the website with him. It now has a link to the Village and Fire Board minutes for the price of $150.00 per year.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that Ken Glasser, Bob Harkness and Mike Hyde had their last meeting as commissioners in December. Lee Olsen, Richard Sumerix and Ken Bolton joined the board in January. Paul Beachneau is now chairman.
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba reported he is working on ratios. Agriculture is 50%, commercial 54.62%, industrial 52.54% and residential 53.07% (was 49.17%). Personal property statements are being sent out.
Supervisor: Nothing to report.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Nothing to report.
Waste Transfer: Nothing to report.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that there were 6 EMS runs - 3 in the township (no license response) and 3 in the village. Fire runs for the month were three rollovers, 2 downed lines and 1 bonfire. Mike Czykoski was appointed chief.
Village: Whitman reported that Bay Mills has requested affidavits of support for the Vanderbilt casino. The first 2% payment will be in February and Jeff Parker has requested that the village, township and county meet in committee to decide how this will be divided. Noeske and Whitman will represent the township. A conceptual drawing of the casino project was presented at the village and may be viewed at their office. Discussion on the request and lack of representation at this meeting were discussed. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to authorize individual board members to sign affidavits of support for Bay Mills. Motion carried, 5-0. Also reported on was the ordinance enforcement agreement, sander sold to Road Commission for $500 (no charge for sanding done for the Village), Jimmy Heintz appointed to the Planning Commission, and budget project requested to be submitted by 2/1/11.
School: Whitman reported that the deficit elimination plan was approved. This is a two year plan. 178 districts in the state are in deficit. 2/8/11 is the deadline to file petitions for the three open school board seats.
Planning Commission: The next meeting will be held on 1/31/11. Tom Kellogg reported that the pre-application on the trail town restroom and streetscape was filed and could hear back as early as 1/26/11. The DNRE committed $50,000.00 to the restroom project.
Roads: Nothing to report.
Quarterly Report: Motion by Loshaw, with support by Whitman, to transfer $400.00 from 101-101-890 to 101-101-702. Roll call vote: Noeske - yes, Loshaw - yes, Cole - yes, Gorny - yes, Whitman - yes. A budget workshop was set for 1/24/11 at 7:00 p.m.
Website: As mentioned in Public Comments, Tom Serino requested support for his website for fiscal year 2011-12.
Refund Check: Whitman reported that a tax refund check was issued before the check paying the taxes was deposited and cleared which is against the State accounting procedures. Cole reported that the State accounting procedures do MAY not apply to tax collection and SHE ATTENDED A NOVEMBER SEMINAR ON REFUNDS BEING MADE has to issue the refund immediately. Noeske will investigate further.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI DECEMBER 1, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the invocation led by Pastor Bifoss and the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Tom Kellogg, Ron Smith, Jackie Smith, Vern Kassuba, Joy Brasseur, Paul Liss, Jeff Ratcliffe, Tom Serino and John Bifoss.
Treasurer’s Report given for the month of December with a balance of $64,235.11 in certificates of deposit and $102,720.81 in checking for a total of $166,955.92. Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer and Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comments: No comments were offered.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that Roger White donated a hanger to the airport. It is currently being appraised. The County is still awaiting action by the DNR on the barrels found on the 911 property. The Sheriff Department and Bay Mills have reached an agreement for deputies to act on tribal property. The commissioners approved the 2011 budget - $500,000.00 in cuts were made. Reapportionment will be done in February. Show cause hearings will be held in January for the 308 jury questionnaires that were not returned.
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba reported that the 4016 report has been submitted to the state. Board of Review will meet on 12/14/10 at 5:30 p.m.
Supervisor’s Report: Noeske reported that the fuel at the well site did not need to be pumped out. It has been topped off and retreated. The fire charges ordinance is still at the attorney but a change in statute has occurred in that the Fire Authority can now write the ordinance. He will contact the attorney for the ordinance to be adopted by the Authority opposed to both the Village and Township adopting.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Hall: Noeske reported that the outdoor ashtray has been received and the ashtrays in the restrooms have been removed.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that Chet would like to have the transfer site open on Friday before Christmas and also on Friday before New Years as the holiday falls on Saturday. An ad to this effect will be published as well as flyers handed out to advertise this change.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that there were 2 EMS runs in the village, 5 in the township and 7 with no license. There were 15-20 down power lines during the wind storm. Drop tank has been fixed. Pat Coultes announced he will only take the $1.00 per month meeting pay for being Treasurer. Current fund balance of the department is $26,204.56. The Board will try to act on the Fire Chief position this month.
Village: Meeting will not be held until next week.
School: Whitman reported that a second 3-4th grade teacher was hired. The snow removal bid acceptance was amended. The district will again be filing deficit elimination plans.
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that Memorial Day activities are being planning. Budget work was tabled until the next meeting. He then gave a presentation on the Trail Town grant application for the gateway sign, restrooms for the public and a kiosk showing business and maps. Cost of the project is estimated at $115,000.00 plus $6,600.00 for engineering, bidding, documents and supervision. This is a CDBG grant. This would be in conjunction with the Village of Vanderbilt streetscape project. Tom has contacted the DNR to see if they would supply some funding for the restrooms on the trail and Jeff Ratcliffe has been in contact with the MEDC on possible funding. The township would need to supply a letter of commitment by 12/20/10 if they choose to get on board. Discussion followed. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to pledge $20,000.00 toward the streetscape/improvement project. Motion carried, 5-0.
Roads: Nothing to report.
Board Policy: A workshop will not be held this month.
SANE Funding: Whitman reported that an email had been received from Mary Sanders informing that the County Township Association had asked that all townships discuss contributing $500.00 each to SANE at their December meeting. This request will be addressed during the budget workshops.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI NOVEMBER 3, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Sandra Boyd, Harvey Sides, Vern Kassuba, Paul Liss, Judi Jarecki, Joy Brasseur and Tom Serino.
Cole presented a proposed amendment to the Board Policy section of the October 6, 2010 minutes with discussion following. Treasurer’s Report given by Cole. Certificate of Deposit balance is $64,235.11, General Fund balance is $100,358.98 for a combined total of $164,594.09. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to approve the minutes of the October 6, 2010 meeting with Cole’s amendment. Motion failed 2-3 (Loshaw, Gorny and Whitman voted no). Motion by Noeske, with support by Loshaw, to approve the bills and acknowledge the Treasurer’s Report. Roll call vote: Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Gorny – yes, Whitman – yes. Motion by Whitman, with support by Loshaw, to approve the October 6, 2010 minutes without amendment. Motion carried, 3-2 (Cole and Noeske voted no).
Public Comments: Tom Serino commented that the millage passed and the casino opened.
Judi Jarecki: Appointment on the Otsego County Planning Commission will expire at the end of December. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to recommend that Judi Jarecki be reappointed to the Otsego County Planning Commission. Motion carried, 6-0.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on ongoing negotiations with 9-1-1, correction officers and bus system. Preliminary plans have been received for the animal shelter and cost estimates are forthcoming. Jail population is holding steady. Prescription drug disposal available at the Sheriff Department. Community Mental Health services will be provided free to the jail in 2011
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported on the ratios for the county and explained how the ratios were figured. He reported that lot line adjustments are being received opposed to land divisions.
Supervisors Report: Noeske reported that the fuel for the well generator has been in the tank for three years and is ¾ full. Kassuba did report that the fuel was treated when put in the tank. Discussion followed on if this should be pumped out or not. It was suggested to contact Bridgeway for recommendations.
Cemetery: All artificial flowers have been removed for the winter.
Hall: Noeske reported that has many rentals. An outdoor ashtray is needed and was instructed to get one. Ashtray still needs to be removed in the bathroom.
Waste Transfer: Nothing to report.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske was not at the last meeting so Tom Serino reported on the meeting. This included contacting Jeff Ratcliffe concerning assistance on possible FEMA grants, NIMS training, millage advertising, fire prevention presentation at the school, #421 light bar repair, new member Richard Simcek, tanker training for three members, mutual aid provided to Hudson Township with VCFD doing initial knockdown and donation of three lock sets. Noeske will send proposed fire charges ordinance to the attorney for review.
Village: Whitman reported that Mike Kenny was appointed to a three year term on the Planning Commission and approval of computer training for the Treasurer.
School: Whitman reported that the audit report for FY 2009-10 was reviewed, accepted a bid for snow removal, responded to the request from parents for elementary specials and will seek an additional teacher for the 3rd/4th grade class.
Planning Commission: Next meeting to be held on November 29, 2010.
Roads: Noeske reported that he will probably be meeting with the Road Commission and asked for input on roads to look at. McGregor Road was suggested as well as checking with the school on the roads on their bus route.
Board Policy: Gorny suggested that this be done in a workshop at no charge with a one hour time limit. A Workshop was scheduled for November 11, 2010 at 7:15 p.m.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI OCTOBER 6, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with Pledge of Allegiance followed by the invocation which was given by Pastor Bifoss. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske, Debbie Whitman and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Ron O’Rourke, Joy Brasseur, Tom Serino, Ron Smith, George Plummer, Gerry Krajniak, Don Komraus, Paul Liss and John Bifoss.
Treasurer’s Report given with the following balances given for the month of September: certificate of deposits $63,937.16 and general fund $118,973.90 for a total of $182,911.06. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comments: George Plummer addressed the Board concerning publishing of the full minutes and asked that reconsideration be given. Discussion followed.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on contract negotiations with 911 and corrections officers, starting of the budget process, animal control facility, barrels found on 911 property and board policy change on succession of chair at meetings.
Assessing: Assessor Kassuba was not present.
Cemetery: Fall clean up underway with all artificial flowers to be removed by third week of October.
Hall: Snow removal bids opened and reviewed. Bids received as follows: North Excavating and Asphalt - $2,750.00; Alpine Landscape and Snow - $4,500.00; and Ron O’Rourke $2,550.00 with $1,500 payment on execution and remainder of payment in January. Tom Loshaw questioned pay off in January and Ron O’Rourke offered to, and initialed change on bid, for second installment to be made on 3/31/11. Motion by Cole, wit support by Loshaw, to accept Ron O’Rourke’s bid of $2,550.00 for snow plowing. Motion carried, 5-0. Furnaces have been checked and filters changed. The ashtray in the men’s room has not been removed yet.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that Thursdays had been slow later in September but then Saturdays had been also. She asked that the Board consider having Thursday hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day only.
Fire: Noeske reported that the last payment was made on the pumper, reviewed fire calls for August and reported that tanker training was held Saturday. He presented two bids for garage door openers at the fire hall. Whitman felt that this money could be better spent on necessary expenditures such as improved lighting or replacing the rotting siding and Cole added insulation to the list. In most cases, support staff are present to close the doors. No further action was taken on the bids. Noeske presented a draft fire charges ordinance which was reviewed and changes were suggested.
Village: Whitman reported on the September and October council meetings which included approval for amendment to H & H Tube IFT, appointed Christina Boone to the council vacancy, pledge $180,000.00 for Streetscape match, adopted vacancy policy on posting and advertising of, gave NEMCOG letter of support, approved Trail request, purchased sander and roll plow and approved drain work on Main at Arthur Street.
School: Whitman reported on the resignation of a class sponsor and the discussion held on the district collecting their own summer taxes.
Planning Commission: Gorny reported on the opportunity of a grant for rest rooms in the trail area and township planning will be meeting with village planning on 10/18. Memorial Day activities were discussed with the next meeting to be held on 11/29/10.
Roads: Noeske reported that Wooden Road is now open. Loshaw reported that he spoke with Doug O’Rourke and the property at Pykeschool Road is tied up at this time and can’t do anything much at this time.
Quarterly Report: Motion by Whitman, with support by Loshaw, to create line item 101-336-699 and to transfer $10,000.00 from 101-441-801 to that line item with no change to the total budget amount. Motion carried, 5-0.
Minutes in Our Home Town: Discussion held with different members opinions and reasonings behind the opinions given. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to publish full minutes in Our Home Town after approval with Clerk to email at earliest convenience. Motion carried, 3-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no).
NEMCOG Request: Motion by Noeske, with support by Cole, to give NEMCOG a letter of support. Motion carried, 5-0.
Top of Michigan Trails Council Request: Motion by Noeske, with support by Whitman, to pledge $91.00 and a 4 x 4 post to the Top of Michigan Trails Council. Motion carried, 5-0.
Board Policy: Members should pick options for the sections being reviewed. Cole wanted current section 6.5 amended to be made clear. Both the Clerk and Treasurer are to stamp the bills received when getting the mail. Check dates and Treasurer’s posted hours were both discussed. Thirty minutes will be set aside at the November meeting for policy work.
McGregor Road: Both Don Komraus and Gerry Krajniak spoke on the constant state of lack of maintenance on this road, which they attribute, in part, to heavy traffic from the west. Brining discussed as well as brine concentration and the new restrictions coming from the DNRE. A solution offered to them by the Road Commission would be to tar and chip, with the township portion of that project to be approximately $47,000.00. Being so late in the season, both Mr. Komraus and Mr. Krajniak felt that this could wait until next year. Noeske will follow up on this.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 8170 MILL STREET, VANDERBILT, MI 49795 SEPTEMBER 1, 2010
Meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Debbie Whitman, Tom Loshaw and Marilyn Cole. Supervisor Andy Noeske was absent and in his absence, Clerk Debbie Whitman chaired the meeting. Others present were Paul Liss, Vern Kassuba, Herm Hawn, Shirley Hawn, Joy Brasseur, Ron Smith, Tom Serino, Jim Bifoss and Ken Mudget.
Treasurer’s report was given. Balances as of the end of August were as follows: certificates of deposit - $63,937.16 and general fund - $104,198.83 for a total of $168,135.99. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer’s/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Cole – yes, Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comment: Ken Mudget, representing the Elkland Seniors and Elkland Senior Center, informed the Board that the seniors have been paying to have the minutes printed in Our Home Town. He would like the full minutes printed in our home town. The purpose of printing the synopsis over the minutes was explained to Mr. Mudget as well as the cost of printing. Whitman offered to explain this at one of the lunches as well as drop of a draft copy of the minutes at the Center monthly.
Report from County Commissioner: Commisison Liss reported that a resolution approving the sportsplex ballot language for ¼ mill for 10 years was passed. He also reported on the Attorney General opinion concerning mental health services/hospitalization for inmates. Commission Liss read the resolution that was passed honoring Ralph Holewinski.
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba reported that the tribunal was held and he did get a consent judgement on the power company.
Hall: Snow removal bid ad to be run in both the Herald Times and Our Home Town, with bids to be received by 10/4/10.
Cemetery: Nothing to report.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that Thursdays are not doing as well this year as last year. It was suggested that a shingle be added to the sign stating that hours the site is open.
Fire/Rescue: Approved millage wording was delivered to the County Clerk. Estimate for garage door openers reviewed with Loshaw requesting a second bid. As Noeske was absent, work on the ordinance for fire charges will be next month.
Village: Meeting not held until next week.
School: Two high school teachers were hired, leave of absence granted to Chris Ruppe, accepted resignation of boys basketball coach and no Race to the Top funds were reported on.
Planning Commission: Next meeting to be 9/27/10.
Roads: Loshaw reported that he spoke with Doug O’Rourke who stated he will be in town in the near future and will meet with the Road Commission and township on Pykeschool Road.
Proposal from Our Home Town: Printing full minutes in Our Home Town discussed. Proposal submitted will be good for one year at $30 per half page; $45 for ¾ page and $60 for full page. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to print full minutes in Our Home Town for $30 for ½ page; $45 for ¾ page and $60 for full page. Motion failed, 2-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no).
Contribution to Fire Department: Ed Posgate, Village President, had asked at the August workshop, that the township contribute $10,000.00 to the Fire Department. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to contribute $10,000.00 to the Fire Department. Roll call vote: Gorny –yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Whitman – yes.
Cole supplied copies of the first three sections of board policy for member review.
Tom Serino offered to publish the synopsis for $30.00 per month, price good for one year. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to print the synopsis for $30/month in Our Home Town. Motion carried, 4-0.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 4, 2010
Meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. Pastor Bifoss offered the invocation which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Tom Serino, Paul LIss, Tom Kellogg, Vern Kassuba, Jim Bifoss, Erma O’Rourke (7:06 pm) and Joy Brasseur (7:10 pm).
Cole wanted the following added to the July 7, 2010 minutes under Election Inspectors: “due to election law stating that elections inspectors are appointed by the Election Commission”. Treasurer’s Report given by Cole with balances at the end of July as follows: certificates of deposit $63,937.16, General Fund $115,277.46 for a total of $179,214.62. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorney, to approve the minutes as amended, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor law reports. Roll call vote: Noeske – yes, Cole – yes, Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comments: Tom Serino asked for $150 for the 26th year printing of the Area Guide. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to pay $150 to the Area Guide. Motion carried, 5-0. Vern Kassuba reported there would not be an open mic night in August. The next open mic night will be held on 9/16/10 from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported on the resolution honoring Traverse City as a Coast Guard city, bid submitted for the Fairview Road property for the animal shelter, phase II environmental study by 911 center and the County Clerk’s report.
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba reported that a rescheduled tax tribunal case was held Tuesday.
Supervisor’s Report: Nothing to report.
Cemetery: Whitman reported burials have been less this year.
Hall: Noeske reported two rentals have been booked, carpet scrubber received. Whitman relayed request from Stacy Loshaw for confirmation of her rental. Odor in back hall discussed – carpet had not been cleaned the last two rentals. No smoking signs should be posted as well as an outdoor ashtray obtained. Recess taken from 7:19 p.m. – 7:20 p.m. to contact hall maintenance personnel with no success. New flags are up.
Waste Transfer: Nothing to report.
Fire/Rescue: Noeske reported that Cathy Heintz was not sworn in as Fire Board member as Tim Cottrell had not been removed or resigned as the township member. Motion by Cole, with support by Gorny, to remove Tim Cottrell as Fire Board member for the Township. Motion carried, 5-0. Noeske reported on the July Fire Board meeting, giving a brief review of the runs made in both May and June. He also reported on reimbursement received from the State for the Grayling fire and the resignation of Chief Curt Boyd. Per the attorney, if the Fire Authority is dissolved, a new department would have to be started. Discussion followed on this topic as well as liability issues and steps to take next. A joint workshop with the village and Fire Board was tentatively set for Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. at the Corwith Township Hall to further discuss this. The Fire Charges ordinance will be on the September agenda. NIMS 300-400 training is planned for this fall.
Village: Whitman reported that Bill Russ resigned and letters of interest for the position will be taken until 9/3/10. Ed Posgate will now be the council member to Fire Board, Fence ordinance amended, winter DPW hours to start at 2:00 a.m.
School: Whitman reported on board officers appointed at the July meeting and the change in meeting time from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00p.m. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, that school and village reports be removed from any township agenda. Motion failed, 2-3 (Gorny, Loshaw and Whitman voted no).
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that the final version of the Trail Town manual should be out next month. John and Lori Lafave are looking into Memorial Day activities that could be held. Gorny reported that Music in the Park went well and thanked Vern Kassuba for his help.
Roads: Loshaw reported that he spoke with Doug O’Rourke and if time allows, will meet on the Pykeschool Road issue. Whitman reported on Gerry Krajniak’s complaint concerning McGregor Road.
Tom Serino requested an answer to the proposal he sent to board members concerning prices to publish minutes/synopsis. Discussion followed with Gorny asking that this be tabled.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:32 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 7, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:02 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Andy Noeske, Marilyn Cole, Debbie Whitman and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Paul Liss, Roberta Tholl, Ed Tholl, Judi Jarecki, Tom Kellogg, Joy Brasseur, Tom Serino, Erma O’Rourke, Bernie Matelski, Vern Kassuba, Elizabeth Haus, Al Haus, Rhonda Berdan and Jim Fischer.
Treasurer’s Report given. Balances for the end of June are as follows: General Fund Certificate of Deposits $63,641.11; General Fund $112,841.91 for a balance of all General Fund monies of $176,483.02. Noeske questioned the Weekly Choice bill of $56.00 for publication of the synopsis. Whitman reported that she had received per column inch prices from all three Otsego County publications and they had the lowest per column inch price as well as being a free publication so that there would be no cost to our residents to read the paper. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, that the minutes be published in full after approval in Our Home Town News. Motion failed, 2-3 (Loshaw, Whitman and Gorny voted no). Motion by Loshaw, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bill and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Loshaw – yes, Gorny – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comment: Rhonda Berdan addressed the Board on the problems that Hall Maintenance is having in getting supplies. Requests, notes and emails to the hall administrator are going unanswered. Discussion followed with resolution to the issue of maintenance ordering their own supplies after Noeske’s approval of the order. Roberta Tholl addressed the Board concerning seeking election as an Otsego County Road Commissioner.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that Animal Control is still looking for an affordable, usable building. New Animal Control director is Missy Fitzgerald. An environmental impact study is being done behind the 911 building as Rotary wishes to put a park there. Air show was success. Tax forclosure sale is 8/20/10.,
Assessing/Zoning: Assessor Kassuba reported on his recent tax tribunal cases. July Board of Review will be held on 7/20/10 at 5:30 p.m.
Supervisor’s Report: No report was given.
Cemetery: The large tree in the northeast corner has been taken down by Goff’s Stump Grinding.
Hall: Noeske reported that he found a demo carpet cleaner for $2,100.00 from Sunrise Supply Co. Rhonda Berdan will forward the internet site for a model at $1,700.00. Benchmark will be giving a quote tomorrow. Brief discussion with importance of beater/bar scrubber noted. Motion by Whitman, with support by Gorny, to increase the expenditure for the carpet cleaner by $1,000.00 for a total of $3,500.00. Motion carried,5-0.
Waste Transfer: Cole reported that Thursday’s are still slow.
Fire/Rescue: Whitman reported that no June meeting was held. Currently have approximately $61,000.00 left with an insurance payment due in July of just under $10,000.00. Noeske read letter of interest from Cathy Heintz for at large member of Fire Board and from himself as the Twp. Board member to Fire Board. Whitman felt that Heintz’s appointment might be a conflict as her son is assistant Chief. Motion by Noeske, with support by Cole, to appoint Cathy Heintz at-large member to the Vanderbilt Corwith Fire & Rescue Authority Board. Motion carried, 3-2 (Whitman and Loshaw voted no). It was noted that Noeske’s son is also on the department. Motion by Gorny, with support by Cole, to appoint Andy Noeske as twp. Board member to the Vanderbilt Corwith Fire & Rescue Board. Motion carried, 5-0.
Village: Whitman reported on both June and July Village Council meetings.
School: Whitman reported that the 2009-10 budget was amended, the 2010-2011 budget was adopted. Granted a one year leave of absence to Matt Tholl. Accepted retirement resignation from Pat McMillion. Loshaw offered praise to the school board for their cooperative sport efforts with Wolverine.
Roads: Noeske reported that he has spoken with Tom Deans of the OCRC numerous times but Doug O’Rourke has not returned any calls. They would like Doug to meet (in person) with both the OCRC and twp. At contention is the size of the right-of-way (60’ x 80’). Loshaw offered to check with Doug on this.
Otsego County Historical Society: Motion by Loshaw, with support by Noeske, to pay the Otsego County Historical Society $100.00 for historical preservation. Motion carried, 5-0.
Quarterly Report: Presented with no action necessary.
Planning Commission: Music in the Park to be held on 7/10/10 starting at 5:00 p.m.
Election Inspectors: Cole voiced opposition to the appointments being made by the full board DUE TO ELECTION LAW STATING THAT ELECTION INSPECTORS ARE APPOINTED BY THE ELECTION COMMISSION. No action was taken on this item.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JUNE 2, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board present were Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Paul Liss, Jim Fischer, Ron Smith, Vern Kassuba, Tom Serino, Bernie Matelski, Leo Francis, Joy Brasseur, Judi Jarecki and Erma O’Rourke (aarived 7:07 p.m.).
Whitman questioned the charge for program loading. Cole questioned payment to board members if signature is missing on request. Request can be signed at the meeting and check should be signed. Treasurer’s Report given by Cole. As of May 31, 2010, CD balance is $63,641.11, General Fund balance is 124,837.68 and Tax Collection balance is $565.04. Motion by Gorny, with support by Whitman, to approve the minutes, bills, and acknowledge the Treasurer’s Report. Roll Call vote: Gorny – yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes.
Public Comment: Tom Serino reported that he has had two letters at Our Home Town on publishing a synopsis opposed to minutes and would like the minutes emailed to him as he had someone willing to pay to publish. Discussion followed. Full minutes are available at the meeting, on the internet and by contacting the Clerk. Publishing of synopsis provides information to the public on what happened at the meeting much sooner than minutes.
Report from County Commissioner: Commissioner Liss reported that the Board of Commissioners passed resolutions honoring John Ernst and Pearl Sehl. Entered into an agreement with the Friendship Shelter to pay $30 per day for each Otsego County resident in-house up to $1,000.00. Wings Over Gaylord airshow will be held June 19-20.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that the commercial/industrial report and assessing reports for the State of Michigan have been filed. Has had several tax tribunal hearings.
Supervisor: No report given.
Cemetery: Whitman reported that the heirs of Delbert and Myrtle Sanders (deceased) have requested that the township buy back sites A, B and C of Plat C lot 217. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to buy back sites A, B and C of Plat C, Lot 217 for $45.00. Motion carried, 5-0. A large maple needs to removed from the north end of the cemetery. Motion by Loshaw, with support by Cole, to have the tree removed by Goff’s Stump Grinding for $925.00. Motion carried, 5-0. Cole asked if a part time worker could be obtained for the cost of Work Camp fees and mileage.
Hall: Noeske reported that “open mic” night went well. New refrigerator is in place. School did not want the old refrigerator. Brian Cottrell did take it. Rick and Rhonda Berdan requested waiver of hall deposit or part of rent for an August rental. This is not a perk offered to employees. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to purchase a new steam cleaner up to $2,500.00. Motion carried, 5-0.
Waste Transfer: Whitman questioned if the board was going to offer a contract on last month’s bid notice request. A one year contract will be offered to start 4/1/11. No fuel surcharge to be accepted. Clean up day to be first weekend of May. Request for bid will be mailed out in January to be back by February 1. The current price increase with PAC Sanitation will be signed by Noeske.
Fire/Rescue: Tom Loshaw resigned as Fire Board representative effective immediately. Letter from Fire Board requesting new appointees read. New candidates will be advertised for. Legal has requested questions to be answered concerning the Fire Department be sent.
Village: Meeting to be held next week.
School: Whitman reported that the board approved collection of summer taxes, received resignations (retirement) of Joanne Wilhelm and Dawn Swaim, acknowledged donations of $1,050 from Treetops and $1,150 from the PTO, approved signing the resolution for round 2 of Race to the Top, and received $14,500 in items from the COPESD grant.
Planning Commission: Next meeting to be held 6/29/10. Noeske asked J. Jarecki for an update on the Pigeon River Advisory Council.
Roads: Noeske received calls on the road brining. The county will be grading and brining again. Has left message for Doug O’Rourke to contact him concerning Pykeschool Road.
Discussion held on questions for the attorney to answer concerning the Fire Department. The following was suggested: 1) grandfathering of equipment; 2)upon dissolution, does equipment have to be sold and divided as stated in the incorporation papers; 3) is the township exposing itself to more liability by assuming an underfunded department; 4) can Village request to waive the payment for their share of the assets; 5) way to speed up the dissolution process; 6) contracting with Otsego County.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m.
Debbie Whitman
Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES MAY 5, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Marilyn Cole, Debbie Whitman and Tom Loshaw. Others present were Herm and Shirley Hawn, Vern Kassuba, Bernie Matelski, Cali O’Rourke, Joel Deaner, Ron Smith, Tom Serino, Tom Kellogg, Erma O’Rourke and Joy Brasseur.
Cole requested that the bill submitted by cemetery sexton Ron Bush be voted on separately as she did not agree with the mileage payment. Motion by Cole, to deny Ron Bush’s request for mileage submitted this month. Due to lack of second, motion died. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes, bills and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor law reports. Roll call vote: Gorny – yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – no, Noeske – yes, Whitman – yes. Oral Treasurer’s report not given but balances from written report for the month of April are as follows: CD’s - $63,641.11; General Fund - $119,516.27; Tax Collection - $3,195.74.
Public Comments: Vern Kassuba relayed request for hall use one weekday night, possibly once per month during the summer, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. for open mic music. No objections were heard as long as a rental wasn’t booked. Billie Hatcher will contact Noeske for arrangements.
Fire/Rescue: Loshaw reported on the millage defeat. There were four EMS runs and 1 PIA during the last month. Turnout gear is needed for the new member. Discussed millage defeat. A workshop with the Village and Fire Board to discuss the future of the department, was tentatively planned for Monday, May 24, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Corwith Township Hall.
Report from County Commissioner: As Commissioner Liss was not present, Whitman relayed the following from his report to the Village Council: Animal Control has a new pet adoption program, preliminary layouts are being obtained on three different buildings for a new Animal Control facility, Corwith Township now on County website; permits for building/zoning up $32,000.00 from this point last year; passed resolution accepting the Michigan Green Community Challenge and resolution requesting the Department of Veteran Affairs consider Gaylord as an alternate location for the building of the community based outpatient clinic.
Assessing/Zoning: Kassuba reported that two tribunal cases were heard, one has been rescheduled and two others will be next week. Personal residence exemptions will be turned in to the county tomorrow and Cole will have the roll turned over next Tuesday.
Supervisor: Nothing to report.
Cemetery: Sign proposal from Clayton Boone reviewed. The board wanted additional quotes to be obtained. Noeske had not checked with a mason for the stone work yet.
Hall: New refrigerator is still waiting to be moved to the kitchen.
Waste Transfer: Clean Up Day went well but tires collected on that day were discussed. This item will be revisited in the future. Transfer site Thursday hours will begin on May 20, 2010 and run through September 30, 2010. Site will be open from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Service bid received from PAC Sanitation at $4.25 per yard for the dumpster with a $29.00 fee for extra items on ground. Contract start date was 5/4/10. Motion by Whitman, to authorize Supervisor Noeske to sign contract. Due to lack of second, motion died. Loshaw would like to bid out hall dumpster, waste transfer site dumpsters and Clean Up Day.
Village: Whitman reported that the Village is considering a possible land swap for the old Higgins building; allowed use of Memorial Park on 5/30 for a community picnic , 7/12-16 for vacation bible school and on 7/18 for a biker group. Two zoning permits were issued. A presentation was heard from the county Equalization Department on addresses in the Village.
School: Whitman reported that the 18.2 acres on Alexander Road have been listed with a realtor for $50,000.00. Board discussed the tax collection fee charged the district. MEAP scores up. District received a grant for a summer lunch program which will run in conjunction with summer school. Request from Vanderbilt Area School to waive the summer tax collection fee was discussed. Motion by Cole, with support by Noeske, to reject the school’s offer of waiver of the tax collection fee. Motion carried, 3-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no). Motion by Noeske, with support by Cole, to offer $1.25 per parcel collection fee. Motion carried, 3-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no)
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that the Trail Town map was discussed. A farmers market has been suggested by one of their members. This could run in conjunction with the open mic music night and Music in the Park and could also be a joint project with the Village. Suggested contacting Gaylord’s DDA on vendors and if Village permits would be needed. Music in the Park will be held on 7/10/10. Planning has determined that no updates were needed to the master plan and have motioned to not amend the plan this year but will revisit yearly.
Roads: Noeske will meet with Tom Deans of the Road Commission tomorrow.
Quarterly Report: This report is the final quarter of 2009-10 and no action was necessary.
County Website: Reported on during Commissioner’s Report. Discussion on payment to Our Home Town for bill received for website there. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to pay for four months at $12.50 per month. Motion carried 3-2 (Loshaw and Whitman voted no).
Minutes: Full approved minutes will be available through the new website on Otsego County’s page. March minutes were sent via email to Our Home Town and will be resent.
Tax Collection Administration Fee: It was opted to not charge this fee last year, but has been budgeted this year.
Cole and Noeske attended the leadership meeting in Gaylord. Cole reported our Board policy is out of date and a MTA workshop on policies and procedures is being held in Gaylord in June. Cole and Noeske both opted to attend.
With no further business to come before the Board, the meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
Debbie Whitman Corwith Township Clerk
CORWITH TOWNSHIP REGULAR MEETING MINUTES APRIL 7, 2010
The meeting opened at 7:00 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the innovation offered by Pastor John Bifoss. Board members present were Fred Gorny, Tom Loshaw, Marilyn Cole, Andy Noeske and Debbie Whitman. Others present were Paul Liss, Tom Serino, Joy Brasseur, Tom Kellogg, Bernie Matelski, Ron Bush, Vern Kassuba and John Bifoss.
Whitman requested to hold $150.00 payment to Our Home Town for the website and asked Commissioner Liss if the County could provide the space for the Township. Discussion followed. Motion by Whitman, with support by Loshaw, to hold the $150.00 payment to Our Home Town until information is received from the County on their website. Motion carried, 3-2 (Cole and Noeske voted no). Cole presented her addition to the minutes on the last items discussed (audit date and file system). Treasurer’s Report given by Cole showing $63,211.44 in certificates of deposit, $129,002.23 in General Fund and $557.64 in Tax Collection as of 4/1/10. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to approve the minutes as amended, bills (less $150 payment to Our Home Town) and acknowledge the Treasurer/Liquor Law reports. Roll call vote: Noeske – yes, Gorny – yes, Loshaw – yes, Cole – yes, Whitman – yes.
Vanderbilt School Board – Bernie Matelski addressed the board on the charge to the district of $1.25 per parcel for the summer tax collection and asked why the district was charged but the county was not charged for the same thing. Cole explained that the township is required, by law, to collect the county taxes. The school could choose to collect their own. If the school was not on the summer tax bill, the state would pay $2.50 per parcel to the township for collection. The school is only charged for active parcels. Matelski asked that this information on why the school is charged and not the county be put into a letter to the School Board.
Public Comment: Ron Bush reported that the cement work around the memorial in the cemetery need attention. Noeske will contact someone for estimates. The painted sign also needs to be touched up.
Report from County Commissioner: Report included possible remodel of NCCI building for the animal shelter, upcoming amendments to the ORV ordinance, energy efficient grants for the Sheriff Department and Alpine Center the abandonment of the recycling program as Arrow Sanitation has expanded service.
Assessing/Zoning: Land Division presented. Motion by Noeske, with support by Cole, to approve Land Division 042-011-300-055-00; 042-010-400-005-00; 042-011-300-010-02. Motion carried, 5-0. Assessor reported that he had received 550 calls during the last year on township business, has passed the test for his renewal and is waiting for the 6 hour class and his working on three tax tribunal cases since Board of Review. The roll will be turned over to the treasurer as soon as the PRE deadline passes. FOIA wages – Noeske didn’t agree with paying the wage for the FOIA request work and requested to rescind the motion creating the assessor hourly line item. Whitman reported that precedence has been set when hall maintenance salary employees were paid extra for additional cleaning. Cole talked with MTA and a coordinator could be paid but not the salaried person. Kassuba reported on the steps taken to fill the request and conversations with other assessors and felt that if the township was not going to have the expense of paying for the hours spent fulfilling the request, that the requestor should not be charged. Motion by Noeske, with support by Cole, that the money collected from the FOIA request stay in the General Fund. Motion carried, 4-1 (Whitman voted no). Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to rescind the motion of creation of line item 101-209-703 on 2/3/10. Motion carried, 5-0. Kassuba reported that there was a lot line adjustment from 041-034-100-120-00 to 041-034-100-115-00 and did not require board action.
Supervisors Report: Noeske reported that the 2011-12 agreement for Planning & Zoning Services was received. Motion by Gorny, with support by Whitman, to approve the agreement for Planning and Zoning Services for 2011 and 2012 with contributions of $6,000.00 (2011) and $6,180.00 (2012). Motion carried, 5-0. Motion by Whitman, with support by Cole, to pay $5,756.80 for 2010 Planning and Zoning Services. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cemetery: Ron Bush was thanked for opening the cemetery early for the late March burial.
Hall: Noeske reported that three rentals have already occurred and 12 more are upcoming. The new refrigerator has been received. Mention was made of maintenance needed in the restrooms. The used refrigerator will be donated to the school.
Waste Transfer: Hours will be the same as last year for Clean Up Day. Two work camp workers will be arranged. Also working will be Chet Borowiak, Jim Hunawill, Andy Noeske, Fred Gorny and Debbie Whitman.
Fire/Rescue: Loshaw reported that the new officers are: Curt Boyd – Chief, Doug Heintz – Assistant Chief, Dave Cadaret – EMS Coordinator, John Boyd – Captain, Allen Brown and Danny Watkins – Lieutenants. Tom Serino retired after 26 years. The board adopted the budget for 2010-11 of $92,250.00 which Loshaw reviewed and the need for a successful millage passage.
Village: Whitman reported that the Council adopted budgets for 2010-11, meetings will be the first Monday of the month except in April, July and September, when they will be held on the first Tuesday. The Village will not be getting the $650,000.00 grant they applied for. The grant for water is also not looking good. The Blight Grant is still a possibility. The Village Clean Up day will be held on June 12, 2010 from 7:00 am – 11:00 am. Deputy Treasurer Janae O’Rourke resigned.
School: Whitman reported that the banks would not accept anticipated state aide as collateral for the school to borrow $275,000.00. Anticipated tax levy was used as collateral. Jane Sekora resigned as of 6/30/10. The school board discussed the property on Alexander Road.
Planning Commission: Tom Kellogg reported that the trail map, drawn by Clayton Boone, was a coordinated effort by the Township and Village Planning Commissions. Music in the Park will be held on 7/10/10. The master plan review has been started. Meeting time was changed to a regular time of 7:00 p.m. Next meeting on 4/26/10.
Roads: Noeske reported that a meeting will be held with Doug O’Rourke and the Road Commission when Doug gets to Michigan. Letter from Wally DeMoss concerning his opposition to improving Pykeschool Road was reviewed by Noeske.
DEQ Land Applications: The land applications for Tomaski and Chaffee received no comments.
Quarterly report: No action was required for the last quarter of 2009-10 but the year has not closed out yet and this report will be amended.
County Township Meeting: Whitman reported that the following items were discussed at the meeting: recycling, county wide zoning, savings to the Road Commission with the light winter and upcoming renovations at the Library. The next meeting will be held on 5/18/10 at Chester Township.
Clerk: Whitman presented a new travel expense/per diem voucher. Motion by Noeske, with support by Gorny, to pay the auditors on the day of the audit. Motion carried, 5-0. Whitman proposed publishing a synopsis instead of minutes as the synopsis would be out after the meeting opposed to a month later. Motion by Noeske, with support by Loshaw, to do the meeting synopsis instead of minutes. Motion carried, 5-0.
Cole requested draft minutes per the Meetings Act and corrected copies of minutes also.
With no further business to come before the board, the meeting adjourned at 8:33 p.m. Debbie Whitman Corwith Township Clerk